Event FAQs
What type of events does GRASP offer?
In-Person:
Poster Meetups – In-person discussions about research at cancer conferences
Lab Meetups (coming soon) – Patient advocates visit cancer research labs
Receptions – Social gatherings between advocates & researchers
Virtual Linkups:
Poster Walkthroughs – Virtual post-conference discussions about cancer research
Huddles – Freestanding interactive cancer research discussions
Network – Connections to our network of advocates & researchers
How do I participate in GRASP events?
To participate in future GRASP events, you must become a member, and receive communications about upcoming events.
What can I expect from Poster Walkthroughs and Huddles?
GRASP facilitates a virtual dialogue where scientists and patient advocates come together to discuss scientific posters through Zoom. Unlike traditional presentations, GRASP adopts a conversational approach, placing participants into smaller groups to ensure every voice is heard. Advocates are encouraged to share their personal experiences, whether as cancer survivors or caregivers, shedding light on the profound impact of cancer on their lives.
GRASP Poster Walkthroughs and Huddles consist of 4-5 patient advocates with all levels of experience, accompanied by a seasoned advocate acting as a mentor, and a scientist (either clinician or researcher).
How do I prepare for a GRASP session?
While there’s no specific preparation required, there are a few things you can do to enhance your experience.
On your membership dashboard you will find guidelines and instructional videos that help break down what to expect from a GRASP session.
If you are preparing for a poster walkthrough or meet-up, we encourage you to review the poster in advance.
Your participation matters! GRASP sessions are designed as intimate, interactive discussions focused on active participation rather than passive listening. When you register for any of our sessions, please commit to attending—camera on for virtual events—and be fully present and ready to engage in meaningful exchanges. Since our sessions are structured as small group discussions, we rely on all registered participants to show up and contribute to the success of the discussion.
Are there any costs associated with becoming a member or participating in events?
No, membership and participation in GRASP events are free of charge.
What if I have to cancel my registration?
If you need to cancel, please update your registration on your membership dashboard. This will notify us and free up a spot for another advocate or scientist. We kindly ask that you avoid last-minute cancellations, as many of our sessions have waitlists. A late cancellation could prevent someone else from joining. Our scientists dedicate their time to these discussions, and it’s disappointing when they arrive to find only a couple of participants instead of a full group.
What roles are involved in GRASP sessions?
Patient Advocate – A person whose life has been impacted by cancer, whether as a patient or caregiver
Mentor – An experienced patient advocate serving as the session’s facilitator and point person
Scientist – A Clinician or researcher serving as an interpreter to help explain the science in simpler terms.
Poster Author – A clinician or researcher serving as a presenter of a scientific poster selected by GRASP.
How long do GRASP sessions typically last?
Virtual: Poster Walkthroughs usually last about 1.5 hours and cover two posters, while Huddles last for one hour and focus on a single poster or topic.
In Person: Poster meetups generally take around 2 hours, during which 2-4 posters may be reviewed, depending on the group dynamics. The time spent on each poster can vary based on the complexity of the topic. GRASP prioritizes quality over quantity, so there is no set requirement for the number of posters reviewed.
Can I participate in multiple sessions, and how often are they held?
Yes, you are welcome to participate in as many sessions as you’d like. Just keep in mind that we run multiple sessions simultaneously during our poster walkthroughs, so please ensure you don’t register for two sessions happening at the same time. GRASP events are typically held on a regular basis, and by becoming a member, you will receive regular communications regarding upcoming events and initiatives.
How do I become a GRASP scientist or mentor?
GRASP scientists and mentors are selected based on their experience and expertise.
How are scientific posters chosen for the walkthroughs?
The posters are vetted and chosen by a committee of experienced patient advocates and reviewed for scientific merit by a committee of researchers and clinicians.
Can I choose the posters I want to review?
GRASP participants (both scientists and advocates) will not be able to choose individual posters, but will be able to choose the topic of posters according to their interest and/or expertise. Posters will cover scientific topics within basic, translational, and clinical research including but not limited to molecular biology, immuno-oncology, the metastatic process, health disparities, or survivorship, among many others.
Can I choose my group members, mentor, or science expert?
No, the groups are determined by each individual’s availability, interests, and expertise. You are able to chose the group which will be reviewing the topic you are most interested in.
Will I have to create a poster or a presentation?
No, participants are not required to create a poster or presentation. The program focuses on reviewing posters that are already being presented. However, we do ask that everyone come prepared to actively participate and engage in the discussion, whether attending virtually or in person.
What if I have additional questions or suggestions?
If you have any more questions or ideas for a Huddle, please contact us at grasp@graspcancer.org.
