University at Buffalo

For Participants

For directions to the UB Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology Clinic, please click see this video:

Interested in becoming a participant in one of our studies?

We are actively recruiting participants from the UB and greater Buffalo communities to help us with our research. See below for some frequently asked questions about being a participant.

How do I become a participant?

You can contact us by email at APPL@buffalo.edu or by phone at 716-829-5308. You can contact us with any questions even if you end up deciding that you do not want to participate in our research.

Before we can schedule you for a session, we will ask you for some information, such as your age and some basic health history. These questions are meant to determine whether you are eligible to be scheduled for a study session and they will not be shared with any outside parties. If you are eligible based on the initial screening, we will schedule you to come into the lab. You are free to withdraw from the study at any time.

Where is the lab and how do I get there?

Our lab is in Cary Hall at UB South Campus in Buffalo, between Bailey Ave and Main St. When you get to the UB South Campus, you can park outside the Biomedical Education Building, and we will provide you with a parking pass.

Map of UB South Campus

If you are using public transportation, you can get to us via MetroRail (University station) or bus lines #8, #12, #13, #19, #44, #47, #48, #49, or #81. For most up-to-date bus schedules, please see the NFTA website.

What happens during a session?

All of our studies involve different types of tasks, and these will be explained to you when your appointment is scheduled. Generally, you will first go through some standard hearing testing. You will then complete tasks on the computer that require listening to sounds and making responses. Some of our studies also involve completing tasks where you have to use your memory and other thinking skills, such as attention or visual processing. Some other studies involve having a cap with electrodes placed on your head and having your brain activity recorded while you listen to sounds. Everything will be explained to you and you will be able to ask questions at any time during the study appointment.

What do I get out of being a participant?

You will be compensated for your time. By participating in our studies, you also help us learn more about how hearing works and hopefully develop ways to improve current clinical practices used by speech, hearing, and other healthcare professionals.