Are you interested in volunteering for a research study? We are recruiting adults ages 18-100 for a number of brain imaging studies, with opportunities to participate at several UC campuses. Learn more about eligibility requirements below or contact us to speak with a study coordinator. Advancing women's health research is made possible by the generous support of our volunteers.
The WBHI Brain Bank
The WBHI Brain Bank is a database of brain imaging and health data integrated across the University of California, including Santa Barbara, Berkeley, Davis, Irvine, Riverside, San Diego and San Francisco campuses. If you take part in an MRI study at any of these sites, you may be eligible to join the WBHI's Brain Bank "add on" study. Contact a representative from the site nearest you to learn more.
The Longitudinal Menopause Project
Half of the world's population will experience the transition to menopause, yet neuroscientists have limited knowledge of how the brain changes during this transitional period and the years that follow. The Longitudinal Menopause Project recruits women ages 35–50 for a prospective study of this dynamic period of life. Recruitment will launch at UCSF, UCSB and UC Irvine in Fall 2025.
The Maternal Brain Project
Pregnancy is a period of profound hormonal and physiological change. We are mapping the maternal brain starting pre-conception through one year postpartum to better understand this period of change. If you are planning to start a family you and your partner may be eligible to participate. Enrollment is ongoing at UC Santa Barbara and UC Irvine.
Ambassadors
WBHI Ambassadors are a passionate group of volunteers who work alongside WBHI researchers to advance the WBHI's mission. These dedicated individuals are united by a shared commitment to improving women’s brain health, education, and research. As advocates and leaders, our Ambassadors help to build awareness, foster connections, and drive impactful change. Together, they create a stronger foundation for innovation and progress in women’s brain health.
Interested in learning more or joining this remarkable group? Get in touch.
Traci Brown
Traci Brown is an Executive Assistant who works closely with the Trustees of the Ann S. Bowers and Robert N. Noyce Trusts at Groom and Cave, LLP in San Jose, CA. A native Californian, she brings a diverse professional background spanning sales, marketing, women’s health care, and creative pursuits as a published children’s book author.
For many years, Traci knew and worked personally with Ann S. Bowers, a close relationship that deepened her commitment to carrying forward Ann’s vision through the UC Noyce Initiative and the Ann S. Bowers Women’s Brain Health Initiative (WBHI). Since their inception, she has been a dedicated supporter, helping to advance multi-campus collaborations and championing WBHI’s focus on women’s brain health and Alzheimer’s research, a cause that resonates personally as she cares for her mother, who is living with Alzheimer’s disease.
Christine Groom
Christine has been an ambassador since 2025. Christine is a native of Silicon Valley California where she built a career in silicon wafer production planning while also dedicating decades to charitable and faith-based volunteer work. Today, drawing on her formal education in fashion design, she works as a professional pattern maker and custom couturier, bringing a unique blend of technical and creative experience to her role as an ambassador for UCSB’s Women’s Brain Health Initiative.
Grace Livingston
Grace has been a WBHI Ambassador since 2024. Grace provides invaluable help with WBHI social media and public facing materials. Based in New York City, Grace is an Account Executive with Verkada.