“I’m not a graduate or doctor, yet we are all together:” Articulating a partnership model for community-engaged research

Abstract Background Research With Expert Advisors on Drug Use (READU) is a community-engaged research collaborative of people with lived and living experience, clinicians, and academic researchers. We sought to evaluate the challenges and rewards of the partnership model. Methods Using the Peer Engagement Process Evaluation framework, the READU team collaborated on generating a list of focus group topics. All (n = 8) active team members participated in a focus group. Thematic analysis was used to identify key ideas. Results Five main themes were identified. “Collaborative Research Model” relates to the importance of a shared set of values, power dynamics, and the importance of centering community in research. “Group Dynamics” describes occasionally getting side-tracked in the work, as well as closeness among team members. “Individual Growth and Skill Development” concerns personal and intellectual development, as well as the benefits and opportunities for bi-directional training. “Institutional Structure”, encompasses the logistics of a hybrid working model and compensation issues. “Moving Forward and Future Work” involves the process of ending a research project in a positive way and envisioning future opportunities. Conclusion READU’s partnership model is generally positive and mutually beneficial for all team members. All partners feel a sense of satisfaction and closeness, and that the relevance and impact of research is enhanced. Although some challenges have been identified, particularly related to compensation and the physical workplace, these are not intractable. The evaluation of this partnership should motivate researchers considering partnership with community-based researchers, and highlight practical considerations.