The joys and frustrations of life as an embedded researcher: Findings from a diary study of researchers embedded within local authority public health teams in England

  • 0Evidence for Policy and Practice Information and Coordinating (EPPI) Centre, UCL Social Research Institute, University College London, London, United Kingdom.

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Summary

This summary is machine-generated.

Embedded researchers in public health enhance research relevance for local policy. Their varied roles require strong collaboration skills, and stakeholder support is crucial for maximizing benefits and overcoming challenges.

Area Of Science

  • Public Health Research
  • Health Services Research
  • Implementation Science

Background

  • Embedded researcher interventions aim to improve research utility in local government.
  • Understanding the daily experiences and perceptions of embedded researchers is limited.

Purpose Of The Study

  • To explore the activities and working lives of embedded researchers in English local authority public health teams.
  • To understand researchers' perceptions of their roles and the factors influencing their effectiveness.

Main Methods

  • A daily diary survey was conducted over two waves with nine participants.
  • Data collection included open-ended and closed questions, analyzed using template analysis and descriptive statistics.

Main Results

  • Embedded researchers engage in diverse activities including meetings, data preparation, analysis, and providing expertise.
  • Strong relational skills are essential for stakeholder collaboration across academia, community, and government.
  • Participants experienced a mix of satisfaction, disappointment, and isolation, highlighting the need for time and system changes.

Conclusions

  • Embedded researchers play a vital role in bridging research and practice in public health.
  • Effective support from all stakeholder levels is necessary to optimize the impact of embedded research roles.
  • Further system changes are required to fully realize the potential of embedded research for enhancing public health.
  • Embedded researchers require robust support systems to navigate complex stakeholder landscapes and maximize their contributions to evidence-informed policy and practice.

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