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Applications for the 2025 STARS PRA program will open Monday, February 3, 2025 and close Friday, March 14, 2025.  

Apply for the STARS PRA (Patient Research Advocate) Program

The IASLC STARS (Supportive Training for Advocates on Research and Science) Program began in 2019 as a collaboration between lung cancer patient research advocates and representatives from lung cancer advocacy organizations. STARS aims to train, develop, and nurture lung cancer patient research advocates (PRAs) for the lung cancer community. 

We invite people who have or had lung cancer and their family members to apply for the 2025 STARS PRA Program! Click here for a comprehensive overview of the STARS PRA Program. This is an all virtual program, taking place over Zoom.

Continue reading to find information on the application process and explore our Frequently Asked Questions. 

How do I apply?
  • Must be an IASLC member. (If you are not yet a member, CLICK HERE for information on how to join. IASLC Membership is complimentary for patients and their family members and caregivers.)
  • Select this link to login to the form via the IASLC Member Portal (opens in new window). 
    • If you do not know your Member Portal credentials, click on the "Forgot Your Password" link to reset your credentials. Email membership@iaslc.org if you have any difficulties logging in to the portal. 
  • Once you have successfully logged into the Member Portal, you will be automatically directed to the application form.
  • You do not have to complete the application all at once; you can save your progress and return to the form to complete it at any time prior to the application deadline. 
  • Provide the name and email address of an individual who will provide a recommendation for your application. We recommend reviewing and completing the 'Application Endorsement' section first. 
  • Answer several short questions about your advocacy activities and interest in science and research.
  • Provide an example of a communication you have written or created about lung cancer within the last year.
    • If requested by the review team, attend a Zoom candidate interview with STARS Mentors and Admin Team at a time to be determined during March 17 - April 4. 
    What is the 2025 STARS PRA application timeline?
    • Application period: February 3 to March 14. Applications are due by midnight MDT on March 14.  
    • Review period: March 17 - April 4
    • Applicants notified regarding acceptance by May 2. 
    Who should I contact if I have questions?

    Feel free to explore the FAQs below for more information.

    Should you have any further questions or require additional assistance, please don't hesitate to email us. We're here to help!

     

    Frequently Asked Questions

    What is STARS?

    • Explore the magic of the IASLC STARS Programs here! 

    How many PRAs can join the 2025 STARS PRA Program?

    • We will accept up to 20 PRAs from across the globe to join the 2025 STARS PRA Program. 

    What is the format of the STARS PRA Program?

    Who is a good candidate for the 2025 STARS PRA Program?

    •  Great question! Dive into the 'Who Can Apply to the PRA Program' section on this page.

    What is the difference between patient and research advocacy?

    • Patient advocacy takes many forms and is different from research advocacy, as detailed here. STARS PRAs are experienced in other forms of patient advocacy (e.g., fundraising, increasing awareness of lung cancer, sharing their cancer story, etc.) and now wish to bring the patient voice to research-related efforts. The STARS program is not designed for those who are just starting to  explore patient advocacy. 

    I previously participated in STARS. Can I apply again?

    • Previous participants of the STARS PRA Program may appy to participate in the PRA Program again. 
    • If you've previously participated in STARS, you are automatically enrolled in the STARS Alumni program.
    • We also encourage STARS Alumni and others who are active in research advocacy to check out the 2025 STARS Scholar Program, which includes travel to WCLC 2025 and participation in STARS activities while at the conference.  

    Do you have any other opportunities for patient advocates? 

    • Yes! IASLC offers tailored opportunities depending on where you are in your patient advocacy journey.
      • Consider applying for a Patient Advocate Educational Award if you are a patient with lung cancer or caregiver who is relatively new to patient advocacy, working on a project in the lung cancer commnity, and seeking travel coverage to WCLC 2025.