Canadian Institutes of Health Research
The objectives of the “CIHR Journalism Awards” are:
- To encourage Canadian journalists to go “above and beyond” their normal level of coverage of health research issues, and report in depth on key issues of interest to the Canadian public;
- To support the synthesis, dissemination, exchange and ethically sound application of research-based knowledge to improve the health of Canadians;
- To build interest in health research issues among Canadian reporters, photographers, freelancers and editors;
- To increase the number of journalists with an interest and expertise in health research issues;
- To satisfy the continuing demand by Canadians for more quality coverage of health related issues; and
- To recognize and support excellence in Canadian health research reporting and journalism.
Previous recipients have prepared in-depth reports – often multi-part – on health issues such as diabetes, Aboriginal medicine, tuberculosis, stem cells, lung cancer, mental health and smoking. Projects are expected to include a period of investigation and research to assemble the information needed for in-depth news or features. An independent peer review committee evaluates all applications.
The objectives of the CIHR “Health Research Communications Award” are:
- To build capacity in health journalism and communications;
- To raise the level of understanding of health research issues and research across a variety of audiences;
- To increase effective dissemination and communication of health issues and/or health research in Canada;
- To build capacity for journalists/communicators to contribute to evidence-based health discourse in Canada.
Funding Competition Summary:
Recipients are required to submit two pieces of health research journalism or communications to CIHR completed as part of their training. Last year 8 students received funding of up to $46,000 to pursue their studies in journalism or communications. An independent peer review committee evaluates all applications.
Contact Information
For further information about this initiative, please go to http://www.cihr-irsc.gc.ca/journalismawards.html or contact:
Liz Drake
Senior Knowledge Translation Specialist
Canadian Institutes of Health Research
Telephone: 613-948-2682
Fax: 613-954-1800
Email: elizabeth.drake@cihr-irsc.gc.ca
