Research funding isn’t just a policy issue—it affects the future of scientific innovation, the careers of promising researchers, and ultimately, the breakthroughs that improve lives.
Dr. Kaitlin Kharas, an alumna of the Faculty of Medicine at the University of Ottawa, has been at the forefront of a movement that is reshaping how young researchers are supported in Canada. Her determination and that of her fellow graduate students and postdoctoral scholars led to a historic increase in federal scholarships and fellowships in 2024, the first significant investment in over 20 years.
During her time at the Faculty of Medicine (MSc in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, 2019), Dr. Kharas stood out for her passion for research. Her work was supported by scholarships —made possible by donors like you— including the Faculty of Medicine admissions and excellence scholarships, and the Walter Faigan Kiwanis Club Fellowship in Lymphoma and Transplant Research.
“I’m grateful for the support I received, and these scholarships were important considerations in my decision to pursue my studies at the university.” she says.
Dr. Kharas’ enriching experiences in the Undergraduate Research Scholarship opened her eyes to a future in laboratory research. That time was marked by inspiring encounters with passionate professors and it solidified her decision to pursue research training—a path that many young scientists today struggle to pursue without adequate financial support.
After graduating, she became an outspoken advocate for young researchers as executive director of Support Our Science. She and her colleagues took action, raising awareness about the financial challenges facing graduate students and postdoctoral fellows.
“These passionate individuals drive much of Canada’s research, discovery and innovation. But without adequate financial support, we risk students abandoning their studies or forgoing graduate education altogether.” says Dr. Kharas.
“It is essential to continue investing in next-generation researchers.”
Dr. Kaitlin Kharas
— Faculty Alumna (MSc in Cellular and Molecular Medicine, 2019)
SOS' advocacy gained national momentum. One of Kaitlin’s favourite moments of the campaign was in 2023, when a nation-wide walkout brought together over 10,000 researchers, students, and supporters from 46 institutions to demand better funding. This was proof that collective action—powered by individuals like you—can drive real change.
“It was extremely powerful to see so many students, postdocs, professors and supporters standing up for this cause and making their voices heard. There was a feeling of solidarity and collective activism from the entire research community.”
That movement led directly to success in 2024, when the federal government increased funding for young researchers by $2.6 billion. Dr. Kharas even stood alongside Chrystia Freeland, Canada’s then Deputy Prime Minister and Minister of Finance, at a press conference to announce the improvements, a moment that underscored how powerful voices can make a difference.
“I’m really proud to have contributed to making the Canadian research ecosystem more supportive for the next-generation,” Dr. Kharas stated. “We showed that the collective voices of students and postdoctoral scholars can be a powerful force for change.”
Dr. Kharas’ advocacy has drawn international recognition. In 2024, she was named one of the 10 personalities who left their mark on the world of science in the prestigious journal Nature, which credited her with sparking a broader conversation about how universities and governments support early-career researchers.
“Being named Nature’s10 was an honour, and a recognition of the incredible work of everyone who gave their time, energy and voices to Support Our Science,” Dr. Kharas stated. “We need to ensure that research training remains a viable path, not a financial sacrifice.”
Despite recent wins, the need remains urgent. Funding gaps still force too many young scientists to choose between their passion for research and financial security.
“While we are grateful for the investments made by the Federal government in Budget 2024, there is still more work to be done do to ensure that every graduate student and postdoc receives adequate support. It is essential to continue investing in next-generation researchers, and Support Our Science looks forward to continued dialogue with policymakers on this important issue” Dr. Kharas emphasizes.
While governments play a role, private support from donors like you is essential to keeping Canada at the forefront of biomedical research.
Your donation ensures that young researchers have the support they need to develop the next life-saving treatments, medical advancements, and scientific discoveries. Support the Faculty of Medicine and ensure that Canada’s brightest minds have the resources they need to succeed.
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