Teesside University academics share expertise with festivalgoers

Academics from Teesside University offered insight into chronic and persistent pain at a prestigious science and research festival.

Professor Cormac Ryan and Dr Jaj Mankelow, from Teesside University’s Centre for Rehabilitation, were invited to present at Cheltenham Science Festival, an annual event which brings scientific research to the masses.

In a presentation titled Pain: All in the Brain?, the academics shared their research around chronic pain, considering its causes and how it can be managed.

The segment was presented in collaboration with Dr Roger Newport, from Loughborough University, and Christine Price, a person with lived experience of chronic pain.

Professor Ryan and Dr Mankelow were among other world-class scientists, researchers and industry experts presenting at the festival, who explored a wide range of topics including climate change, autopsies and accents.

Professor Cormac Ryan, from the University’s Centre for Rehabilitation, said: “We work tirelessly to raise awareness around chronic pain, educate people about common misconceptions, and empower those living with it.”

“As the place to be for everybody with an interest in scientific research, Cheltenham Science Festival provided the perfect platform for us to share our insight with the wider community. We were thrilled to be a part of it.”

Professor Ryan is also a community pain champion for Flippin’ Pain, a campaign which educates and supports those living with chronic pain, healthcare professionals and members of the public.

Professor Ryan and Dr Mankelow took part in the Flippin’ Pain Peloton tour across the Tees Valley last month, cycling from Darlington to Guisborough, Whitby, Saltburn, Hartlepool and Durham to connect with local communities and raise awareness.

Teesside University works alongside Cheltenham Festivals as a regional partner of a national competition which was established to inspire scientists to find innovative ways of communicating their research with the public.

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