At the UF Health Cancer Institute Annual Research Showcase 2026, Isabela S. Andrade, Program Coordinator of the Community Scientist Program, presented a poster highlighting the comprehensive training curriculum that prepares community members to engage meaningfully in research
The Community Scientist Program recognizes that effective collaboration between researchers and community members requires structured preparation. Before engaging with research teams, Community Scientists complete a training curriculum designed to build foundational knowledge in research ethics, methodology, and scientific terminology. This training ensures that community perspectives are integrated into research as informed, actionable contributions rather than passive observations.
The curriculum covers seven core modules, including research ethics, clinical and translational science, stakeholder engagement, and cultural diversity in research. Through videos, case studies, and applied activities, Community Scientists learn essential concepts such as informed consent, the difference between research and clinical care, how to read research articles, and the importance of diversity in clinical trials. The cancer-focused curriculum provides additional training specific to oncology research, preparing Community Scientists to understand and contribute to cancer-related studies with confidence.
This structured approach empowers Community Scientists to serve as true partners in the research process. The training helps them understand research language and processes, enabling them to provide valuable feedback on study design, recruitment strategies, and patient-centered outcomes. Early evaluations have shown that participants report increased confidence and capability to engage with complex research topics, while maintaining the authentic community perspectives that make their contributions so valuable.
The curriculum is currently being updated to reflect evolving research priorities and incorporate feedback from principal investigators and study teams. These planned enhancements will ensure the training remains relevant and aligned with the needs of both the research community and the diverse populations Community Scientists represent. By continuously refining the curriculum, the program aims to strengthen the bridge between academic research and community priorities, ultimately leading to health outcomes that matter to patients and their families.
For more information about the Community Scientist curriculum or to learn how your research team can engage with trained Community Scientists, please contact Isabela at i.dasilvaandrade@ufl.edu. You can also view and download the poster using our Publication page on this link.