Change Through Research: University of Manitoba’s Strategic Plan for Research 2024-2029
This week, UM officially launched Change Through Research, a five-year institutional strategic research plan that outlines key areas of expertise for maximum global impact by providing solutions to society’s most pressing challenges.
“From Arctic accessibility and climate change to food and water security, UM has significant capacity to solve complex environmental, social and economic problems and drive transformational change” said Mario Pinto, Vice President (Research and International). “This plan outlines our research strengths and opportunities for growth that will inspire creativity and innovation, resulting in greater impact, external profile and recognition.”
The plan outlines seven themes that will guide UM research in the next five-year period. These thematic areas are:
- Foundations
- Social Justice and Human Rights
- Research by, for, and with Indigenous Peoples
- Water and Food Security
- Health and Well-Being
- Climate Action and Sustainability
- Manitoba, Hudson Bay, Arctic and the World
These interconnected themes will promote the overarching mission of transforming research culture, advancing understanding and creating positive societal impact.
“This plan builds upon disciplinary strengths and embraces inter- and multi-disciplinary expertise in new and imaginative ways to explore bold ventures and opportunities for UM to lead on the global stage,” said Pinto.
In addition, the plan outlines ambitious goals to position UM as a leader in new and critical research areas, including to be in the Top 200 in the world and the Top 10 in Canada in the Center for World University Rankings, in the top 251-300 in the Times Higher Education Rankings and in the top 100 in the Times Higher Education Impact Rankings.
The plan is informed by institutional priorities outlined in MomentUM: Leading Change Together and the draft Truth and Reconciliation Framework: Time for Action (2024-29). It is a result of a co-creation process with the Strategic Research Plan Committee and the entire UM community through extensive consultations and feedback sessions. Hundreds of researchers, innovators, staff and students shared their ideas and priorities for research excellence at UM, helping to shape the creation of this document.
To learn more about the UM Strategic Research Plan, visit: https://umanitoba.ca/research/strategic-research-plan
Research at the University of Manitoba is partially supported by funding from the Government of Canada Research Support Fund.