Northern B.C. health research collaboration receives grant funding

A new initiative in northern B.C. aims to address inequities in health research infrastructure by developing community-driven solutions that integrate Indigenous knowledge and support sustainable, equitable outcomes.

Three women standing in front of a wood-panelled wall. From left to right: Margot Parkes, Lheidli T'enneh Elder and UNBC Chancellor Darlene McIntosh, and Rheanna Robinson. They are smiling and wearing red and dark-coloured clothing.
Dr. Margot Parkes, Lheidli T'enneh Elder and UNBC Chancellor Darlene McIntosh and Dr. Rheanna Robinson gather during a health research engagement initiative focused on Indigenous, rural and remote communities in northern B.C.

A new health research initiative in northern British Columbia aims to address inequities in health research infrastructure for Indigenous, rural, remote and northern communities. Supported by a Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) planning and dissemination grant, the project focuses on developing solutions tailored to the unique needs of these communities. 

“This grant is about more than infrastructure; it’s about ensuring that infrastructure meets the needs of Indigenous and remote communities,” said Dr. Margot Parkes, Professor in UNBC’s School of Health Sciences and UBC’s Northern Medical Program at UNBC. “Bringing people together to share and discuss this work is essential to creating meaningful solutions.” 

The project emphasizes a long-term Indigenous co-designed research agenda that integrates Inclusivity, Diversity, Equity, Accessibility (IDEA) principles and intergenerational sustainability.  

“This collaboration ensures Indigenous voices are included in the context of how research is moving forward,” added UNBC Associate Professor in the Department of First Nations Studies Dr. Rheanna Robinson. 

A key element involves identifying gaps in health research infrastructure representation, particularly where Indigenous knowledge systems are underrepresented. The research team will also analyze global examples of Indigenous co-design and examine innovative approaches that align with IDEA principles. 

“This initiative brings together ideas, people and partnerships to create infrastructure that supports northern B.C. in a meaningful way,” said Parkes. “The insights will strengthen health research efforts in northern B.C and provide valuable lessons for addressing similar challenges across Canada and beyond.”