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The Lifespan Study

The Lifespan Study uses neuroimaging, neurocognitive assessments, and genomics to define structural and functional brain changes across the human lifespan. We are building a database of normative imaging data for assessment of age related changes of the brain, which can then be used for research and clinical studies; and the development and validation of new quantitative imaging measures.

Join the Lifespan Study!

The Lifespan Study is currently recruiting healthy people between the ages of 18-68  who have no history of head trauma, psychiatric, or neurological disorders.

  • One visit
  • Play computer brain games
  • MRI and blood test
  • Earn $100

Interested?

Fill out our short survey and we will contact you.

Or email us with your questions at lifespanstudy@cumc.columbia.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions

The study is conducted at Columbia University Irving Medical Center, located in Washington Heights, NYC.

Study visits currently take place Monday–Friday, from approximately 8:30am–5:00pm. Slots depend on study team availability.

Our studies have specific eligibility criteria, which may include factors such as age, health conditions, or lifestyle habits. If your responses do not meet the criteria for this study, you are not eligible to participate at this time. However, eligibility requirements can change, and you may qualify for future studies.

Absolutely! We are actively enrolling for the New York Fitness Cohort Study. Each study has general eligibility criteria listed on its respective page. If you believe you might be a good fit, please fill out a survey and we will contact you!

If you know someone who may be a good fit, please share information about this study with them! Referrals are always appreciated! Encourage potential participants to reach out:

Call us at 212-305-2800, or email lifespanstudy@cumc.columbia.edu.

The timeline for publishing research varies and depends on factors like data analysis and publisher, and funding agency restrictions. Final results typically cannot be published until the study is complete, which can take years. Our most recent publications can be found here.

The MRI performed for our studies does not entail any risk beyond that of a clinical MRI that your doctor might recommend. All MRI scanning follows safety requirements of the US FDA. Certain individuals have higher risk during MRI. We carefully screen all study participants to minimize risk. It is for this reason that you are asked to remove ALL jewelry and change your clothing prior to MRI. These are some examples of potential safety concerns:

  • Medical Devices: Electronic medical devices, like pacemakers, can pose a risk. We will not permit you to have an MRI if you have an implanted electronic device or if you wear an external electronic device that you cannot remove for the MRI.
  • Claustrophobia: The narrow tunnel of the MRI machine can be uncomfortable for individuals with claustrophobia.
  • Hearing: The scanner produces loud noises that may affect hearing. We will require you to insert earplugs and will place dense padding over your ears to minimize any risk.
  • Metallic objects: Some types of metal may be attracted strongly to the MRI magnet. All types of metal pose a risk of severe burn if they are in contact with your skin. For this reason, we will not permit you to have an MRI unless you are free of ALL hazardous metal objects, including jewelry and piercings.

Participants who undergo an MRI will receive a safety review of their scans by a study Radiologist. Most often this will be Dr. Lipton. Additionally, you will have the option to request a CD of your MRI scan. Participants who complete a VO2max exercise test will receive a detailed report of their results.

News from the Translational Neuroimaging Lab
Publications from the Translational Neuroimaging Lab