In most cases, no. Patient and public involvement (PPI) in research aims to get outside/lay views on our research projects, which already undergo peer review by other researchers at various stages along the research journey, in order to benefit from the lived experiences of those who have health conditions and to understand how our research is viewed through public eyes. Researchers generally have other professional opportunities to influence research.
The panel are regularly invited to review documents for planned or ongoing research projects. As health research is competitive environment, with many groups aiming to gain funding or publish papers on similar topics, it is important that documents shared with the panel remain confidential. To make sure that researchers feel able to continue their research without fear of another group using their work without permission, we do not typically allow those working in research to join the panel. For similar reasons, we also discourage those currently employed by the pharmaceutical industry from joining. However, if you have lived experiences of a health condition or healthcare, separate from your experience as a researcher (e.g. as a patient), and wish to get involved in research in that capacity, please contact a member of the PPI team and we would be happy to discuss whether alternative arrangements can be made for your involvement.