Over the years, Kennedy Krieger’s scientists and researchers have made crucial medical discoveries that have led to innovative treatments and improved patient care for individuals with disorders of the brain, spinal cord and musculoskeletal system.

To learn more about research studies currently recruiting participants, click on the categories below:

ADHD Studies

Executive Functions in Reading

This study is currently recruiting until 2025

Study Name: The Role of Executive Functions in Reading and Reading Remediation (IRB #: 00207805, Principal Investigator: Keri Rosch, Ph.D. and Co-Principal Investigator: Horowitz-Kraus Tzipi, Ph.D.).

Funding: Kennedy Krieger Institute

Description:The aim of this study is to help children with reading disabilities read faster and more accurately and to examine the effects of a reading accelerated program.

Eligible Age Range: 8 years, 0 months through 12 years, 11 months

Time Commitment: One 3-hour eligibility assessment via Zoom, two-half day appointments, three days a week for 8 weeks to participate in the computer-reading program (20-30 minutes per day)

Compensation: Earn up to $125

For more information, please click here.

Understanding Motor Movement in Children With and Without ADHD

This study is recruiting until 2026

Study Name: Anomalous Motor System Physiology in ADHD: Biomarker Validation and Modeling Domains of Function (IRB#: 00251063, Principal Investigator: Dr. Stewart Mostofsky, M.D.)

Funding: National Institute of Mental Health (Award #: 5R01MH078160-13)

Description: This research study investigates neural biomarkers (specific electrical signals in the motor area of the brain that control muscle movement and movement planning) associated with attention deficit/hyperactive disorder (ADHD). During the research appointments, participants complete a cognitive assessment, questionnaires, computer games that assess cognitive skills, movement activities that assess balance and coordination, and two 2-hour sessions of transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).

Eligible Age Range: 8 years, 0 months and 12 years, 11 months

Time Commitment: Participation in this study requires two-full day appointments (typically 8:30am-2:30pm).

Compensation: Earn up to $50 per day

Optional Component (For Participants with ADHD Only): Participants with ADHD can elect to complete an additional research appointment (typically 8:30am-2:30pm) that includes two additional sessions of TMS and taking a low dose (10 mg) of methylphenidate (also known as Ritalin). The purpose of this component is to assess the impact of stimulant medication on motor control. Participants complete a cognitive assessment, computer games, and movement activities during their first appointment. During their second and third appointments, participants complete a 2-hour TMS session in the morning, take either a placebo (sugar pill) or methylphenidate during a 1-hour lunch break, and complete a 2-hour TMS session in the afternoon. Children already taking stimulant medication withhold their medication on their appointment days. Participants with ADHD who elect to complete the medication component receive an additional $50.

Eligible Age Range: 8 years, 0 months through 12 years, 11 months

Contact Information: CNIR@KennedyKrieger.org

Study Keywords: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, ADHD, neurotypical

Autism Studies

Are you a parent/caregiver of a child with developmental delay or autism?

The purpose of this study is to understand community providers and caregivers' attitudes and perceptions on autism/developmental delay diagnoses. The goal is to then develop a developmental/screening training program for providers and to create more resources for families.

Can you help us recruit families? Please see the attached flyer if your families with children with developmental delay or autism are interested to participate.

Early childhood providers: please complete the Qualtrics survey linked below if you are interested in participating. You will find an informed consent form at the beginning of the survey. Completing the survey will serve as your consent. Responses are anonymous, and participation is voluntary. We appreciate you completing our survey and sharing your insight and experiences!

Survey Link

Thank you and please let us know if you have any questions!

RITA-T@KennedyKrieger.org

Developing New Diagnostic Tools for Autism

This study is recruiting children and adults until 2026.

Study Name: Computerized Assessment of Motor Imitation (CAMI): Advancing the Validity, Scalability and Neurophysiology of a Promising Phenotypic Biomarker for Autism Spectrum Disorder (IRB#: 00269589, Principal Investigator: Dr. Stewart Mostofsky, M.D.)

Funding: Simons Foundation (Award #: 724867)

Description: This research study investigates a new method of identifying early symptoms of autism spectrum disorders, using a computerized assessment of motor imitation (CAMI). The CAMI method uses 2D and 3D motion-capture cameras to identify and quantify differences in imitation ability and speed. During the two half-day (4 hours) appointments, participants complete a cognitive assessment, computer games assessing executive functions, movement activities assessing coordination and balance, and an imitation activity using 2D and 3D motion-capture cameras.

Time Commitment: Participation in this study requires two half-day appointments (4 hours).

Compensation: $50 per visit

Age Range: 6 years, 0 months through 40 years, 11 months

Contact Information: CNIR@kennedykrieger.org

Study Keywords: Autism, ASD, neurotypical

Exploring Sleep Patterns and Differences in Children with Autism and Neurotypical Children

This study is recruiting until 2026. 

Study Name: Sleep Patterns and Brain Development in Children with Autism Spectrum Disorder (IRB #: 00318498, Principal Investigator: Stewart Mostofsky, M.D.)

Funding: National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (Award #: 5P50HD103538-03)

Description: This research study examines brain-based differences in childhood sleep patterns associated with autism spectrum disorders. Participants complete a half-day (4 hours) appointment that includes a cognitive assessment, a saliva collection using a saliva sampling kit, a 30-minute practice Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan to learn about the MRI scanning environment, and a 1-hour MRI scan. Participants also receive an actiwatch and sleep journal to take home for two weeks. The actiwatch is a device similar to a FitBit that collects data on light exposure and movement to assess sleep disruption.

Time Commitment: Participation in this study requires one half-day appointment (4 hours) and two weeks of wearing an actiwatch (sleep watch)

Compensation: $125 total

Eligible Age Range: 8 years, 0 months through 12 years, 11 months

Contact Information: CNIR@KennedyKrieger.org

Online Research Opportunity ages 12 – 36 months

Description: Child development researchers at Kennedy Krieger Institute are studying a new social communication screening tool for children ages 12-36 months.

What is involved?

  • Brief online questionnaire about your family (15 minutes)
  • Online developmental screeners (approximately 1 hour)
  • For some families a telehealth developmental assessment with you and your child, and feedback with a developmental specialist (approximately 2 hours)

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB # : : : NA_00066880

Principal Investigator: Dr. Rebecca Landa

Eligible Age Range:12 – 36 months

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Neurodiverse and Neurotypical children

Contact:  For more information, please call (877)-850-3372 or email Scipsreach@KennedyKrieger.org or follow: https://discover.kennedykrieger.org/jfe/form/SV_a5yvFvt8UgoluNo


Social Communication Intervention for Toddlers with Autism Spectrum Disorder

This study is currently recruiting

Study Name: Do you have a child 18 to 33 months old with autism spectrum disorder?

Description: Researchers at Kennedy Krieger Institute are studying whether there are differences between in-person and virtually delivered social communication intervention for toddlers with autism spectrum disorder.

This study includes: 

  • Questionnaires about your child and you
  • Developmental assessments
  • Random assignment to either virtual or in-person intervention sessions
  • No significant risks associated with participation

If eligible, families will receive:

  • Intervention for 12 weeks
  • Information about your child's development
  • $50 after study completion
Eligibility & Criteria

IRB# 00279093

Principal Investigator: Dr. Rebecca Landa

Co-Investigator: Dr. Rachel Reetzke

Sponsor: Department of Defense

Gender: All

Age: 18 to 33 months

Diagnosis: Autism Spectrum Disorder

Contact information: For more information, please email Scipsreach@KennedyKrieger.org or follow: https://discover.kennedykrieger.org/jfe/form/SV_a5yvFvt8UgoluNo

Click here to view study flyer

Bipolar Disorder

The Balance Study – Bipolar Disorder (Allergan)

This study is currently recruiting

Description: Bipolar depression can change the way a child or teen interacts with the world around them. If you or your child have bipolar depression, we are inviting you to take part in the Balance Study for children and teens, aged 10 to 17 years of age, who have been struggling with bipolar depression. The purpose of this study is to evaluate an investigational drug for bipolar depression in children and teens. The Balance Study will enroll about 380 children and teens with bipolar depression at participating study centers throughout North America and Europe.  

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00281389

Principal Investigator: Bradley Grant, DO

Eligible Age Range:  10 - 17 years

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Bipolar Disorder 

Click here to view study flyer.

Caregivers

Are you a parent/caregiver of a child with developmental delay or autism?

The purpose of this study is to understand community providers and caregivers' attitudes and perceptions on autism/developmental delay diagnoses. The goal is to then develop a developmental/screening training program for providers and to create more resources for families.

Can you help us recruit families? Please see the attached flyer if your families with children with developmental delay or autism are interested to participate.

Early childhood providers: please complete the Qualtrics survey linked below if you are interested in participating. You will find an informed consent form at the beginning of the survey. Completing the survey will serve as your consent. Responses are anonymous, and participation is voluntary. We appreciate you completing our survey and sharing your insight and experiences!

Survey Link

Thank you and please let us know if you have any questions!

RITA-T@KennedyKrieger.org

To explore how individual members of the family are affected by caregiver burden when providing care for a child with special needs.

This study is currently recruiting

Description: The outcome of this study would provide targeted counseling approaches and respite for family members of children with special needs based on identified areas of burden.

Eligibility & Criteria

JHU IRB #00284523

Principal Investigator: Dr. Tamar Rodney

Eligible Age Range:  Adults over 18yrs old who have a family member (child under 18yrs) with special needs. Individuals who are able to independently consent to participation.

Gender: All

Contact Information: Dr. Tamar Rodney, TRodney1@JH.EDU 410-955-3961

Click here to view study flyer

Cerebral Palsy

Research Opportunity for Children and Adults with Cerebral Palsy and/or Caregivers

This study is currently recruiting

Study name: Children and adults with cerebral palsy (CP) and/or their caregivers are needed to participate in a research study.

Description: This research is being done to find risk factors for chronic pain in people with cerebral palsy (CP).  We are also looking at the effects of pain on function, independence and quality of life in people with CP. People will be asked to complete online questionnaires at your convenience.

Participants will be emailed links to online questionnaires that will take 30 – 60 minutes to complete. The questions will be about medical diagnoses, quality of life and other factors that might influence pain.  Participants will receive $10 for completing all questionnaires.

Eligibility & Criteria

RPN: #IRB 00181801

Principal Investigator: Eric Chin, MD

Eligible Age Range:  Ages 8 and up

Contact Information: CPpainStudy@KennedyKrieger.org

Click here to view study flyer

Valbenazine for the Treatment of Dyskinesia Due to Cerebral Palsy (Neurocrine)

This study is currently recruiting

Description: A Phase 3, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study to Assess the Efficacy, Safety, and Tolerability of Valbenazine for the Treatment of Dyskinesia Due to Cerebral Palsy (Neurocrine).

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00391760

Principal Investigator: Heather Riordan, MD

Eligible Age Range: All

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Children and adults with Dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy

Click here to view study flyer.

Clinical Trials

Perinatal Arterial Stroke: A Multi-site RCT of Intensive Infant Rehabilitation (I-ACQUIRE)

This study is currently recruiting

Description: I-ACQUIRE, a form of constraint-induced movement therapy (CIMT), is being evaluated - in two dosages – compated to typical treatments for children with hemiparesis, such as one hour weekly each of occupational therapy and physical therapy. Both dosages involve therapy fice days a week for four consecutive weeks, provided by a therapist trained in I-ACQUIRE. You’re infant or toddler may be eligible if he or she had a stroke very early in life and shows motor weakness or poor movement control on one side (hemiparesis.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00219451

Principal Investigator: Dr. Joan Carney

Eligible Age Range: 8 months-36 months

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Perinatal Arterial Ischemic Stroke (PAIS)

Click here to view study flyer.


Valbenazine for the Treatment of Dyskinesia Due to Cerebral Palsy (Neurocrine)

This study is currently recruiting

Description: A Phase 3, Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study to Assess the Efficacy, Safety, and Tolerability of Valbenazine for the Treatment of Dyskinesia Due to Cerebral Palsy (Neurocrine).

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00391760

Principal Investigator: Heather Riordan, MD

Eligible Age Range: All

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Children and adults with Dyskinetic Cerebral Palsy

Click here to view study flyer.


A Phase 1b, Single Ascending Dose, Randomized, Double-Blind Study to Evaluate SAR439459 for the Treatment of Osteogenesis Imperfecta in Adults

This study is currently recruiting

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00316494

Principal Investigator: Malinda Wu, MD

Eligible Age Range: All

Diagnosis: Osteogenesis Imperfecta


Epidiolex® For the Treatment Of Anxiety Comorbidity In Refractory Pediatric Epilepsy (EAPE)

This study is currently recruiting

Description: This research study titled, Epidiolex® For the Treatment Of Anxiety Comorbidity In Refractory Pediatric Epilepsy (EAPE), is being conducted by Dr. Jay Salpekar to evaluate if the drug FDA approved drug, Epidiolex®, helps control anxiety and mood symptoms associated with recurrent seizures in addition to seizure control. The length of the study is 4 months and consists of 11 visits; some are remote and some are onsite.

If you or a family member have any questions or are interested in learning more about the study please contact the study staff by replying to this notice or by contacting the staff directly with the information below.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00282248

Principal Investigator: Dr. Jay Salpekar

Eligible Age Range: 6-17 years

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Anxiety, Anxiety Disorder, Epilepsy, Seizures

Click here to view study flyer.


The Balance Study – Bipolar Disorder (Allergan)

This study is currently recruiting

Description: Bipolar depression can change the way a child or teen interacts with the world around them. If you or your child have bipolar depression, we are inviting you to take part in the Balance Study for children and teens, aged 10 to 17 years of age, who have been struggling with bipolar depression. The purpose of this study is to evaluate an investigational drug for bipolar depression in children and teens. The Balance Study will enroll about 380 children and teens with bipolar depression at participating study centers throughout North America and Europe.  

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00281389

Principal Investigator: Bradley Grant, DO

Eligible Age Range:  10 - 17 years

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Bipolar Disorder 

Click here to view study flyer.


A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study in Male Adolescents with Fragile X Syndrome (TETRA 204)

This study is currently recruiting

Description: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Two-Part Study of BPN14770 in Male Adolescents (Aged 9 To <18 Years) with Fragile X Syndrome.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00312157

Principal Investigator: Dejan B. Budimirovic, MD

Eligible Age Range: 12 to 18 years

Gender: Male only

Diagnosis: Fragile X Syndrome


A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study in Male Adults with Fragile X Syndrome (TETRA 301)

This study is currently recruiting

Description: A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled, Parallel Group Study ofBPN14770 in Male Adults (Aged 18 to 45) with Fragile X Syndrome.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00353081

Principal Investigator: Dejan B. Budimirovic, MD

Eligible Age Range:  18 to 45 years

Gender: Male Only

Diagnosis: Fragile X Syndrome


ZYN002 Administered as a Transdermal Gel to Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults for Treatment of Fragile X Syndrome

This study is currently recruiting

Description:  A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Multiple-Center, Efficacy and Safety Study of ZYN002 Administered as a Transdermal Gel to Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults with Fragile X Syndrome – RECONNECT

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00281916

Principal Investigator: Dejan B. Budimirovic, MD

Eligible Age Range:  Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Fragile X Syndrome

Click here to view study flyer.


Forward-March Fragile X Study

This study is currently recruiting

Description:  FORWARD-MARCH is the next step following a highly successful research study called FORWARD (Fragile X Online Registry With Accessible Research Database) that was started in 2012. The FORWARD study created the largest database of information on fragile X syndrome (FXS) in the United States. Data from the FORWARD study is being used by researchers to learn about the lives of people with FXS, including medication use, behaviors, and development over time, and share findings with other researchers and clinicians.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: 00337864

Principal Investigator: Dejan B. Budimirovic, MD

Eligible Age Range: Individuals born between 2003-2017

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Fragile X Syndrome

Cornelia de Lange

Cornelia de Lange Behavior Study

This study is currently recruiting

Description: Does your child with CdLS display problem behavior? Some children with Cornelia de Lange syndrome engage in behaviors that are harmful to themselves (e.g., head banging, head hitting, self-biting), are harmful to others (e.g., hitting, kicking), or are harmful to the environment (e.g., ripping/breaking/tearing things, banging on surfaces, kicking objects). Sometimes these problem behaviors negatively impact children or their families to the point that treatment is needed. Children with CdLS, who are between the ages of 3 to 15 years old, and who exhibit these types of problem behaviors are needed for a research study. Parents will be asked to complete questionnaires about their child’s behavior, and behavioral assessment and treatment of the problem behaviors will be provided at no charge to the family. Families will be asked to attend 2 full-day clinic visits and 1 half-day clinic visit at Kennedy Krieger Institute. Families will also participate in phone follow-up calls for 3 months after treatment. Families will receive $150 for their participation.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB# 00223332

Principal Investigator:  Patricia F. Kurtz, PhD

Gender: All

Age:  3 – 15 years of age

Diagnosis:  Cornelia d Lange syndrome with behaviors that are harmful to themselves, harmful to the environment or harmful to others.

Contact Information: John Michael Falligant, PhD at 443-923-9512

Epilepsy

Epidiolex® For the Treatment Of Anxiety Comorbidity In Refractory Pediatric Epilepsy (EAPE)

This study is currently recruiting

Description: This research study titled, Epidiolex® For the Treatment Of Anxiety Comorbidity In Refractory Pediatric Epilepsy (EAPE), is being conducted by Dr. Jay Salpekar to evaluate if the drug FDA approved drug, Epidiolex®, helps control anxiety and mood symptoms associated with recurrent seizures in addition to seizure control. The length of the study is 4 months and consists of 11 visits; some are remote and some are onsite.

If you or a family member have any questions or are interested in learning more about the study please contact the study staff by replying to this notice or by contacting the staff directly with the information below.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00282248

Principal Investigator: Dr. Jay Salpekar

Eligible Age Range: 6-17 years

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Anxiety, Anxiety Disorder, Epilepsy, Seizures

Click here to view study flyer.

Fragile X Syndrome

A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study in Male Adolescents with Fragile X Syndrome (TETRA 204)

This study is currently recruiting

Description: A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Two-Part Study of BPN14770 in Male Adolescents (Aged 9 To <18 Years) with Fragile X Syndrome.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00312157

Principal Investigator: Dejan B. Budimirovic, MD

Eligible Age Range: 12 to 18 years

Gender: Male only

Diagnosis: Fragile X Syndrome

Forward-March Fragile X Study

This study is currently recruiting

Description: FORWARD-MARCH is the next step following a highly successful research study called FORWARD (Fragile X Online Registry With Accessible Research Database) that was started in 2012. The FORWARD study created the largest database of information on fragile X syndrome (FXS) in the United States. Data from the FORWARD study is being used by researchers to learn about the lives of people with FXS, including medication use, behaviors, and development over time, and share findings with other researchers and clinicians.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #:00337864

Principal Investigator: Dejan B. Budimirovic, MD

Eligible Age Range: Individuals born between 2003 and 2017

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Fragile X Syndrome

There is no cost to participate in the study. Patients who take part will receive all study-related visits, tests, and investigational drug from a dedicated medical team at no cost. No health insurance is required. 

Contact Information: Call the Clinical Trials Unit at Kennedy Krieger Institute at 443-923-3850.

Click here to view study flyer.

A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled Study in Male Adults with Fragile X Syndrome (TETRA 301)

This study is currently recruiting

Description: A Randomized, Double-blind, Placebo-controlled, Parallel Group Study ofBPN14770 in Male Adults (Aged 18 to 45) with Fragile X Syndrome.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00353081

Principal Investigator: Dejan B. Budimirovic, MD

Eligible Age Range:  18 to 45 years

Gender: Male Only

Diagnosis: Fragile X Syndrome

ZYN002 Administered as a Transdermal Gel to Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults for Treatment of Fragile X Syndrome

This study is currently recruiting

Description:  A Randomized, Double-Blind, Placebo-Controlled, Multiple-Center, Efficacy and Safety Study of ZYN002 Administered as a Transdermal Gel to Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults with Fragile X Syndrome – RECONNECT

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00281916

Principal Investigator: Dejan B. Budimirovic, MD

Eligible Age Range:  Children, Adolescents, and Young Adults

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Fragile X Syndrome

Click here to view study flyer.

Learning Disorder Studies

Computerized Reading Intervention Research Study

Study Name: The Role of Executive Functions in Reading and Reading Remediation (IRB #: 00207805, Principal Investigator: Keri Rosch, Ph.D. and Co-Principal Investigator: Horowitz-Kraus Tzipi, Ph.D.)

Funding: Kennedy Krieger Institute

Description: The aim of this study is to help children with reading disabilities read faster and more accurately and to examine the effects of a reading accelerated program.

Eligible Age Range: 8 years, 0 months through 12 years, 11 months

Time Commitment: One 3-hour eligibility assessment via Zoom, two half day appointments, three days a week for 8 weeks to participate in the computer reading program (20-30 minutes per day)

Compensation: Earn up $125

For more information, please click here.

Leukodystrophies

Have you been diagnosed with Cerebral X-linked Adrenoleukodystrophy (cALD)

This study is currently recruiting

Description: Learn more about MT-3-01 study, the clinical study that is assessing the efficacy and safety of leriglitazone on the progression of cerebral X-linked Adrenoleukodystrophy (cALD).

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB # : 00382750

Principal Investigator: Dr. Eric Mallack

Eligible Age Range:18 years of age and older

Gender: Male

Diagnosis: Genetic confirmation of X-ALD and have a progressive cALD

Contact Information: Jordan Goodman, Study Coordinator at goodmanj@KennedyKrieger.org or 443-923-2769.

View research flyer

Pregnancy and Infancy

The HEALthy Brain and Child Development (HBCD) Study

This study is actively recruiting

Description: The HEALthy Brain and Child Development Study (HBCD) is a large, long-term study of early brain and child development, funded by 12 offices of the National Institutes of Health (NIH). Johns Hopkins University/Kennedy Krieger Institute is one of the 25 study sites across the United States. We are asking families in Maryland and across the United States to join our study and hope you will too! We will follow you and your baby from pregnancy through early childhood. We want to learn how your baby grows and develops. And because every person and family is different, we want to understand how the brain develops. We want to know how your baby is affected by his or her exposure to substances and other environmental conditions during pregnancy and after birth. To learn about this we will collect information during pregnancy and through early childhood, including:

  • Pictures of the baby's brain using MRI
  • Growth measurements like height and weight
  • Samples from mom and baby, like urine, and saliva, and maternal blood
  • Medical and family information
  • Information about the home, feelings, and development

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB # : 802055

Principal Investigator: Heather Volk, Andy Satin & James Pekar

Eligible Age Range: Individuals in the 2nd or 3rd trimester of pregnancy OR who have recently given birth and their children

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Individuals in the 2nd or 3rd trimester of pregnancy OR who have recently given birth and their children

Contact:  B’More HBCD, 615 N Wolfe St, W2508, Baltimore, MD 21205; HBCD@JH.edu

Keywords: child development, early brain development, pregnancy, early childhood, MRI

View research flyer

 

Osteogenesis Imperfecta Studies

A Phase 1b, Single Ascending Dose, Randomized, Double-Blind Study to Evaluate SAR439459 for the Treatment of Osteogenesis Imperfecta in Adults

This study is currently recruiting

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00316494

Principal Investigator: Malinda Wu, MD

Eligible Age Range: 18 years and older

Diagnosis: Osteogenesis Imperfecta

Sickle Cell Disease Studies

Recruiting children with sickle cell disease under 5 years of age.

This study is actively recruiting

Description: Researchers at the Kennedy Krieger Institute and the Johns Hopkins Hospital are looking for volunteers to participate in a research study on neurodevelopment in young children with sickle cell disease.

To participate in the study, your child must:

  • Be under 5 years of age
  • Have a diagnosis of sickle cell disease
  • Be willing to have a neurodevelopmental evaluation.

This study involves 3 study visits involving:

  • History and neurological examination
  • Neuropsychological testing
  • MRI of the brain
  • Blood sample completed at one of the visits above

After the 3 visits above, this study may require annual visits until age 5, including neurological exam and blood sample collection. At their final visit at age 5, this study will require neurological examination, neuropsychological testing, MRI of the brain, and blood sample collection.  Participations will receive compensation .

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB # : :IRB00096434

Principal Investigator: Eboni Lance, MD, PhD

Eligible Age Range: under age 5

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Sickle Cell

Contact:  Eboni Lance at 443-248-6714 or email SickleCell@KennedyKrieger.org

Keywords: Sickle Cell

View research flyer

 

Are you interested in a study on hearing loss and dizziness?

This study is actively recruiting

Description: Researchers at the Kennedy Krieger Institute and the Johns Hopkins Hospital are looking for volunteers to participate in a research study on hearing loss and dizziness.

To participate in the study, you must:

  • Be between the ages of 18 to 80 years
  • May or may not have a diagnosis of sickle cell disease

This study involves:

  • Short survey
  • Neurological examination
  • Hearing and dizziness testing

Compensation provided.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB # IRB00222251

Principal Investigator: Eboni Lance, MD, PhD

Eligible Age Range: 18 – 80 years

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Sickle Cell

Contact:  Eboni Lance at 443-248-6714 or email SickleCell@KennedyKrieger.org

Click here to view study flyer

 

Schizophrenia Studies

Are You/Your Child Still Struggling with Schizophrenia?

This study is actively recruiting.

Description: Join a Clinical Research Study. For adolescents 12 to 16 years old diagnosed with schizophrenia

Seven visits conveniently scheduled at Kennedy Krieger Institute over 10 weeks

Each visit lasts from 2 to 3 hours

There is compensation for time and travel for each visit

The purpose of the study is to determine if study drug Na-Ben (sodium benzoate), added on to existing treatment, is safe and effective.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB # 00030540

Principal Investigator: Robert Findling, MD, MBS

Study Sponsor: SyneuRX International (Taiwan) Corp.

Eligible Age Range:12 – 16 years  

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Schizophrenia

Contact:  To learn more, call the Clinical Trials Unit: Kennedy Krieger Institute—(443) 923-3850

Email: ResearchTrials@kennedykrieger.org

Keyword:  schizophrenia

Click here to view study flyer.

 

Social Communication Studies

Online Research Opportunity ages 12 – 36 months

Description: Child development researchers at Kennedy Krieger Institute are studying a new social communication screening tool for children ages 12-36 months.

What is involved?

  • Brief online questionnaire about your family (15 minutes)
  • Online developmental screeners (approximately 1 hour)
  • For some families a telehealth developmental assessment with you and your child, and feedback with a developmental specialist (approximately 2 hours)

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB # : : : NA_00066880

Principal Investigator: Dr. Rebecca Landa

Eligible Age Range:12 – 36 months

Gender: All

Diagnosis: Neurodiverse and Neurotypical children

Contact:  For more information, please call (877)-850-3372 or email Scipsreach@KennedyKrieger.org or follow: https://discover.kennedykrieger.org/jfe/form/SV_a5yvFvt8UgoluNo

Keywords: social communication

Spinal Cord Injury

Adults with spinal cord injury needed to participate in a 4-week cycling program

This study is currently recruiting

Description: We are looking for adults with spinal cord injury (SCI) who can participate in a 4-week cycling program. Structural and functional MRI scans of the brain and spinal cord will be used to study the effect of the cycling program.

Who: Adults, age 18-99 with ASIA A-D traumatic thoracic injury without lower motor neuron involvement. To participate, you must be at least 6 months out from the injury, and be in satisfactory general health..

What: You will be asked to participate in a 4-week cycling program at the International Center for Spinal Cord Injury (ICSCI). At the beginning of the program, you will be assigned to either a Functional Electric Stimulation (FES) cycling group or a passivecycling group. The 4-week program will consist of a total of 12 cycling sessions (3 times/week, 1 hour/session). On the day of (or on a separate day close to) your 1st, 6th, and 12th cycling visit, you will also receive an ASIA neurological exam, a SCIM functional evaluation, and a structural and functional magnetic resonance imaging of the brain and spinal cord (total of 3 ASIA exams and 3 MRI). During the imaging, we will ask you to lie still in the MRI while we take pictures of your brain and spinal cord. The neurological exam and imaging will last approximately 60 minutes each (120 minutes total). If you have your own FES RT300 cycling bike, you will have an option to cycle at home using televisits. The screening and MRI visits will still be conducted at KKI in person.

Risks: The effects of magnetic fields in an MRI scanner have been extensively studied, and there are no known significant risks with an MRI exam.

Benefits: There is no direct benefit to you from being in this study. This study may benefit others in the future by improving methods for the study of nervous system structure and function. If you complete the study, you will be reimbursed $150 for participation and an additional $60 for the cost of transportation (total of $210; in the form of a check).

Where: The International Center for Spinal Cord Injury at Kennedy Krieger Institute, The Broadway Campus (707 North Broadway, Baltimore, MD). You will have an option to perform the FES cycling in the Maple Lawn Campus (11830 West Market Place, Suite P, Fulton, MD 20759)..

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00182576

Principal Investigator: Ann S. Choe, PhD

Eligible Age Range: 18 - 99

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Spinal cord injury

Contact: Research Coordinator at the International Center for Spinal Cord Injury (443) 923-9235 or ClinicalTrials@SpinalCordRecovery.org

View study flyer here

 

Stomach Studies

What is your stomach saying to your brain?

This study is currently recruiting

Description: Healthy volunteers are needed for a research study on how stomach activity and brain activity are related. Stomach activity is monitored using electrodes placed on the skin of the abdomen; brain activity is monitored using MRI.

Who: Healthy adults, age 18-49.

Where: F.M. Kirby Research Center for Functional Brain Imaging at Kennedy Krieger Institute, 707 N Broadway, Baltimore MD.

When: About one-and-a-half hours on each of two mornings (close together). Before one morning, you will be asked to fast overnight (no food after dinner).

What: You will receive $50 compensation on conclusion of second scan.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB #: IRB00243929

Principal Investigator: James Pekar, PhD

Eligible Age Range: 18 - 49

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Healthy adults

Contact: Email gutbrain@kennedykrieger.org

Keywords:  Healthy adults, stomach

View study flyer here

 

Typically Developing Children

Computerized Reading Intervention Research Study

This study is currently recruiting until 2025

Study Name: The Role of Executive Functions in Reading and Reading Remediation (IRB #: 00207805, Principal Investigator: Keri Rosch, Ph.D. and Co-Principal Investigator: Horowitz-Kraus Tzipi, Ph.D.)

Funding: Kennedy Krieger Institute

Description: The aim of this study is to help children with reading disabilities read faster and more accurately and to examine the effects of a reading accelerated program.

Eligible Age Range: 8 years, 0 months through 12 years, 11 months

Time Commitment: One 3-hour eligibility assessment via Zoom, two half day appointments, three days a week for 8 weeks to participate in the computer reading program (20-30 minutes per day)

Compensation: Earn up $125

For more information, please click here.

Developing New Diagnostic Tools for Autism

This study is recruiting children and adults until 2026.

Study Name: Computerized Assessment of Motor Imitation (CAMI): Advancing the Validity, Scalability and Neurophysiology of a Promising Phenotypic Biomarker for Autism Spectrum Disorder (IRB#: 00269589, Principal Investigator: Dr. Stewart Mostofsky, M.D.)

Funding: Simons Foundation (Award #: 724867)

Description: This research study investigates a new method of identifying early symptoms of autism spectrum disorders, using a computerized assessment of motor imitation (CAMI). The CAMI method uses 2D and 3D motion-capture cameras to identify and quantify differences in imitation ability and speed. During the two half-day (4 hours) appointments, participants complete a cognitive assessment, computer games assessing executive functions, movement activities assessing coordination and balance, and an imitation activity using 2D and 3D motion-capture cameras.

Time Commitment: Participation in this study requires two half-day appointments (4 hours).

Compensation: $50 per visit

Age Range: 6 years, 0 months through 40 years, 11 months

Contact Information: CNIR@kennedykrieger.org

Study Keywords: Autism, ASD, neurotypical

Online Research Opportunity ages 12 – 36 months

Description: Child development researchers at Kennedy Krieger Institute are studying a new social communication screening tool for children ages 12-36 months.

What is involved?

  • Brief online questionnaire about your family (15 minutes)
  • Online developmental screeners (approximately one hour)
  • Telehealth developmental assessment with you and your child, and feedback with a developmental specialist.

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB # : : : NA_00066880

Principal Investigator: Dr. Rebecca Landa

Eligible Age Range:12 – 36 months

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  typically developing

Contact:  For more information, please call (877)-850-3372 or  email Scipsreach@KennedyKrieger.org or follow: https://discover.kennedykrieger.org/jfe/form/SV_a5yvFvt8UgoluNo

Keywords: social communication

Research Opportunity for Healthy Children or Adults

This study is currently recruiting

Study Name:  Healthy children or adults without neurologic or developmental diagnoses and/or caregivers

Description: This research is being done to find risk factors for chronic pain in people with cerebral palsy (CP).  We are also looking at the effects of pain on function, independence and quality of life in people with CP. People will be asked to complete online questionnaires at your convenience.

Participants will be emailed links to online questionnaires that will take 30 – 60 minutes to complete. The questions will be about medical diagnoses, quality of life and other factors that might influence pain.  Participants will receive $10 for completing all questionnaires.

Eligibility & Criteria

RPN: #IRB 00181801

Principal Investigator: Eric Chin, MD

Eligible Age Range: Ages 8 and up

Contact Information: CPpainStudy@KennedyKrieger.org

Click here to view study flyer.

 

Computerized Reading Intervention Research Study

This study is currently recruiting until 2025

Study Name: The Role of Executive Functions in Reading and Reading Remediation (IRB #: 00207805, Principal Investigator: Keri Rosch, Ph.D. and Co-Principal Investigator: Horowitz-Kraus Tzipi, Ph.D.)

Funding: Kennedy Krieger Institute

Description: The aim of this study is to help children with reading disabilities read faster and more accurately and to examine the effects of a reading accelerated program.

Eligible Age Range: 8 years, 0 months through 12 years, 11 months

Time Commitment: One 3-hour eligibility assessment via Zoom, two half day appointments, three days a week for 8 weeks to participate in the computer reading program (20-30 minutes per day)

Compensation: Earn up $125

For more information, please click here.

Research Volunteers Needed

This study is actively recruiting

Study Name: Seeking typically developing children (3 to 17 years old) and adults to participate in a research study at Kennedy Krieger Institute and Johns Hopkins Medicine 

Description:  Participate either from home or in the lab in Baltimore, MD

At Home Option: you will need a computer connected to the internet and you will be asked to complete a game on a website.

In Lab Options (choose as many as you would like): computer-based tasks, treadmill walking tasks, virtual reality tasks, reaching tasks with a robot, and an MRI scan where we take pictures of your brain while you look at pictures, move your arm, or squeeze a device.

There are no medical benefits or significant risks to you for joining this research study. Participation will take 1-5 hours (with multiple visits possible). Participants will be compensated for their time. WHO: Children with Tourette Syndrome and typically developing children

Eligibility & Criteria

IRB# 00276939

Principal Investigator: Amy J. Bastian, PhD

Eligible Age Range: Children (ages 3 - 17) and Adults

Diagnosis: Typically Developing

Contact:  For more information or if interested in participating, use the QR code on the flyer or contact the Motion Analysis Lab directly: CFMSrecruitment@KennedyKrieger.org | 443-923-2716

Click here to view study flyer.

 

Typically Developing Participants – Ages 6 - 17

This study is currently recruiting

Description: We are recruiting neurotypical developing children and adolescents to participate in a research study to learn if there are differences between the brain’s structure and its function in children and adolescent without a neurodevelopmental disorder. This is a great opportunity for children and adolescents to participate in computer games, paper & pencil tasks, a Magnetic Resonance Imagining (MRI) scan of their brain and a free IQ test.

Participants can earn up to $50 per day and will receive an IQ report, radiology report and a picture of their brain!

Eligibility & Criteria

Eligible Age Range:  Children ages 6-17

Gender: All

Diagnosis:  Neurotypically developing children

Contact Information: KennedyKrieger.org/CNIR or email CNIR@KennedyKrieger.org

Study Keywords: Typically developing

Click here to view study flyer.