Purpose: This research focused on testing and validating a protocol for stakeholder advisory group (AG) engagement within our interactive synthesis research framework. The topic of the interactive scoping study is the role of wildlife in the transmission of pathogenic bacteria and antimicrobial resistance (AMR) to the food chain. After identification, the AG was engaged in development of the question, scope and products for this project.
Methods: By personal invitation, an AG of 11 experts from wildlife biology, microbiology, food safety and epidemiology was established. A survey was administered to solicit insight on the scope and framing of the study questions.
Results: We had a positive response rate of 100% to the AG committee invitations. The survey helped validate and expand the project scope and rank the importance of specific questions for research and decision making. For example, the research importance of the role of wildlife in the transmission of bacterial pathogens and AMR rated 4.7 (SD 0.47), compared to its policy relevance 4.2 (SD 0.79). Questionnaire results were summarized and consensus was reached on the final scope of the project and targeted end users.
Significance: Our experience with interactive synthesis research shows that the information and discussion spawned by the AG is invaluable for framing the right questions and addressing an appropriate scope during synthesis research. The AG represents a group of potential end users whose feedback helps improve the utility of synthesis products. The interactive aspects of this scoping study on the role of wildlife in the transmission of pathogenic bacteria and AMR to the food chain are key to improving the use of research in policy and decision making.