Knowledge Synthesis Grants (KSG) support researchers in producing knowledge synthesis reports and evidence briefs that support the use of evidence in decision-making and the application of best practices; and assist in developing future research agendas.

Amount: up to $30,000

Deadlines:
Faculty Research Office: one week prior to agency deadline (for internal review of draft application allow 2-3 weeks)
Western Research: 1 week prior to agency deadline
SSHRC: December 15, 2022 (results available March 2023)

Description: This funding opportunity aims to foster a deeper understanding of the state of knowledge about the shifting dynamics of privilege and marginalization brought about by a variety of factors, such as old and recent socio-political events; new technologies, including genomics; the new mis/information age; and the COVID-19 pandemic. All have contributed to a more volatile and uncertain future. The resulting syntheses will identify roles that the academic, public, private and not-for-profit sectors could play in promoting a more cohesive and equitable environment, and can inform the development of effective tools and technologies, robust policies, and sustainable practices required to support the path toward a prosperous and equitable future for all Canadians.

Themes: The below themes illustrate some of the many interconnected issues that encompass the global challenge of Shifting Dynamics of Privilege and Marginalization. The themes are intended to provide guidance to applicants; proposals on other issues relevant to this future challenge are welcome.

• Uncertain, divided world: The world’s volatile economic and socio-political landscape is experiencing several tensions that create insecurities about the state of our future society. People are confronted with new sets of beliefs, cultures, needs and power dynamics through migration, through social movements at home or by coming out of isolation. These changes can exacerbate old tensions, create new ones, or create new opportunities. Marginalized populations could continue to be excluded in the future if solutions are not brought forth or invested in now.
• Identities, privileges and opportunities: The world continues to experience massive displacement of people and an increase in the divide between the privileged and marginalized. Progressive societies promote values of diversity, equity and inclusion as enriching societies culturally, informing innovation and research, and allowing business development. Yet some marginalized or underrepresented groups continue to be perceived as outsiders in their own country of origin.
• Accessibility: New technologies have meant improved health care services and solutions and new developments in productivity and work capabilities. However, biases have been found to be reproduced in AI, impacting decision-making negatively in the workplace, policing, health care or relationships.
• Sense making: Where and how minds are being shaped and formed has shifted. From K-12 to postsecondary education and ongoing education programs, pedagogical approaches and initiatives have failed to close the socio-economic gaps impacting underrepresented and marginalized communities and individuals. New media technologies, content creation opportunities and a multitude of sharing platforms have made the pull and push of information, disinformation and misinformation ubiquitous.
• Life Sciences and Genomics: Worldwide, genomics is hampered by the underrepresentation of equity-deserving groups; for example, Indigenous Peoples have been excluded from the research landscape in terms of curating data sets, governance and leadership bodies. This leads to inequitable access to research resources, inequitable distribution of benefits, and ongoing community harm.

NOTE: Knowledge Synthesis Grants are not intended to support original research. Rather, they are intended to support the synthesis of existing research knowledge and the identification of knowledge gaps.

More information and applications… A ROLA proposal must be completed with the application.

Please contact Karen Kueneman if you plan to apply.