Why Is EDID in Research Important?

Hands in

Given the importance of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) among the Tri-agencies, Western Research strongly encourages an EDI-informed approach be used for all research programs and funding applications even when not explicitly required in sponsor guidelines/instructions.

It is Western Research's position the incorporation of EDI principles throughout all research programs and funding applications will improve an application’s competitiveness for any current competition and lay essential groundwork to improve success for future funding opportunities.

An inclusive research environment contributes to diversity and can only be achieved when informed and intentional equitable practices are adopted.

Why is EDI important in research?

Diversity in research provides:

  • Diversity of perspective and thought.
  • Greater creative and innovative research outputs.
  • An inclusive and welcoming research environment for underrepresented trainees, and
  • Increased ability to generalize research impact to the Canadian and Global communities.

Incorporating EDI in research

“Research shows that teams of diverse researchers are more innovative, have a greater collective intelligence, have more capacity to tackle complex issues and, ultimately, achieve excellence. For Canada to reach its full potential for innovation there needs to be a diversity of perspectives to tackle issues and respond to opportunities effectively that will have real impact. Moreover, to retain excellent research talent in Canada, diverse researchers need to feel meaningfully welcomed, supported, valued and included.” (Canada Research Chairs)

The following information is intended to be used as a guide to equitable practices in research programs, to promote diversity at Western University, and to develop a research culture that is inclusive. Any commitments of training or other practices made on a research grant are the responsibility of the Nominated Principal Investigator (NPI) and necessary communication about these should be discussed with the relevant representatives at Western Research responsible for grant program management or other relevant groups/associations. 

Where to begin?

Look, think, reflect, and be intentional! EDI vision/mission statements for your research program should be meaningful and ideally, grounded in concrete practices that are or will be implemented. 

For more information about key parts of the research project to consider including EDI, Western Research has created a comprehensive list of questions and examples for your perusal.


Western ID and Password Required

Western Research can help you develop proposals that weave EDI considerations into your research project or program. You can also enhance training experiences for highly qualified personnel, while creating a more inclusive environment for diverse members of your research team, by making use of guidance documents, resources and training programs created and collected by experts across campus. 

The Knowledge Exchange and Impact team have created a tool to help connect EDI and KEx best practices together.


Western ID and Password Required

Resources

Other EDI Resources at Western

Contact Us

For support related to EDID and Indigenous research, please fill out this form with your information and the Inclusive Research Excellence and Impact team will assist with your request – or contact Mariam Hayward directly.