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Expression of interest – Seeking members for the Reference Group for the Appropriate Review of Indigenous Research
General news
November 15, 2024
What is the Reference Group for the Appropriate Review of Indigenous Research?
The Reference Group for the Appropriate Review of Indigenous Research (Reference Group) is a community group of First Nations, Inuit and Métis individuals that provide advice to Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) (collectively known as the ‘Tri-agencies’) on ethically and culturally safe peer review approaches and practices for research conducted by and with First Nations, Inuit and Métis Peoples.
Following an Indigenous-led selection process, formation of the Reference Group was announced in late 2020 to bring together this group of Indigenous academic, community and youth perspectives from across Canada (including representation from northern, urban, on-reserve realities, gender equity and geographic locations).
Over time, the Reference Group has seen its membership fluctuate. Currently, 11 dedicated members remain, and we are now seeking to welcome new individuals to join and enrich the group.
Objectives
The Reference Group’s collective understanding on Indigenous research and Indigenous Knowledges is greatly valued as they advise the Tri-agencies on a range of topics relating to improving the appropriate review of Indigenous Research. Since their work began, the Reference Group has provided impactful advice on how the Tri-agencies approach a range of items like; support letters from Indigenous communities, Indigenous identity, defining “Indigenous research” as it relates to Tri-agency programs, conflict of interest, funding program improvements, review of projects involving Indigenous research, etc.
Time commitment and compensation
Meetings of the Reference Group are held virtually on a bi-monthly basis, and are typically 2hrs in length, with occasional increased meeting frequency as priorities arise. Members may choose to join sub-groups for more in-depth development of work items. Once a year, members of the Reference Group will meet in person, with the location of the meetings varying across the country. Reference Group membership is voluntary. Compensation is available to members who are not employed by academia or who are not otherwise compensated for their time on the Reference Group. Expenses will also be covered to attend any in-person meetings according to the Government of Canada rates.
Selection process
Expressions of interest will be reviewed by the current members of the Reference Group, in collaboration with Tri-agency staff. The selection process will take into account the individual’s experience and/or cultural understanding of First Nations, Inuit, and/or Métis research practices, including Indigenous Knowledge systems and culturally safe engagement and consent practices. Additionally, individuals with leadership roles or lived/living experiences that align with the Reference Group’s mandate will be prioritized. The degree to which an individual’s experience and role within their community could contribute to advancing peer review processes across one or more of the Tri-agencies’ mandate areas will also be considered.
Selection will also consider:
- Diversity to reflect Canada’s diverse First Nation, Inuit and Metis people
- Diversity of various levels of education and experience
- Breadth across the Tri-Agencies’ mandate areas
- Gender equity
- Geographic diversity (incl. urban/community Indigenous realities).
How to apply
Interested individuals are invited to submit the following documents to show their interest in being considered for membership:
- A one to two page freeform document explaining (i) the experience/perspectives you have that would contribute to the mandate of the Reference Group; and (ii) how being part of the Reference Group would impact you personally, and (iii) how your involvement would benefit your community, collective and/or organization; and
- A signed letter of support from your community that describes your lived experience with research and involvement/role within your community.
Documents should be submitted via email to IndigenousInitiatives@nserc-crsng.gc.ca by January 3, 2025.
