Stakeholder engagement in European brain research: Experiences of the Lifebrain consortium

• DOI: 10.1111/hex.13747
• Publication Date: 2023-03-29T18:35:13Z
• Authors: Isabelle Budin‐Lj...; Barbara B. Friedman; William F. C. Baaré; David Bartrés‐Faz; Rebecca B. Carver; Christian A. Drevon; Klaus P. Ebmeier; Anders M. Fjell; Paolo Ghisletta; Richard N. Henson; Rogier Kievit; Kathrine S. Madsen; Laura Nawijn; Sana Suri; Cristina Solé‐Pad...; Kristine B. Walhovd; Enikő Zsoldos
• Keywords: Stakeholder Engagement; Stakeholder Analysis; Knowledge Translation; Public Engagement

Abstract Introduction Stakeholder engagement remains scarce in basic brain research. However, it can greatly improve the relevance of investigations and accelerate translation study findings to policy. The Lifebrain consortium investigated risk protective factors influencing health using cognition, lifestyle imaging data from European cohorts. activities Lifebrain—organized a separate work package—included organizing stakeholder events, investigating public perceptions dissemination. Here, we describe experiences researchers stakeholders regarding project. Methods was evaluated through surveys among stakeholders' feedback at events evaluation forms. Survey were analysed simple content analysis approach, results forms summarized after reviewing frequency responses. Results Consortium experienced as meaningful relevant. Researchers highlighted that made research processes more visible contributed new networks, optimized collection on production papers provided insights into views. Stakeholders found conducted package be within their field interest relevant work. identified barriers engagement, including lack time, difficulties identifying stakeholders, challenges communicating complex scientific issues lay language maintaining relationships with over time. such budget, limited resources organization, time constraints insufficient communication between stakeholders. Conclusion benefit alike. Its success is conditional dedicated human financial resources, clear communication, transparent mutual expectations roles responsibilities. Public Contribution Patient organizations, policymakers members general involved throughout project duration.