Everyone Can Be a Researcher: Citizen Science Explained

At Ancient + Brave, we rigorously test the performance of our wellbeing products both in the lab and in the real world with support from our volunteer team of citizen scientists.

In this post, explain what citizen science is and explore how our Inner Circle citizen science project is helping us to reshape the future of wellbeing.

What is citizen science? 

The term citizen science usually refers to scientific research projects which gather insights from at-home trials or data capture forms completed by members of the public. 

A great example of a UK citizen science project that you can join at home is Ancient +Brave’s Inner Circle, whereby trusted community customers are invited to participate in real-life research that helps shape our wellbeing rituals. More about that later.

Why do citizen science trials matter?

In the UK, citizen science projects are usually run online through opt-in trials, adding a layer of real-world insights to scientific research.

This is important as it allows scientists to capture lived experiences from a broad spectrum of people, including those whose views and experiences may have historically been underrepresented in data.

You don’t need any particular skills to be a citizen scientist; everyone can get involved.

“At Ancient + Brave, our Brave Standard ensures that Citizen Science is conducted with integrity and scientific rigour. This research adds a layer of real-world insights to our scientific research that not only shapes our innovation within our products but also reveals unique perspectives.” Dr. Jenna Macchiochi.

Ancient + Brave’s Inner Circle: Citizen science in action 

Are you looking for a citizen science project to join online? Everyone is welcome at the Inner Circle, Ancient+Brave’s Citizen Science wellbeing initiative.

Guided by our very own Dr. Jenna Macciochi, Ancient + Brave’s Director of Science and Innovation, this UK Citizen Science project invites those who have subscribed to The Ancient + Brave product for three months or more to participate in opt-in at-home trials.

Participation in our at-home trials is entirely voluntary and is incredibly rewarding. That’s because the results of our citizen-science projects have not only helped to shape our products but have also helped to close the data gap that exists around female health.

To find out more about our upcoming Inner Circle citizen science projects and how you can get involved, head on over to our next post. Alternatively, why not explore some of the incredible results from our previous Citizen Science projects over on our science hub.