Human Sleep Research Program: Volunteer Opportunities

To understand more about the human brain, the Human Sleep Research Program in SRI's Center for Health Sciences studies sleep and conducts tests of the nervous system during sleep. Our work includes government-funded studies of human sleep patterns, for which we often seek paid volunteers. Volunteers must travel to SRI's Human Sleep Research Laboratory in Menlo Park, California for participation.

Currently available volunteer opportunities include:

Alcohol, Sleep, and Brain Development

We are currently recruiting healthy adolescents aged 11-14, and their parents, to participate in a study on sleep and brain development.  The purpose of this study is to examine the feasibility of conducting a prospective longitudinal evaluation of the influence of alcohol on brain development using sleep, cognitive function, and brain MRI measures. Participation involves a phone screen, in-person visit at SRI, two to three (2-3) sleep study overnights at SRI’s Human Sleep Research Laboratory, a MRI scan, cognitive tests, computerized EEG tasks, and a one-year follow-up visit.  A parent must accompany child at all visits.

Click here for more information about this volunteer opportunity, call 650-859-5227, or e-mail brain-study@sri.com.

Sleep and Premenstrual Syndrome (PMS)

Many women of reproductive age experience severe emotional and physical symptoms, such as mood swings, irritability, and anxiety, during the week before menstruation. These premenstrual symptoms may interfere with work, social activities and relationships.  The purpose of this study is to determine the impact of severe premenstrual syndrome on night-time sleep.

You may qualify if:

• You suffer from severe symptoms of premenstrual syndrome OR you have no/mild symptoms of premenstrual syndrome
• You are between the ages of 18 and 45 years old
• You are not taking hormonal contraceptives

This study involves four (4) sleep study overnights at SRI's Human Sleep Research Laboratory in Menlo Park, California. Sessions can be scheduled at your convenience. **You will be compensated for your time and travel.**

Click here for more information about this volunteer opportunity, call (650) 859-3062, or email sleep@sri.com.

Contact Us

For more information about SRI International's Human Sleep Research Program, call 650-859-3897 or email sleep@sri.com.