Working groups are institute-assembled and aim to bring together different communities of scholars and partners working at the intersection of a specific topics aligned to the institute research priorities. Meetings are planned and organized by hosts in collaboration with institute leadership and staff. The duration and frequency of meetings will be set by the host and may vary from group to group.

Meetings typically serve as a mechanism to share knowledge, explore synergies, find mutually beneficial opportunities among participants, and support the development of a research path that will advance a research agenda and accelerate progress towards research excellence. 

Inclusivity and interdisciplinarity participation is a priority. Diverse academic backgrounds or disciplinary expertise (e.g., philosophy, psychology, law, public health), sectorial proficiency, and lived experiences provides richness in viewpoints. Learnings from interactions may progress into research project meetings, formal events, or grant development work. 

Institute supports available:

• identification of potential participants
• communication of working group details and sessions
• meeting facilitation and collaborative engagment support
• selection of funding opportunities and grant development advice  

Group Idea?  Contact us     Current Working Groups

Reading groups are self-assembled and aim to bring together different communities of scholars and partners working at the intersection of specific topics of interest. Hosts identify engaging work that represents various perspectives and that will inspire discussion among participants. 

Inclusivity and interdisciplinarity participation are encouraged. Diverse academic backgrounds or disciplinary expertise (e.g., philosophy, psychology, law, public health), sectorial proficiency, and lived experiences provides richness in viewpoints. Learnings from interactions may progress into working groups, research project meeting, formal events, or various activities that would move a research agenda forward. 

The duration and frequency of sessions will be set by the host and may vary from group to group. Each session is self-contained, so participants who are unable to attend all sessions are still welcome to join the group. 

Institute supports available:

• identification of potential participants
• exploration of alignment of topic of interest to institute priorities
• communication of reading group details and sessions
• logistical support

Group Idea?  Contact us     Current Reading Groups

For researchers and research teams that are preparing or ready to pursue funding that will advance interdisciplinary research aligned with the institute priorities, institute leadership and staff are available for consultation and support. 

Institute supports available:

• identification of potential sources of funding
• connection to additional experts to complement team strengths
• development of applications - coordination, writing, budget drafts, etc
• liaison with Western Research staff
• logistical support

Contact us - Paul Arnold: Institute Research Specialist

The institute serves as a hub of a dynamic research network and to facilitate scholarly engagement with the wider academic community and the community-at-large. 

For researchers and research teams that are preparing or ready to host meetings, events, or retreats that will advance interdisciplinary research aligned with the institute priorities, institute leadership and staff are available for consultation and support. 

Institute supports available:

• identification of potential sources of funding
• connection to additional experts to complement team strengths
• development of meeting goals and agendas
• liaison with other units across campus or beyond
• logistical support such as room bookings, minutes, communication

Contact us - Paul Arnold: Institute Research Specialist See Meetings & Events