Invitation to take part in research about Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) CURIOUS Study
Who is running this study?
This study is run by researchers at The University of Melbourne (Vascular Bionics Laboratory, led by Professor Nick Opie and team).
We want to hear from people living with movement disorders and those who care for them.
What is this study about?
Deep brain stimulation (DBS) is a treatment for movement disorders such as Parkinson’s, dystonia and essential tremor.
It uses thin wires placed in the brain, connected to a small device (like a pacemaker) that sends tiny electrical signals to help control symptoms.
We want to understand:
- What matters most to people when thinking about DBS
- What questions or worries they have
- How DBS and similar treatments affect them and their families
Your views will help guide the design of future DBS treatments, including less invasive options.
Who can take part in this study?
You may be able to take part if:
- You are 18 years or older, and
- You have a movement disorder (e.g. Parkinson’s, dystonia, essential tremor), and
- One of these applies:
- You are considering DBS, or
- You have DBS now, or
- You had DBS in the past
You need to be able to give informed consent and take part in an interview by phone, online, or in person.
What will I be asked to do?
Take part in one interview (about 30–60 minutes).
This may be:
- By telephone
- Online (video call)
- Face-to-face, either one-on-one or in a small group (up to 5 people)
We will ask about:
- Your experience of movement disorders
- Your thoughts and feelings about DBS and similar treatments
- What is important to you in daily life
With your permission, the interview will be audio recorded. The recording will be written out, and your name will not be used.
Taking part will not affect your medical care.
Will I be paid?
You will not be paid for your participation.
To thank you for your time you will be given a supermarket voucher by the researcher.
For in-person attendance, reasonable travel costs will be reimbursed.
How will my information be kept private?
- Your data will be labelled with a study number, not your name.
- Personal details will be stored securely at The University of Melbourne.
- Only the research team will have access to your data.
- Study results may be published, but you will not be identified.
More information / Interested in taking part?
Please contact:
Christin Mathew
Vascular Bionics Laboratory, The University of Melbourne
Phone: 0480 556 824
This study has been approved by The University of Melbourne Human Research Ethics Committee.
Project ID Number: 34843
Document V1.0 — 27 Nov 2025
Additional documentation:
Invitation to take part in research about Deep Brain Stimulation (DBS) CURIO
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