(March 15, 2023) - Vital Northern health research will continue—and perhaps expand—thanks to a new deal reached by NOSM University and Laurentian University.
A new research agreement has been negotiated by the universities following the establishment of NOSM University as Canada’s first independent medical university in 2021.
“Our institutions have always worked closely on Northern health research,” says Dr. Sarita Verma, President, Vice-Chancellor, Dean and CEO of NOSM University. “We have an opportunity to continue to leverage each others’ strengths to better serve the needs of Northern Ontario.”
Laurentian University has collaborated with and supported NOSM University since its inception. Where NOSM University has emerged to play a critical role in Northern and rural medical and clinical research, Laurentian has the systems and supports in place to enable such a high level of research.
“The diversity of Laurentian’s research interests and expertise will allow this collaboration to extend beyond traditional health research. Leveraging researchers in business, the arts, and even disciplines like engineering will open new opportunities,” said Dr. Sheila Embleton, Interim President and Vice-Chancellor of Laurentian University.
“We have a shared interest to strengthen research capacity and attract more research funding to Northern Ontario,” says Dr. David Marsh, Vice Dean, Research Innovation and International Relations at NOSM University. “Continued research alongside aligned health-research partners is a must if we’re going to help solve the health-care challenges in Northern Ontario and beyond.”
“This is for our universities, and for the people of the North,” says Dr. Tammy Eger, Vice-President of Research at Laurentian University. “Working together, researchers and students at NOSM University and Laurentian University will be able to address many of the critical research questions raised by community and industry partners.”
About NOSM University:
NOSM University is Canada’s first independent medical university and one of the greatest education and physician workforce strategy success stories of Northern Ontario. More than just a medical university, it was purpose-built to address the health needs of the region. While advocating for equitable access to care, the university contributes to the economic development of Northern Ontario. NOSM University relies on the commitment and expertise of the people of Northern Ontario to educate health-care professionals to practise in Indigenous, Francophone, rural, remote and underserved communities. With a focus on diversity, inclusion and advocacy, NOSM University is an award-winning, socially accountable organization renowned for its innovative model of distributed, community-engaged education and research.