Abstract B162: Building skills for authentic researcher-community collaborations: A curriculum

Abstract Background: Cancer incidence and mortality rates are declining in the population overall, but certain groups continue to be at increased risk of developing or dying from cancer. Cancer disparities are complex, and the root causes are a mix of genetic, behavioral, and socioeconomic factors. Many different perspectives are needed to understand cancer disparities and create better solutions. Methods: To aid community members and biomedical researchers in building skills for authentic transdisciplinary collaborations, we developed a pilot 9-month curriculum for community members (community scholars) and early/middle career basic science and clinical fellows (research scholars) to learn about cancer disparities, factors influencing disparities, communication with diverse audiences, and how to understand different perspectives. Research and community scholars are grouped to design a project that allows them to practice new skills and apply new learning. This curriculum is offered through the Medical College of Wisconsin and is part of the Community and Cancer Science Network which uses a transdisciplinary approach to address cancer disparities. To assess impact of the curriculum, scholars completed assessments throughout the program. At two points, scholars were asked to reflect upon how the curriculum impacted their understanding of cancer disparities, social determinants of health, cancer research, and if the curriculum influenced their work. Scholars also provided a self- assessment of how they perceived collaboration and their role at the start and completion of the curriculum. At the final assessment scholars answered qualitative questions to reflect on their understanding of disparities, relationships and partnerships, and developing new perspectives. Results: Three cohorts of scholars (n=32 enrolled; n=27 completed) participated in the curriculum which included didactic and experiential learning. Assessment data showed scholars were eager for collaboration but somewhat unprepared for associated challenges. However, they developed an appreciation for the time and skills needed to build partnerships with those whose perspectives differ. Importantly, scholars reported that they became more comfortable with acknowledging general gaps in their knowledge and understanding after participating in the curriculum. Scholars reported a modest increase in applying knowledge outside of the program, sharing the information with others, and identifying ways community and research can collaborate to address cancer disparities. Qualitative responses highlighted scholars’ interest in continued engagement, a willingness to reflect on their own biases, and an eagerness to engage other disciplines. Discussion: The skills required to collaborate with those from different perspectives and disciplines need to be mentored and developed. This program is successful in preparing researchers and community members in understanding the complexities of transdisciplinary collaboration and preparing them to establish authentic partnerships. Citation Format: Tobi Cawthra, Kristen Gardner-Volle, Laura Pinsoneault, Alexis Krause, Jessica Olson, Deborah Thomas, Carol Williams, Melinda Stolley. Building skills for authentic researcher-community collaborations: A curriculum [abstract]. In: Proceedings of the 17th AACR Conference on the Science of Cancer Health Disparities in Racial/Ethnic Minorities and the Medically Underserved; 2024 Sep 21-24; Los Angeles, CA. Philadelphia (PA): AACR; Cancer Epidemiol Biomarkers Prev 2024;33(9 Suppl):Abstract nr B162.