Research Advocacy Network is now accepting applications for the 2016 Focus on Research Scholar Program. It is a time in cancer research for advocates to be prepared for opportunities to represent the patient voice. The Focus on Research Scholar Program is an excellent preparation or refresher to improve knowledge and skills. Research Advocacy Network has some exciting plans that include opportunities through social media and new topics for the class this year.

To apply for the program, please complete the online form by April 27th. Class activities will begin May 3 and will continue throughout the year.

Who Should Apply:

Advocates interested in influencing the research system and serving their patient constituency by disseminating research results that will influence patient care.

Eligibility:

The program is open to advocates (US-based only) that serve a cancer patient community and have the desire to be more effective in understanding and disseminating research results. Former Focus on Research Scholars may reapply 2 years after their last participation, however, new applicants will be given priority. This program is not intended for health care professionals seeking continuing medical education credits.

Key dates:

• Application Due……………………………April 27, 2016 by 5pm Central
• Scholar Orientation Webinar…………………..May 3, 2016 at 12 noon Central
• Independent Study & Web Lecture Series………………….Begins May 3, 2016
• ASCO Annual Meeting, Chicago IL ………..…..June 3 (noon) to June 7, 2016
• Report due ………………………………………………………………June 24, 2016
• Dissemination Activities……………………………June 7 to December 31, 2016

Selected Candidates Agree To:

• Dedicate the time to complete all assignments including developing a background document on disease site, participating fully in webinars (either during the live session or via recorded playback) and reporting on the ASCO sessions
• Have a computer with internet connection and separate phone line for participating in online meetings and webinars
• Be willing and physically able to attend at least the minimum number of required hours during the ASCO Annual Meeting in Chicago, June 3- 7,  2016
• Disseminate information learned during the program to organization and other patients
• Report activities and learnings to “Research Dissemination Partner” and other Focus on Research class participants and graduates

Methods:

• eLearning classes for self study
• Web Lecture Series with facilitated discussion groups
• Networking events at the ASCO meeting
• Attendance and reporting on the scientific sessions at the ASCO meeting in Chicago, IL June 3- 7,  2016
• Development of individualized action plans to accomplish dissemination goals
• Opportunities to be a more effective advocate and communicate with researchers and patient constituency better

Travel Scholarships:

There is no cost to participate in the Focus on Research Scholar program. However, attendance at the ASCO Annual Meeting is a required element.  A limited number of scholarships are available to underwrite travel costs associated with attending the ASCO meeting.  To be considered for a travel scholarship, please complete the section on the Focus on Research Scholar application online form.

Focus on Research Scholar Program Inquiries:

Please contact Elda Railey via email: erailey@researchadvocacy.org

Research Advocacy Network is now accepting applications. Apply today!

About Research Advocacy Network:

The Research Advocacy Network advances patient-focused cancer research by fostering interaction among advocates, researchers and related organizations.

We are the only nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing cancer research through advocacy. While there are a myriad of organizations hard at work addressing the needs of patients with specific diseases, advocating in the political arena, delivering education and raising funds, no one else does what we do. Our approach is collaborative, not competitive. We work with other cancer-centered organizations to help them meet the needs of their stakeholders. We harness advocates’ passion to:

• Develop a network of advocates and researchers that influences how research programs are designed and conducted and how results are disseminated
• Equip advocates to affect change in the medical research system
• Mobilize a network of people around issues of patient-focused research.

What is research advocacy?

• Advocates channel the passion they have for making a difference for cancer patients into the research process by:
• Driving the questions research tries to answer
• Protecting the patients who participate in research

Disseminating research results.
Learn more by visiting Research Advocacy Network’s website.

Hoosier Cancer Research Network (formerly known as Hoosier Oncology Group) conducts innovative cancer research in collaboration with academic and community physicians and scientists across the United States. The organization provides comprehensive clinical trial management and support, from conception through publication. Created in 1984 as a program of the Walther Cancer Institute, Hoosier Cancer Research Network became an independent nonprofit clinical research organization in 2007. Since its founding, Hoosier Cancer Research Network has initiated more than 150 trials in a variety of cancer types and supportive care, resulting in more than 300 publications. More than 4,600 subjects have participated in Hoosier Cancer Research Network clinical trials.