Equity, diversity and inclusivity are crucial to the future of Canadian science. This is a topic of national importance that has garnered attention and action from the federal government, funding agencies and scientists across the country.
To help address this important topic, Western University’s Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry and Lawson Health Research Institute are hosting an evening forum as part of this year’s London Health Research Day (LHRD). Exchange: A London Health Research Day Forum on Diversity and Inclusivity will take place the evening before LHRD.
“Exchange will be an opportunity to see equity, diversity and inclusivity in health research in action. It will feature talks by leading female researchers on issues in indigenous health and LGBTQ health, discuss the implementation of equity in the Canada Research Chairs program, and present female entrepreneurship in the field of health research,” said Savita Dhavantari, PhD, assistant professor at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, assistant director and scientist at Lawson and one of the organizers of the event. “Above all, I hope it encourages our faculty and students to be fearless in advocating for equity, diversity and inclusivity in health research.”
LHRD’s Exchange aims to foster conversations and influence policy regarding diversity and inclusivity in the careers of health researchers, including gender, and how the health research community can work together to identify and implement solutions. To spark this important discussion, Exchange will feature presentations from local and national health researchers.
Wednesday, May 9, 2018
6:00 – 9:00 p.m.
North Campus Building, Western University
Speakers include:
Dr. Janet Smylie – An international leader in the field of Indigenous health and health research
Dr. Greta Bauer – A researcher at Western University’s Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry with a special interest in LGBTQ health
Dr. Alysha Croker – Current manager of the Canada Excellence Research Chairs (CERC) and the Canada First Research Excellence Fund (CFREF) programs at the Tri-agency Institutional Program Secretariat, and previous lead on the development of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research’s (CIHR’s) Equity Strategy
Shantal Feltham – Founder of Stiris Research, a London-based North American clinical trial management company
Organizers will be available immediately prior to the event for interviews. Please contact Crystal Mackay in advance if you plan to attend.
MEDIA CONTACT: Crystal Mackay, Media Relations Officer, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, t. 519.661.2111 ext. 80387, c. 519.933.5944, crystal.mackay@schulich.uwo.ca @CrystalMackay
EVENT HASHTAG: #LHRD18
ABOUT WESTERN
Western delivers an academic experience second to none. Since 1878, The Western Experience has combined academic excellence with life-long opportunities for intellectual, social and cultural growth in order to better serve our communities. Our research excellence expands knowledge and drives discovery with real-world application. Western attracts individuals with a broad worldview, seeking to study, influence and lead in the international community.
ABOUT THE SCHULICH SCHOOL OF MEDICINE & DENTISTRY
The Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry at Western University is one of Canada’s preeminent medical and dental schools. Established in 1881, it was one of the founding schools of Western University and is known for being the birthplace of family medicine in Canada. For more than 130 years, the School has demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence and a passion for scientific discovery.
ABOUT LAWSON HEALTH RESEARCH INSTITUTE
As the research institute of London Health Sciences Centre and St. Joseph’s Health Care London, and working in partnership with Western University, Lawson Health Research Institute is committed to furthering scientific knowledge to advance health care around the world.