I'm going to suggest that every one of us, student, investigator, or administrator, whose research program and career depend on the tax dollars that support CIHR, has an obligation to let Canadians know that their tax dollars are well spent supporting health research, by explaining the benefits that result from that research.
I'm not advocating that we all become media stars. In fact, there are simple steps, most of which you already do, that are highly effective. You already acknowledge CIHR's funding assistance when you publish a paper in a peer-reviewed journal, or give a talk to your peers at a professional meeting. Include the CIHR logo in your slides and handouts, whatever the venue. Don't miss the opportunity to tell Canadians outside your peer-group when your research pays off. Let CIHR and your institution know when an important paper or policy document is going to be published. There are communications experts, at your institution, and at CIHR's Public Affairs branch, who are only too happy to help you when you have things to say that will interest the public: and health research is one of the perennial high-interest areas. When interviewed by the media about your research, always acknowledge your sources of funding support. If you are unsure or uncomfortable in talking to the media, first seek the assistance of your institutional communications office.
To help you, CIHR's Public Affairs team has just published a short pamphlet that provides simple advice and information on what you should do to bring your research, and CIHR's role in supporting it, to the attention of the public and media. You can download the pamphlet "Communicating the Value of Health Research: CIHR Guidelines on Public Communication"
[ HTML | PDF (345 KB ) | Help ] or obtain printed copies by contacting CIHR Public Affairs at
If I haven't convinced you that communicating with Canadians is an obligation for a publicly-funded researcher, perhaps I should point out the mutual benefits. Publicizing your research successes will lead to greater public awareness of the benefits of health research and of CIHR funding. In turn, this will ensure sustained government support for CIHR, and the continuation and growth of your research program. Helping Canadians understand why health research is a good investment is one way to help yourself.
Has anyone seen my T4A form?
Mark A. Bisby, M.A., D. Phil.
Vice-President, Research Portfolio
