Dr Tomas Chaigneau tells us about his research with co-applicants Giulia Nicolini, Kerry Holbrook, and Ruth Klückers, investigating the role of communities in Cornwall’s seaweed farming industry. Their use of the 2024-25 Engaged and Participatory Research Fund helped to incorporate stakeholder perspectives, and engage both industry professionals and local communities in this project.
Category: Case Study
Communities Against Climate Change: the Role of the Public in Environmental Science Research
In this interview, Catherine Hurcombe speaks to Professor Stewart Barr from the Department of Geography, and member of the University’s Public Engagement Strategic Advisory Group, about how community-centred research has impacted his work in the field of environmental science.
Cerebrovascular Health and Exercise in Stroke Survivors – a Feasibility Study
Ellie Scott and Dr Owen Tomlinson offer insights into their recent Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) project, using the PPIE Participant Payment Fund. As part of ongoing research into brain blood flow and vascular health, the project invited stroke survivors to engage with research investigating feasible interventions to improve patient health.
Involving Patients in Shaping Research on MRI Contrast Agents
Dr Darren Hudson tells us about his recent project, using Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) Participant Payment Funding to inform studies into the effectiveness of a new MRI contrast agent. Working alongside people with lived experience, the project used public engagement to inform the future shape of this research.
Burn the Sheets: An Exhibition of Trans Domesticities
Sam Godfrey talks to us about their recent use of Engaged Participatory Research Funding to support a successful art exhibition with partners, House of Annetta. Through publicly showcased art, this project explored issues around domestic security and housing inequality for trans communities.
Impact of a Local Eco-Hub on Pro-Environmental Behaviour, Community Inclusion and Wellbeing
Dr Louise Venables shares insights into a recent collaborative project, working with Dr Daniel Derbyshire, and Nicky Nicholls from Sideshore Community. Supported by the Engaged Participatory Research Fund, their work investigated the role of eco-hubs in engaging local communities with critical social issues.
Medical Mycology and Textile Art
Ange Brennan, Public Engagement and Communications Manager for the MRC Centre for Medical Mycology, speaks to us about an ongoing collaboration between mycology researchers and Exeter College. This project invites the college’s textile students to explore the Centre’s research through art, giving both students and academics new insights into their work.
PROTECT Study Ambassador Initiative
Kelly Kleinstuber tells us about her public engagement work for the PROTECT project, a nationwide study investigating ageing brain health. With support from the Springboard Fund, this wide-reaching project has brought in new public involvement through its PPI Ambassador programme.
“What is Life Like ‘After’ Thyroid Disease?”: Investigating UK-based Thyroid Disease Patients’ Experiences of Life and Care Following Definitive Therapies.
Lauren Asare shares how she used Springboard Funding to support her ongoing investigation into the lived experiences of thyroid disease patients. With a background in Public and Patient Involvement and Engagement (PPIE), Lauren provides valuable insights into the health applications of public engagement, and since acquiring this award, has obtained funding to continue her research through a PhD.
Project Lifecycles: Supporting Energy Services and Infrastructure in South Africa’s Informal Settlements
The Public Engagement with Research team has been privileged to support Professor Federico Caprotti and Dr Whitney Pailman through our Engaged Participatory Research Fund. This work forms part of a larger project, exploring energy provisions and infrastructure for communities in South Africa’s informal settlements. In this piece, we’ll be looking at the lifecycle of this project, demonstrating the possible uses of publicly engaged research.