The RAD Lab conducts research surrounding adolescent depression, mood disorders, self-harm, and suicide. In addition, the lab has a special focus on brain development across adolescence. 

If you are interested in participating in a study or would like more information, please contact us at [email protected]

The lab has a number of active studies at any given time. See below for more information about current studies and opportunities:

Native American Young Adult Study

Brightly colored imagine of a jingle dress dancer performing at a Pow Wow

Eligibility:

  • 18-25 years of age
  • Identify as Native American
  • Ever experienced thoughts of death or suicide

About the Study:

Our research seeks to understand the factors that increase and decrease thoughts of death for Native American young people. Our ultimate goal is to improve suicide prevention efforts and save lives.

For more information, please visit our page dedicated to the Native American Young Adult Study

Parenting Teens with Self-Harm

Overlay of colored shadows outlining various facial profiles.

Eligibility:

  • 12-17 years of age
  • Teens who are currently receiving treatment for self-harm
  • At least one parent or caregiver who is willing to participate and learn more about how to support their teen

About the Study:

University of Minnesota researchers are conducting a research study to learn more about how an individually delivered parenting program may help teens with self-harm. 

For more information, please visit our page dedicated to the Parenting Teens with Self-Harm Research Study

Sexual/Gender Minority Mental Health

five friends with pride flag

Eligibility:

  • 18-24 years of age
  • Non-heterosexual and/or non-cisgender
  • Able to undergo an MRI scan

About the Study:

Sexual and gender minorities face additional stressors that contribute to psychopathology and altered stress response. This is an expansion of our pilot study that will inform us about the mental health of sexual and gender minorities. 

For more information, please visit our page dedicated to the Sexual and Gender Minority Mental Health Study