Supporting 'BRAIN Pioneers' in Neural Device Trials
Caring for BRAIN pioneers: Understanding and enhancing family and researcher support in neural device trials
This project looks at how participants, their families, and research teams support each other during long-term trials of brain devices.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Washington NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Seattle, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11098554 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
We are learning how people who volunteer for early brain device trials, called 'BRAIN pioneers,' receive support from their families and the research teams. These pioneers take on unique risks and dedicate significant time to help advance science. Our goal is to understand the different ways care and support are provided in these experimental settings. We will observe interactions and talk with participants, their families, and researchers to hear their experiences. This will help us create better support systems for future participants in neural device trials.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This project is for individuals who have previously participated in or are currently involved in long-term, implantable neural device trials, along with their family partners and research teams.
Not a fit: Patients not involved in neural device trials or those seeking direct medical treatment for a condition would not directly benefit from this particular work.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this work could lead to improved support structures and better experiences for patients and their families participating in future neural device trials.
How similar studies have performed: While the ethical considerations of clinical trials are well-studied, this project takes a novel approach by specifically focusing on the unique support needs of 'BRAIN pioneers' in early neurotechnology development.
Where this research is happening
Seattle, United States
- University of Washington — Seattle, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Goering, Sara — University of Washington
- Study coordinator: Goering, Sara
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.