Grant Facilitators Journal Club creators receive 2024 CARA Innovation Award

Canadian Association of Research Administrators

By Jason Belhumeur
College research facilitator Gen Clark and colleagues Ann-Marie Field (UQAM) and Brandi Povitz (UCalgary) were presented with the 2024 Innovation Award at the Canadian Association of Research Administrators (CARA) annual conference in Calgary, May 12-15.

The team was recognized for their leadership in promoting evidence-informed professional practice and fostering collaboration within the grant community through the creation of a national Grant Facilitators Journal Club. Through monthly presentations by co-leads or guest speakers, the club explores published works and discusses how content relates to members’ practice at different Canadian research institutions. The initiative is believed to be the first of its kind in research administration and management.

The Journal Club also serves as a networking platform for showcasing members' published works and inspiring others to conduct and publish their own practice research. Moreover, the Club has acted as a catalyst for building a national community of practice for research development professionals, set to launch this month through CARA.