Methodology for Establishing a Global Head and Neck Cancer Research Network

Niall McGoldrick (Lead / Corresponding author), Zainab Kidwai, Grant Creaney

Research output: Contribution to journalConference articlepeer-review

Abstract

Often researchers work in silos that can stifle collaboration, a new approach to connect researchers working on the global public health issue of Head and Neck Cancer (HNC) is required.

Aim: To create a global network of Early Career Researchers (ECRs) in HNC providing opportunities to coordinate research, collaborate, exchange information, and seek mentorship.

Methods: Initially the network will be hosted in the UK by a founding leadership but will have a global membership, with a view to broaden the leadership in time. Central governance structures will include data protection and
information sharing policies. A network website will provide registration facilities, discussion boards, webinar hosting facilities and knowledge exchange opportunities including journal clubs. A social media presence will be developed to drive recruitment to the network. The network will enable the development of regional divisions with a local leadership and an agenda driven by both global and local research needs. It will build research capacity in low resource areas, offering opportunities for mentorship. Mentors will be recruited through supporting organisations. Membership will be free and interdisciplinary. The network will go live over the course of 2022/23.

Results: A founding core leadership group was established in May 2022. Initial partnerships have formed and supporting organisations include: Universities of York, Dundee and Glasgow, NHS Education for Scotland and Let’s
Talk About Mouth Cancer SC045100. Funding to support establishing the network has been secured. A beta website
has been developed.

Conclusion: The network will bridge the gap between ECRs globally and result in a connected community of researchers, fostering opportunities for collaboration, setting research priorities and advancing research impact in HNC.
Original languageEnglish
Article number130
Pages (from-to)S42-S43
Number of pages2
JournalCommunity Dental Health
Volume39
Issue number9
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - Sept 2022
Event26th European Association of Dental Public Health Congress - Montpellier, France
Duration: 8 Sept 202210 Sept 2022
https://eadphcongress2022.com/

Keywords

  • Head and Neck Cancer
  • research network
  • early career researcher

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