Community Based Participatory Research (CBPR) Core

Community based participatory research (CBPR) is a collaborative approach to research between members of a community and researchers.

The CBPR Core strengthens community-engaged research in Alaska by supporting equitable partnerships between academic researchers and communities. It promotes research practices that reflect community priorities and builds capacity for collaborative science rooted in respect, inclusion, and mutual benefit.

Specific Aim 1. Provide training in CBPR principles and best practices to engage community members in research in Alaska. The CBPR Core will develop and deliver CBPR training to participants in the INBRE and RAIN networks through an innovative case study curriculum, as well as through collaboration with the Administrative Core and Student Research Program to provide CBPR training more broadly, including through plenary sessions and workshops at the INBRE network-wide annual research conference.

Specific Aim 2. Support the implementation of CBPR in Alaska. Enhance CBPR implementation through engagement of participants in the INBRE network, one-on-one mentorship, and the recruitment, hiring, and training of community research navigators to provide guidance to INBRE network participants.

Specific Aim 3. Train community stakeholders to better understand research and engage with researchers on community priorities. Community research navigators, community-based research assistants, as well as key community stakeholders will be invited to learn how to better engage with researchers to address community priorities.

Advancing One Health Through Collaboration

CBPR at Alaska INBRE supports the One Health framework by integrating biomedical, environmental, and social science perspectives. This approach is especially important in Alaska, where communities experience unique health challenges.

The CBPR Core ensures that research efforts are co-designed with communities, addressing real-world problems and generating outcomes that are both scientifically valid and culturally relevant.

Building Capacity and Relationships

The CBPR Core provides resources and technical assistance to help researchers build and sustain community partnerships. Services include consultation on project design, facilitation of partnership development, and guidance on equitable data sharing and dissemination.

The core also offers training opportunities for researchers and community partners to build skills in participatory methods, cultural responsiveness, and ethical engagement practices.

Supporting Inclusive Research Networks

CBPR activities help integrate Alaska Native and other underrepresented voices into biomedical research. The Core works closely with Alaska’s Tribal Health Organizations, community-based organizations, and academic partners to ensure inclusivity throughout the research process.

By connecting researchers and community leaders, the CBPR Core fosters long-term relationships that support student training, shared learning, and meaningful impact at the local level.

Enhancing Research Success

Through its focus on reciprocal partnerships and place-based knowledge, the CBPR Core helps investigators design stronger, more competitive grant applications and conduct research that leads to real-world benefits.

Core Team Members

Katie Cueve

CBPR Director

Stacy Rasmus

CBPR Core Advisor

Rebecca Van Wyck

CBPR Core Staff

Fiona Rowles

CBPR Core Staff

CBPR Resources

What is CBPR?

Community based participatory research (CBPR) is a collaborative approach to research between members of a community and researchers.

The CBPR Toolkit

The following resources are available to download.

INBRE Annual Reporting

Cite INBRE

CONTACT