Participate in paid neuroscience research.

Join our non-invasive clinical study exploring how gentle nerve stimulation affects human balance and physiological responses. Help advance science while earning $30–$50 an hour in Charlestown, MA.

$30-50 Hourly Compensation
100% Non-Invasive
WCG IRB Approved
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Peaceful natural setting

What to expect

Our procedures are completely non-invasive and conducted in a calm, professional laboratory environment. Here is how a typical session works.

Comfortable monitoring metaphor

Comfortable setup and monitoring

When you arrive for a session, our staff will review the day's protocol. You'll sit in a comfortable chair while we attach non-invasive sensors to monitor your heart rate, blood pressure, or brain-wave activity. We prioritize your comfort and ensure you are relaxed before proceeding.

Gentle, low-level stimulation

Using the Ceres V1 investigational device, we administer mild electrical currents to specific peripheral nerves. You may undergo Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation (GVS) via electrodes behind the ear, or Median Nerve Stimulation (MNS) via electrodes on your arm. The sensation is typically described as a mild tingling or light tapping.

Feedback and physiological tracking

Throughout the session, we will ask you for feedback on any sensations you experience. We will occasionally perform simple balance assessments. Once the session is complete, the stimulation is stopped, sensors are removed, and you are free to continue with your day.

Stimulation Types

Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation (GVS)

Electrodes are placed behind each ear and on your neck, forehead, or cheeks. Low-level electrical currents are used to stimulate the vestibular system—the system that helps your body sense motion and maintain balance.

Possible sensations:

  • Tingling or warmth at the electrode sites
  • Mild dizziness or lightheadedness
  • A temporary sensation of movement or change in balance perception

A small amount of Lidocaine 4% (a non-prescription analgesic cream) may be applied under the electrodes to ensure your comfort and prevent itching.

Median Nerve Stimulation (MNS)

Electrodes are placed on your arm, typically near the wrist or forearm. The low-level currents are directed at the median nerve in your arm.

Possible sensations:

  • Tingling, tapping, or buzzing in the arm
  • Brief muscle twitching in the hand or fingers

All sensations are temporary and typically resolve immediately after the stimulation ends. You are closely monitored, and you can request to lower the intensity or stop the stimulation at any point.

Time & Compensation

We value your time and contribution to clinical research. Participation is strictly voluntary and you can withdraw at any time.


Hourly Compensation

Participants receive between $30 and $50 per hour, rounded to the nearest 15 minutes, for each in-person study visit.

Session Duration

You may be asked to visit the laboratory for up to one session per day. Each session ranges from 30 minutes to approximately 6 hours, depending on the specific study activities planned.

Additional Reimbursement

  • Travel: Travel expenses exceeding $10 may be reimbursed (subject to prior approval and receipt submission).
  • Milestones: Additional compensation may be provided for completing required remote questionnaires or wearing provided consumer-grade sensors (e.g., Oura Ring) outside the lab.

Payments are issued weekly via a reloadable Visa gift card. If you leave the study early, you will be compensated for all activities completed up to that point.

Thank You for Your Interest!

We've received your information and will review your eligibility. If you match any current or upcoming studies, our team will contact you within 2-3 business days.

Personal Information

Medical Screening

These questions help determine eligibility and ensure your safety. All information is strictly confidential.

Availability & Preferences

By submitting, you consent to being contacted about research opportunities. Your information is confidential and used only for recruitment. You may withdraw anytime.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this research meant to treat a condition?
No. It is not expected that you will personally benefit from this research. The study is an exploratory clinical trial, not a medical therapy, and it is not intended to diagnose, treat, or prevent any disease. We are conducting this research strictly to improve scientific understanding of peripheral nerve stimulation.
Are there any risks or side effects?
Risks are minimal as the procedures are 100% non-invasive. The most common discomforts include temporary dizziness, nausea, skin redness, a mild headache, or tingling/itching beneath the electrodes. These effects resolve once the session concludes.
Is this FDA approved?
The Ceres V1 device used in this study is an investigational stimulation tool. It is not a medical device and is not approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for commercial use. It is utilized here strictly for controlled research purposes under the oversight of an independent IRB.
Who oversees this research?
The study is led by Principal Investigator Tina Chou, PhD, and sponsored by Orbit Technologies. Furthermore, all procedures are overseen and approved by WCG IRB, an independent board dedicated to protecting the rights and welfare of research participants.
Who is not eligible to participate?
For safety reasons, you may not participate if you are currently pregnant, have any metal implants in your head (excluding dental work), have a pacemaker or other implanted electrical device, or have a history of seizure disorders or diagnosed neurological conditions.