Project Outline: Development of Public Engagement Materials for the Pharmacology Degree Programme
Project Supervisor: Dr Alexandra Holmes- Pharmacology- Faculty of Biological Sciences- University of Leeds
Background and Aim
Despite pharmacology’s crucial role in modern medicine, many people have a limited understanding of what pharmacology entails, leading to misconceptions around drug development, medicines and vaccines. This has particularly increased in visibility over recent years. Additionally, pharmacology is not typically taught in schools, even though increasing understanding of the subject is highly important. Improving public engagement with pharmacology can help to address the misinformation and rebuild trust around the subject, encouraging more informed decision- making about health.
Under the supervision of Dr Alexandra Holmes, myself and two visiting student researchers will use qualitative research methods and engagement with stakeholders, to explore two research questions:
- What is the public understanding of pharmacology?
- What are prospective students’ expectations of pharmacology?
Outcome and Impact
By employing qualitative research methods we will investigate common perceptions, knowledge gaps and misconceptions. These findings will be used to develop high quality resources, engagement materials and activities that can address these themes directly. These resources will aim to communicate pharmacological concepts in an accessible and engaging format and directly input on a strategic area for the school. Furthermore, these materials will support better public understanding of pharmacology, with the potential to impact throughout their lives.
Motivation
As a Biomedical Sciences Student, I have become fascinated by the subject of pharmacology and the study of drugs from the molecular level to its effect on the whole body. Equally, I am interested in how scientific information can be communicated beyond academic settings and have become increasingly intrigued by how information surrounding vaccines and treatments for disease is exchanged and discussed among the public, particularly online and on social media.
Hello!
My name is Leyla and I’m a first year student at the University of Leeds studying Biomedical Sciences. I have a keen interest in pharmacology as well as science and public health communication.
This summer I will be working on a project titled: The Development of Public Engagement Materials for the Pharmacology Degree Programme. This focuses on exploring the public’s understanding of pharmacology and prospective student’s expectations of the subject in order to create resources that improve public awareness of pharmacology.
Outside of academics, I enjoy travelling, reading, hiking and spending time outdoors. If you would like to chat, whether about pharmacology, public health communication or otherwise, I am happy to connect!
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