SAPPHIRE (Social science APPlied to Healthcare Improvement REsearch)

Comprising a team of sociologists and psychologists, with qualitative and quantitative strengths, the SAPPHIRE group uses and develops social science theory and methods to explore important questions in the field of health. Its particular areas of interest include methods for the synthesis of qualitative and quantitative forms of evidence; experiences of health, healthcare, and healthcare research; access to and organisation of healthcare; and quality and safety in healthcare.

The SAPPHIRE group works in multidisciplinary teams with collaborators across a range of specialities, both within and external to University of Leicester.

Our research work is funded by the ESRC, MRC, NHS SDO Programme, the Health Foundation, and other major funders.

The SAPPHIRE team makes a substantial contribution to education of medical students through its involvement in the MBChB programme, where it runs modules on Health and Disease in Society and Health Psychology and Human Diversity, and also contributes to postgraduate teaching and training in qualitative research methods.