The Canadian Brain Research Strategy (CBRS) recently contributed to the federal government’s consultation on the proposed Capstone research funding organization. Designed to “modernize and coordinate” Canada’s research ecosystem, the Capstone seeks to strengthen interdisciplinary, mission-driven, and international research to address complex societal challenges such as climate change and health emergencies.
In its submission, CBRS outlined how the Capstone could transform Canadian brain and mental health research. Brain disorders, including dementia and mental illnesses, affect over 7.5 million Canadians, creating an urgent need for a coordinated, long-term research strategy. With its emphasis on multidisciplinary approaches, the Capstone is uniquely positioned to support research that spans traditional boundaries, such as neuro-AI and computational neuroscience—fields that are often underserved by existing funding structures.
CBRS emphasized key principles for the Capstone’s success:
- Sustained and secure funding to ensure long-term research viability.
- Autonomy for Canada’s granting councils to uphold peer-reviewed, investigator-driven research.
- Preservation of critical health research linkages, ensuring integration between health and research priorities.
The submission also highlighted the need for transdisciplinary training and stable funding for research and technical staff—critical for driving innovation and fostering the next generation of scientific leaders.
As a pan-Canadian initiative representing a broad spectrum of research stakeholders, CBRS recognizes the Capstone’s potential to position Canada as a global leader in brain and mental health research. With robust governance and dedicated funding, the Capstone could catalyze breakthroughs that improve the lives of millions of Canadians.
