- To promote the development of sustained nationally and internationally recognized programs of research excellence at the University of Manitoba, in all four pillars (biomedical; clinical; health services; and social, cultural, environmental and population health).
- To promote research that addresses the needs of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and Indigenous communities.
- To provide mentorship opportunities to support the First Nation, Métis, Inuit and Indigenous health research skills among students, community and university-based researchers.
- To facilitate skill development in First Nations, Métis, Inuit and Indigenous communities and organizations in the use of health information for policy and program development.
Rady Faculty of Health Sciences
Research
Ongomiizwin – Research works to fulfil its mission through four core programs: Research Support Unit/Research Navigation Services, Research Mentorship, Research Membership and Commissioned Research.
Research programs
First Nation, Métis and Inuit
At Ongomiizwin – Research, we believe that addressing health inequities faced by First Nations, Métis, and Inuit is a shared responsibility for all Canadians. Our Framework for Research Engagement (PDF) provides positive pathways for those eager to contribute to this vital mission. Together, we can foster change and improve health outcomes for Indigenous communities.
Document available in alternate formats upon request.
Research navigation services
One of the main functions of Ongomiizwin – Research is our Support Unit. We offer Research Navigation Services to all participating members on a fee-for-service basis, ensuring you have the support you need to thrive. Membership is free, and our services include:
- Building meaningful relationships
- Facilitating ethics submissions
- Providing research assistant time
- Offering office space
- Delivering IT services and grant administration
Mentorship
Since 2001, Ongomiizwin – Research has proudly operated a robust student mentorship program designed to spark interest and expertise in First Nations, Métis, and Inuit health research. We cultivate strong relationships with dedicated faculty mentors who are committed to supporting students at all levels, particularly those pursuing graduate studies in collaborative Indigenous health research.
Membership
Ongomiizwin – Research is dedicated to supporting both new and established researchers. We encourage the inclusion of research questions relevant to First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities in your work. By joining our community, you will have access to valuable resources and expertise to help you navigate the complexities of research funding and collaboration.
Commissioned research
From time to time, we offer opportunities for sponsored research to our members, focusing on initiatives relevant to First Nations, Métis, Inuit, Manitoba Health, and other key stakeholders. Engaging in commissioned research not only strengthens your skills but also contributes to meaningful change.
- Each project will have a principal investigator (PI) who is a member of Ongomiizwin – Research.
- The PI will report to the director regarding operational requirements and issues pertinent to the center.
- All contracts are managed through Ongomiizwin – Research, ensuring smooth project operations.
- Any remaining funds from completed research contracts will be under the authority of our center, supporting ongoing initiatives.
- Prior to submission to the University of Manitoba Health Research Ethics Board, all projects must submit their ethics approval requests to our directors for review.
Who we are
In 2001, a powerful collaboration was formed between the University of Manitoba, the Assembly of Manitoba Chiefs, and the Foundations for Health to establish the Centre for Aboriginal Health Research (CAHR). This initiative succeeded the Northern Health Research Unit, which had been dedicated to research since 1986.
In 2006, CAHR evolved into the Manitoba First Nations Centre for Aboriginal Health Research (MFN CAHR), gaining national and international recognition for its commitment to promoting research excellence. Our focus has always been on fostering partnership-based health research that prioritizes the needs and insights of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities in Manitoba, across Canada, and beyond.
In 2017, with the formation of the Indigenous Institute of Health and Healing, we proudly became known as Ongomiizwin – Research.
Join Our Community: Membership at Ongomiizwin – Research
Membership is open to individuals who are dedicated to engaging in partnership-based health research with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities. By becoming a member, you can contribute to meaningful research that makes a difference in the lives of Indigenous peoples.
Become a member today and help us advance the health and well-being of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities through collaborative research initiatives.
Mission
Ongomiizwin – Research is a centre of research excellence. We remain centrally committed to building and maintaining productive and respectful partnership-based relationships with First Nations, Métis, Inuit and Indigenous communities, to recruiting Indigenous students and scholars, to providing effective support and mentorship and to sharing and building knowledge internationally. Our key objectives are:
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- To assist with the development of quality health information systems describing changing health conditions in First Nations, Métis, Inuit and Indigenous communities.
- To advise First Nations, Métis, Inuit and Indigenous governments and organizations on health policy issues based on the best available research evidence.
- To facilitate communication and knowledge-sharing concerning Indigenous health development nationally and internationally.
- To complement rather than compete with national and international community- and university-based First Nations, Métis and Inuit health research programs and promote the formation of innovative collaborations and research networks that supports these organizations’ aspirations.
Constitution
Guiding Principles of Collaboration at Ongomiizwin – Research
At Ongomiizwin – Research, we believe that collaboration is at the heart of effective research. Our work is grounded in principles that reflect the importance of relationships, respect, trust, and joint priority setting. We strive to create an environment where all voices are heard and valued.
Our collaborations are guided by key principles that ensure our research is meaningful and impactful:
- Authentic engagement: We prioritize genuine connections with First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities, recognizing that relationships are central to the research process.
- Shared respect and trust: We are committed to building mutually empowering, long-term relationships based on respect and trust.
- Acknowledgment of rights: We recognize the inherent rights of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples, as well as the treaty rights of First Nations.
- Embracing diversity: We celebrate the unique identities, histories, cultures, languages, and geographies of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities.
- Shared authority and accountability: We believe in collective responsibility and accountability within our research relationships, ensuring all partners have a voice in the process.
- Addressing priorities: We focus on the research-related priorities and needs of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit communities, alongside those of the University.
By adhering to these principles, we work together to create research that not only informs but also empowers. Together, we can make a difference in the health and well-being of Indigenous communities.
Our team
Contact us
Ongomiizwin – Research
Indigenous Institute of Health and Healing
715 John Buhler Research Centre
727 McDermot Ave
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, MB R3E 3P5
204-789-3250
204-975-7783