Research participant opportunities

All studies and surveys that are promoted on the Diabetes New Zealand website and social media channels are provided as a service to the diabetes research community. This research is not specifically endorsed by Diabetes New Zealand.

If you would like to promote a survey or ask for participants, email info@diabetes.org.nz.

Studies currently recruiting

Diabetes technology and nutrition: perspectives of youth living with type 1 diabetes 

A research team at the University of Otago want to understand how youth and their families experience food and nutrition while living with type 1 diabetes — especially now that diabetes technology (like CGMs and insulin pumps) is becoming more widely available in Aotearoa.

If you are aged 12-24 years and living with type 1 diabetes, we want to hear your views about the role of nutrition in managing diabetes and what support would actually help you and your whānau.

Participants will take part in an interview (45 – 60 minutes) and will receive a $50 gift voucher for their time. For further information, please email t1dproject@otago.ac.nz or sara.styles@otago.ac.nz before 5 January 2026.

Study 2: Study on Type 2 Diabetes Self-Management among Young Pacific People

Talofa lava, Kia orana, Malo e lelei, Fakaalofa lahi atu, Bula vinaka, Malo ni, Halo ola keta, Mauri, Fakatalofa atu and Warm Pacific greetings,

Researchers from the University of Otago, in collaboration with healthcare professionals at Health New Zealand | Te Whatu Ora, are seeking participants for a study exploring perspectives on diabetes self-management among young Pacific people with type 2 diabetes.

We are looking for up to 10 individuals aged 24 years or younger who have been diagnosed with type 2 diabetes. Participants will take part in a one-hour interview, either via Zoom or in person.

This research aims to inform the future development of co-designed self-management resources to better support Pacific youth living with diabetes.

Participants will receive a token of appreciation ($75 grocery voucher) for their time. If you are interested or would like more information, please email Rukshana Isaako (isaru601@student.otago.ac.nz) or Dr Sara Styles (sara.styles@otago.ac.nz) before 5 January 2026.

Atua Matua approaches to prosthetic rehab

The University of Waikato Sport and Human movement team are seeking volunteers to join their research wānanga focused on the potential benefits of an Atua Matua approach to prosthetic rehabilitation. 

If you are aged over 16 years and have had an above or below knee amputation within the last eight years, and you identify as Māori, take a look at the image and visit this form for more details on how to take part.

Human digital twins for reversal of type 2 diabetes

Researchers at the University of Canterbury and the University of Auckland are investigating how wearable devices and artificial intelligence can help people with type 2 diabetes better understand and manage their blood glucose levels. Participation involves trialing a continuous glucose monitor (CGM) which is worn on the skin and connected to a smartphone app.

If you:

• Live in or around the Christchurch area

• Have type 2 diabetes

• Are aged 30 years or older

• Have a smartphone

• Are willing to wear a continuous glucose monitor for 14 days and complete a lifestyle questionnaire

• Can visit the University of Canterbury and a Canterbury Health Laboratory

As well as gaining a better understanding of your blood glucose levels, participation will contribute towards diabetes care in the future. For further information, scan the QR code to the right or contact Dr. Arindam Basu on 022 629 0356 or at arindam.basu@canterbury.ac.uk

ACCESS-AID Study - Accelerating care, capacity and equity in AID systems for New Zealanders with type 1 diabetes

A team at Otago University are looking for people with type 1 or type 3c diabetes who want to transition onto an automated insulin delivery system (AID) to manage their diabetes. The 3-month study they are running will help existing health teams across Aotearoa to get safe and supported access for people wanting to move to AID. The study will be looking at whether participants experience better glucose control, burden reduction, improved quality of life and treatment satisfaction.

The study is open to adults and children, and if you or your child is interested in using AID and would like to take part, please contact the study team at access.aid@otago.ac.nz

AUT Sibling Advisory Group - for siblings of people with a long-term condition

Researchers at the School of Clinical Sciences within the Auckland University of Technology are looking for young people aged 16-24 years who have a sibling with a long-term health condition. The team would like to invite those interested, to participate in an advisory group, sharing opinions about what resources, research or supports they would like to see developed for others with the same experiences as them. No experience is needed, just a willingness to share your ideas and feedback on things like information sheets. To apply to take part, please fill out this Google Form.

Country-wide period tracking app study

A team based at Massey University are looking into the experiences of people who use period tracking apps. They’re currently inviting people aged 16-18 years old who are interested in joining a kōrero about identity, bodies and technology. The researchers are particularly interested in hearing from people living with diabetes as menstruation and insulin resistance have an impact on each other in important and often overlooked ways. Find out more including how to apply to take part on the study website. There are options to join Māori-only groups for this research.