Parkinson's Advocates in Research (PAIR)

You can influence Parkinson's research and speed new and effective treatments. How? By working with Parkinson's Advocates in Research (PAIR).

Whether you are living with Parkinson's interested in research advocacy or a professional working in Parkinson's research, you can pair up with PDF's network of Research Advocates to improve the process that leads to new Parkinson's therapies.

What is the Parkinson's Advocates in Research program?

Parkinson's Advocates in Research is dedicated to bringing educated community voices to important issues in Parkinson’s research. A network of more than 156 Research Advocates living with Parkinson's from 36 states actively collaborates with research professionals, government agencies and private industry to bring their unique perspectives and insights to research, ensuring that the Parkinson’s community has a say in research priorities and how these priorities are implemented.

By offering these perspectives and raising issues that are all too often overlooked, Research Advocates are able to identify and solve barriers to Parkinson’s research. For example, they work to improve the design, conduct and outcomes of clinical studies.

Most importantly, the presence of Research Advocates reminds scientists of the urgency to find new treatments and a cure for Parkinson’s as soon as possible.

To learn more about Research Advocates, check out the Advocate Report.

How Do People Become PDF Research Advocates?

All PDF Research Advocates have completed a three-day training program, one of PDF's Learning Institutes, during which they are trained by leading experts from the field about the science of Parkinson’s and the process that bring new treatments to market.  At the Learning Institutes, they gain leadership and advocacy skills to confidently interact with the scientific community.

Each person who completes a Learning Institute takes on the role of PDF Research Advocate and works under the umbrella of Parkinson's Advocates in Research.  PDF Research Advocates continue to work closely with PDF staff and fellow Research Advocates through ongoing education, resource sharing and networking opportunities.

How Are Research Advocates Making a Difference?

Among their activities, Research Advocates are:

• serving on Parkinson’s national, regional and local research advisory boards;
• working with the research community to address gaps in Parkinson’s research; and
• speaking at conferences and support groups on the importance of clinical study participation.

How Can I Learn More about the PAIR Program?

If you would like to learn more about this program or if you would like to speak with PDF about partnering with a Research Advocate at your institution, clinical study or support group, please call (800) 457-6676 or email info@pdf.org. If you would like to learn more about future training dates, please visit our Learning Institute page.