On 20 April 2026, the NIHR HealthTech Research Centre (HRC) in Accelerated Surgical Care hosted an interactive workshop on applying Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) principles in research.
The session was led by Dr Sunil Daga, Clinical Associate Professor at the University of Leeds and Research Inclusion Lead across both HRC and BRC programmes at Leeds Teaching Hospitals Trust.
Bringing together researchers and practitioners, the workshop created a collaborative space to explore how EDI can be meaningfully embedded across the research lifecycle—from design and recruitment to engagement and delivery.
A Decade of Work on Health Inequalities
Drawing on over ten years of experience, Dr Daga shared his work addressing health inequalities, particularly within kidney disease. He emphasised the persistent gaps in access to healthcare and research participation among underserved populations.
“Over the last decade or so, I’ve been very passionately working around how to bridge the gap and have equity in healthcare access.”
Using real-world examples, the session highlighted how structural inequalities influence outcomes and why research must actively respond to these challenges. Participants were encouraged to consider how similar principles could be applied across different clinical and research contexts.
Learning Through Shared Experience
A key strength of the workshop was its highly interactive format. Rather than a one-way presentation, the session encouraged dialogue, reflection and exchange of ideas across disciplines.
“The idea is to give some examples of the journey… some of that will resonate with you, some you might want to adapt, and others I hope to learn from you.”
This approach reinforced the importance of collaboration in advancing inclusive research practices—recognising that there is no single solution and that learning from others is essential.
Building and Protecting Trust
One of the central themes of the session was the importance of trust when engaging with underrepresented communities. Dr Daga highlighted that building relationships requires time, consistency and sensitivity, and that these connections must be treated with care.
“You do need to make an effort to protect those individuals that you have developed that rapport and trust.”
Participants echoed this sentiment during discussion, stressing that meaningful engagement goes beyond recruitment targets and requires long-term commitment to communities.
Moving from Principles to Practice
The workshop emphasised that embedding EDI in research is not a one-off exercise but an ongoing process. It requires continuous reflection, adaptation and a willingness to challenge traditional research approaches.
Attendees left with practical insights and renewed motivation to:
-Design more inclusive research studies
-Engage communities in ethical and meaningful ways
-Build sustainable partnerships based on trust
-Share learning across organisations and disciplines
Continuing the Conversation
The session concluded with a commitment to ongoing collaboration and knowledge sharing. Workshop materials, including Dr Daga’s slides, have been made available to participants to support continued learning and dissemination.
This workshop forms part of the HRC’s broader efforts to ensure that innovation in health technologies is inclusive, equitable and reflective of the diverse populations it serves.