HUNDREDS of visitors turned scientist for the day at a special exhibition of research.
The John Radcliffe Hospital’s West Wing atrium was transformed into a giant lab packed with technology, experiments and interactive games for the annual National Institute for Health (NIHR) Oxford Biomedical Research Centre open day.
Patients and the public explored the latest research tackling conditions including arthritis, cancer, diabetes and heart disease.
Among those demonstrating research was Dr Sara Mazzucco, Neurologist and Clinician Scientist at the Stroke Prevention Research Unit.
She said: “It was a great chance to explain our research to the public, why it is important and why it is important that people take part in studies. It was very encouraging that so many people were interested in what we do.”
The event is now in its fifth year and gives the public the chance to talk to leading researchers and medical professionals about issues ranging from DNA sequencing to the use of patient data.
Oxford Biomedical Research Centre Director Keith Channon said: “Pioneering research led by Oxford University Hospitals and the University of Oxford is leading to new treatments, but it relies on patients and the public supporting our work by taking part in trials and studies.
“The BRC Open Day is a chance for the community to explore research and meet our talented research teams, and it is also our opportunity to say thank you for the support we get from our patients, their families, and the people of Oxfordshire.”
Oxford Biomedical Research Centre is a collaboration between Oxford University Hospitals NHS Trust and Oxford University to support patient-centred research and innovation.Combining the clinical expertise of Oxford University Hospitals with the academic excellence of Oxford University, it is pioneering new treatments and technologies that are saving lives, both in Oxford and across the NHS.