Video: What is Research Volunteering, and why should you care?
Published on 19 March 13
English Literature student, Ami, investigates the purpose of the vital volunteering list, and how you can get paid for your time, in this video report
What is Research Volunteering?
Lots of research around the University is carried out by students like you - both undergraduates and postgraduates. Their research wouldn't be possible without the help of volunteer subjects.
What's involved?
It depends on the research. Some studies take ten minutes and involve testing your consumer preferences with an eye tracking machine, others test your sleep patterns in a lab over a number of sessions. All can be enjoyable and rewarding experiences for both you and the researcher.
Browse the Research Volunteering list to see what's available now.
What's in it for me?
As well as an often financial incentive for taking part, volunteers get the best possible insight into the cutting edge of research going on at the University - something most people never get the chance to see.
If you're interested in pursuing an academic career, volunteering is a great way for you to meet other students who are on the same journey, to find out what's involved, and maybe get some experience.
Finally, researchers depend on volunteers to get the data they need to do their work. By taking part, you'll be directly adding to the sum of human knowledge, and who knows - you're participation could lead to a breakthrough in some of the world-class research at the university.
How do I get invovled?
It's simple - take a look at the opportunities posted weekly in the My Manchester newsletter, sign up for the Research Volunteering mailing list, or browse the opportunities online. Choose something you're interested in, and get in touch!