Opportunity to Influence Rail Seat Comfort - Volunteers Required

The University of Huddersfield's Institute of Railway Research (IRR) is working with industry partners Arup, FIRA International and the Rail Safety and Standards Board (RSSB) to undertake a research study investigating the impact of dynamic train movements on the comfort of rail passengers, with the aim of improving seat comfort for UK rail passengers.

We are looking for volunteers who can attend three sessions during a three-week period, with each session lasting for 4 - 5 hours each (12 - 15 hours total time). Volunteers will be asked to rate the comfort of different seat designs by taking 'journeys' in the IRR's Train Hi-fidelity Motion Simulator (THOMoS). To ensure inclusivity, we are looking for a wide range of participants in terms of size, shape, age, gender and ethnicity to take part in the research study. 

Research sessions will be conducted between the 22 October and 30 October 2025, with participants able to select preferred days on the registration form. 

Participants will be allowed to bring their laptops to carry out any work related tasks during the tests.

Any personal data collected from the survey will be anonymised. 

Participation in the study will be rewarded with £50 Love 2 Shop Gift Card.

Interested in taking part?

Please complete this registration form.

We look forward to hearing from you!