Background

Over the past 15 years, colleges and institutes have seen an exponential increase in their applied research activity, with corresponding infrastructure changes, new sources of funding, greater faculty and student involvement, and a dramatic increase in industry and community engagement. There is also a diversity in the research as many institutions are doing both industrial/technological research and social innovation research. Today’s college and institute applied research leaders must play multiple roles: they must be strategic and visionary but also strong operationally. They must advocate for applied research in college and institute  mandates, and be key linkages to local business, industry, community partners as well as government.

Who should attend

Those in the role of manager or new director in applied research offices/divisions who seek leadership development for their current position; research division staff (e.g. project managers, industry liaison staff, research coordinators); individuals from other areas of the institution who aspire to leadership positions in applied research or are interested in learning how to better lead their department and institution in applied research and innovation initiatives.

What you will learn

This intensive program will focus on the current and emerging requirements of the role of Applied Research Leaders in colleges and institutes and will explore the leadership profile and skills essential for success.

Participants will examine a number of key areas, including:

• leadership – self-assessment and skills assessment
• the key elements and challenges of the role of applied research leader in a college
• diversity and scope of college-based applied research across Canada
• the role of the applied research office/division in institutions
• strategic approaches and risk management
• funding mechanisms
• internal relationships and external partnerships
• intellectual property and research ethics
• projects and programs – opportunities and challenges
• link between research and innovation and entrepreneurship

Core Faculty

• Diane Burt, Associate Vice President, Research and Program Innovation, NBCC
• Kim Dotto, Dean, Applied Research, BCIT
• Ray Hoemsen, Executive Director, Research Partnerships and Innovation, Red River College
• Jeffrey Taylor, Associate Vice-President, Applied Research and Innovation, NSCC
• Anna Toneguzzo, Director, Government Relations & Policy Research, CICan

Early registration is encouraged for a maximum of 30 participants. Participation is restricted to a maximum of 2 participants per college. Should space permit, an additional participant may be considered. We also welcome participants from non-member institutions or other organizations.