How to Apply Behavioural Science to Vaccine Research

This workshop will introduce delegates to the practical application of behavioural science across vaccine research. Led by Dr Kate Parsons and Dr Simon Payne, it will explore how behavioural science can inform every stage of the research process, from understanding vaccine uptake and programme implementation to shaping how research is developed, delivered, and disseminated. Through presentations and interactive group activities, delegates will be encouraged to reflect on how these approaches could strengthen their own work and research teams.

The workshop will include:

• an introduction to behavioural science and behaviour change
• understanding the factors that influence vaccine uptake and programme implementation
• applying behavioural science across research development, delivery and dissemination
• interactive group activities on how to use behavioural science in your own research teams

This session is intended as an introduction to the behaviour change content that Kate and Simon will lead at the VALIDATE One Health Workshop, Becoming Drivers of Change for Vaccines in One Health, taking place in Cartagena, Colombia, from 17–19 June 2026. However, it is also open to all VALIDATE members with an interest in behavioural science and its relevance across vaccine research.

About the Speakers

Dr Kate Parsons is a Lecturer in Psychology at Aberystwyth University whose work focuses on behavioural science and implementation science. Her research explores the design of behaviour change interventions, and she has applied behavioural science across a range of public health and social issues, including physical activity, obesity prevention, breastfeeding uptake, nutrition, smoking cessation, child criminal exploitation, and gender-based violence. She is also a steering group member for the Welsh Innovation Network’s Health and Wellbeing programme.

Dr Simon Payne is a Lecturer in Psychology and Behaviour Change at Aberystwyth University, as well as a Chartered Psychologist and behaviour change and implementation scientist. His work focuses on intervention-based research that supports healthier and more productive lives, and he co-designed and coordinates the university’s MSc in Behaviour Change. He has received funding from a range of academic, health, and charity sources, and is involved in major collaborative research projects on behaviour change, participation, and knowledge co-creation.