TrialNet has created a Community Advisory Board (CAB) to amplify the voices of people impacted by type 1 diabetes (T1D) in our research. As representatives of the T1D community, CAB members have the opportunity to influence TrialNet’s research, ensuring it provides the best possible experience for participants.

All CAB members have firsthand experience with T1D, whether through their own diagnosis or that of a family member. Some members have participated in TrialNet research, while others engage in advocacy work. Representing locations across the U.S. and Canada, they bring a wealth of knowledge and diverse perspectives.

"Hearing from members of the community impacted by our research is invaluable,” said TrialNet researcher Christine March, MD, Children’s Hospital of Pittsburgh, who is leading the CAB initiative. “They view our work from a different perspective, which can spark innovation through collaboration. By sharing their lived experiences, they help researchers understand what we are doing well and where we have opportunities to grow. We also hope to provide members with insights that will benefit them and their  communities.”

CAB members participate in TrialNet meetings and collaborate with various working groups. Their feedback will help to shape study design and execution, recruitment strategies, and how results are shared, ensuring TrialNet research is accessible and understandable to the communities we serve.

More than 20 CAB members are providing insights on topics ranging from TrialNet’s long-standing risk screening initiative for relatives of people with T1D to planning clinical studies aimed at stopping or slowing disease progression at all stages. The members serve a two-year term and attend quarterly CAB meetings. Additionally, other community representatives may be invited to attend individual sessions to discuss specific topics, where their unique perspectives and experience can provide valuable insights.

“I’m very excited about the involvement of the Community Advisory Board in all areas of our research,” said TrialNet Chair Kevan Herold, MD, Yale University. “The type 1 diabetes community is the driving force behind every one of our successes. Our hope is that by reflecting the needs of the communities we serve, this board will lead us to even greater success and advances in T1D research.”

If you would like to be considered for future openings on the CAB, or when additional community members are needed to discuss specific topics, please send your name, contact information, a brief description of your background, and your areas of interest to info@trialnet.org.