You could earn £600 as a vaccine testing volunteer - here’s how to apply

The trial will take place at four locations across the UK (Photo: Shutterstock)The trial will take place at four locations across the UK (Photo: Shutterstock)
The trial will take place at four locations across the UK (Photo: Shutterstock)

Researchers across the globe are tirelessly working to develop a vaccine for coronavirus, with several drugs already being tested in humans.

In the UK, a trial is being led by the Imperial College NHS Trust, and scientists are calling for volunteers to take part. You could earn up to £625 doing so.

What does the trial involve?

The trial will take place at four locations across the UK, in Bristol, Thames Valley, Southampton, and London.

The purpose of the study is to test a new vaccine in healthy volunteers, assessing whether it can protect them from coronavirus.

The trial will also help to give scientists valuable insight on the safety aspects of the vaccine, and its ability to generate good immune responses against the virus. This will be done by randomly selecting volunteers to receive the vaccine, or a control injection.

Blood samples will also be taken from participants, so that scientists can collect information about any symptoms that may occur after vaccination.

How long will the trial last?

The trial will last for a period of six months.

During this time, volunteers will be required to visit a clinic between four and 12 times, depending on which group they are in.

How many volunteers are needed?

The researchers are looking to recruit 1,112 volunteers for the trial.

Of these participants, 561 will be vaccinated with the candidate coronavirus vaccine, ChAdOx1 nCoV-19, and 551 will be vaccinated with a control vaccine.

Will there be any side effects?

The trial could mark a positive step forward in the development of a global vaccine for coronavirus, but researchers warn there could be some risks involved to those who take part.

Common side effects include some mild redness and swelling at the injection site, and you could experience flu-like symptoms within 24 hours of the vaccination.

These usually resolve within 48 hours.

How much will I get paid?

Depending on the area you live in, and which vaccine centre study you participate in, you will be paid between £190 and £625 for taking part.

This payment will serve as reimbursement for your time, travel and contribution to the trial.

Who is eligible?

To be eligible to take part in the trial, you must meet the following criteria:

You must:

- Be aged 18 to 55 years old

- Be in good health

- Be based in the trial catchment area

You must not:

- Have tested positive for Covid-19

- Be pregnant, intending to become pregnant, or breastfeeding during the study

- Have previously taken part in a trial with an adenoviral vaccine or received any other coronavirus vaccines

How do I apply?

If you are interested in taking part in the trial, you can apply to volunteer online.

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