Research at the Faculty of Medicine & Health Sciences (FMHS) accounts for about 60% of the total research funding at Â鶹AV. FMHS researchers are internationally recognized for their strengths in a diverse range of fundamental, clinical, and applied science and social science fields. They also contribute significantly to the university's teaching mission, involving undergraduate, graduate, and post-doctoral trainees in research, and providing future healthcare professionals opportunities to gain experience in research. This integrated approach not only advances scientific knowledge but also ensures that the next generation of healthcare professionals is well-prepared to engage in cutting-edge research and adopt new approaches in their clinical practice. The FMHS Strategic Research Plan (SRP) complements the University’s SRP and those of individual units, departments, schools, or research institutes located on campus or in affiliated teaching hospitals.
The SRP emphasizes research areas where our investigators are anticipated to have maximum impact on the training of the next generation of scientists and professionals and the advancement of knowledge that will improve the health of, and health care delivery for, the population of Québec and the world. Key areas have been identified through consultations with faculty members, stakeholders, and assessments of current and future healthcare challenges. The priorities reflect a balanced focus on discovery research, clinical translation, public health, and interdisciplinary approaches, ensuring that our efforts lead to improvements in both fundamental knowledge and practical healthcare delivery.
From an implementation standpoint, the SRP guides FMHS-level decision-making regarding research, including priorities for faculty, staff and student recruitment and support, space allocation, investments in research infrastructure, other financial support, and fundraising. The plan identifies strategic priorities for the coming years, focusing on areas that will benefit from Faculty-level attention, while acknowledging that not all research activities within the Faculty are encompassed here.
The rapidly evolving nature of health-related research, including the transformative and potentially disruptive effects of technological advances, makes it imperative that the SRP be periodically revised and updated. This ensures that the SRP remains responsive to emerging challenges and opportunities, keeping FMHS at the forefront of health innovation. The present revision was coordinated by Faculty leadership, incorporating feedback from a broad spectrum of faculty members and stakeholders.