Take part
Information on participation
You can register directly with GERTRUD here:
Please note: The registration form is currently only available in German
What are the steps in GERTRUD?
- Please register through our registration form.
- You will receive a link that allows your twin or higher-order multiples and your family members to register.
- Your data are securely stored at the Max Planck Institute for Human Development …
- … and are linked to those of your twin or multiples and your family members.
- When new studies are planned, you will be contacted by email.
- You decide individually each time whether you would like to participate.
Why your participation is important
Twins and higher-order multiples are invaluable to research because of their unique genetic similarities. Your participation will support research in answering important questions in areas such as health, social inequality, personal preferences, and public equality.
Benefits of your registration
As a thank you for your valuable contribution to science, in most studies you will receive financial compensation for your participation.
In some studies, qualified scientists will conduct clinical tests, such as brain scans (MRI) and saliva analyses. You will be informed of any incidental findings should clinically relevant abnormalities be detected. Please note that these assessments do not replace medical care or consultation with a healthcare professional.
Requirements for your registration
Are you a twin or higher-order multiple and at least 16 years old, or are you a parent or legal guardian of twins or multiples? Then we look forward to your registration!
- Regardless of the twin's or higher-order multiple's age
- Identical and fraternal twins or multiples
- Regardless of diagnosed illnesses
Most studies are conducted in German. However, some studies may also take place in English.
We recommend that you register only if your twin or higher-order multiples are also generally interested in participating in studies, as most studies require all twins or higher-order multiples to participate.
- During initial registration, we ask you to answer a few questions, such as whether you are identical or fraternal. This only takes about 5 minutes. This information is important for us to determine which studies you are eligible to participate in. If we have a study for you that you can participate in, we will inform you by email.
- If you are not a twin or higher-order multiple yourself but know twins or multiples who might be interested in joining GERTRUD, we would be delighted if you would inform them about our registry.
- By the way: If you are unsure whether you and your twin or higher-order multiples are identical or fraternal, you may be able to find out while participating in one of our studies. Simply ask the study team at the beginning of the study!
Please note: The registration form is currently only available in German.
Registration of relatives of twins and higher-order multiples
Please register using the family member registration link, which has been sent by email to the twin or higher-order multiple who has already registered with GERTRUD.
Are you interested in participating in GERTRUD?
Then register directly using our online registration form.
Please note: The registration form is currently only available in German.
Data Privacy Notice
We have compiled the most important information regarding data privacy for you here.