The Daffodil Centre’s 2024 Symposium, “Standing side by side: Involving the community in our research”, explored the invaluable role of the community in shaping the landscape of research and innovation. This symposium was an enlightening and engaging event, bringing together experts, researchers, and advocates in the field.
The Symposium was hosted by journalist, author, and presenter, Jacinta Tynan, and opened with a Welcome to Country by Savannah Fynn, a student at the University of Sydney and youth representative of the Metropolitan Local Aboriginal Land Council.
Cancer Council NSW CEO, Professor Sarah Hosking, and the University of Sydney’s Executive Dean and Pro Vice-Chancellor of the Faculty of Medicine and Health, Professor Robyn Ward AM, both gave a warm address to attendees. Professor Karen Canfell, Director of the Daffodil Centre gave an update of the Centre’s recent achievements before handing over to the early- and mid-career researchers for their research presentations.
“The global impact of COVID-19 pandemic on cancer care”
“EPICC Timor-Leste: country co-design process”
“Risk-tailored melanoma screening in the population: key stakeholder views”
“The Why: Engaging with consumers in ovarian cancer research”
Following the research presentations, there was adequate time for a lively panel discussion and live Q&A on the important role the community play in the research we conduct. The panel comprised of:
- Professor Chris Baggoley AO, former Chief Medical Officer of Australia
- Mr James Butler OAM, Chair, Consumer Involvement in Research Panel, The Daffodil Centre
- Professor Anna de Fazio AM, Ovarian Cancer co-lead, The Daffodil Centre
- Professor Alexandra Martiniuk, Equity in Cancer Care and Outcomes, The Daffodil Centre
- Associate Professor Megan Smith, Cervical Cancer and HPV co-lead, The Daffodil Centre
The Symposium concluded with a networking event with refreshments, providing an opportunity to connect and further explore ideas.
Thank you to everyone who attended online and in person, your presence and active engagement made the afternoon a success! We hope to continue building upon the connections made and insights shared as we move forward in our work.
