M D M A F O R A N O R E X I A I N Y O U N G A D U L T S ( M A Y A )
MAYA study
We are designing a multi-site clinical trial to evaluate MDMA-assisted Internal Family Systems (IFS) therapy for treating young people with anorexia nervosa, who have not yet responded to conventional treatment. The study aims to recruit approximately 60 participants from clinical sites in England, Australia, and the United States, and is expected to start in 2027.
M D M A F O R A N O R E X I A I N Y O U N G A D U L T S ( M A Y A )About the maya study
Building on the positive momentum from MAPS’ phase 3 randomized controlled trial (RCT) on MDMA-assisted therapy for PTSD, which showed significant reductions in eating disorder risk, in addition to real-world pilot data demonstrating that MDMA-assisted IFS therapy significantly improved eating disorder symptoms, we are excited to be launching the world’s first study on MDMA-assisted IFS therapy for anorexia nervosa in young adults in 2027. The MAYA study is anticipated to enroll approximately 30 participants.
Our goal is to empower young people with anorexia to become their own healers — restoring self-trust, fostering healthy development, and enabling lasting recovery
J O I N I N G O U R T E A MWHY IFS THERAPY?
Our goal is to empower young people with anorexia to become their own healers — restoring self-trust, fostering healthy development, and enabling lasting recovery.
Please contact us 3–6 months before your intended funding or application deadline to allow time to discuss project ideas, supervision, and fit. Earlier contact is especially helpful if you are developing a complex proposal, applying for external funding, or considering a clinical academic route.
J O I N I N G O U R T E A MCLINICAL ACADEMIC POSTS
Our group welcomes enquiries from clinical academics at the postdoctoral stage of the NIHR Integrated Academic Training (IAT) pathway, including Academic Clinical Lecturers and NIHR Advanced Fellows. We are particularly well-placed to host researchers in psychiatry given our affiliations with the University of Cambridge and the Cambridgeshire and Peterborough NHS Foundation Trust (CPFT). Clinical academic posts require coordination between university and NHS infrastructure, and timelines are determined by NIHR application rounds rather than the standard postgraduate calendar.
Clinical academic posts take a substantial time to develop. Prospective applicants are encouraged to get in touch early to discuss research alignment, clinical service compatibility, and the practical arrangements involved in dual academic-clinical roles.
J O I N I N G O U R T E A MPOSTDOCTORAL FELLOWSHIPS
Our group supports strong candidates applying for postdoctoral fellowships hosted at the University of Cambridge. We are particularly interested in researchers whose proposed work aligns with our research priorities in psychedelic science, including clinical trials and observational studies. Fellowship schemes we can support include: Wellcome Early Career Awards, MRC Career Development Awards, Marie Skłodowska-Curie Postdoctoral Fellowships, Sir Henry Wellcome Postdoctoral Fellowships, and Junior Research Fellowships at Cambridge colleges. External fellowship schemes are welcomed.
Fellowship applications require a substantial time to develop. We recommend getting in touch at least 6 months before your intended submission deadline to discuss research alignment, project development, host environment, and supervision arrangements.
D O N A T E T O D A Y Support our research
Our work is made possible by the generous support of philanthropists, industry partners, and private individuals. Their contributions enable us to conduct rigorous research, train the next generation of clinicians and scientists, and share accurate information about psychedelic therapy with the wider public.
To discuss a gift or learn how philanthropy shapes our work, please contact Belen Tejada-Romero, Head of Development — Brain and Mind Health, at the University of Cambridge.
