EDIFY researchers contribute to Medical Research Foundation event on eating disorders research

EDIFY team were pleased to contribute to the Medical Research Foundation event ‘Eating Disorders: Research Today for Greater Impact Tomorrow’, held on Wednesday 18 March 2026.

The event brought together 65 participants, including researchers, clinicians, funders, support organisations and lived experience experts, all working to improve understanding and treatment of eating disorders.

Prof Ulrike Schmidt (EDIFY Principal Investigator) chaired the event and opened proceedings with a welcome address.

Dr Başak İnce Çağlar (EDIFY Coordinator) delivered a lightning talk on her Medical Research Foundation-funded project exploring the relationship between loneliness and eating disorders, highlighting the potential impact of this work. She also presented a poster on this research.

Dr Marie-Christine Opitz (former EDIFY Postdoctoral Researcher) also presented a lightning talk and poster on her Medical Research Foundation-funded project investigating how symptoms of Polycystic Ovary Syndrome and their management may influence the risk of developing eating disorders. Her poster was awarded Most Creative Poster at the event.

Prof Heike Bartel (EDIFY Co-Investigator) contributed to a panel discussion on the importance of incorporating lived experience perspectives into research, sharing key insights and reflections.

Dr Karina Allen (EDIFY Co-Investigator and EDCRN Co-Principal Investigator) co-led a workshop on next steps for eating disorders research and funding, facilitating discussion on future priorities in the field.

The event provided a valuable opportunity for collaboration and knowledge exchange across the eating disorders research community.

👉 Read the full story on the Medical Research Foundation website:
https://www.medicalresearchfoundation.org.uk/news/event-showcases-eating-disorders-research-and-vital-need-for-future-investment