About us
research-i is a leading UK market research participant recruitment agency.
We partner with some of the world’s largest brands, research agencies and designers to help shape the future of new technologies, services and experiences.
We are the UK’s most experienced games user research recruitment agency, with our founder bringing more than 20 years of expertise to the sector.
At research-i, we believe that reliable, high-quality participant recruitment is the cornerstone of meaningful research insights. Our values are simple - integrity, reliability and building strong, lasting relationships with our clients.
What sets us apart?
Always on.
Always personal.
Always delivering.
Dependable. Day or Night.
We’re available 24/7 — no exceptions. We understand the pressures of keeping research projects on track, so our clients know they can count on us whenever they need support.
More Than Recruitment — A True Partnership
We don’t just fill roles; we build relationships. From the first conversation to project completion, we offer planning advice, transparent updates, and participant engagement that ensures meaningful insights and repeat success.
People Who Care, Not Just a Logo
We’re approachable, experienced, and personally invested in your project’s success. You’ll always know who you’re working with — and that we’re fully committed to helping you deliver exceptional results.
Our team
We are here with you.
Darren Strick
Director and UX / Games User Research Recruitment Specialist
Meet Darren, co-founder of research-i and our resident games specialist. He began his career in 2002 as a qualitative researcher before moving into participant recruitment in 2006, giving him first-hand experience of both sides of the research process and a clear understanding of the challenges researchers face when recruiting the right people.
A lifelong gamer and tech enthusiast, Darren speaks the language of both clients and participants. His industry knowledge and hands-on approach have earned the trust of some of the most respected voices in gaming research, which is why many clients involve him at the earliest stages of project planning.
Over the years Darren has personally managed thousands of research projects, developing a reputation for identifying the right participants for even the most demanding briefs.
Leanne Strick
Director & Qualitative Recruitment Specialist
Meet Leanne, co-founder of research-i and our resident expert in qualitative recruitment. She leads our non-gaming projects while also overseeing the company’s financial and account management.
Leanne has worked in research since 2002 and holds an MSc in Research Methods and Statistics, giving her a naturally analytical approach to every recruitment brief. With experience across a wide range of sectors, she has a particular interest in parental and lifestyle research, as well as online methodologies including communities and remote studies.
Over the years Leanne has recruited participants for some of the world’s biggest brands across sectors including FMCG, health and beauty, travel, news and current affairs, mum and baby, UX research and online communities, building a reputation as one of the sector’s most trusted participant recruiters.
New clients
Lets Work Together
Looking for a new participant recruitment partner who values integrity, reliability and long-lasting relationships? If so, we’d love to hear from you. Please get in touch to find out how research-i can support your next project.
