What we study
During development, humans start out as a small lump of cells, and end up as thinking, feeling creatures. How does this remarkable transformation unfold? Our lab is interested in how the early development of the brain during the first year of life gives rise to the impressive cognitive abilities that make us uniquely human. The lab’s research focuses on social understanding: our ability to recognize, understand, and interact with other people. Infants are highly social from the first months of their lives. How does the infant brain support early social understanding, and how do changes in the brain influence the development of this ability?
Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI)
MRI is a tool that lets researchers create 3D images of the brain. Functional MRI is a type of MRI that measures how brain activity changes over time in response to inputs like pictures, movies, or sounds. During fMRI scans, infants lie in a comfortable cradle inside the scanner, and watch movies through a mirror while the MRI machine creates images of their brain activity.
What happens during a visit
Study visits take place at our MRI facility at Tulane University’s downtown campus. We’ll start out in our playroom, where infants will have a chance to stretch out or play while we explain the procedure to the parent. We’ll then make sure that the infant and parent don’t have any metal on them and can safely enter the MRI area. For some studies, we may also ask to make a video recording of the parent’s face to show the infant while they’re in the scanner. Once we’re ready and the infant is in a good mood, we’ll move to the MRI room. We’ll put earmuffs on the infant so that they can’t hear the machine’s noise, and put them in a cradle that goes into the scanner. During the scan, infants will watch movies and/or listen to sounds. Parents have the option of either remaining in the scanner room to watch their child, or watching them through a video feed from the room next door with a researcher. If the infant is fussy, or if the parent wants to stop the scan for any reason, we will halt the procedure. If the infant falls asleep in the scanner (which happens often), we’ll take images of the structure of the brain. Infants are usually in the scanner for short periods of 10-30 minutes, with breaks in between scans to feed, rest, or play.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who can participate?
We’re seeking infants between the ages of 1 and 24 months.
When are visits scheduled?
Most of our available times are on Friday and Saturday mornings, but we can schedule flexibly to accommodate your schedule.
Where does the study occur?
At our MRI facility on Tulane’s downtown campus.
Is MRI safe for infants?
Yes! Extensive research conducted by the FDA, NIH, and other organizations has found that MRI is a safe procedure for infants. Unlike methods like X-ray or CT, MRI doesn’t use radiation, and doesn’t adversely affect the body. MRI has been used with infants for medical purposes since the 1970’s, and there is no evidence that MRI has long-term effects on development. The MRI itself is a magnet, so we will make sure that your infant has no metal on them before the enter the scanner area. Our team has over ten years of experience conducting infant fMRI studies, and prioritizes keeping participants comfortable and happy during their scan.
Can I stay with my child the entire time?
Yes! As long as you’re able to safely enter the MRI area, you are welcome to remain in the room with your infant during their scan. Alternatively, you can stay in the room next door and watch your infant through a video feed.
Will parking be provided?
Yes, we can provide free on-site parking.
Can I bring my other children with me to the visit?
Yes, a member of our team can babysit in our playroom during the visit. Please let us know ahead of time if you to bring additional children.
Will I be compensated for my time?
Yes, we provide compensation of $100 for each two-hour scan session.
Meet the team
Ben Deen is fascinated by how babies change through development - starting as wiggly lumps that sleep most of the day, and ending up as young children with the ability to speak, run around, and ask questions about the world. During his PhD at MIT, he developed approaches to study brain development using MRI, by making the scanner environment as comfortable and welcoming as possible to infants. In his free time, he tries in vein to keep up with his son Elliot.
Isabel Nichoson is a graduate student at Tulane who wants to learn how baby’s brains grow and change during their first year! She especially wants to know how babies learn who their friends and family are. Outside of the lab, she enjoys playing with her dogs and drawing cool animals.
Directions
We offer free parking at the LaSalle parking garage located next to Tulane’s downtown campus.
Our imaging suite is a three minute walk from LaSalle parking garage.
A researcher will meet you outside our imaging facility.