Led by

Dr Gemma Mitchell

ISMH Hastings Research Fellow

University of Stirling

Prof. Niamh Fitzgerald

Director of the Institute for Social Marketing & Health

University of Stirling

Dr Lauren Carters-White

Lecturer in Public Health

University of Stirling

Group overview

The aim of this interest group is to better connect the wider prevention research community, who have a range of experiences and views related to commercial interactions and conflicts of interest in science, and researchers who study corporate political activity, who experience the (empirically documented) ‘chilling effect’ of industry responses to their work. Commercial interactions can be a controversial, sensitive topic with strong views on all sides. We hope to create a collegiate atmosphere in which a broad range of learning and experiences can be explored, helping us to identify any gaps in understanding and avoid polarisation on the issues. All of this will support researchers to carry out prevention science the public can trust.

Commercial Interactions in NCD Prevention Research: Decision-making & Governance webinar

This webinar was held in November 2022. Dr Katherine Cullerton, from The University of Queensland, presented research and guidance regarding decisions involving research engagement with commercial organisations. Professor Jonathan Marks, from Penn State University, presented on the main themes from his book (‘The Perils of Partnership’) and other literature to illustrate some of the potential risks of industry collaboration, drawing on examples from food and pharmaceutical industries.