The Office of Community Outreach and Engagement serves as a bridge between the community and Sylvester researchers through three integrated initiatives: partnership matching, consultations, and the Community Scientist Program. Together, these initiatives foster collaboration, ensuring that research aligns with the needs and priorities of our diverse catchment area. Explore the opportunities below to see how you can get involved in impactful, community-driven research.

Partnership Matching

We foster strong partnerships between researchers and community members to enhance all phases of the research cycle - from planning to dissemination. Our office connects community organizations with researchers, and vice versa, to advance research that reflects the priorities of our community.

Consultations

Our consultations help Sylvester faculty and trainees to align their research with community interests and priorities. We provide tailored guidance in the following areas:

• Incorporating community perspectives throughout the research process.
• Designing studies that address the unique needs of our catchment area.
• Identifying and preparing funding applications.
• Accessing and analyzing community-specific cancer data.

Community Scientist Program

The Community Scientist Program empowers lay community members to engage with researchers, ensuring community perspectives are integrated throughout the research process. Over a two-year term, community scientists receive training and contribute by:

• Reviewing recruitment materials
• Assisting in developing lay abstracts
• Reviewing grant proposals for community relevance
• Participating in research studies
• Advising on how research findings should be shared with the community
• Identifying local health needs and sharing best practices
• Providing input on research questions and culturally appropriate protocols

How to Get Involved

If you are a researcher looking to collaborate with the community, or a community member interested in being part of the research process, we are here to help. Please fill out the form below.