How Do I Start?

If you haven’t already, please complete the Sign Up Form. The next step is a brief phone call to answer some background questions, and then we can schedule your “intake” (first) visit to MIT. The intake involves 1-2 hours of behavioral testing including some simple games and questions regarding your development and current life.  After this first visit, we will identify which studies are a good fit for you and invite you to participate in them.  

What is “consenting” in research? 

Before you (or your child) begin any research study, you will read and sign a consent form. The consent form is an official way of saying, “Yes, I want to try this.” If you have questions at any time, you can ask. If you decide at any point that you do not want to participate anymore, you can stop.

What do I get for participating?

Participants receive cash, a check, or an Amazon gift card, when they finish a study. Payment varies,: but is $20 per hour for the intake, and for research studies is usually $30 per hour for imaging, and $20 per hour for behavioral (non-imaging) activities like answering questions or doing an activity on a computer.  By participating in research at MIT, you will help scientists to understand important brain and behavior differences in autism.

Where does the visit take place?

Research studies take place inside the Department of Brain and Cognitive Sciences, also known as Building 46, at MIT. Our building is also home to the McGovern Institute for Brain Research, the Picower Center for Learning and Memory, and the Simons Center for the Social Brain.