Jackilen Shannon

Dr. Jackilen Shannon is a population scientist at Oregon Health & Science University (OHSU), serving as Associate Director at OCTRI and Associate Director of Knight Cancer Institute Community Outreach and Engagement. With over a decade at OHSU, she has established herself as a leader in translational cancer research spanning from bench to population (T1-T4).

Her educational background includes:

• B.S. in Nutrition Science from Pennsylvania State University (1987)
• M.P.H. from University of Minnesota (1988)
• Ph.D. in Nutritional Epidemiology from University of North Carolina (1993)

Dr. Shannon's research focuses on community engaged research, cancer prevention and early detection, and population science. Her unique training allows her to bridge molecular, genetic, and epidemiologic endpoints through highly collaborative research. She has shifted her focus toward community engagement in translational research (T3 and T4), developing strategies for sustained research partnerships with communities. Her approach combines population methods with community engagement and education, exemplified by programs like 'Let's Get Healthy!' and the 'Healthy Oregon Project,' a statewide cohort of over 40,000 individuals.

Analysis of Dr. Shannon's recent publications reveals a strong emphasis on cancer epidemiology, health disparities, and community-based research. Her work spans rural health, genetic screening, health behavior during the pandemic, and implementation of cancer screening programs. A notable trend is her emphasis on improving representation of minority populations in cancer research and addressing health disparities through community engagement.

Dr. Shannon has developed significant infrastructure for community research:

• Co-developed 'Let's Get Healthy!' education and research program providing personalized health education through interactive health fairs
• Co-PI for the Healthy Oregon Project, a statewide cohort of over 40,000 individuals
• Established OHSU Community Outreach, Research & Engagement, integrating community-focused work across multiple institutes
• Leadership in OHSU Global-Bangkok Dusit Medical System partnership, implementing 'Let's Get Healthy!'-Global