NIHR St George’s Clinical Research Facility and Vaccine Institute calls for volunteers to advance lifesaving research

St George’s Vaccine Institute and NIHR Clinical Research Facility invite members of the public and staff to take part in research and clinical trials aimed at improving protection for infants, older adults and people at higher risk.

The Institute whose Director is Professor Paul Heath, has a long tradition of vaccine research, and is expanding trials of new and existing vaccines while working to better understand why some people are hesitant to be vaccinated. The goal: improve population health through rigorous research and practical engagement with communities and clinicians.

“Our aim in the Vaccine Institute is to trial new vaccines and find the best ways to protect our tiny babies, our older population and people at risk,” said Catherine Cosgrove, Co-Director of the NHIR Clinical Research Facility and the Vaccine Institute at St George’s. “We’re deeply grateful to everyone who has taken part in our vaccine trials—the benefits they’ve generated for the population are immense.”

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Owz-TTqUTXM

During the COVID pandemic, the institute’s volunteers played a key role in efforts to develop vaccines, a contribution Cosgrove described as “marvellous” and foundational to today’s work. Building on that experience, researchers are continuing studies that measure vaccine effectiveness, optimise dosing and schedules, and explore delivery approaches tailored to different age groups and medical needs.

Beyond laboratory and clinical work, the team is partnering with healthcare practitioners to listen to community concerns, address questions about vaccine safety and science, and co-design outreach that improves understanding. “We look at reasons why some people might not want to take vaccines and what their concerns or worries are,” Cosgrove said. “We like to work in a joint way to see what we can do to improve people’s knowledge around vaccines and science in general.”

Cosgrove offered thanks to past collaborators and encouraged new volunteers to come forward. “Thank you to all our volunteers and partners—both in previous time and also in the future to come,” she said.

Individuals interested in contributing to vaccine research at St George’s can register their interest through the vaccine institute or NIHR St George's CRF and will be contacted about studies that match their profile and preferences. Participants receive clear information, support from clinical staff and the opportunity to advance public health for their communities.