Research Advocacy

NBTS created a formal training program for brain and spine tumor research advocates to serve as a link between patients and scientists, government officials, and industry leaders. The NBTS Brain Tumor Research Advocate program offers training, placement, and ongoing support to patients and care partners on how to use their voices and personal experiences to impact research efforts on behalf of the entire community.

NBTS Brain Tumor Research Advocate Definition

Brain and spine tumor research advocates are patients, survivors, or care partners who bring their lived experience and expertise to provide valuable, patient-centered perspectives into scientific research. As research partners, they represent the collective experiences of the community, highlighting medical, logistical, emotional, and financial concerns. Their contributions help influence research design and information sharing, with the goal of improving awareness of research findings and supporting informed decision-making within the community.

Influence Neuro-Oncology Research

NBTS created the only Brain Tumor Research Advocate training program designed by NBTS and the Research Advocacy Network featuring experts in the field of neuro-oncology. Following training, our research advocates apply the skills gained to advise, review, educate, disseminate information, and guide various brain tumor-related research efforts. Research advocates serve as a link between patients and scientists, government officials, and industry leaders.

You are invited to participate to improve the field! Patients, survivors and care partners – applications are now open for the 2026 Brain Tumor Research Advocate cohort. Apply by September 1, 2025. Researchers, if you are interested in partnering with a research advocate, click the link below to make a request.

Become a Research Advocate

Patients, survivors, or care partners can share their voice and personal experiences to play a vital role in shaping research that benefits the entire community.

Partner with Research Advocates

Researchers can request to be matched with a trained research advocate and/or participate in a one-hour session with advocates to inform and help accelerate patient-focused research.