Overcoming the disconnect between scientific research and the public

In biomedical research, there is no situation where public engagement (PE) and public involvement (PI) are not possible, important or even expected. Whether we work in the clinic or in the laboratory, all researchers have a duty to reach out, demonstrate the added value that science brings to society, and make a real difference to the way research is done. Here we outline the benefits of PE and PI for individual researchers and their employers, for members of the public, and for society at large. We offer solutions to overcome major challenges, including a step-by-step guide for researchers to embrace PE and PI in their career, and make a call to action for a cultural shift towards embedding PE and PI in our modern academic environment.