The European Congress on Obesity (ECO2025), held this year in Málaga, Spain, included for the first time, Public Engagement & Science Communication Prize. This initiative, supported by Eli Lilly and Company, was established to recognise early career researchers demonstrating excellence in communicating obesity-related research to diverse audiences, including patients, policymakers, the media, and the wider public.
This prize highlights the importance of translating complex scientific findings into clear, evidence-based messages that support public understanding and have the potential to influence policy or practice. Applications for the prize were open to early career researchers presenting work at ECO2025, and submissions were required to relate directly to research accepted for oral or poster presentation at ECO2025. Each winner receives a €3,000 Development Grant to support further training in science communication or leadership, and a Travel Grant to attend ECO2026. Applications for the award were independently reviewed by the EASO ECN Board.
This year, two recipients were selected for their outstanding work:
Matthew Harris (PhD Researcher, Manchester Cancer Research Centre, UK) received the award for his PPIE work related to the study “Consensus on the Need For, and Design of a Clinical Trial Investigating Weight Loss Intervention to Prevent Cancer.”
Matthew led a large international consensus study under the PADRAIC project, which explored the design of a clinical trial to test whether intentional weight loss can reduce the risk of obesity-related cancers. The process engaged 54 multidisciplinary experts across 12 countries and included two diverse focus groups from the public.
A defining feature of the project was its meaningful integration of patient and public involvement and engagement (PPIE). A PPIE consensus advisor was present throughout expert meetings, ensuring that public voices shaped the development and outcomes of the study. This co-produced approach strengthened the study’s relevance and demonstrated how participatory methods can enhance the quality and applicability of clinical research.
Chiara Gericke (PhD Researcher, University College London (UCL), UK) received the award for her work titled “A Geospatial Analysis of Clustering of Takeaway Outlets around London Schools and Associations with Childhood Obesity.”
Chiara’s research applied advanced spatial analysis techniques to explore whether takeaway outlets cluster around schools in London, and if there are inequalities in fast-food outlet clustering bases on area level deprivation. By conducting a spatial analysis using publicly available data on the location of takeaway outlets, and linking this with data on childhood obesity prevalence from the National Child Measurement Programme (NCMP), she identified a clear association between clustering of fast-food outlets around schools and childhood obesity prevalence.
Her research has direct relevance for urban planning and public health policy. Chiara has engaged with various local authorities in London such as the boroughs of Newham, Hounslow, and Croydon, providing tailored insights that can be used to inform the development of takeaway management zones, which are included in the UK’s revised National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF). Her ability to convert complex geospatial data into actionable, locally relevant policy guidance exemplifies effective science communication.
Congratulations to both winners for their impactful work in enhancing the reach and relevance of obesity research. Thank you to Eli Lilly & Company for supporting the ECO2025 Public Engagement & Science Communication Prize.
Eli Lilly & Company provided funding for the prize but had no role in the prize selection process or future direction of the winners’ work