Skip to main content
notice

‘This is a time for Concordia researchers to come to the nation’s aid’

A message from the Vice-President of Research and Graduate Studies
March 27, 2020
|
By Paula Wood-Adams


Dear Colleagues,

In these unfamiliar and overwhelming circumstances, I commend your resilience in managing your research agendas, your teaching duties, and personal responsibilities. Remember, above all, to prioritize your physical and mental wellbeing.

Notably this week, the Canadian Prime Minister appealed to universities across the country to share expertise and resources to fight COVID-19. Federal funding agencies and non-profit organizations are also calling upon research teams to submit proposals for technological solutions and ideas on how to best respond to urgent community needs.

This global crisis has exposed gaps and vulnerabilities in the systems we often take for granted. Healthcare providers are facing shortages in medical supplies, and manufacturers are strained by disruptions to their supply chains. Secure telecommunication networks are in high demand and disinformation must be managed. Additionally, COVID-19 is impacting schools, childcare, eldercare, financial systems, employment — the list goes on.

This is a time for Concordia researchers to come to the nation’s aid by acting on our sense of social responsibility, harnessing our spirit of innovation, and offering our transdisciplinary expertise. As knowledge creators, we must guide policies and assist decision-makers during these uncertain times.

Over the next few days and weeks, I urge you to respond to the calls for proposals, look through your inventory of personal protective equipment, and find ways to help. Consider how your research program might continue to address systemic issues brought to light by the pandemic in the longer term.

To coordinate immediate efforts and move quickly, we have set up a directory for all COVID-19 research and activities happening at Concordia. Please submit your information as early as possible.

If you have equipment and supplies to donate and want to know more about what is being requested, please contact loredana.carbone@concordia.ca.

If you are able to lend a 3D printer or accessories (to manufacture protective equipment), please contact shazma.abdulla@concordia.ca.

Research advisors and administrators are on hand to answer questions and support you in these efforts.

For wellness resources and the most up to date information on Concordia’s response to COVID-19, please refer to the website.

As always, we are here to help.


Sincerely,
Paula Wood-Adams
Interim Vice-President, Research and Graduate Studies

 




Trending

Back to top

© Concordia University