UROP Project
Structural, Functional and Metabolic Reorganization of Pain Modulatory Networks pre- and post- OnabotulinumtoxinA (OnabotA) Treatment of Chronic Migraine (CM)
migraine, imaging, pain, sensory testing
Research Mentor: snikolova@fsu.edu Simona Nikolova,
Department, College, Affiliation: Department of Psychology and Florida State University College of Medicine, Medicine
Contact Email: snikolova@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Department, College, Affiliation: Department of Psychology and Florida State University College of Medicine, Medicine
Contact Email: snikolova@fsu.edu
Research Assistant Supervisor (if different from mentor):
Research Assistant Supervisor Email:
Faculty Collaborators:
Faculty Collaborators Email:
Looking for Research Assistants: Yes
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: medical or computer majors
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 10, During business hours
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
Number of Research Assistants: 2
Relevant Majors: medical or computer majors
Project Location: On FSU Main Campus
Research Assistant Transportation Required: Yes Remote or In-person: In-person
Approximate Weekly Hours: 10, During business hours
Roundtable Times and Zoom Link:
- Day: Wednesday, September 2
Start Time: 3:00
End Time: 3:30
Zoom Link: https://fsu.zoom.us/j/92592129561
Project Description
Chronic migraine is a disabling neurological condition that affects pain processing and brain networks involved in pain regulation. OnabotulinumtoxinA (Botox) is an approved preventive treatment for chronic migraine, but it does not work equally well for all patients, and the brain mechanisms underlying treatment response are not fully understood.The purpose of this study is to understand how brain activity, pain modulation systems, and clinical symptoms change over time in response to Botox treatment, and to identify brain-based markers that may help predict who benefits most from therapy.
This research study will examine how migraine treatments affect brain function, pain processing, and symptoms over time. This study includes Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) brain scans, sensory testing, questionnaires, and daily headache tracking.
Research Tasks: data collection, conducting interviews, data analysis
Skills that research assistant(s) may need: To be able to conduct interview, collect sensory and MRI data and drive participants from TMH to College of Medicine if needed is required.
To have some experience with RedCAP is recommended.
Some experience with data analysis and statistics is recommended.
Mentoring Philosophy
My mentoring philosophy is centered on providing students with meaningful, hands-on research experiences while supporting their development toward increasing independence. In my migraine research program, I aim to involve students in the full research process, from participant interaction and data collection to neuroimaging analysis, interpretation, and scientific communication. I believe students learn best when they are given opportunities to contribute to authentic research questions while receiving appropriate guidance and feedback.I strive to create an inclusive and collaborative environment in which students feel comfortable asking questions, developing new skills, and taking ownership of their work. I tailor mentorship to each student's background, interests, and career goals, gradually increasing responsibility as their skills and confidence develop. My goal is not only to teach students how to conduct rigorous research, but also to help them develop critical thinking, scientific independence, and an appreciation for how research can ultimately improve the lives of patients with migraine and chronic pain.