How does the brain influence vision?

We are seeking volunteers to participate in our research study on how the brain influences vision.

What's involved?

As part of the study we will ask you to attend up to five sessions where we ask you to make a series of simple judgements about images presented on a computer screen. Each session will take a maximum of 2 hours and you will be reimbursed with a $30 voucher for your time after each session

We may also ask if you would come back at another time for up to two MRI scans of your brain, to see which parts are active when you look at images. This will take a maximum of two hours each. You will be reimbursed for your time with a $30 voucher after each session and can request receipt an electronic copy of the anatomical brain image.

The vision testing and MRI will take place at the Faculty of Medical and Health Sciences, University of Auckland, 85 Park Road, Grafton.

Eligibility criteria

We are looking for 18-40 years old who do not have any of the following:

  • Abnormal eye health including:
    • Eye disease (e.g., glaucoma, photoreceptor disease)
    • Neurodevelopmental eye disorders (e.g., squint, amblyopia)
    • Substantial eye injury or previous treatment
  • Systemic conditions which may impact on vision including:
    • Diabetes
    • High blood pressure
    • Thyroid issues
  • Neurological conditions which may impact of vision including:
    • Stroke
    • Head injury
    • Migraine
    • Epilepsy
  • Contraindicated for MRI Including:
    • Pacemakers or defibrillators
    • Metal clips in the brain (aneurysm clips)
    • Metal fragments in or near the eyes

Contact

For further information and to take part in this study, please read the participant information sheet and sign the digital consent form below, and contact:

Ecem Altan
Email: ecem.altan@auckland.ac.nz

Approved by the University of Auckland Human Participants Ethics Committee on 12 March 2023 for 3 years, reference number 024231