The CBRS embarked on envisioning the future of brain research in Canada through two workshops held in August and September 2020, involving 48 early career researchers (ECR) from across the country. These ECR, nominated by CBRS Research Leaders and predominantly Assistant Professors, represented a balanced mix of genders and fields of brain and mental health research.
The workshops culminated in a paper titled “The Canadian Brain Research Strategy: A Focus on Early Career Researchers” published today in the Canadian Journal of Neurological Sciences. This document outlined a visionary framework for the future of brain research in Canada, emphasizing three key principles: a collaborative, transdisciplinary, and open brain research ecosystem.
The workshop highlighted the essential components of a Canadian brain research strategy to:
- Accelerate understanding and treatment of brain and mental health challenges
- Foster collaboration and technology sharing among Canadian researchers
- Train transdisciplinary researchers for future brain research
- Establish targets for strategic, coordinated investment in neuroscience and mental health
- Cultivate international collaborations for impactful initiatives
Read our publication here: Menard C, Siddiqui TJ, Sargin D, Lawson A, De Koninck Y, & Illes J. (2021). The Canadian Brain Research Strategy: A Focus on Early Career Researchers. Can J Neurol Sci. 2021 Apr 27:1-3.
DOI: 10.1017/cjn.2021.81
