About the BCRAN
The Breast Cancer Research Advisory Network (BCRAN) is led by Amy Fowler, MD, PhD, Assistant Professor of Radiology and by Lisa Arendt, DVM, PhD, Assistant Professor of Comparative Biosciences.
The BCRAN was created in 2014 by Drs. Jim Shull, Lee Wilke, and Mark Burkard and is the first research advisory network at UW Carbone. Network members include breast cancer researchers and patient advocates, including breast cancer survivors.
Our Team
Co-Directors: Amy Fowler, MD, PhD and Lisa Arendt, DVM, PhD
Administrative Coordinator: Allison Dahlke and Meredith Turany
Steering Committee: Nancy Cahill, Deb Tobin, Lynn Malayter
Contact Us: BCRAN@cancer.wisc.edu
Help shape the future of breast cancer research
Our Mission
Building partnerships between advocates and scientists to enhance the relevance of research to patients with breast cancer.
The impact of our work
We have helped secure grants that are now being used to advance breast cancer research at UW Carbone.
Why we do what we do
When it comes to setting research priorities, patients and survivors haven’t always had a seat at the table.
Because of research and advocacy, outcomes for patients with breast cancer have improved significantly in recent decades. Yet, there is still more work to be done:
- Certain types of breast cancer remain difficult to treat.
- Side effects of treatment may cause health issues down the road.
Who can join
Anyone with a desire to address and improve prevention, diagnosis, treatment and quality of life for people affected by breast cancer.
How we do it
Meetings are held every two months and provide a venue for advocates to hear about research projects, offer their perspective and help develop researchers’ ideas for use in the clinic setting.
As ambassadors for UW Carbone, members also educate community groups and public officials about the latest research and the importance investing in it.
BCRAN MEMBERS ARE...
…STAYING CONNECTED WITH EACH OTHER
Upcoming Meetings:
- March 10, 2026
- May 12, 2026
- September 8, 2026
- November 10, 2026
All meetings are Hybrid – Zoom and in WIMR (room TBD) – from 5:30–7:00pm
*unless staff determine virtual based on weather*
…CONNECTING WITH RESEARCHERS
BCRAN members can be involved with researchers their proposals, grant submissions and the like by reviewing their proposals and writing letters of support.
…ACTIVE IN THEIR COMMUNITIES
BCRAN members can also participate by supporting community events that raise awareness and funds.
Upcoming Volunteering Events:
Nothing scheduled at this time!
…FUNDRAISING
Be the Cure is a fundraiser to support breast and other cancer research at UW Carbone, started by Nancy and Mike Cahill in 2009 and has generated nearly $200,000 to benefit cancer research. Consider donating online.