How can PhD research contribute to the global health research agenda?
Date
2006-11
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Publisher
Routledge Publishing
Abstract
We suggest that PhD and post-doctoral researchers are a strong, untapped resource with the
potential to make a real contribution to global health research (GHR). However, we raise
some ethical, institutional, and funding issues that either discourage new researchers from
entering the field or diminish their capacity to contribute. We offer a number of recommendations
to Canadian academic and non-academic institutions and funders, aiming to generate
discussion among them about how to overcome these constraints. We need changes in the way
graduate research is organised and funded, to create opportunities to work collaboratively
within established low- and middle-income countries (LMIC)/Canadian research partnerships.
We urge changes in the way that institutions fund, recognise, value, and support GHR, so that
established researchers are encouraged to develop long-term LMIC relationships and mentor
new Canadian/LMIC researchers. We ask funders to reconsider additional GHR activities for
support, including strategic training initiatives and dissemination of research results. We also
encourage the development of alternative institutions that can provide training and mentoring
opportunities. GHR faces many challenges. If we address those that reduce our potential to
contribute, we can become real partners in GHR, working towards equitable global health
and solutions to priority health issues.
Description
item.page.type
Journal Article (peer-reviewed)
item.page.format
Text
Keywords
POSTSECONDARY EDUCATION, RESEARCH PROJECTS, INTERNATIONAL COOPERATION, HEALTH PROGRAMMES, CANADA
Citation
Walker, S.H., Ouellette, V., & Ridde, V. (2006). How can PhD research contribute to the global health research agenda?. Development in Practice, 16(6), 617-622.doi:10.1080=09614520600958330