NIHR appoints Simon Denegri to lead public engagement in research

The UK's National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) has appointed Simon Denegri as the Institute's national director for public participation and engagement in research.

In his new position Denegri will be tasked with encouraging more people to take part in health and social care research in the UK.

This will include giving patients the right information and support to be able to talk to NHS staff about ongoing research into their condition.

Denegri, who is also currently chair of the NIHR's Involve programme, will work closely with NHS organisations, Public Health England, Healthwatch, patient groups and other stakeholders in this new role.

His previous roles include serving as CEO of Ovarian Cancer Action for six months during 2011 and CEO of the Association of Medical Research Charities (AMRC) from 2006 until 2011.

Prior to his role at the AMRC, Denegri was director of corporate communications at the Royal College of Physicians of London from 2003.