Staff, patients and members of the public came together at the NIHR Oxford Health Clinical Research Facility (CRF) for a lively Open Day marking Clinical Trials Day on May 20th. The event offered a welcoming space to explore how research happens and how people can get involved.
Guests heard engaging talks from Eric Imeson who talked about his experience volunteering for research studies as a member of our Engage group, Professor Andrea Cipriani, CRF Director, and Clinical Research Nurse Samuel Agyapong, who shared insights into the CRF’s work and the impact of clinical research. An exhibition area featured stands from a range of teams, including the D-CYPHR biobank, pharmacy and the Engage group, giving attendees the chance to speak directly with researchers and support staff.
Tea, cake and live music provided a relaxed setting for conversations, while guided tours of the facility gave visitors a behind-the-scenes look at research in action. Colleagues showcased their work across studies, clinics, labs and treatment spaces, helping to bring research to life.
CRF Director Professor Andrea Cipriani said:
“Events like our Open Day are an important way to make research more visible and accessible, highlighting the vital work our teams deliver every day. By opening our doors, we can inspire more people to learn about research and consider taking part, helping to shape better treatments for the future.”
Angela Conlan, PPIE Lead and Open Day organiser, said:
“It was fantastic to see people coming together to explore research in such a relaxed and informal way. Whether chatting over tea, visiting the exhibition stands or joining a tour, there was a real sense of curiosity and connection throughout the afternoon. Creating opportunities like this helps build relationships and ensures that patients, carers and the public feel confident to share their views and be part of shaping research.”
Comments from attendees on the day included:
“I enjoyed coming along to the CRF open day and I think other visitors did too”.
“Thank you for letting me share my ‘research story’. I hope it encourages others to participate”.
“Really friendly staff and it was great to see such a wonderful facility”.
To find out more about current studies open for recruitment and how to take part, visit the CRF’s dedicated webpages. You can explore a range of active research studies and what participation involves via the open clinical trials page.
For those interested in learning more about the different ways to get involved, whether as a participant, contributor or supporter, further information is available on the get involved page.
