Washington University School of Medicine

Frequently Asked Questions

Our current study at WERC involves MRI brain imaging.
Most research studies at WERC will require your physical presence for conducting assessments. You may participate if you live outside St. Louis as long as you are able to be present for the duration of the study.
This will depend on the specific study. Most of our brains imaging studies are done over a 2-3 day period. This includes 4-7 hours of interviews and between 1-3 hours of brain scanning.
All reasonable measures to protect the confidentiality of your records and your identity will be taken. Your identity will not be revealed in any publication that may result from this study. The confidentiality of all study records will be maintained in accordance with State and Federal laws.
No, research at WERC does not involve obtaining blood.
No, we do not require any change in medications as part of our studies. If you are currently taking medications, it is recommended you continue taking these while participating in a study.
MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, and refers to a type of brain scanning. MRI uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to form images.
No, MRI scanning does not involve radiation.
There are no known serious risks or adverse effects of MRI except for those that fall into certain risk groups. These include people with a history of metal fragments in the eye, or those with electrical, mechanical or magnetic activated implants including pacemakers and cochlear implants.
Women that are pregnant or may be pregnant need to inform the research staff. Pregnancy is a contraindication for participating in studies involving MRI.
Some people may find the narrow space in the MRI machine confining and uncomfortable. If needed, it may be possible to arrange a mock MRI scanning prior to scanning in the actual MRI machine. Being in the MRI requires you to be as still as possible to avoid blurring of the generated brain images. Breaks will be given between longer stretches of MRI scanning.
If you are interested in seeing if you qualify for any of the research projects conducted through WERC, please contact us via email at or by phone at 314-362-6952.