The Bipolar Research Directory (BiRD)

The Bipolar Research Directory (BiRD) grew from a simple frustration: people with bipolar disorder couldn’t easily find studies to join, and researchers couldn’t find participants. But we also recognize why many people are hesitant to participate in research—the field has a troubling history of exploiting and harming vulnerable populations, particularly people of color and those from marginalized communities. That mistrust is earned and valid.

BiRD exists to do things differently. We’re a 501(c)(3) nonprofit (EIN 33-3362130) founded by Dr. Sheri Johnson, a leading bipolar researcher, along with colleagues who are intimately familiar with the struggles of bipolar disorder and deeply committed to ethical, participant-centered research. Dr. Johnson’s foundational principle guides everything we do: “No data is more important than the safety, well-being, and comfort of our participants.”

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