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What is CBPR?

Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR) is an emerging orientation to research and scientific inquiry that equitably involves both community stakeholders and investigators at all levels of the research process from design to dissemination. CBPR involves a partnership between the community and the investigator where each group shares ownership of the process and products of research collaboration.

Through its consulting service, Community Health Innovation and Research Program (HC-CHIRP) at Harvard Catalyst offers advice and training to Harvard researchers and community partners seeking to conduct translational research in community settings.

Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What kinds of consultation services are available?
We offer a range of consultation services to researchers engaged in or interested in CBPR, as well as to community partners seeking research assistance:

Education and training in the CBPR approach to research

• Understanding the key components and philosophy of CBPR
• Knowing when to use a CBPR versus a traditional research approach
• Recognizing ethical issues specific to CBPR

Technical assistance and mentoring in writing of proposals and conduct of specific projects using CBPR

• Research design using a CBPR approach
• Designing CBPR tools
• CBPR methodology
• Planning and conduct of statistical analysis
• Assistance with collecting preliminary data and accessing public health data from collaborators in the greater Boston area
• Technical assistance and review of CBPR grant applications
• Mentoring of investigators in CBPR research
• Collaboration on research projects

Connecting investigators and communities

• Connection with potential community partners
• Role and formation of Community Advisory Boards (CABs)
• Fostering partnerships between and among investigators in CBPR

2. Who is eligible to receive consultation?
Consultations are available to Harvard-affiliated investigators and post-doctoral fellows. Consultations are also available for community partners (that is, employees or members of community-based organizations, municipalities, etc.) who are engaged in or interested in a collaborative partnership with a Harvard-affiliated investigator.

3. What costs are associated with consultation?
Consultations are provided free of charge to eligible Harvard-affiliated investigators, post-doctoral fellows, and community partners (see above).

4. How do I request a consultation?

• If you are a Harvard-affiliated investigator (e.g., faculty, fellow), please complete this form. Login via HMS eCommons ID or Harvard PIN required. Need Help?
• If you are a member of a community-based organization and do not hold a Harvard academic appointment, please complete this form.

What if I have a question about the consultation service?

If you have a question about our consultation services, please contact Jennifer Opp.