How does the brain develop through adolescence into adulthood?

This is a new research study led by researchers from University College London looking at how the brain develops and changes between adolescence and adulthood. The study will take place at the Cardiff University Brain Research Imaging Centre (CUBRIC).

You have been asked to participate in this study because you took part in a brain scan study a few years ago. The overall results and averages from those brain scans will be compared to the new scans, to see how your brains have changed and developed now you are adults.

What is the purpose of the research?

To understand how differences in brain structure can affect health and behaviour as people move from adolescence into adulthood. A brain MRI scan shows up the detailed structure of the brain and can distinguish between different types of brain tissue including grey matter, white matter, blood and cerebral vessels. We can also see how your brain works while you’re doing simple tasks inside the scanner, such as identifying letters of the alphabet.

What do I have to do?

Altogether your visit will take just over 3 hours, plus travel time to and from Cardiff. The visit will involve an MRI scan which is scheduled to last approximately 90 minutes. The visit will also include some cognitive exercises and psychological questionnaires. We can also provide you with a Children of the 90’s letter which you can give to your employer and asks them to be kind enough to give you the day off without losing any annual leave.

You would need to go through a telephone screening form prior to booking an appointment. If you’re in any doubt about whether you’re able to take part, please call us on 0117 3310010.

A message about the study from Professor Tony David