PPI for Clinical Researchers
Implement PPI in Clinical Research
Make research more relevant and effective by involving patients and patient representatives. Their unique perspectives help address real needs, improve recruitment and outcomes, and ensure feasibility. Our practical tools can help researchers find the PPI approach that works best for the research project.
Resources for Clinical Researchers
PPI Fact Sheet
Patient and public involvement (PPI) in clinical research means conducting research with or by patients and members of the public, rather than to, about, or for them. This involvement may include:
- Helping funding organisations prioritise projects based on their relevance to those affected
- Providing input as a member of a decision-making body
- Reviewing or helping develop research information materials
Our fact sheet outlines when and where PPI can take place and who should be involved. It was developed in close collaboration with the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF).
Guide for Researchers to Address PPI in Clinical Trials
This guide helps researchers identify meaningful ways to include PPI in clinical trials. It was developed by the SCTO in close collaboration with the Swiss National Science Foundation (SNSF).
SCTO Remuneration Policy for PPI Activities
The SCTO supports fair financial compensation for patients and public contributors involved in PPI activities. This policy:
- Recognises the value of their contributions
- Outlines reimbursement for accommodation and travel expenses
- Can be used by research projects across the SCTO Network and beyond
Participation Request for PPI Activities Template
This template supports researchers in finding suitable PPI contributors. It includes:
- Descriptions of common PPI activities
- Examples of relevant experience, knowledge, or skills
- A section to include project-specific information
Developed in collaboration with a multistakeholder working group.
Written Agreement for PPI Activities Template
Before beginning a PPI collaboration, it’s important to clarify expectations. This template includes:
- Suggested terms for scope, timing, and compensation
- Guidance on confidentiality and conflict of interest
- Key objectives and responsibilities of both parties
Created with input from a multistakeholder working group.
Planning, Tracking, and Evaluating PPI Activities Template
This Excel template helps researchers:
- Plan and document PPI activities
- Evaluate the effectiveness of involvement
- Gather feedback from contributors
It includes a multilingual feedback form (EN, FR, DE, IT) to help improve future collaborations. Developed with a multistakeholder working group.
Online Webinar | SNSF IICT 2026 application: How to successfully address the PPI requirements
This course supports clinical research professionals preparing an SNSF IICT 2026 application. It highlights why patient and public involvement (PPI) is essential in the planning and development of clinical trials, and offers practical guidance and practical examples for a meaningful PPI approach.
Access the course material here:
- Introduction to PPI, Sabine Rütti Roch, Head of Communication and Stakeholder Management, SCTO
- PPI in practice, Cindy Allenbach,Research Consent Unit Manager, University Hospital Lausanne (CHUV) Centre de recherche clinique / Marie Méan, Senior physician and Director of LUCID NDS, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV)
- Useful information for applicants, Caroline Krüger, Programme coordinator IICT, Swiss National Science Foundation / Larisa Aragon, SNSF IICT evaluation panel member
- PPI in the IICT call & Clinical Research Centre (CRC) support, Sandra Kohlmaier, Senior Scientific Officer Training & Education, PPI Project Lead, University of Basel, Department of Clinical Research
PPI Regulatory Affairs Watch
Patient and public involvement (PPI) is playing an increasingly important role in clinical research. This edition of Regulatory Affairs Watch explores how active engagement can improve the design, feasibility, and relevance of trials, while also addressing potential challenges and implementation hurdles.
Training Opportunities
Courses Offered by our CRC Network
Explore our course finder to find PPI training tailored to your needs.
Need more information or support?
Contact the SCTO with any questions or feedback related to our PPI resources.