wooden blocks spelling out Research

What are Research Roadshows?

We bring the research to you

Research Roadshows, led by the University of Colorado Anschutz Cancer Center and Multidisciplinary Center on Aging, connect research teams with communities across Colorado. Attendees can learn directly from experts about the latest cancer research, prevention, early detection, emerging treatments and devices, and clinical trial opportunities. Participants can also ask questions and engage with researchers, clinicians, and educators dedicated to improving health outcomes for older Coloradans.


Attend a Research Roadshow

Research Roadshows prioritize reaching groups often underrepresented in research, including older adults. Each event highlights research aimed at improving healthy aging, such as:

  • Healthy brain aging (sleep, hearing, memory)
  • Mobility and safety
  • Cancer prevention and early detection
  • Additional topics based on community interests

What to expect

At a Research Roadshow, visitors can:

  • Attend short educational sessions
  • Try new health technologies
  • Watch live demonstrations
  • Explore research studies and clinical trials
  • Meet researchers, clinicians, and Older Adult Research Specialists

Examples include free hearing checks, mobility device demonstrations, and information on studies related to nutrition, exercise, arthritis, and cancer prevention.


Who hosts the Research Roadshows?

The cancer center and Multidisciplinary Center on Aging host the events, supported by graduates of the Older Adult Research Specialist program.


Why research matters

Research helps us find better ways to prevent illness, catch health problems earlier, and improve treatments. Many of the medicines and care options we rely on today are available because people in our communities chose to take part in research.

It is important that research includes people of all ages, especially older adults. Our bodies can change as we age, and treatments may work differently for different people. When older adults participate in research, doctors and researchers can learn what works best, what is safest, and what truly meets the needs of those who will use these treatments.

By participating in research, community members help improve health care for themselves, their families, and future generations. Taking part in research is one way to make sure new treatments and programs reflect real experiences and support healthier communities for everyone.


Why participate?

  • Contribute to safer, more effective treatments
  • Gain access to health experts and useful health information
  • Learn about emerging medical advances
  • Cost: Free
  • Event Length: Several hours; visit as many teams as you’d like

Check us out at past Research Roadshows:


For researchers: why participate?

Join a growing network of investigators who leverage the Research Roadshows to strengthen their studies and expand their community impact. More than 14 cancer center research teams have already participated!

Research teams benefit by:

  • Reaching and recruiting older adults and other underrepresented groups
  • Piloting study components or testing data collection tools
  • Conducting screenings, beginning informed consent, or enrolling participants
  • Collaborating with Older Adult Research Specialists skilled in engaging diverse older populations

What past researchers are saying about the Research Roadshows

“The Research Roadshow was a great opportunity to share my lung cancer work with a broader community and to hear feedback about what is important to community members. Translating my research to engage non-scientists in conversations improves my communication skills and hopefully helps to build awareness of cancer research in Colorado."— Meredith A. Tennis, PhD 

Explore Dr. Tennis’s Research

"The Research Roadshows are a unique opportunity to connect with community members who may never otherwise hear about the work we're doing on campus or interact with scientists, and conversely, a chance for faculty to connect with members of the community, from research enthusiasts to community healthcare providers to patients and constituents. These connections are incredibly valuable and are a powerful way to grow the impact of our research, in ways that we may not typically consider." - Matthew Sikora, PhD


Calling researchers and community members!

Are you a researcher recruiting older adults (aged 50-90)? Are you a community member interested in learning about research opportunities or sharing your voice?

Join our 2026 Research Roadshows!

  • February 20th -  Centennial YMCA Center for Generations, 6972 S. Vine Street, Centennial, CO
  • April 14th - Pueblo Convention Center, 320 Central Main Street, Pueblo, CO
  • June 26th – Heather Gardens, 2888 Heather Gardens Way, Aurora, CO

Interested? Email: [email protected]



three women working a cancer center table
Connecting our community with reliable cancer prevention and screening resources.
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