Dr Piotr Teodorowski

Dr Piotr Teodorowski is a Research Fellow in the Faculty of Health Sciences and Sport, whose work is grounded in advancing inclusive, equitable research through meaningful Patient and Public Involvement & Engagement (PPIE). With a particular focus on amplifying the voices of underrepresented communities, his research explores how public and patient experiences can directly inform the design, implementation, evaluation and governance of research.

At the University of Stirling, Piotr is currently supported by a Cancer Research Transatlantic Development and Skills Enhancement Award (funded by the NIHR and MRC), which enables him to further develop his expertise in public involvement and engagement while building international connections with researchers at the National Cancer Institute in the United States.

Piotr has presented his work nationally and internationally, highlighting how participatory methods can reduce inequalities and enhance research quality. His recent publications reflect this focus, including studies on creating inclusive involvement and engagement strategies for data research. His approach includes participatory and collaborative evaluation of the involvement and engagement processes using creative research methods, recognising that sustainable involvement must be shaped with, not for, the public.

With his expertise, he has contributed to the development of national guidance, including the Good Practice Standards for Public Involvement and Engagement in Data Research. He remains an active member of the Working Group with the Public Engagement in Data Research Initiative (PEDRI), and continues to advocate for the ethical inclusion of diverse perspectives in research.

Piotr’s research is interdisciplinary and uses qualitative methodology in health research. One of his recent research projects examined the role of warm banks—publicly accessible heated spaces—in supporting residents during the cost-of-living crisis. In partnership with South Tyneside Council, he explored how these spaces were used not only for warmth but also as vital sources of social connection and mental health support. His findings highlighted the complex needs of individuals seeking support during the winter months and the importance of designing community interventions. This work contributes to the growing evidence on how local authorities can address poverty-related health inequalities through community-based initiatives. Alongside his health research, Piotr has a strong interest in migration, particularly in how migrant communities integrate in the UK. His earlier work examined the impact of the Brexit vote on the mental health and well-being of European Union citizens in Scotland.

Piotr’s work also pushes methodological boundaries. He is committed to making research more accessible and reflective of diverse experiences by using creative and participatory methods. These include LEGO® Serious Play, photovoice, photo elicitation, visual minutes and mandala, which allow participants to express their perspectives beyond words and engage more deeply in the research process. These innovative approaches enable richer, more nuanced insights, particularly when working with groups who may face language, cultural, or systemic barriers to traditional forms of research.

Before entering academia, Piotr was active in community-based roles, including as a Researcher & Community Engagement Officer at the Grampian Regional Equality Council in Aberdeen, where he supported projects with migrants and ethnic minority communities. This community background continues to inform his academic work, ensuring that theory remains relevant to real-world challenges.