Basic science and discovery research are often conducted in laboratory or academic settings. They are not aimed at directly solving health problems. Instead, they explore foundational questions in health, science and technology and lay the groundwork for applied research and future innovations.
Here are some ways of involving consumers and community members:
- If the research is related to a health condition, connect with the peak body/relevant community organisations for that condition (e.g. the Heart Foundation, Diabetes Australia etc).
- Draw on existing literature for research priorities and publications/reports that incorporate consumer and community perspectives.
- Engagement with consumers at a community or organisational level may be more appropriate compared to direct involvement in this phase of research. Directly involving consumers in basic science and discovery research can carry the risk of raising expectations about the potential for impact on health, which can inadvertently cause emotional distress. Therefore, it is important to communicate clearly and transparently with them about the research and where it sits in the grand scheme of things.