Five of our CRUK City of London Radiation Research Centre (CoL RadNet ) PhD students recently showcased their research and patient and public engagement skills at the UCLH Celebrating Research Open Day 2026 on Thursday 8th October 2026. The event welcomed patients, hospital staff and members of the public for an afternoon of interactive activities highlighting cutting-edge health research and innovation taking place across UCLH and its partners.
The open day featured approximately 50 interactive stalls and provided opportunities for visitors to meet researchers and clinicians, explore emerging healthcare technologies, and learn more about medical research.
Representing CoL RadNet were Isobel Bonning (QMUL/KCL), Callum Emin (QMUL/UCL), Steph Leadbitter (UCL), Devika Singh (UCL/Crick) and Maria Janjua (UCL), supported by Philippa Pristerà and Esther Osarfo-Mensah from the CoL RadNet PPIE team. Throughout the afternoon via interactive demonstrations and discussions, the PhD students spoke with visitors about the ways in which radiation technologies are used to diagnose and treat disease through medical imaging and radiotherapy, and shared insights into their own research so far.
For our PhD students, the event provided a valuable opportunity to develop their patient and public engagement skills and gain first-hand experience communicating their work with diverse audiences:
“Taking part in the UCLH Research Open Day was a really rewarding experience. I particularly enjoyed engaging with patients and members of the public, explaining how radiotherapy works and discussing the latest research and advancements in the field. It was a valuable opportunity to develop my confidence in communicating complex scientific concepts in an accessible way. Speaking with visitors also reminded me of the importance of patient engagement and how research ultimately aims to make a meaningful difference to people’s lives.” – Maria Janjua
The event also enabled visitors to contribute their perspectives and questions, creating meaningful dialogue between researchers and the communities that ultimately benefit from research outcomes.
Public and patient involvement and engagement is a key part of RadNet City of London’s mission, ensuring that research is informed by and accessible to the wider public. By participating in events such as the UCLH Celebrating Research Open Day, our PhD students help to not only build understanding of radiation science, but also inspire interest in healthcare innovations.
