- By valuing a plurality of visions, ideas, and ways of being in research;
- Strengthening EDI skills through proactive exchange and learning spaces;
- By advancing a culture of self-reflection on the systemic factors that contribute to excellence in research.
Equity, diversity and inclusion
Fostering and celebrating excellence, equity, diversity and inclusiveness within our research community and in our research approaches is one of the main directions and objectives of the University of Ottawa Strategic Areas of Research.
We foster transformational change in research
uOttawa receives Dimensions EDI Canada recognition: Foundation stage
In 2019, the University of Ottawa was selected as one of 17 Canadian postsecondary institutions to take part in the Dimensions: Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Canada pilot project following a competitive letter of intent process. The project is an initiative of Canada’s Tri-Agency, including the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) and the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).
The aim of the five-year pilot program is to foster transformational change with respect to equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) in the postsecondary research ecosystem by assessing and publicly recognizing postsecondary institutions working to increase EDI in their environments and beyond.
As part of its participation in the Dimensions pilot cohort, and in addition to participating in co-developing the program, uOttawa completed program-required EDI work and submitted an application for Foundation Stage Dimensions recognition. After thorough review by a national committee of EDI experts, and after a two-part review process that included an interview with the review committee, uOttawa was proud to receive Dimensions recognition in March 2023. For more detail see the uOttawa EDI Action Plan for Research.
The underrepresented groups in research
Within its commitment to diversity, the University of Ottawa has prioritized five groups traditionally underrepresented in research.
These groups are made up of people who identify as:
EDI action plan for research
This Plan implements strategies and actions that create an inclusive climate for research at uOttawa by addressing needs and barriers of researchers and trainees of underrepresented groups.
Find out more about the EDI action plan
uOttawa’s commitment to EDI
The University of Ottawa is committed to ensuring equity, diversity and inclusion in the scholarly and leadership environments of our students, staff, and faculty. Accordingly, the President created the position of Vice-Provost, Equity, Diversity and Inclusive Excellence (EDI) working collaboratively with all uOttawa units and members.
Apply for the 2024 Robbins-Ollivier Award for Excellence in Equity
CIHR, NSERC, and SSHRC are accepting nominations for bold initiatives that address systemic barriers in research and academia through the Canada Research Chairs Program.
Community-Based Research Grants
This grant pilot is designed to support uOttawa researchers who partner with community organizations that work with equity-deserving or marginalized groups in order to plan and implement community-based research activities.
EDI resources
These resources include data on underrepresented groups in research at uOttawa, a list of experts who work on topics related to these groups, as well as a list of our experts’ publications that provide guidance on strengthening equity, diversity and inclusion in research.
Browse our EDI resources
Public policy
Public policy
Sickle cell disease: Researchers and community advocates winning Senate battle …
Community advocates and researchers from the University of Ottawa are revolutionizing care and support for sickle cell disease with Bill S-280.
Awards and recognition
Awards and recognition
uOttawa researcher Catherine Mavriplis wins EDI award
Through game-changing initiatives, Dr. Mavriplis has successfully addressed women’s underrepresentation and lack of advancement in STEM.
Accessibility
Accessibility
Deepening our understanding of inclusion
PhD researcher Virginie Abat-Roy seeks to amplify the voices of marginalized people in Canada and raise awareness about the exclusion of those with disabilities who are assisted by guide or service dogs.
Contact us
We’re happy to connect!
Ideas, questions or suggestions on how to improve research through EDI practices?
Indigenous Affirmation
We pay respect to the Algonquin people, who are the traditional guardians of this land. We acknowledge their longstanding relationship with this territory, which remains unceded.
We pay respect to all Indigenous people in this region, from all nations across Canada, who call Ottawa home.
We acknowledge the traditional knowledge keepers, both young and old. And we honour their courageous leaders: past, present, and future.