The Globe & Mail: Key Voices in Brain Health and Research Offer Strategy to Cement Canadian Leadership

The CBRS was featured in an editorial within The Globe & Mail’s Brain Awareness Week Report, shedding light on the imperative for a unified national strategy to uphold Canada’s leadership in brain health and research.

The editorial highlights the innovative approach to brain and mental health research investments in our national research strategy, aiming to leverage Canadian strengths and foster global competitiveness. Dr. Jennie Z. Young, Executive Director of CBRS, emphasizes the urgency of a holistic approach to brain health and research, stressing the interconnectedness of brain disorders and the need for unified efforts.

The framework of the Canadian Brain Research Strategy prioritizes strengthening the brain research ecosystem nationwide, advocating for long-term, stable and flexible funding to support a skilled workforce and infrastructure for research and translation efforts. Dr. Young emphasizes the importance of collaboration and knowledge sharing, calling for investments not only in research grants but also in coordination and infrastructure to maximize impact.

Yes, we absolutely need more research grants. At the same time, we also need more investments not tied to a certain centre, project or research topic – investments in co-ordination, research support personnel and other forms of infrastructure that enable more collaboration and sharing of skills and knowledge.

– Dr. Jennie Z. Young, Executive Director, CBRS

The ultimate goal is a sustainable, world-class ecosystem for brain research similar to those for artificial intelligence and quantum technologies that have been back by government in recent years.

The CBRS was further highlighted through a collaborative effort, with special thanks to individuals from the Heart & Stroke, Ontario Brain Institute, Kids Brain Health Network, CIHR Institute of Aging, and the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging who generously volunteered their time and expertise to craft an accompanying advertisement.

Read the editorial in The Globe & Mail here.
Download the print layout here.