Abstract:
This event will explore effective strategies for scaling research to generate significant health, social, and economic benefits. By incorporating diverse perspectives and innovative approaches, it aims to inspire fresh thinking around research collaboration and implementation in Canada. The two-part format will convene national and international leaders to share successful models that translate knowledge into impactful outcomes across health and economic contexts during a panel discussion, followed by dynamic cross-sector discussions in a workshop setting. This approach will enable participants to engage meaningfully, collaborate across disciplines, and drive impactful solutions forward.

This symposium and workshop on Scaling Research for Impact: From Local Insights to Global Solutions will bring together an international panel of experts and national leaders to explore effective strategies for scaling research to achieve broad health, social, and economic benefits. The two-part format will convene national and international leaders to share successful models that translate knowledge into impactful outcomes across health and economic contexts during a panel discussion, followed by dynamic cross-sector discussions in a workshop setting.

While this event is organized by the Canadian Brain Research Strategy (CBRS), the discussions and outcomes will be relevant across a wide range of health research areas. The focus of the event is not solely on brain and mental health but rather on the broader challenge of how to scale research to maximize societal impact. By incorporating diverse perspectives and innovative approaches, it aims to inspire fresh thinking around research collaboration and implementation in Canada. This approach will enable participants to engage meaningfully, collaborate across disciplines, and drive impactful solutions forward.

Summary of Conversations

The panel discussion revolved around scaling research for impact, emphasizing collaboration, data sharing, and addressing challenges in various sectors. Discussions highlighted successes like Canada’s historical strength in brain research and effective service delivery models, while challenges included siloed interests, jurisdictional barriers, and retaining talent. Opportunities were identified in the next generation of researchers, open science initiatives, and the development of a brain capital dashboard. The importance of aligning diverse voices, breaking down power barriers, and building common language within collaborative communities was emphasized. There was a call for action-oriented collaboration, interdisciplinary programs, and science-driven policies, and it was underlined the crucial role of government in regulating factors and incentivizing innovation.

Take Away Messages/Current Status of Challenges

• Canada’s strength in brain research is hampered by siloed interests and jurisdictional barriers.
• The need for a common language and understanding of scaling is critical across sectors.
• Retaining highly qualified personnel (HQP) in Canada remains a significant challenge.
• There’s a notable gap between academia and industry hindering a unified vision.
• Economic returns data and advocacy are lacking, impacting funding opportunities.
• The current funding model for pilot projects is unsustainable.
• Openness in Canadian collaborations needs to be balanced with security concerns.
• Ethical considerations must keep pace with rapidly evolving research landscapes.

Recommendations/Next Steps

• Prioritize cross-sector collaboration and data integration across provinces.
• Invest in training and mentorship programs to encourage staying and collaboration of researchers.
• Advocate for science-driven policies and longer-term funding visions beyond political cycles.
• Develop a Canadian brain capital dashboard to monitor brain health across the nation.
• Streamline IP processes at universities to enhance commercialization efforts.
• Promote a sandbox environment for stakeholders to share ideas and foster innovation.
• Establish minimal standard data sets to support comparable research across platforms.
• Strengthen national research ethics boards and data use guidelines.