Equity, diversity and inclusion
This past year, equity, diversity and inclusion were front and centre in the numerous dossiers we prepared, including for two CRC Tier 2 positions (ISHS and HK), internal calls for Canada Research Chairs Tier 1, and the Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Awards. We expect these efforts will continue to lead to more diverse, equitable and inclusive research approaches and Faculty settings.
Knowledge mobilization
Creative knowledge mobilization strategies were evident thanks to the various outreach initiatives outlined in our annual report, with a strong emphasis on informing and supporting communities.
Research centres and institutes
We continued to facilitate interdisciplinary, interfaculty and intersectoral collaboration through our continuous support of five research centres and institutes. We look forward to welcoming the newly appointed director of the LIFE Research Institute, Dr. Nafissa Ismail (cross-appointed to our faculty from the Faculty of Social Sciences), and sincerely thank outgoing director Dr. Linda Garcia for her great work in creating a vibrant institute with representation from across uOttawa and beyond, including numerous partners in Canada and around the world. Thank you very much, Linda!
Research at 200 Lees Avenue
This past year, we invested time and effort in planning the new building at 200 Lees Avenue, to ensure a smooth transition for research teams. The management of research spaces policy and the shared research platform principles and procedures were approved, promoting a cultural change towards optimal use of research space. These policies are applicable to all Faculty spaces.
Communications in research
We can confidently say that we delivered on five of the six research office priorities (as outlined above). However, we fell short in developing efficient and effective communication strategies. Due to staffing challenges, we had to pause our monthly Health Research Reporter, and only intermittently hosted Health Research Conversations. However, with the imminent arrival of a new research adviser, Dr. Flore Lesage, we hope some communication initiatives will resume.
External grants
In 2022–2023, external funding reached $8.9 million in total, including $4.6 million from the Tri-Council. This is slightly down from previous years. The COVID-19 research boost of the previous two years, as well as some fatigue and capacity limits stemming from recent successes may explain the reduction. Nevertheless, our research impact remains strong. This includes more than 800 media appearances, 614 published articles, 27,903 citations and the quality of our researchers themselves.