Visiting the Italian Alps is a bucket list item with people willing to spend huge amounts of money to visit. However, a recent appeal could see a handful of lucky individuals not only getting to go for free, but actually being paid to live there. The only catch? Being part of a research project. Eurac Research is currently interesting in studying how average altitude influences human health. As such, the company is seeking willing participants between 18 and 40 to take part in the study
by moving to the Italian Alps. During that time, they will live at around 2,300 to 2,500 metres above sea level while researchers monitor their physical wellbeing and analyse the effects the environment has on the body. Why scientists want volunteers to live in the Alps The project, known as MAHE (Moderate Altitude Healthy Exposure), aims to fill a significant gap in scientific knowledge. While the effects of extreme altitudes have been studied extensively, researchers know far less about what happens when people live at
more moderate elevations for extended periods. According to Eurac Research, around 200 million people worldwide permanently live at altitudes above 2,000 metres. Despite this, relatively little research has examined how these conditions affect long-term health, metabolism, sleep, cardiovascular function and overall wellbeing. Throughout the study, scientists will monitor a range of physiological markers, including blood pressure, blood oxygen levels, metabolism, appetite, sleep quality, nervous system activity and endurance performance. The findings could help researchers better understand whether living at moderate altitude offers health benefits or
presents potential risks. Life in the Italian Alps In return for taking part, volunteers will receive an all-expenses-paid stay in one of Europe’s most spectacular mountain regions, and will also receive a €400 stipend as compensation for their time and participation. Participants will stay at the Rifugio Nino Corsi mountain refuge in Stelvio National Park, one of the most scenic areas of the Italian Alps. Accommodation and all meals will be provided throughout the study period, which includes baseline testing, four weeks at altitude and
follow-up assessments. While this may sound like an extended mountain holiday, volunteers will still have responsibilities. Researchers want participants to maintain their normal routines as much as possible, meaning they can work remotely, study or enjoy the surrounding landscape during their free time. However, they must avoid increasing their usual exercise levels and cannot travel to different altitudes during the study. Who is eligible to apply? The study is open to healthy men and women aged between 18 and 40 who have a normal body
weight and typically live below 1,500 metres above sea level. Researchers are looking for participants who can provide a consistent sample for comparison. Taking part in a research project might seem a bit extreme, but for adventurous travellers it could be a rare opportunity to experience life in the Italian Alps while contributing to scientific research.
Eurac Research, MAHE study, Italian Alps, Stelvio National Park, Rifugio Nino Corsi, moderate altitude, volunteer study, €400 stipend