Community Scientist Program

The Community Scientist Program’s mission is to develop the manpower for research supporters who can work closely with cancer scientists to address cancer health differences.

Program Dates​

Applications Due: End of Day Friday, April 3rd, 2026

Program Acceptance Notification: Monday, May 4th, 2026

 Program Start – First Session: Tuesday, June 2nd, 2026

Program specifics and application below

Application Closed

Eligibility

This program is available to individuals in Florida and California who are 18 years or older and are U.S. citizens, permanent residents, or work visa holders. It is designed for those interested in learning about cancer research and sharing information with others impacted by cancer.

Those interested in participating must:

  • Submit an interest application by Friday, April 3rd, 2026
  • Submit contact information for two (2) individuals who can provide a reference for you
  • Be able to participate in scheduled program activities
  • If selected for the program, be willing to complete onboarding forms to receive stipend at the completion of the program

Program Location

The program is hosted by the CaRE2 Center as led by the Community Outreach Core. The program will be hybrid; 80% online (virtual) and 2 days in person. This is a 10-week program, meeting once a week for a 2-hour duration. 

 Participants are being recruited from communities in and around our tri-institutional centers: Florida A&M University (Tallahassee, FL), University of Florida (Jacksonville, Gainesville, Orlando, FL), and University of Southern California (Los Angeles, CA)

Program Objectives

  • Increase manpower for cancer supporters
  • Strengthen the network of cancer research supporters
  • Increase multi-directional communication between cancer supporters with cancer survivors, community members, academic scientists and policy makers

Learning Objectives

  • Discuss three ways that research supporters are important to improving cancer research.
  • Illustrate two examples of ethical cancer research activities based on webinars/engagement.
  • Learn more about the research process
  • Engage in information sharing between fellow program participants, cancer supporters (program graduates), students, and scientists about cancer research.
  • Present cancer research ambassador project as part of the Research Showcase
  • Participate in Teach Back Opportunities
Application Closed