Participants Needed for a New Medical Research Study in Toronto – Earn $20

Are you interested in contributing to the future of inclusive medical research? A Toronto-based research team is conducting an innovative baseline study to improve how technology measures vital signs — and they’re looking for participants with Fitzpatrick Skin Types V and VI to ensure more accurate and equitable results across diverse skin tones.

The Fitzpatrick Scale is a widely used classification system that categorizes human skin tones from Type I (very light) to Type VI (deeply pigmented). This study specifically seeks volunteers who identify with the darker end of the spectrum — Types V and VI — to help fill a critical gap in medical data representation.

? About the Study

Researchers are exploring how facial blood flow information can be used to estimate vital health parameters such as:

• Blood pressure

• Pulse rate

• Breathing rate

• Heart rate variability

The goal is to develop a contactless method for measuring these vital signs using advanced imaging technology — a potential game-changer in modern healthcare. Your participation will help improve the accuracy and inclusivity of these tools for people of all skin tones.

? Study Location & Duration

This is an in-person study conducted at:
250 University Ave, Suite 209, Toronto, Ontario

Each session lasts approximately 45 minutes and will include a few simple steps:

• You’ll sit comfortably while your facial blood flow is recorded using a smartphone or camera.

• Your blood pressure will be measured using a standard monitor or by a trained professional.

• In some cases, participants may be asked to perform an optional wall-sit exercise to provide additional physiological data. A nurse or trained researcher will assess your readiness for this light activity.

• The process may be repeated up to three times to ensure accuracy.

A light panel may be used to illuminate your face during the session for optimal recording quality.

? Compensation

Participants will receive $20 for completing the session.
If you’re disqualified for health-related reasons during the appointment, you’ll still receive a “thank you for trying” gift valued at up to $10.

This study involves minimal risk — the experience will be similar to a routine visit to your doctor’s office. You may feel mild, temporary discomfort from blood pressure cuffs or ECG stickers, but no lasting effects are expected.

✅ Eligibility Requirements

To participate, you must:

• Be 18 years or older

• Not be pregnant

• Live in or be able to travel to downtown Toronto

• Self-identify as Fitzpatrick Skin Type V or VI

• Be comfortable having your face recorded during the session

Participants may be removed from the study if they cannot follow instructions or are found ineligible during screening.

? How to Join

This study is ongoing, with appointments available Monday to Friday.

To express interest or schedule a session, visit the official study page:
? https://fitz-study.vercel.app/

Or contact the research team directly:
? [email protected]
? (647) 578-7925

You’ll receive confirmation and next steps once your eligibility is reviewed.

? Why This Study Matters

Representation matters in science — and this project aims to make medical technology more inclusive for everyone. By participating, you’ll be helping researchers fine-tune innovations that could make non-contact health monitoring more accurate and equitable across all skin tones.

Your 45 minutes could help shape the next generation of healthcare technology.

Join today, make an impact, and get compensated for your time.
? Sign up now