Volunteer to Participate in Research Studies
We are looking for paid volunteers to participate in behavioral, electrophysiological, and/or functional magnetic resonance imaging research.
These experiments are conducted at different locations at UC Davis depending on the particular project. They may involve studies where only performance (response speed and accuracy) is measured, and/or may involve recording your electroencephalograms (EEGs) or scanning your brain on a research-dedicated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner at the UCD Imaging Research Center in Sacramento.
The methods are safe. EEG is recorded by placing electrodes (metal disks attached to wires) on your scalp and recording your brain waves while you perform a task. The electronic system is safe for use in humans and is designed to isolate the volunteer from hazard of shock. MRI is safe, as it does NOT use ionizing radiation (like X-rays) and is completely non-invasive. Instead, MRI works by using a strong magnetic field and low-power radio waves. The total amount of energy to which a subject is exposed during an MRI scan is much less than that of a typical X-ray.
Functional MRI is a particular type of MRI scan that allows researchers to obtain pictures of brain activity over time. While these images are being taken, participants are asked to perform different cognitive "tasks" designed to evoke different kinds of mental activity. Typical tasks might include remembering lists of words, looking at pictures or listening to sentences. This information can be used to study how the brain is organized for the production of mental operations, such as learning, memory and perception.
We frequently conduct EEG and fMRI experiments at the University of California, Davis, and need subjects who are willing to participate. Subjects are given pictures of their brains and are given monetary compensation.
Dr. Ron Mangun to serve as Interim Dean