Are you a stem cell donor who wants to impact the future of health care?

Help researchers to develop new ways of treating diseases including infections, cancer and autoimmunity.

What experience do I need to help?

 You would need:

• an interest in research into the immune system
• to be registered as a stem cell donor
• to feel comfortable sharing your experiences with researchers and other members of the public

More information

T-cells play a key role in helping the body spot diseases like cancer, while the immune system helps protect us from viruses and bacteria.  

When T-cells encounter a new virus, they spring into action to remove it. They start to recognise the virus and create a "memory" of it, so if the body faces that virus again, the T-cells know how to fight it off.

The research team wants to understand how T-cells behave differently in various groups of people. Most studies on T-cells have focused on people of European descent, leaving a gap in knowledge about how T-cells work in people from other backgrounds. This difference highlights the need for more research to ensure that T-cells are used effectively and fairly in treating diseases for everyone.

What will I be asked to do?

You'll be asked to look over the study proposal and figure out which parts of the project are most important. This will help the research team get a better understanding of what helps everyone, no matter where they're from or who they are.

How long will I be needed for?

Six hours in total - you’ll be asked to attend two, two-hour meetings, and spend one hour reading material prior to each meeting.  

What are some of the benefits for me?

Benefits to you:

• Learn more about how T-cells can be used to fight diseases
• Have a real impact on the future of health care

Our team will: 

• Cover reasonable travel expenses and additional carer or childcare costs,
• Offer payment for time of £25.00 per hour (people can request less if they are in receipt of state benefits).

Have a look at our guidelines for more information about this.

If you are receiving any benefits, you can access confidential advice from the Benefits Advice Service for Involvement.  

What support is offered?

There will be a study team member to provide support, and an information pack will be sent out prior to the meetings. This pack will describe the project background and aims.

How do I apply?

Complete the online form and tell us how you meet the required experience. 

Not sure how to complete the online form or would you like to discuss an opportunity further?

Then the team can help you, contact us by email to set up a chat. 

Access to any information you share with us is secure, restricted and dealt with confidentially. 

What happens next.

If your application fits the required experience, it will be sent to the project lead.

We will contact you with updates on the progress of your application.

If you have any questions, please contact us by email or call 02920 230 457.