Public Engagement
Discussing our research and its implications with the public
We are opening HDBI research to broader questioning and consideration by the public, engaging in discussion about our research, and its implications.
We are also looking for ways to incorporate public feedback into how our research is conducted and communicated.
HDBI public engagement will be embedded within our research and we will be attuned and responsive to societal needs.
We aim to move from a ‘research-promotion’ mode to a more holistic approach, encompassing involvement, dialogue and communications to embrace the difficult conversations about our research and its Ethical, Legal and Social Implications (ELSI).
Public dialogue
Deliberative and meaningful engagement to understand how people feel about research with human embryos.
Over the course of multiple workshops, we aim to provide an updated account of where public hopes, concerns and aspirations lie when it comes to research with early human embryos that are donated, with consent, to research because they are no longer needed, or are unsuitable, for fertility treatment or embryos that are created for research from donated sperm and eggs.
Synchrony
Digital artwork by Andy Lomas
This interactive digital artwork uses mathematical modelling inspired by the developing heart and the advanced imaging researchers are using to study the cells that make it up. A stereoscopic installation enables viewers to explore how coordinated cell behaviours emerge from interactions between cells. These behaviours are simulated as visual and auditory patterns which can be modified in real-time by viewers, allowing them to see how changes in cell behaviour cause and are linked to changes in the shape and rhythm of the heart.
The Insights Group
This panel of public stakeholders provides an ongoing opportunity for researchers to discuss their work.
We aim to create a truly inclusive environment that will enable mutually beneficial exploration of ideas about ethical, legal and social implications of HDBI research as well as the sensitive and emotional subject matter surrounding the HDBI research and tissue donation process. This gives researchers the opportunity to reflect on and respond to societal concerns about their research as well as providing members of the public with an opportunity to influence how this research is conducted and communicated.
HDBI Public Engagement Practitioner Network
The public engagement programme is supported by diverse skills and experiences of public engagement practitioners from HDBI member institutions.
HDBI research is primarily based within 7 ‘host’ institutions across the UK, including: the Babraham Institute, Francis Crick Institute, Newcastle University, University College London, University of Oxford, and the Cambridge Stem Cell Institute and Gurdon Institute (both part of the University of Cambridge).
Precious Cells
Digital artwork by Anna Dumitriu
‘Precious Cells’ delves into the fascinating story of donated human embryos used in scientific research into understanding how we develop: from a fertilised egg to a functioning human being. A better understanding of early human development may one day lead to better treatments for many conditions, such as infertility, childhood cancers, spina bifida, heart defects and many other conditions. This artwork was informed by a series of conversations between the artist, members of the public, scientists, a social scientist and a policy expert specialising in research with early human embryos.
Get involved
Do you have a question about HDBI public engagement? Or do you want to find out how you can get involved yourself?
Please get in touch:
hdbi-pe@bio.cam.ac.uk
Podcast: ‘Made the Same Way’
Emerging female EMCEEs collaborate with researchers, embracing challenging conversations about HDBI science.
In each episode, a young artist creates an original song or poem which echos their feelings and stimulates curiosity about research in human developmental biology.
Training and workshops
Our programme develops the knowledge, skills and confidence of researchers and public engagement practitioners to discuss HDBI research with the public.
Training includes workshops about Ethical, Legal and Social Implications, ‘Having difficult conversations’, working with the media, and horizon-scanning.
Click here for more information and to access training resources.
Common Language
A book that explores artistic, sociological and linguistic aspects of biological research with human fetal and embryonic tissues.
‘Common Language’ is a physical artist’s book created using dos-a-dos binding which enables it to tell two stories simultaneously. One story the book presents is a narrative literature review of human developmental biology in the media during the 20th century and beyond. The other story is a social science report based on interviews conducted with current developmental biologists, reflecting on the language used and challenges faced when discussing their work with the public.
