Our department works to engage both the public and patients in our outreach activities. We aim to inspire curiosity about science, connect with society, and provide opportunities for conversation, discussion, and engagement between our researchers and the public.
Outreach and public engagement describe the variety of ways in which the activities and benefits of higher education and research can be shared with the public. This section looks at some of Immunology and Inflammation's recent outreach and public engagement projects.
If you are part of the department, we are keen to hear about outreach activities you have led or have been involved in to feature them on this page. Please complete this short form with information about your outreach work.
Outreach items
Centre for Haematology PPIE Working Group
Researchers involved in acute leukaemia research organised and hosted the first acute leukaemia PPIE event in September 2025. Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia (ALL) and Acute Myeloid Leukemia (AML) patients joined academics and clinicians who summarised their current research programs. The event was supported by Blood Cancer UK, Novogene Global and Olink Genomics.
Great Exhibition Road Festival
Each year, members of our department participate in the Great Exhibition Road Festival, where we host stands for the public to engage with our research. Recently, stands have been on vaccine awareness through the Vaccine Student Research Network, exploring “What’s in your blood?” from our Centre for Haematology, and the Invisible Warrior Project, which aims to raise awareness of Sickle Cell disease.
Inspiring Future Scientists in year 12
Each year, Dr Tom McKinnion organises a visit for Year 12 students to the Hammersmith teaching laboratories for a hands-on introduction to laboratory science. The students practice key techniques including pipetting and bacterial transfer, gaining valuable experience, confidence, and insight into real-world scientific methods and careers.
Invisible Warrior Project
Invisible Warrior is an award-winning societal engagement project, designed to increase the understanding of Sickle Cell Disease. The project aims to increase awareness around the disease and who can get it, as well as highlighting the effects it has on the mental health of patients and their support networks. The team visits local schools and organises workshops for patients and their friends and family.
Imperial Lates - Let's talk periods
As part of the Imperial Lates series, the Thrombosis and Haemostasis lab raised awareness and encouraged communication around heavy periods. The team combined their scientific and clinical expertise to talk to the public about how any changes in the haemostatic balance can cause blood clots or bleeding and how these may cause heavy periods.
REFLECT Programme
REFLECT is a programme developed by our master’s students to help Year 12 students of Black heritage who meet widening participation criteria understand the differences between bioscience disciplines at Imperial College London. The students are given lectures, taught science communication skills, and can practice their skills by creating and presenting a scientific poster in groups.