Important research is taking place in Hull that’s helping shape the medical devices people around the world rely on every day – and it’s something you can get involved in.
Formara Consulting works with medical device companies to help them design safer, easier-to-use products. Instead of guessing how devices might be used in the real world, they invite real people in to test early concepts and prototypes, talk through their experience, and highlight what works and what doesn’t.
The business was founded by Reece, whose career has always been driven by a curiosity about what makes people tick. He started out designing radar systems in Defence, before moving into automotive design at Jaguar Land Rover. Two personal moments then brought his focus much closer to home. He met his future wife, who lives in Hull, and his mum was diagnosed with cancer. That combination led him to Smith & Nephew, where he worked on medical device design here in the city.
From there, Reece took the leap to set up his own consultancy, with the aim of making a wider impact across the medical device industry while building something ambitious in Hull. Today, Formara is a small team working with global companies, with long-term plans to develop a state-of-the-art research and development facility in East Yorkshire.
Formara’s studies focus on usability testing. Participants are asked to interact with simulated devices or concepts and answer questions about their experience. There’s no real medical treatment involved, no need to use an actual device, and no specialist knowledge required. Everything is carried out in a safe, controlled environment.
Because medical devices are used by such a wide range of people, Formara is looking for anyone aged 18 or over to sign up. That includes people who are healthy, those with medical conditions, people who use inhalers or nebulisers, healthcare professionals, and those aged over 65. Not everyone will be right for every study, but the team will contact you if you fit the needs of a particular session.
Research sessions usually last around an hour, and participants are paid £100 for their time. The next round of studies is taking place in February, and anyone interested can sign up now via Formara’s website.
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