ASCEND Study

About The Study

Brown University is inviting young adults like YOU (ages 18–25) who are starting new jobs in:
- Construction or extraction
- Installation, maintenance, or repair
- Food preparation or serving
- Transportation or material moving
- Sales or related fields
to participate in a unique research study.
Let’s explore how social networks—your friends, coworkers, and family—shape health behaviors and life experiences.

Quick Facts

National Study

Open to U.S. participants ages 18–25

Young Adults Starting Jobs

Must have a job offer but not started yet

Fully Remote

Online surveys + daily diaries

Compensation

Earn up to $580 via Amazon or Zelle.

sign-up

Who Can Participate?

To be eligible, you must confirm that you:

Are 18–25 years old.
Starting a new job in one of the eligible occupations:
- Construction & extraction
- Installation, maintenance, & repair
- Food preparation & serving related
- Transportation & material moving
- Sales & related occupations
Reside in the U.S. and have a valid U.S. ID or Passport.

What's Involved?

Join a 2-year research study (fully remote)

Complete 1 baseline survey and attend a Zoom orientation session to get started.

Complete 6 online surveys (about 60 minutes each).

Participate in 7 short daily assessments (10 minutes each) 1 week at a time for a total of 5 weeks during the 2 year study period.

Compensation and Benefits:

Participants in Project ASCEND can earn up to $580 over the course of the study. Compensation is provided as a thank-you for your time and effort completing study activities. Payments are delivered via Amazon gift card or Zelle.
In addition to compensation, you’ll be contributing to important research at Brown University aimed at understanding how job transitions and social connections affect young adults’ well-being.

sign-up

FAQ

We’ve pulled together some basics to help you get started

What Will You Be Asked?

1. Share insights about your social connections (friends, coworkers, family) and how they influence your daily life.
2. Answer questions about work hours, stress, and health habits like alcohol use.

Why Join the ASCEND Study?

1. Get Paid! Earn up to $580 for participating (payments are made via Zelle or Amazon gift card)
2. Make a Difference. Help researchers understand how work and social connections impact health.
3. Flexible Participation. Complete online surveys, quick daily assessments, and orientation sessions—all designed to fit your schedule.
4. Your Privacy Protected: Your responses are confidential and coded for anonymity.

What do I need to show?

You’ll be asked to provide a government-issued U.S. ID and your job offer letter during a brief Zoom verification.

When will I get paid?

Participants typically receive compensation within 5 business days of completing the required study activities.

Brown University Research Study for Young Adults Starting Jobs