Britzer Paul recently completed his studies with the University’s Institute for Health Research (IHR) and is now working as a Research Associate in Newcastle, in the field of organ donation ahead of his graduation next summer.

Britzer joined the University back in 2018 when Bedfordshire joined forces with the largest organ donation NGO in India to improve organ donation rates in the country. As part of the project, Britzer came to study with IHR to develop his research knowledge and practice.

In 2021, he was awarded a top research prize for his PhD investigation into organ donation within Indian communities. Going up against tough competition from bio-medical scientists, physicians, surgeons, and stakeholders from across the globe, Britzer snapped up the ‘Young Investigator’ prize in recognition of his work.

Earlier this year, Britzer was granted funding from the NHS Blood & Transplant Community Grants Programme to undertake a student engagement project to increase organ donors from ethnic minority communities.

Speaking about his research, Britzer said: “My PhD delved into the complexities surrounding deceased organ donation in India, highlighting regional disparities in donation rates, with a focus on the southern region's higher contribution. Leveraging these insights, I secured a £10,000 grant from NHSBT's community engagement fund to bridge information gaps, dispel media-driven misconceptions, address trust issues, and foster dialogues—especially among minority ethnic groups. I'm thankful for this opportunity.

“Collaborating with dedicated public health student volunteers from Black and Asian backgrounds, we've successfully organised numerous events and have more in the pipeline.”

Professor Gurch Randhawa, Director of IHR, supervised Britzer throughout his PhD journey. He added: “Our world-leading research exploring public engagement and organ donation has revealed the importance of building trust and increasing awareness among different ethnic and faith communities.

“It’s been a privilege to supervise Britzer’s PhD, which examined how to improve organ donation in India. His work has been published in international journals and I’m delighted that he’s secured a post-doctoral research role to continue his work in the field.”

As part of Organ Donation Week, Britzer returned to Bedfordshire to run a number of student-led events around the University, aiming to increase the number of organ donors from minority ethnic communities. These include the premiere of a film profiling the experiences of Black donors and recipients.