Get involved in research design

We believe that the best research is shaped by the people it aims to help. Patient and Public involvement means working with patients, carers, advocates, and members of the community — not just doing research to, for, or about them. This is different from taking part in a study as a research participant. Instead, it’s about contributing your experience and perspective to help design, carry out, and share research in ways that matter most to you.

Why is your involvement important?

Your involvement would improve the quality and impact of our research. It helps build trust and ensures that our studies are:

• Relevant to the people they affect
• Acceptable and practical for participants
• Clear and understandable, with better information for participants
• Respectful of rights, safety, dignity, and wellbeing

When research teams like us involve patients and the public, they run better studies. They provide a better experience, communicate results more effectively, and make it easier to recruit and retain participants.

How can you get involved?

You can help by:

• Sharing your views on what research questions matter most
• Reviewing study materials to make sure they are clear and accessible
• Advising on how we share results with participants and the wider community

Your voice can make a real difference in shaping research that matters. If you’d like to get involved, please contact us at EFP-enquiries@ed.ac.uk.