Heriot-Watt research engagement specialist recognised in Young Women’s Movement 30 Under 30
A Heriot-Watt University specialist who is helping to ensure communities play a meaningful role in shaping health research and innovation has been recognised in this year’s Young Women’s Movement 30 Under 30.
Amy Connelly, Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) Specialist, has been named in the Young Women’s Movement 30 Under 30 2026 list, which celebrates young women, girls and non-binary people across Scotland who are creating positive change in their communities and wider society.
The Young Women’s Movement is Scotland’s national organisation for young women and girls’ leadership and rights. Its annual 30 Under 30 campaign highlights individuals who are making a difference through their work, activism, leadership and community involvement.
Amy was recognised for her contributions to patient and public involvement and engagement through her work at Heriot-Watt. Across a range of collaborative research projects, she has led the development of inclusive engagement activities that enable patients, carers and members of the public to help shape research priorities, influence funding decisions and contribute to the development of emerging health technologies.
One of Amy’s key contributions has been her work on the Tay Health Tech Citizens Assembly, an initiative that brings together members of the public, researchers and innovators to explore the future of health technology.
Funded by the Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council (EPSRC) and led by Heriot-Watt University in partnership with the University of Dundee, the project has developed new approaches to community engagement across Tayside, ensuring public perspectives are embedded alongside academic and professional expertise.
I'm incredibly grateful to be recognised in this year's 30 Under 30. It's been a privilege to work alongside so many inspiring people who are passionate about making research more inclusive and ensuring communities have a genuine say in shaping the innovations that affect their lives.
Amy Connelly
Patient and Public Involvement and Engagement (PPIE) Specialist
Amy has also played a leading role in public involvement activities for CONSOLIDATE, a UK-wide dementia research network led by Professor Alan Gow at Heriot-Watt University in partnership with Age Scotland. Funded by EPSRC, the network brings together researchers, people living with dementia, unpaid carers and community organisations to identify priorities for future dementia research. Her work has helped ensure lived experience is central to the programme’s development and direction.
The 30 Under 30 2026 cohort was selected by a panel comprising representatives from the Young Women’s Movement, 30 Under 30 alumni, the organisation’s advisory collective of young women and stakeholders from SAY Women and Romano Lav.
Find out more about the Young Women’s Movement 30 Under 30 programme: https://youngwomenscot.org/our-programmes/30-under-30/