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Strategic research direction

Inclusive Impact

For more than two centuries, Dalhousie has been building an environment that enables researchers to think big, innovate and make discoveries that benefit society locally, nationally and around the world.  

Our strategic research direction, Inclusive Impact, highlights how we aspire to create a healthier, more sustainable, and brighter future for everyone through our six areas of research strength.

Discover our strategic research clusters
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Key priorities

Building inclusivity

We value diverse perspectives, expertise and methods of scholarship that push the boundaries of research and discovery in every field.  

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Increasing productivity

We strive to create an environment that empowers our researchers to advance knowledge on the most pressing challenges of our time.

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Demonstrating impact

Our research and innovation has real impact on the health, culture, environment and economy of our region, our country and the world.  

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Taking action on the UN Sustainable Development Goals

Our research contributes to the broader global response to the most pressing economic, social, and environmental challenges in ways that are measurable and collective.

Learn about our impact on global goals
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Our guiding principles

Research excellence

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Curiousity, creativity, and innovation

Black icon of a brain inside a lightbulb with stars around it, representing inventive thinking. Below, the text reads: "Curiosity, Creativity & Innovation."

Collaboration, interdisiplinarity, global engagement

Black icon with three hands touching a globe.Below, the text reads: "Collaboration, Interdisciplinarity, Global Engagement."

Equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility

Icon with three raised hands, symbolizing inclusion and equality.

Decolonization and Indigenization

Icon of a globe with broken chains. Below, the text reads: "Decolonization & Indigenization."

Responsible and ethical conduct of research

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Sustainability

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Social responsibility and justice

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Actions

As part of Dalhousie’s Third Century Promise, we continue to focus our actions on growing world-leading research programs in our areas of particular strength, and investing in infrastructure that supports our researchers to achieve excellence. 

  1. Encourage and support emerging areas of discovery and exploration to develop the full potential of our research clusters.

  2. Enhance logistical research services, funding, and other supports for our research communities.

  3. Identify and nurture new research networks, nationally and internationally.

  4. Increase the number and diversity of our PhD and post-doctoral scholars. 

  5. Expand and strengthen our research and development (R&D) linkages with industry and community partners.

  6. Formalize and streamline Innovation and Entrepreneurship (I&E) programming across Dalhousie.

  7. Collect and share essential research performance data to refine Dalhousie’s rankings submissions.

  8. Integrate sustainability, environmental responsibility, social justice, and climate change themes in funding campaigns to support the UN sustainable development goals.