The inclusion of individuals with disabilities and patients as partners in biomedical research is critical for driving innovation. Equally important are patient–researchers, who are instrumental in identifying key research problems and driving research towards areas of direct benefit. We call for institutions to actively work towards accommodating patient–researchers.
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Acknowledgements
I.S.D. discloses support for the research of this work from National Institute of General Medical Sciences Innovative Programs to Enhance Research Training Grant 5R25GM143262-03. J.W. was supported by NIH Multidisciplinary Engineering and Renal Research for Innovation of Technology R25DK124917.
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As scientists, patient–researchers and parents of individuals with disabilities, our lived experiences profoundly shape our views and values. We are driven by a hope for a more inclusive society that embraces innovation inspired by the challenges faced by individuals with disabilities. We are committed to recognizing and advancing research and practices that foster inclusivity and accessibility, so that all individuals can contribute to and benefit from scientific innovations.
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I.S.D. is co-founder of Keystone for Incubating Innovation in Life sciences Network (KiiLN), an accelerator dedicated to helping early-stage biotech companies. J.H. is on the board of directors for the American Association of Kidney Patients (AAKP). The other authors declare no competing interests.
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Haydak, J., Wright, J., Croxson, P.L. et al. Lived experience is essential for innovation in biomedical research. Nat Rev Nephrol 21, 362–363 (2025). https://doi.org/10.1038/s41581-025-00940-7
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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1038/s41581-025-00940-7
