Where lived experience meets science: Highlights from the BRC Student-Patient Alliance

On 13 April 2026, PhD students and patient research partners showcased the impact of the Muscle Health Student Patient Alliance (SPA) scheme at an event celebrating collaboration, communication and co‑production in research. The scheme, which has been running from the NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre’s Sarcopenia and Multimorbidity research theme for several years, pairs researchers with patients and members of the public to deepen mutual understanding, improve research communication and ensure scientific work remains grounded in lived experience.

During the event, students shared how working closely with patient research partners helped them communicate complex scientific concepts in clear, accessible language, better understand the real‑world relevance of their research, and regain motivation and purpose. Patient partners reflected on how the scheme humanised science, increased transparency, and gave them a valuable voice in shaping research conversations. 

Case studies showcased research ranging from molecular and cellular science to interventions for long‑term conditions such as rheumatoid arthritis, highlighting the benefits of co‑production across the research process. Participants also reflected on lessons learned, including the value of involving patients earlier in project design and providing clearer end goals for future partnerships. 

The event demonstrated how the SPA scheme builds empathy, confidence and shared learning – encouraging meaningful dialogue between scientists and the public and helping to shape more inclusive, impactful research.

PhD student Ana Crastin said: “Working with a public partner completely changed how I think about my research. It pushed me to explain my work more clearly, but also reminded me why it matters beyond the lab. Hearing how my research connects to real lives gave me renewed motivation and a stronger sense of purpose.”

Patient partner Claire Jowett, who was paired with Ana, added: “Working in partnership with Ana showed me what research can be at its best – inclusive, respectful, and collaborative: my voice was not only heard, but I felt like I’d make a difference to the way Ana thought about the value of her research, and the difference it could make to people. I also gained insight into the discipline and resilience needed to deliver meaningful results: working together can help shape better research.”

Professor Simon Jones, Lead for the Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) Sarcopenia and Multimorbidity theme said:

“It has been incredibly rewarding to see the Student Patient Alliance develop and to witness the relationships formed between students and patient partners. What stood out from this event was how these partnerships have shaped not only the research itself, but also the way our students think, communicate and engage as researchers. This is exactly the kind of collaborative, person-centred research culture we want to foster.”

Dr Michael Sagmeister, Deputy Lead for the Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre (BRC) Sarcopenia and Multimorbidity theme said:

“The Student Patient Alliance demonstrates how involving people with lived experience can strengthen research at every level – from improving communication and relevance to shaping more inclusive and impactful science. We see this as more than a student initiative; it is part of building a future research culture where co-production is embedded, not added on.”

If you’re a patient or member of the public who would like to support future muscle health research, or any of the research across the NIHR Birmingham Biomedical Research Centre, please do get in touch on brcppie@contacts.bham.ac.uk or complete our expression of interest form here.