Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
- What is the Health Data Research UK (HDR UK) Midlands Regional Network?
The HDR UK Midlands Regional Network is a collaborative initiative hosted by the University of Birmingham, working in partnership with key academic and healthcare organisations to advance health data science. Our goal is to harness the power of data to improve health outcomes and patient care across the Midlands and beyond. - Who are the consortium partners in the network?
The network is a partnership between:
- University of Birmingham (host institution)
- University Hospitals Birmingham NHS Foundation Trust
- University of Leicester
- University of Nottingham
- University of Warwick
- Who funds the HDR UK Midlands Regional Network?
The network is funded by Health Data Research UK (HDR UK), the UK’s national institute for health data science. HDR UK aims to unite the UK’s health data to enable discoveries that improve people’s lives. - What are the key objectives of the network?
Our main objectives are to:
- To maintain and expand the HDR UK Midlands regional network reaching out to all parts of our region.
- To upskill and improve the knowledge and capabilities of our workforce by enabling them to learn from each other.
- To maximise opportunities for our region through the HDR UK Midlands regional community platform.
- How does the network contribute to health data research?
We provide a platform for collaboration, share best practice, and promote the use of data science in tackling key health challenges. The network supports projects ranging from understanding disease patterns to developing innovative treatments and improving healthcare delivery. - Who can join the network?
Membership is open to anyone with an interest in health data research, including researchers, clinicians, data scientists, healthcare professionals, and organisations from across the region and beyond. This also includes patients and the general public. - How can I become a member of the network?
You can join the network by completing our membership registration form - Are there any membership fees?
No, membership is free. We encourage anyone interested in health data research to join and collaborate. - Are there opportunities for industry partners to collaborate with the network?
Yes, we actively encourage collaborations with industry partners to drive innovation and apply research findings in real-world settings. - Does the network offer training opportunities?
Yes, we offer a wide range of training opportunities, including workshops, seminars, and online resources focused on health data science and its applications. See our Monthly Data Grand Round (Webinar Series) and keep an eye out for our quarterly insight sharing afternoons. - How can I find out about upcoming events and training sessions?
We regularly update our website and social media channels with information on upcoming events. You can also join our mailing list for the latest updates. - Does the network offer funding opportunities?
We share information about relevant funding calls and can provide letters of support for applications for collaborative research proposals aligned with our mission. - How does the network involve patients and the public?
We are committed to embedding patient and public involvement (PPI) at the heart of our work. This includes co-designing research projects, contributing to governance, and ensuring that public perspectives shape our priorities. - How can patients and the public get involved?
Patients and the public can participate through our PPI advisory groups, attend engagement events, or contribute directly to specific projects. Patients and the public are welcome to join our network by completing our membership registration form - How can I contact the network for more information?
You can reach us via email or through the contact form on our website. We also share updates and announcements through our social media channels.
Email: hdr-midlands@contacts.bham.ac.uk
- Is there a newsletter I can subscribe to?
Yes, we send regular newsletters featuring updates on research, events, and opportunities. Sign up on our website to stay informed.