Andrea Szwajcer, MLIS is the Research Services Librarian at the University of Manitoba, where she supports open scholarship and research assessment education and projects. With over 20 years of experience, she has worked with researchers of all disciplines with an in-depth knowledge of health sciences reflecting her many years as a medical librarian. She has served as a member and chair on various regional open science-related committees and as a chair of a research ethics board for 3 years at her institution. She obtained her master’s degree from Western University and has received numerous awards and certificates for her work.

Éric Lamiot trained in food biochemistry, with experience in this field, both academic and industrial. For 15 years, he has worked in research administration. For 3 years, he has been an advisor in partnerships and development at the National Institute of Scientific Research in Quebec-city, with a mandate as an innovation broker. 

Michael Walesiak, CPA, CA has 20 years of senior management experience at the University of Alberta (UofA) in the field of Research Administration.
As Director, Research Administrative Services, he is responsible for the delivery of end-to-end research services for the over $500 million annual research enterprise at the UofA.  This includes application review, award processing, contract negotiation and financial reporting.

Melissa Joyce has been the Director of Research Accounting at the University of Victoria for 9 years and has worked in other roles at the University for over 17 years. She has attended several CARA conferences and looks forward to hosting sessions again this year. She has her CPA designation and has been both a course facilitator and mentor for CPA students. Her main focus is providing excellent client service and creating efficiencies within her department at UVic. She is excited to share ideas with other institutions to help make research administration easier!

Bill has worked at the University of Waterloo for 17 years, including 14 with the Office of Research. He has held nearly all positions within Research Finance and is currently the manager overseeing the Tri-Agency and provincial government portfolio.

Leslie Cove is currently the Director, Inclusive Research at the University of Waterloo. She brings a decade of strategic planning, policy, and leadership experience to her work including writing legislation, and working across the sports, culture, healthcare, and university sectors. She is an award-winning university professor and is committed to teaching and advancing strategic inclusive leadership.

Dr. Nicole Kaniki is a research methodologist with equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) expertise skilled in strategic implementation of organizational EDI that is meaningful, intentional and sustainable. She is committed to EDI that engages community and allows the work to be informed by underrepresented groups through trust building in all aspects of organizational processes.

Nicole has extensive experience in leadership roles focusing on people first consulting, designing evaluations and metrics for organizations, and facilitation education and training opportunities and resources for clients. 

Letitia Henville (she/her) is a book nerd, bad swimmer, and the author of the monthly academic writing advice column "Ask Dr. Editor.” She specializes in editing for faculty members in the health sciences, education, social sciences, and humanities, with a special focus on grant applications and tenure and promotion dossiers. Learn more about Letitia at shortishard.ca.

Within the Office of Research and Innovation, Eva currently provides leadership for the research programs and to the senior program management team. She also provides guidance on research methods and budgets for researchers applying to or holding external research or social innovation grants. She was Senior Program Manager, providing leader to the program management team from 2022 to 2024. From 2015 to 2022, she was responsible for providing guidance in the development of proposals and management of projects funded externally under the Community and College Social Innovation Fund as well as for the internally funded Ignite projects. She has over twenty years of management experience in the postsecondary sector, seventeen of which focused on strategic planning, research and teaching in the Ontario College system. Eva has published a number of academic articles on equity, diversity and inclusion, including from 2011 to 2014, co- founding and co-editing the Journal of Global Citizenship and Equity Education . In 2021, she co-edited a book "Global Citizenship Education: Challenges and Successes". Previously, she held several positions at Centennial College including Senior Researcher at the Institute for Global Citizenship and Equity, Director of Policies Pathways and Grants, and Manager of Strategic Institutional Planning. Eva has a PhD and an M Ed in Higher Education from the University of Toronto and a BA and Graduate Diploma in population studies from the University of Ghana.

With over 18 years of dedicated experience in research administration at post-secondary and research institutions, Seetha Kumaran has established a career in project, operation and budget management. She has successfully project-managed numerous million-dollar research grants with stakeholders across the country. Seetha’s experience has encompassed managing the full project lifecycle, from inception to completion. She contributes strategic and operational oversight, develop project plans, identifies risk mitigation strategies, and sets and monitor timelines while ensuring that compliance for each project is met. At the Applied Research Centre at Langara College, Seetha fulfils many critical roles, including global grant budgeting and forecasting, employment contracting, and student liaison. She brings sensitivity to workplace culture, problem solving and a commitment to high levels of service. Seetha prioritizes the successful onboarding of new staff and students. With a passion for creating supportive and inclusive environments, she tries to make sure that every team member feels welcomed and prepared.

Davon has been leading the Yukon University Research Services Office since its establishment in January 2022. She has been growing a culture of research at YukonU by initiating the development of the research services office and supporting the transition from Yukon College to Yukon University. Uniquely positioned as Canada’s only university north of 60, YukonU takes pride in investigating distinctly northern questions while drawing on western science and Indigenous knowledges to create and share innovative northern solutions. Prior to joining YukonU, Davon worked as a road ecologist for the Yukon Government, served as the Executive Director of a Yukon environmental NGO, and held several postdoctoral research positions in Canada and the United States. She holds a PhD in Ecology from the University of Canterbury in New Zealand, as well as an MSc in Neuroscience from the University of Calgary. In her personal time, Davon is an enthusiastic cyclist, commuting year-round by e-bike in Whitehorse.

An accountant by profession, Rosalina Declaro has over twenty years of experience in office administration, finance and accounting. Coming from the private business sector, she joined George Brown College in 2012. She leads the finance, operations and reporting team of the Office of Research and Innovation, as well as manages the budgets for the department and all research projects. Over her career, Ms. Declaro has built on her experience of smoothly managing complex operations in a variety of industries, ensuring that the many cross-sections of research at George Brown College converge seamlessly.

Megan Parker is a Research Financial Analyst in the Office of Research Services, Innovation and Entrepreneurship at Durham College. Having worked at Durham College for 20+ years, she was involved when applied research was first undertaken at the college. She has worked in different capacities in the research office including REB administrator. Her current responsibilities revolve around research finance including budgeting, forecasting, expenditure tracking and reporting.

Christina DeRoche is the Director of the Research Centre at Canadore College. In this role she provides administrative oversight and support for all projects happening within the college, project management, partner and stakeholder engagement, and student supervision. Christina's primary interest areas are in the field of women and children's mental health, family health, and mental health policies but she also leads the data subcommittee for the Heads of Applied Research group in Ontario, and is a member of the Training Advisory Committee for Compute Ontario.

Carolyn is the Director, Strategic Partnerships, with the Research and Innovation division at Niagara College. Carolyn is responsible for overseeing funding proposal development, business development operations, and the creation and dissemination of research-based communications, in all relevant forms. An award-winning writer and community supporter, she has been with the division for nearly 13 years. Before that, she worked in the communications industry as a writer, editor and photographer. She holds a Masters and Bachelor of Arts (Hon) in English Literature, and a diploma in Journalism.

James Shelley is a Knowledge Mobilization Specialist at Western University. His role involves piloting strategic initiatives and designing experimental ways to share new research. He especially focuses on novel approaches to analytics, automation, and artificial intelligence in knowledge mobilization, science communication, and research administration.

Fleur has over 25 years of professional experience in research writing, editing, grant management and knowledge translation, with a focus on translating technical materials in health and science disciplines into plain language, and building and sustaining relationships between academic researchers, and government, health, and community partners. She has worked with the Indigenous researchers who lead the Saskatchewan Network Environments for Indigenous Health Research (SK-NEIHR) since 2018. Her previous roles include leading health promotion and government relations for Heart & Stroke in Saskatchewan (2016-17), leading communications for the Saskatchewan Advocate for Children and Youth (2013-15), and leading knowledge translation in the Healthy Children research program at the Saskatchewan Population Health and Evaluation Research Unit (2004-13). In 2011, she was awarded a Knowledge Translation Graduate Award by the National Collaborating Centres for Public Health for her master’s research in knowledge translation and communities of practice, and its application. Her interests include Indigenous health and wellbeing, child and youth health and wellbeing, and healthy public policy. She oversees the daily operation of the Saskatchewan NEIHR, and supports the NEIHR National Coordinating Centre, the secretariat for the nine CIHR-funded NEIHR networks.

Tara Erb is of mixed Moose Cree First Nation from Moose Factory and French European ancestry and grew up in Toronto, Ontario. She completed her Bachelor of Arts in Sociology at the University of Victoria (UVic) and a Master of Arts in Sociology (UVic), with a research focus on facilitating Indigenous cultural safety and anti-racism training. Tara is currently completing her Ph.D. in the Faculty of Health Sciences at Simon Fraser University under the supervision of Dr. Krista Stelkia with a research focus on Indigenous Cultural Safety in Research Environments/Structures, specifically ethics and ethical processes. Her research interests include Indigenous health and wellness, Indigenous cultural safety, anti-Indigenous racism and social theory.

Currently, Tara is the Network Coordinator of the BC NEIHR residing as a guest on the Songhees, Esquimalt and WSÁNEC peoples territory.

Leila Qashu is a qualitative researcher, educator, arts-based practitioner and human rights activist dedicated to supporting ground-up, community-based projects initiated by and for Indigenous communities. She prioritizes listening and focusing on community-based and collaborative initiatives. She has been working on participatory and collaborative projects with Indigenous women and youth in Ethiopia for over twenty years. More recently, she has worked on projects in Canada with Indigenous youth and on decolonizing academic institutions.

For her interdisciplinary PhD in ethnomusicology from Memorial University of Newfoundland, Leila worked with Arsi Oromo women in Ethiopia who use a sung dispute resolution ritual for justice and well-being in their communities. Her postdoctoral project focused on a collaborative arts-based initiative led by young Oromo women, many of whom were survivors of violence and injustices.

Leila is instrumental in helping to build respectful, meaningful, and productive relationships with communities through direct outreach, ensuring that research is built by, with and for communities and their needs.

Jessica (Jes) Annan is a Research Coordinator/Associate and Knowledge Platform Technician with the Indigenous Primary Health Care & Policy Research (IPHCPR) Network in Alberta. With a strong social science background and a critical focus on the social determinants of health viewed through an intersectional lens, she supports a collaborative team that consolidates community-based research to inform policy and program improvements in Indigenous healthcare. Her work involves translating collective research insights into actionable recommendations that underpin sustainable, culturally responsive healthcare initiatives across the province.

Math’ieya (Ma-THEE-Yah) Alatini Pronounced

Math’ieya Alatini, is a dynamic individual known for her energy, action, and integrity. She is deeply-rooted in her heritage as a Southern Tutchone matriarch and member of Kluane First Nation. Her experience with both traditional Indigenous and modern lifestyles provides a strong foundation for all her endeavors. Math’ieya has a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Victoria, which has supported her multifaceted experience that spans sectors from Tourism, Mining, Finance and Non-Profit organizations. Her tenure with the Federal Department of Indigenous and Northern Affairs Canada (INAC) in British Columbia solidified her proficiency in infrastructure, green energy projects and Treaty Relations cementing her reputation as a skilled relationship builder.

As the former Chief of Kluane First Nation, she worked with two Councils to develop and implement a vision of energy self-sufficiency and economic resilience through strategic partnerships and collaborative efforts. Currently she is the Chief Strategist of her Company GSD Strategies Inc, which has honed her ability to navigate complex, multi-partnered initiatives and deliver tangible results, a testament to her reputation as a leader who can "get things done in a good way."

Today her adept leadership and no-nonsense approach to producing results are now channeled towards uniting communities and stakeholders to build a stronger, healthier Yukon through her position as CEO for One Yukon Coalition. One Yukon's mission is advanced by initiatives like the Wastewater Monitoring Program and Community Based Testing, that are designed to foster emergency readiness and health awareness across Yukon communities. These game-changing strategies will empower communities and ensure a sustainable future for the Yukon territory.

Connect with Math’ieya

Rachel Brown has been a committed member of the Research & Innovation Division at Niagara College since 2007. With a strong foundation in business, Rachel is a proud graduate of Niagara College's Business Administration, Operations Management program and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Management from Athabasca University.

A lifelong learner and dedicated professional, Rachel is passionate about continuous improvement and actively seeks opportunities to expand her knowledge and expertise.

Since 2011, Rachel has been an active member of CARA, and she has served on the CARA board since 2019. In her current role as Vice-President, Rachel continues to contribute her expertise and leadership to support the advancement of research administration in Canada.

In her free time, Rachel enjoys spending time outdoors, whether hiking or paddling on the water. When she’s indoors, you can find her cozy on the couch, cross stitching and listening to true crime podcasts.

Anita Sharma, Ph.D., is the Director of Research Services at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, BC. With over a decade of experience in research development and management, she spearheads strategic initiatives in research services, program development, and researcher engagement. Her portfolio encompasses managing Tri-Agency Institutional programs, directing grant facilitation services, and administering internal funding awards while fostering a culture of research excellence. Anita has contributed to the regional and national research landscape through her roles on key external advisory bodies such as the Alliance of Canadian Comprehensive Research Universities Tri-Agency Funding Advisory Committee, the Tri-Agency Grant Management Solution (TGMS) External Advisory Board, the TGMS External Change Agent Network, the BC Knowledge Development Fund Working Group, and the BCNET eRAS Procurement Working Group. She remains deeply engaged in research administration communities as an active member of the CARA, the Society of Research Administrators International (SRAI), and the National Organization of Research Development Professionals. Through her service on the SRAI Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee, Anita champions inclusivity and knowledge-sharing. Anita has received numerous accolades for her contributions to research administration, including the SRAI Future of the Field Honor, Recognitions of Excellence from the TRU Board of Governors, and the CARA awards, such as the Excellence in Research Management, the Spirit of Kindness, and the Unsung Hero Award. As a scholar with a Ph.D. in Biochemistry, she has published 28 articles in refereed scientific journals. She shares her expertise in research administration through multiple platforms, including publishing in refereed journals, blogging, presenting at conferences, and co-editing for the SRAI Catalyst newsletter.

Rachel Brown has been a committed member of the Research & Innovation Division at Niagara College since 2007. With a strong foundation in business, Rachel is a proud graduate of Niagara College's Business Administration, Operations Management program and is currently pursuing a Bachelor of Management from Athabasca University.

A lifelong learner and dedicated professional, Rachel is passionate about continuous improvement and actively seeks opportunities to expand her knowledge and expertise.

Since 2011, Rachel has been an active member of CARA, and she has served on the CARA board since 2019. In her current role as Vice-President, Rachel continues to contribute her expertise and leadership to support the advancement of research administration in Canada.

In her free time, Rachel enjoys spending time outdoors, whether hiking or paddling on the water. When she’s indoors, you can find her cozy on the couch, cross stitching and listening to true crime podcasts.

I joined the University of Guelph in 2012, previously working in the capacities of both Acting Registrar and Manager of Research and Graduate Studies at the Nova Scotia Agricultural College and as a Senior Policy/Program Analyst with the Nova Scotia Department of Agriculture. In my role as Managing Director, I am focused on excellent client service, improved organizational efficiencies, effective internal and external communications and development and leadership. I am currently engaged in co-leading strategic planning for the Research Services Office, with a focus on working with the leadership team to lay out a compelling meaningful plan in these times of uncertainty. I work with a highly committed Office of Research Services team that delivers high-quality services to the University of Guelph research community.

Helene Noddin is a Research Services Officer at St. Thomas University, a small liberal arts institution in Fredericton, New Brunswick. She supports faculty across the full research lifecycle, including funding development, compliance, industry engagement, and knowledge mobilization. Helene joined the research team in 2020 after holding various administrative roles at STU since 2013.

Originally from a small rural town in New Brunswick, Helene brings a deep appreciation for community-rooted research and the unique context of smaller institutions. In her current role, she leads research events and outreach initiatives, facilitates industry-academic partnerships as the Springboard Atlantic Network STU industry liaison officer, and contributes to strategic projects that align research with institutional goals. She has presented at national conferences on community engagement, research administration training, and mentorship.

Helene holds a BA in Criminology with a minor in Psychology and recently completed a Certificate of Honours Standing in Criminology and Criminal Justice. She also holds a Research Administration Certificate from Mohawk College and is currently completing a certificate in Research Management and Coordination. With additional training in grant writing, research ethics, and equity, diversity, and inclusion, Helene is committed to building strong, inclusive research environments that reflect the values of collaboration and accessibility.

Lauren Gogo currently serves as the Manager of Research Contracts at Hamilton Health Sciences Corporation, where she oversees the review and negotiation of clinical research contracts. In this role, she provides leadership to a team of contract negotiators and leads strategic and policy initiatives related to research. Before joining HHSC, Lauren held positions as a Contracts Officer at the University of Toronto and as a Research Business Analyst at St. Michael's Hospital in Toronto. In these roles, she successfully negotiated numerous clinical trial agreements and participated in the research ethics board, addressing contract-related inquiries.

Lauren holds a Master's degree in Biomedical Technology from the University of Calgary and is actively involved in the Canadian Association of Research Administrators (CARA), where she serves as a Member at Large on the Board. She has written articles for the CARA Connection and blog, presented webinars, and led workshops and sessions at CARA National events.

Dr. Robin Craig joined NSERC in August 2022 as Associate Vice-President, Research Grants and Scholarships. With more than 10 years of experience in the administration of research and innovation programs, Dr. Craig brings to NSERC a significant knowledge of the research ecosystem and the federal funding agencies. Robin is passionate about multidisciplinary research collaborations, and throughout her career, has prioritized inclusive training and mentorship to further the career goals of students and highly qualified personnel.

Prior to joining NSERC, Robin was the inaugural Director of Recherche & Innovation Boréal at Collège Boréal, where she led the strategic development of the college’s applied research and innovation portfolio. In this role, she established the college’s research services office and developed an extensive network of research partnerships with industry and community organizations to enhance knowledge transfer, commercialization, and create experiential learning opportunities. She has served on several advisory committees including NSERC’s College and Community Innovation Program Evolution Advisory Committee, and the Governing Council of the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). In addition, she has served on the Executive of the Heads of Applied Research of Ontario, le Comité consultatif du Consortium national de formation en santé (CNFS)-Volet Laurentienne, and Bioenterprise Canada’s Northern Ontario Advisory Committee.

Before joining Collège Boréal, Robin held academic and administrative positions at Laurentian University starting in 2007. As a member of the Office of Research Services, she contributed to the university’s research intensity and visibility by supporting faculty and students in the coordination of research funding proposals and knowledge mobilization activities. In this role, she also advised senior leadership regarding strategic research initiatives and facilitated the work of the institution’s Research Ethics Board.

Subsequently, she served as Senior Manager, Programs and Knowledge Translation at the Canadian Institutes of Health Research’s (CIHR) Institute of Indigenous People’s Health.

Robin has a PhD and Master’s in French from Western University and an Honours Bachelor of Arts from the University of Toronto.

Dr. Karine Duhamel (she/her) is an Anishinaabe historian and a member of Opwaaganasiniing (Red Rock Indian Band) in northwestern Ontario, part of the Robinson Superior Treaty family. She holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Education, as well as a master’s degree and PhD in history. She served as Director of Research for the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and was responsible for drafting the final report in collaboration with Commissioners and family members, as well as the management of the Forensic Document Review Project and the direction of the Legacy Archive. In 2021, she was awarded the Bruce and Lis Welch Community Dialogue Award by the Simon J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue at Simon Fraser University for her trauma-informed work with family members through the Inquiry. In 2021, she chaired the data working group for the MMIWG2S+ National Action Plan to create the National Action Plan Data Strategy, a strategy oriented toward supporting Indigenous-led solutions to the data gap on violence against Indigenous women, girls, and gender diverse people. In 2022, she joined the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada as Director of Indigenous Strategy, working to implement the Tri‐Agency strategic plan to better support Indigenous research and research training in Canada. In addition to her role as a public servant, she is an official Speaker for the Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba and a Research Affiliate of the Centre for Human Rights Research at the University of Manitoba.

Michael is the Chief Data Officer at the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). In this position, he leads NSERC’s strategic utilization of data, analytics, and AI, to drive innovation, inform decision-making and enhance operational efficiency. Michael has a deep understanding of the research funding landscape and is passionate about supporting the R&D community through data and diverse perspectives. His approach emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion, advocating for the integration of varied viewpoints and methodologies to enrich research outcomes and foster a more inclusive scientific community.

With over 20 years as a public servant, he also has had roles in strategic planning, program development, project management and laboratory management in various departments Department of National Defence and at the National Research Council Canada, where he oversaw research facilities at the National Institute for Nanotechnology. Michael is an alumnus of the University of Waterloo (B.Sc.), Queens University (B.Ed.) Carleton University (Ph.D., Chemistry). He was born in Hong Kong and currently lives in Ottawa, Ontario.

Stewart Fast is Director of the Office of Research and Scholarship at University Canada West. He has over 15 years professional experience in research and science environments in higher education, private sector and government settings. Past positions include Manager at NSERC and Research Director in a multidisciplinary institute. He holds a PhD in Geography from UOttawa and is an adjunct professor at Carleton University. 

Linked in https://www.linkedin.com/in/stewart-fast-47952536

Keith is a Research Facilitator at Kwantlen Polytechnic University (KPU). He has extensive experience conducting humanities and social science research. He has managed multiple SSHRC- and NSERC-funded research projects and collaborated extensively with researchers in Canada and abroad. At KPU, he works closely with researchers to help establish their research agendas, build scholarly portfolios, and support research clusters. His work also involves developing and managing internal programs that offer funding for small-scale research, publications, and teaching releases.

Thierry Drapeau is responsible for the general management and conduct of operations of the SARF. Before joining the ranks of Acfas, he was assistant director of studies in the Quebec college network, where he managed and supervised the activities of the teaching service. Before this position, he was a university researcher for more than 10 years in the field of social sciences. His research was supported by the CRSH, the FRQSC and the BESO. A doctoral graduate of York University in Toronto, he worked as a francophone researcher in a minority context for several years.

Nicole Barrieau is a Senior Research Advisor at the Faculté des études supérieures et de la recherche at the Université de Moncton. She has nearly 15 years of experience in research administration, directly supporting over 300 faculty members across the university's three campuses, in all disciplines. She also contributes to strategic initiatives within the institution aimed at increasing external research funding and improving research administration processes and procedures. Nicole has been a member of CARA since 2011 where she has servs as a volunteer translator. She has worked for over 25 years at a Francophone university in a linguistic minority setting.

Après un doctorat en médecine vétérinaire (DMV) obtenu en 1992 à l’Université de Montréal (campus St-Hyacinthe), Swann Paradis a exercé la médecine vétérinaire (animaux de compagnie) au Québec pendant plus de 15 ans, parallèlement à ses études littéraires de 1999-2008 (BA, MA, Ph.D., Université Laval). Ses champs d'intérêt incluent l'histoire naturelle au XVIIIe siècle (littérature, philosophie et sciences), de même que le roman noir au tournant de Lumières & du Romantisme, le Surréalisme français & l’Automatisme québécois, la littérature franco-ontarienne et la création (poésie). Il est professeur agrégé au Collège universitaire Glendon (Université York, Toronto), Vice-Principal (Recherche et Études supérieures) et Vice-Principal intérimaire (Affaires académiques).

Dr. Dawn Wallin is a Professor in the College of Education. As an alumna of our institution Dawn completed each of her Bachelor of Education (English and Mathematics), Bachelor of Arts (English), Master of Education (Educational Administration), and Doctor of Philosophy (Educational Administration) degrees at the University of Saskatchewan.Dr. Wallin possesses an impressive and extensive career in the elementary, secondary, and tertiary education sectors. Having begun her career as a teacher in the Kindersley School Division, her career has quickly grown to include several formal and informal leadership positions. For instance, Dr. Wallin has worked to design effective educational programming opportunities for students in pre-K-12 and post-secondary contexts and has also consulted or partnered with organizations that represent a variety of interests, including ministries of education, educational organizations, regional colleges and university faculties. She has also held executive positions for the Canadian Association for Educational Administration, the Canadian Association for Women in Education, and the Canadian Society for the Study of Education. Her research interests focus on rural education, educational administration and leadership, equity issues in education, and teacher education.Dr. Wallin began her career in academia in 2002. Since this time, she has held several faculty and leadership positions at the University of Texas, University of Manitoba, and University of Saskatchewan. Since joining the University of Saskatchewan as a Professor in August 2015, Dawn has held leadership positions including Associate Dean Undergraduate Programs, Research, and Partnerships, and most recently the university’s Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) leader.

Alexander Thistlewood is the Research Data Management Specialist in the Research Services Office at UCalgary. Previously, he worked on the Research Data Management and Open Science files at SSHRC.

Angela managed the Research Accounting department at York University for over 20 years, leading the financial administration of research grants and contracts. Angela continues to collaborate with colleagues across the country to develop and promote best practices in research finance and is widely recognized for her ability to connect and support finance professionals across institutions.

Angela Zeno has been an active member of CARA for many years as Treasurer, known for co-creating engaging conference workshops and co-sharing her expertise through webinars.

She also founded a national research finance network, which brings together members from coast to coast to share knowledge, tackle challenges, and strengthen financial stewardship in the research finance sector.

Karen has been in Research Administration for 8 years - all of that at Queen's. She loves the way her background in research, and her love of problem solving and collaboration come together to help in the day to day of managing a Research Services team.

Melissa Squires has been a member of CARA for over 17 years.   She presents and facilitates finance sessions at the CARA regional and national conference.  She feels that CARA it is a great way to network and share best practices with colleagues from all across Canada.

Melissa is currently the Manager of Research Accounting at Memorial University and has a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Memorial University and a CPA, CGA designation.

Dr. Tim Wilson is the Associate Vice-President of Research Programs at the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), where he is responsible for overseeing the Agency’s grants and scholarships programs. Prior to coming to SSHRC, Tim held a number of executive positions at the Treasury Board Secretariat and the Public Service Commission. In addition to his career in the Public Service, Tim also teaches English Literature part-time at the University of Ottawa, specializing in Renaissance Literature and Literary Theory. ****************************************************************** Tim Wilson est le vice-président associé, des Programmes de recherches, Conseil de recherches en sciences humaines (CRSH), responsable de la gestion des programmes de subventions et des bourses à l’agence. Avant de se joindre au CRSH, Tim a occupé divers postes de direction au sein du Secrétariat du Conseil du Trésor ainsi qu’à la Commission de la fonction publique. En plus de sa carrière dans la fonction publique, Tim enseigne également la littérature anglaise à temps partiel à l’université d’Ottawa. Il se spécialise dans la littérature de la Renaissance et en théorie littéraire.

Alison became the Program Coordinator for the Canadian Association of Research Administrators after more than a decade working and leading in the Association non-profit field. She holds a BA from Wilfred Laurier University, and obtained her Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation from the Canadian Society of Association Executives in 2024.
Alison has served military families in advocacy roles here in Canada, as well as internationally in two exchange positions. She received a Department of the Army Public Service Commendation Medal for “exceptionally meritorious dedication to public service” after serving in her role as a village mayor on Fort Leavenworth, KS in 2022. Her best work has been as mom of many boys and spouse of 18 years to her husband Ted.

Thierry Drapeau is responsible for the general management and conduct of operations of the SARF. Before joining the ranks of Acfas, he was assistant director of studies in the Quebec college network, where he managed and supervised the activities of the teaching service. Before this position, he was a university researcher for more than 10 years in the field of social sciences. His research was supported by the CRSH, the FRQSC and the BESO. A doctoral graduate of York University in Toronto, he worked as a francophone researcher in a minority context for several years.

Nicole Barrieau is a Senior Research Advisor at the Faculté des études supérieures et de la recherche at the Université de Moncton. She has nearly 15 years of experience in research administration, directly supporting over 300 faculty members across the university's three campuses, in all disciplines. She also contributes to strategic initiatives within the institution aimed at increasing external research funding and improving research administration processes and procedures. Nicole has been a member of CARA since 2011 where she has servs as a volunteer translator. She has worked for over 25 years at a Francophone university in a linguistic minority setting.

Après un doctorat en médecine vétérinaire (DMV) obtenu en 1992 à l’Université de Montréal (campus St-Hyacinthe), Swann Paradis a exercé la médecine vétérinaire (animaux de compagnie) au Québec pendant plus de 15 ans, parallèlement à ses études littéraires de 1999-2008 (BA, MA, Ph.D., Université Laval). Ses champs d'intérêt incluent l'histoire naturelle au XVIIIe siècle (littérature, philosophie et sciences), de même que le roman noir au tournant de Lumières & du Romantisme, le Surréalisme français & l’Automatisme québécois, la littérature franco-ontarienne et la création (poésie). Il est professeur agrégé au Collège universitaire Glendon (Université York, Toronto), Vice-Principal (Recherche et Études supérieures) et Vice-Principal intérimaire (Affaires académiques).

Dr. Dawn Wallin is a Professor in the College of Education. As an alumna of our institution Dawn completed each of her Bachelor of Education (English and Mathematics), Bachelor of Arts (English), Master of Education (Educational Administration), and Doctor of Philosophy (Educational Administration) degrees at the University of Saskatchewan.Dr. Wallin possesses an impressive and extensive career in the elementary, secondary, and tertiary education sectors. Having begun her career as a teacher in the Kindersley School Division, her career has quickly grown to include several formal and informal leadership positions. For instance, Dr. Wallin has worked to design effective educational programming opportunities for students in pre-K-12 and post-secondary contexts and has also consulted or partnered with organizations that represent a variety of interests, including ministries of education, educational organizations, regional colleges and university faculties. She has also held executive positions for the Canadian Association for Educational Administration, the Canadian Association for Women in Education, and the Canadian Society for the Study of Education. Her research interests focus on rural education, educational administration and leadership, equity issues in education, and teacher education.Dr. Wallin began her career in academia in 2002. Since this time, she has held several faculty and leadership positions at the University of Texas, University of Manitoba, and University of Saskatchewan. Since joining the University of Saskatchewan as a Professor in August 2015, Dawn has held leadership positions including Associate Dean Undergraduate Programs, Research, and Partnerships, and most recently the university’s Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) leader.

Alexander Thistlewood is the Research Data Management Specialist in the Research Services Office at UCalgary. Previously, he worked on the Research Data Management and Open Science files at SSHRC.

I am a Research Facilitator at Bow Valley College with over 16 years’ experience in leading research/grant development and management in multiple sectors, including Health, Engineering and Social Sciences. Throughout my career, I have coached and advised hundreds of faculties in ideation of research projects and achieving funding. My most recent success includes the achievement of two significant institutional grants, funded by NSERC and CFI in the amount of $1.5M. My leadership in research development and management have expanded research capacity, accomplished strategic priorities, and established diverse researcher-community partnerships in post-secondary institutions (e.g., Bow Valley College and University of Calgary) and national funding organizations (e.g., Heart and Stroke Foundation and Shastri-Indo Canadian Institute). Additionally, I have contributed to operational excellence of research portfolios up to ~25M. Currently, I am a member of Bow Valley College’s EDI Strategic Committee; and working on establishing an institutional EDI framework that will create a strong sense of belonging across the campus.
ABOUT I am a strategic and innovative Program Manager with experience delivering complex multi-stakeholder projects from ideation to completion. I’ve established comprehensive project plans and led cross-functional teams to achieve strategic goals. I am strong in both administrative and strategic areas of business and recognized as a stakeholder relationship builder. Because of my significant experience in working at both national research funding agencies and post-secondary institutions, I have a unique blend of perspectives of external stakeholders and knowledge of post-secondary system. For over 10 years, I have extensively worked with post-secondary faculties in multiple sectors (Health, Engineering and Social Sciences) and succeeded in research management, knowledge mobilization and impact evaluation. A large portion of my career was also dedicated to advising and supporting leadership in priority planning and impact. I love travelling, diversity, and meeting new people. I’m a life-long learner and believe that life is full of possibilities.

Gwen Elaine Thompson Hill works at Royal Roads University as the Manager of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Research. She is a queer, cisgender, neurodivergent woman with ancestral roots in Scotland, France, and England; and is an uninvited settler on the traditional Lands of the Lekwungen-speaking Peoples; the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations. Gwen holds a Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies, which has informed her personal and professional commitments to the creation of more safe, inclusive, and accessible spaces in the Canadian post-secondary environment.

Michael Walesiak, CPA, CA has 20 years of senior management experience at the University of Alberta (UofA) in the field of Research Administration.
As Director, Research Administrative Services, he is responsible for the delivery of end-to-end research services for the over $500 million annual research enterprise at the UofA.  This includes application review, award processing, contract negotiation and financial reporting.

Véronique Vaillancourt is a Senior Programs Officer at the Canada Foundation for Innovation. Having joined the CFI after working for over 20 years in a research laboratory at the University of Ottawa, she enjoys contributing to increasing Canada’s capacity for innovative research by supporting institutions and is well versed in the ins-and-outs of our national research community. In her free time, Véronique loves to stay active; you can certainly catch her on a softball field during the summer!

George Moubayed is a Programs Officer at the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI), where he is tasked with, among other things, research security. Prior to joining CFI, George worked at the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, bringing valuable experience and dedication to his current position. Dedicated to helping the community achieve top-notch research, George is passionate about supporting the development of cutting-edge research infrastructure across Canada. In his free time, George enjoys camping with his family and visiting as many different camp sites as he can during the summer.

Michael Walesiak, CPA, CA has 20 years of senior management experience at the University of Alberta (UofA) in the field of Research Administration.
As Director, Research Administrative Services, he is responsible for the delivery of end-to-end research services for the over $500 million annual research enterprise at the UofA.  This includes application review, award processing, contract negotiation and financial reporting.

Karen has been in Research Administration for 8 years - all of that at Queen's. She loves the way her background in research, and her love of problem solving and collaboration come together to help in the day to day of managing a Research Services team.

Anita Sharma, Ph.D., is the Director of Research Services at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, BC. With over a decade of experience in research development and management, she spearheads strategic initiatives in research services, program development, and researcher engagement. Her portfolio encompasses managing Tri-Agency Institutional programs, directing grant facilitation services, and administering internal funding awards while fostering a culture of research excellence. Anita has contributed to the regional and national research landscape through her roles on key external advisory bodies such as the Alliance of Canadian Comprehensive Research Universities Tri-Agency Funding Advisory Committee, the Tri-Agency Grant Management Solution (TGMS) External Advisory Board, the TGMS External Change Agent Network, the BC Knowledge Development Fund Working Group, and the BCNET eRAS Procurement Working Group. She remains deeply engaged in research administration communities as an active member of the CARA, the Society of Research Administrators International (SRAI), and the National Organization of Research Development Professionals. Through her service on the SRAI Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee, Anita champions inclusivity and knowledge-sharing. Anita has received numerous accolades for her contributions to research administration, including the SRAI Future of the Field Honor, Recognitions of Excellence from the TRU Board of Governors, and the CARA awards, such as the Excellence in Research Management, the Spirit of Kindness, and the Unsung Hero Award. As a scholar with a Ph.D. in Biochemistry, she has published 28 articles in refereed scientific journals. She shares her expertise in research administration through multiple platforms, including publishing in refereed journals, blogging, presenting at conferences, and co-editing for the SRAI Catalyst newsletter.

As Director, Research and Innovation at Royal Roads University, Dr. Deborah Zornes oversees all pre and post award tasks related to faculty research. She oversees policy development, strategic direction, the Climate Action team, and led the development of the Strategic Research Plan. Zornes has more than 25 years experience in research administration and has taught for more than 15 years. Her research focuses on the role of the university in society, research administration, research impact and research evaluation.

Davon has been leading the Yukon University Research Services Office since its establishment in January 2022. She has been growing a culture of research at YukonU by initiating the development of the research services office and supporting the transition from Yukon College to Yukon University. Uniquely positioned as Canada’s only university north of 60, YukonU takes pride in investigating distinctly northern questions while drawing on western science and Indigenous knowledges to create and share innovative northern solutions. Prior to joining YukonU, Davon worked as a road ecologist for the Yukon Government, served as the Executive Director of a Yukon environmental NGO, and held several postdoctoral research positions in Canada and the United States. She holds a PhD in Ecology from the University of Canterbury in New Zealand, as well as an MSc in Neuroscience from the University of Calgary. In her personal time, Davon is an enthusiastic cyclist, commuting year-round by e-bike in Whitehorse.

Jamal Shirley is the Director of Innovation and Research for Nunavut Arctic College (NAC), based at the Nunavut Research Institute (NRI) in Iqaluit. Jamal provides oversight and support for a broad range of applied research, training, and knowledge mobilization activities led by and in partnership with NAC. As the appointed Science Advisor under Nunavut’s Scientists Act, Jamal is also responsible for administering research licensing and review for approximately 160 research projects conducted annually in the natural, health, and social sciences disciplines across Nunavut. Jamal served on Canada’s National committee for International Polar Year (2007-2008), is a current member of the Nunavut Government’s Sustainable Development Advisory Group, and also sits on the research management committee for Canada’s Marine Environmental Observation, Prediction and Response Network (MEOPAR). Jamal is a member of Nunavut Arctic College’s Standing Partnership Committee with Memorial University of Newfoundland. Jamal grew up in Rankin Inlet Nunavut and holds a Masters of Resource and Environmental studies (MES) degree from Dalhousie University (2002).

Chris Paci, PhD is Vice President Research for Aurora College’s research division, Aurora Research Institute (ARI). The Institute has three centers based in Inuvik, Fort Smith and Yellowknife. ARI is Tri-Council recognized, we have had a TAC in Inuvik and currently hold a Mobilize grant, etc. Chris has previously worked for the Ontario college sector, including as a Dean, Associate Dean, Chair, Senior Advisor, and faculty member. Chris has also worked in the university sector both teaching and developing curriculum at the University of Northern BC. He holds an interdisciplinary doctorate from the University of Manitoba (2000).

Tamara Sone is the Horizon Europe National Contact Point Coordinator for Canada. She works for the department of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) and is the analyst responsible for the implementation of Canada’s association to the Horizon Europe programme. She has been working in the Canadian government as a policy analyst since 2009 and has worked on a wide range of roles at Public Safety, Public Service and Procurement Canada as well as ISED. She has an undergraduate degree from Queen’s University in Politics. She also has two master’s degrees: an MA in Pacific Studies from the University of Victoria and an MPA from Queen’s University. ******************************************************* Tamara Sone est la coordinatrice du point de contact national Horizon Europe pour le Canada. Elle travaille pour le ministère de l'Innovation, des Sciences et du Développement économique du Canada (ISDE) et est l'analyste responsable de la mise en œuvre de l'association du Canada au programme Horizon Europe. Elle travaille au sein du gouvernement canadien en tant qu'analyste des politiques depuis 2009 et a occupé un large éventail de fonctions à Sécurité publique, Services publics et Approvisionnement Canada ainsi qu'à l'ISDE. Elle est titulaire d'un diplôme de premier cycle de l'université Queen's en sciences politiques. Elle est également titulaire de deux maîtrises : une maîtrise en études du Pacifique de l'Université de Victoria et une maîtrise en administration publique de l'Université Queen's.

James Doiron is the Research Data Management Strategies Director, University of Alberta Library, and the Academic Director of the University of Alberta Research Data Centre. With an educational and applied research background in the Social and Health Sciences, he has extensive research and data management experience across a wide range of disciplines, areas of focus and data types. Locally, James sits on a number of advisory and working groups, including the University of Alberta’s Institutional RDM Strategy Working Group (Chair), Indigenous Research Strategy Task Force, and Health Research Ethics Board as a reviewer. Nationally, James is a member of the Canadian Research Data Centre Network (CRDCN) Board of Directors and is co-chair of the Digital Research Alliance of Canada’s Data Management Planning (DMP) Expert Group.

Jonathan is Research Data Management Advisor and National Security Advisor (interim) at Institut national de la recherche scientifique. He also serves as Co-chair of the Digital Research Alliance of Canada Data Management Planning Expert Group.

Valerie Harbour is a Deputy Director in the Research Grants and Scholarships directorate at the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC). Over the last 12 years, she has held multiple program delivery and policy positions, where she has worked extensively on advancing equity, diversity and inclusion initiatives. In her current role, Valerie's team is leading the implementation of DORA at NSERC, which aims to align agency procedures and policies with best practices in responsible research assessment. Before joining NSERC, Valerie completed her Master’s and PhD at the Center for Studies in Behavioral Neurobiology at Concordia University.

Davon has been leading the Yukon University Research Services Office since its establishment in January 2022. She has been growing a culture of research at YukonU by initiating the development of the research services office and supporting the transition from Yukon College to Yukon University. Uniquely positioned as Canada’s only university north of 60, YukonU takes pride in investigating distinctly northern questions while drawing on western science and Indigenous knowledges to create and share innovative northern solutions. Prior to joining YukonU, Davon worked as a road ecologist for the Yukon Government, served as the Executive Director of a Yukon environmental NGO, and held several postdoctoral research positions in Canada and the United States. She holds a PhD in Ecology from the University of Canterbury in New Zealand, as well as an MSc in Neuroscience from the University of Calgary. In her personal time, Davon is an enthusiastic cyclist, commuting year-round by e-bike in Whitehorse.

Michael is the Chief Data Officer at the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). In this position, he leads NSERC’s strategic utilization of data, analytics, and AI, to drive innovation, inform decision-making and enhance operational efficiency. Michael has a deep understanding of the research funding landscape and is passionate about supporting the R&D community through data and diverse perspectives. His approach emphasizes the importance of diversity and inclusion, advocating for the integration of varied viewpoints and methodologies to enrich research outcomes and foster a more inclusive scientific community.

With over 20 years as a public servant, he also has had roles in strategic planning, program development, project management and laboratory management in various departments Department of National Defence and at the National Research Council Canada, where he oversaw research facilities at the National Institute for Nanotechnology. Michael is an alumnus of the University of Waterloo (B.Sc.), Queens University (B.Ed.) Carleton University (Ph.D., Chemistry). He was born in Hong Kong and currently lives in Ottawa, Ontario.

James Doiron is the Research Data Management Strategies Director, University of Alberta Library, and the Academic Director of the University of Alberta Research Data Centre. With an educational and applied research background in the Social and Health Sciences, he has extensive research and data management experience across a wide range of disciplines, areas of focus and data types. Locally, James sits on a number of advisory and working groups, including the University of Alberta’s Institutional RDM Strategy Working Group (Chair), Indigenous Research Strategy Task Force, and Health Research Ethics Board as a reviewer. Nationally, James is a member of the Canadian Research Data Centre Network (CRDCN) Board of Directors and is co-chair of the Digital Research Alliance of Canada’s Data Management Planning (DMP) Expert Group.

Jonathan is Research Data Management Advisor and National Security Advisor (interim) at Institut national de la recherche scientifique. He also serves as Co-chair of the Digital Research Alliance of Canada Data Management Planning Expert Group.

Proven executive with 17 years’ experience managing and leading in an entrepreneurial post-secondary research environment. Excellence in overseeing stakeholder relations between government, industry, Indigenous and post-secondary to facilitate the strategic execution and

management of fundamental and applied industry driven research projects in STEM. Accomplished at handling rapidly changing needs through strong partnerships and interpersonal skills. Highly focused on building communities of innovators for the benefit of all Canadians.

Able to maintain high team moral and loyalty while motivating peers and subordinates to meet aggressive deadlines, complex novel scientific outcomes to deliver on highly complex project requirements. Advanced creative problem solving, organizational and decision-making abilities.

Highly collaborative and effective bringing diverse and at times competing, needs together to meet the higher organizational strategic priorities.

Teresa Bent, a past SAIT grad and business owner, has an extensive 34 year background in the field of education. Along with her classroom experience, she was an educational leader and coach in Literacy education, English language learning and Inclusive education. After receiving her Masters in 21st Century Educational Leadership from the University of Calgary she went on to teach at Werklund School of Education. Her other leadership experiences include 25 years both locally and nationally with a non-profit organization. Currently, she is excited to be one of two Academic Engagement Facilitators with ARIS at SAIT helping to build relationships among the research centers and academic schools and working to create a framework for student engagement in applied research.

James Shelley is a Knowledge Mobilization Specialist at Western University. His role involves piloting strategic initiatives and designing experimental ways to share new research. He especially focuses on novel approaches to analytics, automation, and artificial intelligence in knowledge mobilization, science communication, and research administration.

Tiana Fech is a mom of three teenage boys, an educator and a lifelong learner with 20 years of diverse experience in the field of education including curriculum development, classroom teaching, inclusive education, and a Master’s degree in Educational Leadership. She spent 4 years as a Sessional Instructor in the Werklund School of Education at the University of Calgary and in 2021 received an Excellence in Practicum Supervision Award. Currently, Tiana is one of two Academic Engagement Facilitators with the ARIS Hub at SAIT helping to build relationships among the research centers and academic schools and working to create a framework for student engagement in applied research. She is also the owner of Tiana Fech Consulting, a learning development consulting business, the author of Online Course Creation 101: A step-by-step guide to creating your first online course, and the host of The People Teaching People Podcast which is the place to talk about all things teaching and learning in a world where there is always more to discover. 

Teresa Bent, a past SAIT grad and business owner, has an extensive 34 year background in the field of education. Along with her classroom experience, she was an educational leader and coach in Literacy education, English language learning and Inclusive education. After receiving her Masters in 21st Century Educational Leadership from the University of Calgary she went on to teach at Werklund School of Education. Her other leadership experiences include 25 years both locally and nationally with a non-profit organization. Currently, she is excited to be one of two Academic Engagement Facilitators with ARIS at SAIT helping to build relationships among the research centers and academic schools and working to create a framework for student engagement in applied research.

Eduardo Fuenmayor has over 10 years of experience planning, managing and implementing the allocation of Advance Research Computing resources nationally, first for Compute Canada and now for the Digital Research Alliance of Canada. In his capacity as Program Manager in the Operations Department, he is also leads a team of software developers responsible for maintaining the CCDB portal, a production portal used for tracking users’ accounts and allocate ARC resource allocations. A system thinker at heart, Eduardo applies daily his strong project management, business analysis skills and communication skills to work with a wide range of technical and non-technical stakeholders to fairly allocate ARC resources for researchers in Canada.

Shruti Patel is the Director of Interprofessional Research and Knowledge Mobilization at the University of Ottawa Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal. In this role, she leads the development of interprofessional research and the implementation of evidence-based practices through strategic knowledge mobilization, driving meaningful impact. Shruti strives to accelerate the translation of research findings into actionable solutions, producing high-quality outputs that address complex challenges. She also oversees program evaluation efforts, assessing the effectiveness of clinical and research operations. As a leader in responsible research assessment, Shruti ensures research is open, accessible, and impactful. She also spearheads open science initiatives that foster collaboration, transparency, and inclusivity within the research community. Through her leadership, Shruti cultivates a culture of innovation and engagement, ensuring research efforts contribute to improved health service delivery and better patient outcomes.

Elizabeth is a librarian at Trinity Western University with responsibilities for information literacy, reference, and research data management. She coordinated Trinity's Human Research Ethics Board for several years, allowing her to bring together the perspectives of a librarian, researcher, and research administrator in her approach to her various responsibilities. Elizabeth's recent SSHRC-funded project focussed on the interplay between researchers and research supporters when developing a culture of research data management within a research community. She is currently redesigning Trinity's ethics application to reduce the administrative burden on researchers and research administrators in light of increasing requirements around data management plans.

Anita Sharma, Ph.D., is the Director of Research Services at Thompson Rivers University in Kamloops, BC. With over a decade of experience in research development and management, she spearheads strategic initiatives in research services, program development, and researcher engagement. Her portfolio encompasses managing Tri-Agency Institutional programs, directing grant facilitation services, and administering internal funding awards while fostering a culture of research excellence. Anita has contributed to the regional and national research landscape through her roles on key external advisory bodies such as the Alliance of Canadian Comprehensive Research Universities Tri-Agency Funding Advisory Committee, the Tri-Agency Grant Management Solution (TGMS) External Advisory Board, the TGMS External Change Agent Network, the BC Knowledge Development Fund Working Group, and the BCNET eRAS Procurement Working Group. She remains deeply engaged in research administration communities as an active member of the CARA, the Society of Research Administrators International (SRAI), and the National Organization of Research Development Professionals. Through her service on the SRAI Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) Committee, Anita champions inclusivity and knowledge-sharing. Anita has received numerous accolades for her contributions to research administration, including the SRAI Future of the Field Honor, Recognitions of Excellence from the TRU Board of Governors, and the CARA awards, such as the Excellence in Research Management, the Spirit of Kindness, and the Unsung Hero Award. As a scholar with a Ph.D. in Biochemistry, she has published 28 articles in refereed scientific journals. She shares her expertise in research administration through multiple platforms, including publishing in refereed journals, blogging, presenting at conferences, and co-editing for the SRAI Catalyst newsletter.

Gwen Elaine Thompson Hill works at Royal Roads University as the Manager of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Research. She is a queer, cisgender, neurodivergent woman with ancestral roots in Scotland, France, and England; and is an uninvited settler on the traditional Lands of the Lekwungen-speaking Peoples; the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations. Gwen holds a Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies, which has informed her personal and professional commitments to the creation of more safe, inclusive, and accessible spaces in the Canadian post-secondary environment.

As Director, Research and Innovation at Royal Roads University, Dr. Deborah Zornes oversees all pre and post award tasks related to faculty research. She oversees policy development, strategic direction, the Climate Action team, and led the development of the Strategic Research Plan. Zornes has more than 25 years experience in research administration and has taught for more than 15 years. Her research focuses on the role of the university in society, research administration, research impact and research evaluation.

Jenny is a Research Development Coordinator with the Office of Research & Innovation at Royal Roads University. She has a B.Sc. (Agr.) in Animal Science and a MA in Environment & Management. Her research interests include radical homemaking, small scale agriculture, and monitoring & evaluation. She has three beautiful children, is an avid gardener and an equestrian. Jenny is in perpetual pursuit of that sweet spot on the swinging pendulum that is work-life balance in research admin.

Angela managed the Research Accounting department at York University for over 20 years, leading the financial administration of research grants and contracts. Angela continues to collaborate with colleagues across the country to develop and promote best practices in research finance and is widely recognized for her ability to connect and support finance professionals across institutions.

Angela Zeno has been an active member of CARA for many years as Treasurer, known for co-creating engaging conference workshops and co-sharing her expertise through webinars.

She also founded a national research finance network, which brings together members from coast to coast to share knowledge, tackle challenges, and strengthen financial stewardship in the research finance sector.

Stephanie started her career at SSHRC in 2008, where she has worked for various teams, including: SSHRC Partnerships as program assistant, SSHRC Programs Planning & Operations Division as program/project officer, and most notably the SSHRC Research Training Portfolio where she was the lead program officer for the SSHRC Doctoral Awards program for over 2 years. In January 2020, Stephanie joined NSERC-SSHRC Awards Administration where she presently continues her role as Team Leader for both the Grants Administration and Scholarships Administration teams. These teams are responsible for the post-award administration and processing of award/grant amendments at NSERC, SSHRC, and most grants funded through the Tri-agency Institutional Programs Secretariat.

Rawni has been with the NSERC/SSHRC Finance team since April 2019, working with the financial monitoring and awards administration teams. Prior to that Rawni worked in various NSERC program and corporate teams, where she managed several research grants and scholarships funding opportunities and NSERC-wide activities related to research compliance and council governance.

Karen E. Mosier is a Research Coordinator/Navigator for the Department of Surgery in the College of Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan. Karen has her BA in Psychology and MSc in Pharmacy. Karen has over seventeen years’ experience in research administration. Karen is also the author of the self-help book entitled Soft Skills and Professional Tips for the Office. Karen has been a CARA member since 2010. She completed her Certificate in Research Administration through ARMA in 2017. Karen is also a co-chair of CARA’s Professional Development committee and serves on the CARA Executive. She is also an instructor at Mohawk College for the Certification in Research Administration program and has taught the Funding Proposal Development course for the last 3 years. Karen was the recipient of the Dan Chase Distinguished Service Award – Priority Initiatives in 2018, the Community Builder Award in 2019, the Spirit of Kindness Award in 2020, and the Research Management Excellence Award in 2021. Karen appreciates all the professional development opportunities available through CARA and cherishes all the wonderful relationships she has made through her volunteer activities with CARA.

Biographie courte

Au fil de ses 20 ans de carrière au CRSH, à l’UQAM et l’Université de Montréal, Virginie Portes a contribué à rédiger près d’un millier de demandes de subvention d’envergures variées, de divers horizons et destinées à plusieurs organismes subventionnaires du Québec et du Canada. Elle a soutenu de nombreuses équipes de recherche, notamment pour la préparation des concours Apogée, CERC et FCI. Actuellement, elle est Directrice du Soutien à la recherche d’IVADO, un consortium de recherche en intelligence artificielle. Virginie est l’auteure de L’art d’écrire une bonne demande de subvention, publié aux Presses de l’Université de Montréal en 2024, qui connaît un vif succès auprès de la communauté de recherche francophone.

Short Bio

Over her 20-year career at SSHRC, UQAM and Université de Montréal, Virginie Portes has helped write close to a thousand grant applications of various sizes and from a variety of backgrounds, for a number of granting agencies in Quebec and Canada. She has supported many research teams, notably in preparation for the CFREF, CERC and FCI competitions. She is currently Director of Research Support at IVADO, an artificial intelligence research consortium. Virginie is the author of L'art d'écrire une bonne demande de subvention, published by Presses de l'Université de Montréal in 2024, which has been a great success with the francophone research community.

JR Souza brings to the Alliance more than 20 years of experience in grant management, communications, project management, stakeholder engagement, higher education and international development. Before joining the Alliance, he held the position of CFI Grant Lead Administrator at the Compute Canada Federation. Previously, JR has worked in public organizations, the private sector, international agencies and foreign embassies. 

JR holds a bachelor’s degree in communications/PR, an MBA in corporate communications, an international certificate in conflict resolution, and a wide range of training in information/media, project management, translation and cross-cultural understanding. JR is bilingual in English and French, and proficient in Portuguese, Spanish and German. 

JR is also a very active volunteer member in the newcomers’ community in Ottawa. He devotes his free time as a mentor assisting newcomer IT professionals to find great job opportunities in the local job market.

Karen E. Mosier is a Research Coordinator/Navigator for the Department of Surgery in the College of Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan. Karen has her BA in Psychology and MSc in Pharmacy. Karen has over seventeen years’ experience in research administration. Karen is also the author of the self-help book entitled Soft Skills and Professional Tips for the Office. Karen has been a CARA member since 2010. She completed her Certificate in Research Administration through ARMA in 2017. Karen is also a co-chair of CARA’s Professional Development committee and serves on the CARA Executive. She is also an instructor at Mohawk College for the Certification in Research Administration program and has taught the Funding Proposal Development course for the last 3 years. Karen was the recipient of the Dan Chase Distinguished Service Award – Priority Initiatives in 2018, the Community Builder Award in 2019, the Spirit of Kindness Award in 2020, and the Research Management Excellence Award in 2021. Karen appreciates all the professional development opportunities available through CARA and cherishes all the wonderful relationships she has made through her volunteer activities with CARA.

Jon is Head of Business Development at Worktribe, a provider of collaborative research management software for the Higher Education sector.  He’s been with Worktribe for nearly 10 years, being part of their growth to nearly 70 HE clients in the UK. Prior to joining Worktribe, Jon spent 14 years as Head of the Research Information Office at University College London (UCL) as a research manager, administrator, and data analyst, with particular expertise in research management systems. He’s now enjoying being part of the provision of a solution that would have streamlined his activities all those years ago...

With over two decades of experience, Karen has played a pivotal role in shaping research services at leading UK academic institutions.  As Director of Research Services at University College London, she led a high-performing team delivering project lifecycle services.  Her leadership in this role was instrumental in enhancing and modernising research support services, aligning these with institutional priorities. 

Since launching her consultancy in 2022, Karen has worked across the UK helping universities successfully transform their research management support models and systems.  Her ability to blend strategic vision with operational expertise has positioned her as a trusted voice in the sector.

Bouchra Assouli Acting -Senior Financial Monitoring Officer Bouchra is Acting- Senior financial monitoring officer at the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI). She oversees the financial monitoring team. She participates in the oversight activities on the use of CFI funds by recipient institutions, including contribution audits, appraisals and monitoring visits. She produces regular and ad hoc financial analysis for management to help with a better alignment of payments to institutions. Bouchra joined the CFI in 2022 before the CFI, she worked in Audit at Samson and PwC. Bouchra holds a master’s degree in Audit and Management control.

Angela managed the Research Accounting department at York University for over 20 years, leading the financial administration of research grants and contracts. Angela continues to collaborate with colleagues across the country to develop and promote best practices in research finance and is widely recognized for her ability to connect and support finance professionals across institutions.

Angela Zeno has been an active member of CARA for many years as Treasurer, known for co-creating engaging conference workshops and co-sharing her expertise through webinars.

She also founded a national research finance network, which brings together members from coast to coast to share knowledge, tackle challenges, and strengthen financial stewardship in the research finance sector.

Brian Moore is director, strategic initiatives and institutional program at the Research Service Office at UdeM. He is also responsible for the Centre d’Expertise pour le Numérique en Recherche (CENR) who provides digital services to the university research ecosystem. His team also includes the UdeM employees supporting Calcul Québec. Brian holds a PhD in mathematics and computer science and has been working in R&D in the government, research labs and industry before joining UdeM in 2017. From 2017 to 2022 at IVADO (UdeM’s CFREF), he was responsible for the management of the AI research funding program and of the outreach / continuing education program.

Patrick Marois has nearly 25 years of experience in the fields of digital technology and cybersecurity, including the past 18 years at Université Laval in Québec City. Since 2016, he has been active in the academic research context, where he has carried out numerous business analysis and enterprise architecture initiatives. In 2023, he established and now leads the Office of Digital Services in Research within the Office of the Vice Rector, Research and Innovation. He is responsible for a team focused on leading projects and providing support through the use of digital solutions and research infrastructures, as well as offering digital advisory services to enhance research activities and related administrative processes.

Dr. Karine Duhamel (she/her) is an Anishinaabe historian and a member of Opwaaganasiniing (Red Rock Indian Band) in northwestern Ontario, part of the Robinson Superior Treaty family. She holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Education, as well as a master’s degree and PhD in history. She served as Director of Research for the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls and was responsible for drafting the final report in collaboration with Commissioners and family members, as well as the management of the Forensic Document Review Project and the direction of the Legacy Archive. In 2021, she was awarded the Bruce and Lis Welch Community Dialogue Award by the Simon J. Wosk Centre for Dialogue at Simon Fraser University for her trauma-informed work with family members through the Inquiry. In 2021, she chaired the data working group for the MMIWG2S+ National Action Plan to create the National Action Plan Data Strategy, a strategy oriented toward supporting Indigenous-led solutions to the data gap on violence against Indigenous women, girls, and gender diverse people. In 2022, she joined the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada as Director of Indigenous Strategy, working to implement the Tri‐Agency strategic plan to better support Indigenous research and research training in Canada. In addition to her role as a public servant, she is an official Speaker for the Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba and a Research Affiliate of the Centre for Human Rights Research at the University of Manitoba.

Anna Krangle-Long is the Grant Facilitator and Research Engagement Coordinator at YukonU’s Research Services Office, where she works to develop a variety of research engagement and training activities for researchers, including workshops on outreach, research data management and software training, as well as themed lunches bringing together researchers on topics of interest. She also runs student training events, such as YukonU’s two-day student researcher training, which acts as an introductory series to topics like communications plans, research data management, working in partnership and ethics. Anna has her MLIS, and has been part of research teams doing systematic reviews. Before her position at YukonU, she worked as a librarian at Yukon Government’s Energy, Mines and Resources, and at the College of Physicians and Surgeons of British Columbia.

Gwen Elaine Thompson Hill works at Royal Roads University as the Manager of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Research. She is a queer, cisgender, neurodivergent woman with ancestral roots in Scotland, France, and England; and is an uninvited settler on the traditional Lands of the Lekwungen-speaking Peoples; the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations. Gwen holds a Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies, which has informed her personal and professional commitments to the creation of more safe, inclusive, and accessible spaces in the Canadian post-secondary environment.

Jon is Head of Business Development at Worktribe, a provider of collaborative research management software for the Higher Education sector.  He’s been with Worktribe for nearly 10 years, being part of their growth to nearly 70 HE clients in the UK. Prior to joining Worktribe, Jon spent 14 years as Head of the Research Information Office at University College London (UCL) as a research manager, administrator, and data analyst, with particular expertise in research management systems. He’s now enjoying being part of the provision of a solution that would have streamlined his activities all those years ago...

With over two decades of experience, Karen has played a pivotal role in shaping research services at leading UK academic institutions.  As Director of Research Services at University College London, she led a high-performing team delivering project lifecycle services.  Her leadership in this role was instrumental in enhancing and modernising research support services, aligning these with institutional priorities. 

Since launching her consultancy in 2022, Karen has worked across the UK helping universities successfully transform their research management support models and systems.  Her ability to blend strategic vision with operational expertise has positioned her as a trusted voice in the sector.

Dedicated to service and knowledge access, John has experience working in research and public library contexts. He earned a PhD in neuroscience from McGill University in 2021.

Patrick Marois has nearly 25 years of experience in the fields of digital technology and cybersecurity, including the past 18 years at Université Laval in Québec City. Since 2016, he has been active in the academic research context, where he has carried out numerous business analysis and enterprise architecture initiatives. In 2023, he established and now leads the Office of Digital Services in Research within the Office of the Vice Rector, Research and Innovation. He is responsible for a team focused on leading projects and providing support through the use of digital solutions and research infrastructures, as well as offering digital advisory services to enhance research activities and related administrative processes.

Brian Moore is director, strategic initiatives and institutional program at the Research Service Office at UdeM. He is also responsible for the Centre d’Expertise pour le Numérique en Recherche (CENR) who provides digital services to the university research ecosystem. His team also includes the UdeM employees supporting Calcul Québec. Brian holds a PhD in mathematics and computer science and has been working in R&D in the government, research labs and industry before joining UdeM in 2017. From 2017 to 2022 at IVADO (UdeM’s CFREF), he was responsible for the management of the AI research funding program and of the outreach / continuing education program.

Mona Rahman is the Research Awards Office in the Vice-Principal Research Portfolio at Queen's University where her role is to coordinate external award nominations for faculty. She entered the world of research administration in 2017. Dr. Rahman holds a BSc(Honours) and PhD in Biochemistry, both from Queen's University, though she did have a brief foray as a post-doctoral fellow at the Robarts Institute in Vascular Biology before returning to Queen's in a multidisciplinary research project involving Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Chemistry.

Valérie Laflamme is the associate vice-president of the Tri-agency Institutional Programs (TIPS) housed at the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) in Ottawa. She spearheads a suite of seven tri-agency programs for at total value of 1.1 billion dollars annually: Canada Research Chairs Programs, Canada First Research Excellence Fund, New Frontiers in Research Fund, Canada Excellence Research Chairs, Research Support Fund, Canada 150 Research Chairs, and Canada Biomedical Research Fund.
She has been at SSHRC since 2012, first as a manager and then as a director for the scholarships and fellowships programs and the Impact Awards. She joined the public service through the Recruitment of Policy Leaders Program. Before moving back to Canada from France, she was a maître de conférences in sociology and demography at the Université de Lille, a researcher with the Institut national d’études démographiques, and a municipal councilor for the city of Tourcoing. Valérie has a PhD in demography and social sciences from the École des hautes études en sciences sociales (France) and has received fellowships from SSHRC and the Fonds de recherche du Québec. Her own research has focused on housing, urban policies, and the social and demographic history of urban families.

Valérie Laflamme est vice-présidente associée du Secrétariat des programmes interorganismes à l’intention des établissements (SPIIE) du Conseil de recherches en sciences humaines (CRSH) à Ottawa. Elle dirige un portefeuille de sept programmes trois conseils pour une valeur totale annuelle de 1.1 millards de dollars : Programme des chaires de recherche du Canada, Fonds excellence en recherche Apogée Canada, Fonds nouvelles frontières en recherche, Chaires d’excellence en recherche du Canada, Fonds de soutien à la recherche, Chaires de recherche Canada 150 et Fonds de recherche biomédicale du Canada.
Elle est au CRSH depuis 2012 et y a d’abord travaillé en tant que gestionnaire et directrice des programmes de bourses et des Prix Impacts. Elle a intégré la fonction publique par le Programme de recrutement des leaders en politiques. Au moment de quitter la France pour revenir au Canada, elle était maître de conférences en sociologie et démographie à l’Université de Lille, chercheure à l’Institut national d’études démographiques et conseillère municipale de la ville de Tourcoing. Valérie a obtenu son doctorat en démographie et sciences sociales de l’École des hautes études en sciences sociales (France) avec l’appui du CRSH et du Fonds de recherche du Québec. Ses recherches portaient sur le logement, les politiques urbaines et l’histoire sociale et démographique des familles en milieu urbain.

Geneviève Truchon is a senior advisor at the Tri-agency Institutional Programs Secretariat (TIPS) housed at the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) . She supports executive management on strategic and horizontal tri-agency files. She is called upon to mobilize people and collaborate with multiple internal and external stakeholders on files such as program design, delivery, and governance. She is also involved in numerous outreach activities with the social sciences and humanities community. She joined SSHRC in 2008 and worked in program delivery for a decade. During that time, she managed peer-review committees for the Insight Grants, Insight Development Grants, and the Impact Awards. She became a senior advisor in 2018 for the scholarships and fellowship programs. She joined TIPS in 2020 to support the design and delivery of two new programs before becoming a senior advisor to the associate vice-president in 2021.
Geneviève has an undergraduate education in Communications, Political Sciences, English, Spanish, and holds a Masters in Conflict Studies from Saint Paul University in Ottawa.

Geneviève Truchon est conseillère principale au Secrétariat des programmes interorganismes à l’intention des établissements (SPIIE) du Conseil de recherches en sciences humaines (CRSH). Elle appuie la haute direction sur des dossiers trois-conseils stratégiques et horizontaux. Elle est appelée à mobiliser des parties-prenantes et à collaborer avec de multiples intervenants internes et externes sur des dossiers tels que la conception, la mise en œuvre et la gouvernance de programmes. Elle participe également à de nombreuses activités de mobilisation auprès de la communauté des sciences humaines.
Elle s'est jointe au CRSH en 2008 et a travaillé à la prestation de programmes pendant une décennie. Pendant cette période, elle a géré des comités d'évaluation par les pairs pour les subventions Savoir, les subventions de développement Savoir et les prix Impact. En 2018, elle est devenue conseillère principale pour les programmes de bourses. Elle a rejoint le SPIIE en 2020 pour contribuer à la conception et la mise en œuvre de deux nouveaux programmes avant de devenir conseillère principale auprès de la vice-présidente associée en 2021.
Geneviève a complété des études de premier cycle en communications, sciences politiques, anglais, espagnol et détient une maîtrise en études des conflits de l'Université Saint-Paul à Ottawa.

Jyoti Kotecha is the Managing Director Carbon to Metal Coating Institute (C2MCI) at Queen’s University. Jyoti started her research career as an analytical chemist with the Laboratory of the Government Chemist in UK and since arriving in Canada she has help progressive leadership positions in research management at Queen’s University. She has over 25 years of expertise in developing national and international academic research centres and institutes, developing strategic and operational research plans, building industry, government and not-for profit partnerships to support research, has led phase three clinical trials, and has led mixed method evaluations related to programs in health science and STEMs. As the Managing Director, she develops writes research grants, builds research partnerships, and implements the Institutes strategic and operation plan. A champion of equity, diversity, and inclusion she is currently leading an EDI evaluation to asses initiatives that promote EDI at C2MCI.

Gwen Elaine Thompson Hill works at Royal Roads University as the Manager of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion in Research. She is a queer, cisgender, neurodivergent woman with ancestral roots in Scotland, France, and England; and is an uninvited settler on the traditional Lands of the Lekwungen-speaking Peoples; the Songhees and Esquimalt Nations. Gwen holds a Master of Arts in Interdisciplinary Studies, which has informed her personal and professional commitments to the creation of more safe, inclusive, and accessible spaces in the Canadian post-secondary environment.

As Director, Research and Innovation at Royal Roads University, Dr. Deborah Zornes oversees all pre and post award tasks related to faculty research. She oversees policy development, strategic direction, the Climate Action team, and led the development of the Strategic Research Plan. Zornes has more than 25 years experience in research administration and has taught for more than 15 years. Her research focuses on the role of the university in society, research administration, research impact and research evaluation.

Jenny is a Research Development Coordinator with the Office of Research & Innovation at Royal Roads University. She has a B.Sc. (Agr.) in Animal Science and a MA in Environment & Management. Her research interests include radical homemaking, small scale agriculture, and monitoring & evaluation. She has three beautiful children, is an avid gardener and an equestrian. Jenny is in perpetual pursuit of that sweet spot on the swinging pendulum that is work-life balance in research admin.

Alison became the Program Coordinator for the Canadian Association of Research Administrators after more than a decade working and leading in the Association non-profit field. She holds a BA from Wilfred Laurier University, and obtained her Certified Association Executive (CAE) designation from the Canadian Society of Association Executives in 2024.
Alison has served military families in advocacy roles here in Canada, as well as internationally in two exchange positions. She received a Department of the Army Public Service Commendation Medal for “exceptionally meritorious dedication to public service” after serving in her role as a village mayor on Fort Leavenworth, KS in 2022. Her best work has been as mom of many boys and spouse of 18 years to her husband Ted.

Bethany Davidson-Eng is the College Research Manager for the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences at the University of Guelph, a role she has held since November 2022. In this capacity, she spearheads research initiatives, provides strategic direction, sets research priorities, and supports faculty in developing competitive funding and award applications. In addition to her primary role, Bethany serves as the Technical Editor for the Canadian Meteorological and Oceanographic Society and works as a contract grant writer.Before stepping into her current role, Bethany Davidson-Eng served as the Research Communications Officer for the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences at the University of Guelph from February 2022 to November 2022. She also held the position of Proposal Development Officer in the Faculty of Mathematics at the University of Waterloo from August 2021 to February 2022.Bethany's diverse professional background includes her tenure as the Swine Health Ontario Manager from July 2019 to July 2021, and her experience as a sessional lecturer, where she taught "Agricultural Development: A Global Perspective" at the University of Guelph.She earned her PhD in Environmental Science from the University of Guelph in 2018. Her doctoral research aimed to deepen our understanding of the relationships between farmers' local knowledge of soil, their land management practices, and the resulting soil quality in Brazil's Natuba Basin.

James Shelley is a Knowledge Mobilization Specialist at Western University. His role involves piloting strategic initiatives and designing experimental ways to share new research. He especially focuses on novel approaches to analytics, automation, and artificial intelligence in knowledge mobilization, science communication, and research administration.

Emmanuel Hogg is a Program Officer in the Research Training Portfolio. He currently leads SSHRC’s Impact Awards. During his time at SSHRC, Emmanuel has worked on many funding opportunities within the Research Training Portfolio, such as the Doctoral, Postdoctoral and Master’s awards as well as award supplements. He also serves as SSHRC’s partner representative on Canada Council for Arts’ Molson Prize. Emmanuel holds a PhD in History from Carleton University where he continues to teach as a sessional instructor.Emmanuel Hogg est agent de programme au sein du Portefeuille de la formation en recherche. Il dirige actuellement les prix Impact du CRSH. Au cours de son mandat au CRSH, Emmanuel a travaillé sur de nombreuses possibilités de financement au sein du Portefeuille de la formation en recherche, telles que les bourses de doctorat, de postdoctorat et de maîtrise, ainsi que les suppléments aux bourses. Il est également le délégué du CRSH pour le Prix Molson du Conseil des Arts du Canada. Emmanuel est titulaire d'un doctorat en histoire de l'Université Carleton, où il continue d'enseigner en tant que chargé de cours.

Laura Cleghorn has conducted research about the organization and delivery of health care in Ontario for over 15 years in the areas of home care, primary care, and cancer care, often focused on improving access to care for marginalized populations. Since 2016, Laura has been with the Department of Family Medicine in a role that supports the faculty and staff of the Research Enterprise to engage in high-quality research. Laura is also interested in cultivating a workplace culture that encourages personal and professional growth.

Melissa Joyce has been the Director of Research Accounting at the University of Victoria for 9 years and has worked in other roles at the University for over 17 years. She has attended several CARA conferences and looks forward to hosting sessions again this year. She has her CPA designation and has been both a course facilitator and mentor for CPA students. Her main focus is providing excellent client service and creating efficiencies within her department at UVic. She is excited to share ideas with other institutions to help make research administration easier!

Aaron is the Manager of Research Accounting at UVic. In his role, he oversees all financial reporting and audits for research grants at UVic.

Regina Tiba is the Associate Director of Research Accounting, where she oversees the day-to-day operations and ensures the smooth functioning of financial processes related to research funding. She joined UVic & Research Accounting in 2014, processing expenses claims. In her current role, she leads and or participates in the development and implementation of best practice processes, programs, policies, and systems that support the fulfillment of granting requirements across the University.

Lauren Gogo is an accomplished research management professional and the Manager of Research Contracts at Hamilton Health Sciences, one of Canada’s leading research hospitals. A strong leader in the academic and health sectors, Lauren has extensive knowledge of clinical research agreements and various health policies related to clinical trials and other research, both in Canada and internationally. 

With over 14 years of experience working in non-profit, university, and hospital settings, Lauren has reviewed contracts, drafted and reviewed granting applications, negotiated commercialization terms and intellectual property agreements, and provided expert advice on clinical trial regulations and privacy considerations in accordance with PHIPA. Her wealth of experience ensures that research agreements and processes are managed efficiently and in compliance with relevant policies.

In her current role, Lauren oversees a dedicated team of contracts and grants professionals, managing the review, negotiation, and execution of research-related agreements. She also actively contributes to the development of research policies and plays a key role in strategic projects aimed at enhancing research capabilities. Lauren’s collaborative approach extends to participating in working groups to further strengthen research contracts and foster key partnerships.

In addition to her managerial duties, Lauren has delivered numerous internal and external presentations on topics including the clinical trials process, clinical trial registration, privacy in research, and contracts & ethics, sharing her expertise with a wider audience to advance knowledge in these critical areas. With her strong leadership and commitment to healthcare research, Lauren continues to make a significant impact on the research landscape at Hamilton Health Sciences.

David Bruce is Director of Research Grants, St. Francis Xavier University, a position he has held since November 2018. His responsibilities include grant facilitation across all external funding sources and opportunities. He also manages the university’s CFI and CRC portfolios, its internal student research awards program, and its CGS-Masters and SSHRC Doctoral quotas. Prior to joining StFX, David served as Mount Allison University’s Director of Research Services for 10 years, where his responsibilities also included being the Research Ethics Officer and the Animal Care Coordinator. David also led Mount Allison’s Rural and Small Town Program for more than 10 years, where he honed his skills as a grant writer seeking funding to sustain that rural community economic research and outreach program.

Susan Marlin is the President and CEO of Clinical Trials Ontario (CTO), an organization established by the Province of Ontario in 2012 to make Ontario a preferred location for global clinical trials while maintaining the highest ethical standards. Prior to joining CTO served as the Associate Vice-Principal at Queen’s University. Susan worked with the National Cancer Institute of Canada Clinical Trials Group for many years, initially coordinating cancer clinical trials and later leading the development and implementation of the Ethics and Regulatory Office.

Susan has actively engaged in research ethics for many years. She served as President of the Canadian Association of Research Ethics Boards, as a member of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Research Integrity Committee, the Ontario Cancer Research Ethics Board and the Tri-Agency Panel on the Responsible Conduct of Research. Susan is on the Board of Directors and Executive Committee of Life Sciences Ontario and the Management Team for the Ontario SPOR (Strategy for Patient-Oriented Research) Support Unit. She is an Adjunct Lecturer at Queen’s University in Kingston, Ontario and is the nominated principal investigator on a Canadian Institutes of Health Research funded project to streamline research ethics review for child health research across Canada.

Susan was born and raised in Halifax, Nova Scotia. She holds a BSc (Hons) from Dalhousie University and an MSc in Community Health and Epidemiology from Queen’s University. She was awarded the Queen’s Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee medal in 2012 in recognition of her work in support of military and veteran health research.

Dr. Cintia Cristia has international experience in research, administration, and education. She holds a PhD from the Université de Paris-Sorbonne. As Assistant Professor at Toronto Metropolitan University and tenured professor at Universidad Nacional del Litoral in Argentina she led interdisciplinary research projects, and was the Principal Investigator for a partnership funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) with the National Arts Centre that examined orchestral music audience remote engagement during COVID-19 social restrictions using new media. She has served twice as a SSHRC Merit Review Committee Member and is regularly invited as a peer-reviewer in specialized journals.

Her personal research has explored the relationship between music, visual arts, and literature, to reveal underlying cultural values and preconceptions, and she is the author of a groundbreaking book on Argentinian painter, sculptor, and visual musician Alejandro Xul Solar, and the editor of a critical volume on interart aesthetics. Her research-creation projects include multimodal exhibitions, and innovative public musicology events. Her work has been published internationally and has received awards in musicology and art critique.

Dr. Cristia applies her wealth of knowledge of the international research environment to support research development and partnership building aimed at expanding the participation of the University of Toronto in the Horizon Europe funding program. 

Brice Rousseau is a Research Partnership & Business Development Officer in the Office of the Vice-Principal Research and Innovation at University of Toronto Scarborough (UTSC). His role is to support current and prospective strategic research initiatives at UTSC connect with partners within and beyond the University of Toronto ecosystem. He’s working with a variety of stakeholders, including UTSC faculty looking to develop research collaborations, as well as anchor institutions in the Greater Toronto Area, but he is especially focused on developing corporate and industry partnerships that align with UTSC’s ongoing strategic directions. Prior to joining UTSC, Brice has worked for 15 years on European funding programs and projects as a research project manager at the Centre de la Recherche Scientifique (CNRS) in France and as a research funding advisor at University of Munich in Germany. He moved to Canada and joined the University of Toronto in 2018 as the Director of Strategic Relations for the Southern Ontario Centre for Atmospheric Aerosol Research (SOCAAR). Brice studied at the Institute for Political Sciences in Strasbourg (France) and holds a Masters’ Degree in European public policies from the University of Strasbourg.

Jackson Howard is the Regional Coordinator for EURAXESS North America, responsible for Canada and the United States. His main roles are to inform the community of researchers of all domains and nationalities based in North America about the European Union’s framework program for research and innovation, Horizon Europe, as well as national and regional funding opportunities. Another important task is the management of the European Scientific Diasporas in North America initiative together with the EU Delegation and EU Member States & Associated Countries.

Dr Maria Pawlowska is an expert in research management with a focus on EU-Canada collaboration. Following her PhD from the University of Cambridge, she transitioned to research administration and policy and has over thirteen years of experience in EU funding mechanisms. Maria has been involved in the full spectrum of EU projects – planning, selection, applying and running. She has supported numerous EU projects and proposals, ranging from large consortia to successful ERC Advanced grant applications. Maria has also helped establish new centers of excellence (working with institutions such as Oxford University and CNRS) and co-authored the “Practical Guide to the International Alignment of Research Data Management”.

Leslie Cove is currently the Director, Inclusive Research at the University of Waterloo. She brings a decade of strategic planning, policy, and leadership experience to her work including writing legislation, and working across the sports, culture, healthcare, and university sectors. She is an award-winning university professor and is committed to teaching and advancing strategic inclusive leadership.

Mike Folinas is the Director, Research Administration at the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto. He is an alumnus of the University of Toronto and has over twenty years of progressive experience in financial and research administration across many Faculties and units at the University of Toronto. Before joining the Faculty of Pharmacy, Mike managed the CFI portfolio, the Natural Sciences and Engineering portfolio, and the internal programs portfolio. Mike has had the opportunity to develop various successful business plans and strategies. He has direct experience dealing with a number of sponsors, including CFI, NSERC, CIHR, SSHRC, National Institute of Health, Canadian Space Agency, Environment Canada, Public Health Agency of Canada, and many other federal/provincial/foundations. Mike has extensive knowledge of the Tri-Agency programs and many other sponsors programs and has experience with the full cycle of research funding administration (pre- and post-award). As the Director, Research Administration, he leads a team that supports the submission of applications, negotiates agreements, manages adjudication panels, operational funds, and collaborative initiatives, and provides day-to-day support for researchers.

Karen E. Mosier is a Research Coordinator/Navigator for the Department of Surgery in the College of Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan. Karen has her BA in Psychology and MSc in Pharmacy. Karen has over seventeen years’ experience in research administration. Karen is also the author of the self-help book entitled Soft Skills and Professional Tips for the Office. Karen has been a CARA member since 2010. She completed her Certificate in Research Administration through ARMA in 2017. Karen is also a co-chair of CARA’s Professional Development committee and serves on the CARA Executive. She is also an instructor at Mohawk College for the Certification in Research Administration program and has taught the Funding Proposal Development course for the last 3 years. Karen was the recipient of the Dan Chase Distinguished Service Award – Priority Initiatives in 2018, the Community Builder Award in 2019, the Spirit of Kindness Award in 2020, and the Research Management Excellence Award in 2021. Karen appreciates all the professional development opportunities available through CARA and cherishes all the wonderful relationships she has made through her volunteer activities with CARA.

Michael Walesiak, CPA, CA has 20 years of senior management experience at the University of Alberta (UofA) in the field of Research Administration.
As Director, Research Administrative Services, he is responsible for the delivery of end-to-end research services for the over $500 million annual research enterprise at the UofA.  This includes application review, award processing, contract negotiation and financial reporting.

Within the Office of Research and Innovation, Eva currently provides leadership for the research programs and to the senior program management team. She also provides guidance on research methods and budgets for researchers applying to or holding external research or social innovation grants. She was Senior Program Manager, providing leader to the program management team from 2022 to 2024. From 2015 to 2022, she was responsible for providing guidance in the development of proposals and management of projects funded externally under the Community and College Social Innovation Fund as well as for the internally funded Ignite projects. She has over twenty years of management experience in the postsecondary sector, seventeen of which focused on strategic planning, research and teaching in the Ontario College system. Eva has published a number of academic articles on equity, diversity and inclusion, including from 2011 to 2014, co- founding and co-editing the Journal of Global Citizenship and Equity Education . In 2021, she co-edited a book "Global Citizenship Education: Challenges and Successes". Previously, she held several positions at Centennial College including Senior Researcher at the Institute for Global Citizenship and Equity, Director of Policies Pathways and Grants, and Manager of Strategic Institutional Planning. Eva has a PhD and an M Ed in Higher Education from the University of Toronto and a BA and Graduate Diploma in population studies from the University of Ghana.

With over 18 years of dedicated experience in research administration at post-secondary and research institutions, Seetha Kumaran has established a career in project, operation and budget management. She has successfully project-managed numerous million-dollar research grants with stakeholders across the country. Seetha’s experience has encompassed managing the full project lifecycle, from inception to completion. She contributes strategic and operational oversight, develop project plans, identifies risk mitigation strategies, and sets and monitor timelines while ensuring that compliance for each project is met. At the Applied Research Centre at Langara College, Seetha fulfils many critical roles, including global grant budgeting and forecasting, employment contracting, and student liaison. She brings sensitivity to workplace culture, problem solving and a commitment to high levels of service. Seetha prioritizes the successful onboarding of new staff and students. With a passion for creating supportive and inclusive environments, she tries to make sure that every team member feels welcomed and prepared.

An accountant by profession, Rosalina Declaro has over twenty years of experience in office administration, finance and accounting. Coming from the private business sector, she joined George Brown College in 2012. She leads the finance, operations and reporting team of the Office of Research and Innovation, as well as manages the budgets for the department and all research projects. Over her career, Ms. Declaro has built on her experience of smoothly managing complex operations in a variety of industries, ensuring that the many cross-sections of research at George Brown College converge seamlessly.

Letitia Henville (she/her) is a book nerd, bad swimmer, and the author of the monthly academic writing advice column "Ask Dr. Editor.” She specializes in editing for faculty members in the health sciences, education, social sciences, and humanities, with a special focus on grant applications and tenure and promotion dossiers. Learn more about Letitia at shortishard.ca.

Karen E. Mosier is a Research Coordinator/Navigator for the Department of Surgery in the College of Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan. Karen has her BA in Psychology and MSc in Pharmacy. Karen has over seventeen years’ experience in research administration. Karen is also the author of the self-help book entitled Soft Skills and Professional Tips for the Office. Karen has been a CARA member since 2010. She completed her Certificate in Research Administration through ARMA in 2017. Karen is also a co-chair of CARA’s Professional Development committee and serves on the CARA Executive. She is also an instructor at Mohawk College for the Certification in Research Administration program and has taught the Funding Proposal Development course for the last 3 years. Karen was the recipient of the Dan Chase Distinguished Service Award – Priority Initiatives in 2018, the Community Builder Award in 2019, the Spirit of Kindness Award in 2020, and the Research Management Excellence Award in 2021. Karen appreciates all the professional development opportunities available through CARA and cherishes all the wonderful relationships she has made through her volunteer activities with CARA.

Lauren Bosc is the Director, Research Services, at The University of Winnipeg where she oversees research staff and manages the overall research ecosystem at the institution. Before joining this office in 2021, she did both her undergraduate and graduate work at The University of Winnipeg and supported researchers as the Managing Editor of a journal on children’s literature and as a research project manager. 

Dylan Jones joined The University of Winnipeg Research Office in 2021, though he has been a staff member at the university since 2019. He previously served as the Awards and Communications Officer in the Faculty of Graduate Studies. Dylan earned both his BA and MA from The University of Winnipeg, along with a certification in Project Management from Red River College. Currently, he supports the Canada Research Chair Program, as well as a wide range of other initiatives, including student research funding and training opportunities.

Rachel Barken is a Research Facilitator at Carleton University. Her portfolio currently includes research awards and prizes and SSHRC Partnership Grants. Rachel previously held positions as a Research Facilitator at Wilfrid Laurier University specializing in social sciences and humanities grant development, and as a Postdoctoral Fellow at York University. Rachel holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Dalhousie University and a PhD in Sociology from McMaster University, where her research focused aging, gender, care work, and qualitative methods.

Snežana Obradović-Ratković is Research Awards Program Facilitator in the Office of the Vice-President, Research at Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario. She has worked as a research administrator at Brock University since 2005, supporting researchers through a lens of peace, friendship, respect, and coexistence. 

Tanya Perdikoulias is the Associate Director of Operations with the Office of Research and Innovation. She provides confidential operations, financial and project support to allow the Dean, departmental management, and support staff to function efficiently and effectively. Tanya oversees the tracking of and monitoring of over $18M in internal and external accounts. She maintains a high level of departmental performance through recruitment, evaluation, training, motivation and work assignments of staff. Tanya is constantly looking for ways to improve operations and processes with adequate resources and appreciates the continuous learning that CARA provides. She holds an Honours, BA from Brock University, a Public Relations Post-Graduate Diploma from Niagara College; and a diploma in Project Management from Humber Polytechnic.

I have a bachelor’s and two master’s degrees in law. I spent eight years working in intellectual property before shifting to research administration and contracts about four years ago. I’ve worked at McGill and Concordia, and now I’m a Senior Advisor for Research Contracts at uOttawa, where I help researchers navigate funding agreements, negotiations and the complexities of research projects.

It's become almost cliché to talk about research and innovation as the hope for humanity's future, but I believe it!

I love working with folks who are tackling the most urgent issues of our time in domains such as health, climate, housing, and agriculture. Uncovering and expressing their stories takes us one step closer to a better world. 

As a literary scholar, I studied "social protest fiction" of the nineteenth century because I was fascinated by the way that novelists like Charles Dickens and Harriet Beecher Stowe (author of the anti-slavery novel Uncle Tom's Cabin) used story to advocate for social reform.

As a writer outside of academia, I've published magazine articles, op-ed columns, and two books on technical and business communication. I've also created or co-created the entire alphabet of corporate communication and learning products, from annual reports to Zoom presentations, including videos and eLearning courses.

As a trainer and coach, I've taught or supervised more than a thousand students and professionals, created more than a dozen communication courses (including a 5-level program for a global consulting firm, which ran for more than 7 years), and developed the Technical Writing Certificate program offered through Dalhousie University’s Faculty of Open Learning (which has been running for more than 10 years).

For more than two decades, I've had the privilege of serving a wide variety of clients, from startups to multinationals, across a broad span of disciplines and sectors. The more complex the problem, the more motivated I am to help research solve it.

Research Projects Advisor, Life and Health Sciences, Vice-Principal Research Portfolio Queen's University

Research Projects Advisor, Faculty of Arts and Science (Natural Sciences & Engineering funding programs) Vice-Principal Research Portfolio Queen's University

Adrian Michael Kelly is a pre-award Research Projects Advisor in Social Sciences, Humanities, and Creative Arts at Queen's University. He holds a PhD in English and is also a writer of fiction and memoir.

Karen E. Mosier is a Research Coordinator/Navigator for the Department of Surgery in the College of Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan. Karen has her BA in Psychology and MSc in Pharmacy. Karen has over seventeen years’ experience in research administration. Karen is also the author of the self-help book entitled Soft Skills and Professional Tips for the Office. Karen has been a CARA member since 2010. She completed her Certificate in Research Administration through ARMA in 2017. Karen is also a co-chair of CARA’s Professional Development committee and serves on the CARA Executive. She is also an instructor at Mohawk College for the Certification in Research Administration program and has taught the Funding Proposal Development course for the last 3 years. Karen was the recipient of the Dan Chase Distinguished Service Award – Priority Initiatives in 2018, the Community Builder Award in 2019, the Spirit of Kindness Award in 2020, and the Research Management Excellence Award in 2021. Karen appreciates all the professional development opportunities available through CARA and cherishes all the wonderful relationships she has made through her volunteer activities with CARA.

Mike Folinas is the Director, Research Administration at the Faculty of Pharmacy, University of Toronto. He is an alumnus of the University of Toronto and has over twenty years of progressive experience in financial and research administration across many Faculties and units at the University of Toronto. Before joining the Faculty of Pharmacy, Mike managed the CFI portfolio, the Natural Sciences and Engineering portfolio, and the internal programs portfolio. Mike has had the opportunity to develop various successful business plans and strategies. He has direct experience dealing with a number of sponsors, including CFI, NSERC, CIHR, SSHRC, National Institute of Health, Canadian Space Agency, Environment Canada, Public Health Agency of Canada, and many other federal/provincial/foundations. Mike has extensive knowledge of the Tri-Agency programs and many other sponsors programs and has experience with the full cycle of research funding administration (pre- and post-award). As the Director, Research Administration, he leads a team that supports the submission of applications, negotiates agreements, manages adjudication panels, operational funds, and collaborative initiatives, and provides day-to-day support for researchers.

Pierre-Jean is a chemist in training. He debuts as Research Administrator when he joins the Chemical Engineering Department of Polytechnique Montreal in 2008, as Development Officer for CREPEC, a Strategic Cluster focused on Polymers & Composites. In 2011, he joins Polytechnique's Grant Office (BRCDT) as Administration of Research Officer. There, he contributes to the strategic positioning of professors' initiatives and facilitates the writing of targeted grants. Between 2013 and 2019, Pierre-Jean facilitated NSERC-CREATE program grant writing, and contributed to four successful competitions. The latest: “Optimizing Power Skills in Interdisciplinary, Diverse & Innovative Academic Networks” (OPSIDIAN) being awarded in 2020. Since the end of 2018, he is responsible for structuring the Knowledge Mobilization and Community engagement institutional strategies.

Pierre-Jean is a proud Canadian Association of Research Administrators (CARA) member since 2012. He received the CARA Spirit of Kindness award, in 2020, and the Research Project Management Award, in 2023.

Mona Rahman is the Research Awards Office in the Vice-Principal Research Portfolio at Queen's University where her role is to coordinate external award nominations for faculty. She entered the world of research administration in 2017. Dr. Rahman holds a BSc(Honours) and PhD in Biochemistry, both from Queen's University, though she did have a brief foray as a post-doctoral fellow at the Robarts Institute in Vascular Biology before returning to Queen's in a multidisciplinary research project involving Pharmacology, Biochemistry and Chemistry.

Rachel Barken is a Research Facilitator at Carleton University. Her portfolio currently includes research awards and prizes and SSHRC Partnership Grants. Rachel previously held positions as a Research Facilitator at Wilfrid Laurier University specializing in social sciences and humanities grant development, and as a Postdoctoral Fellow at York University. Rachel holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees from Dalhousie University and a PhD in Sociology from McMaster University, where her research focused aging, gender, care work, and qualitative methods.

Snežana Obradović-Ratković is Research Awards Program Facilitator in the Office of the Vice-President, Research at Brock University in St. Catharines, Ontario. She has worked as a research administrator at Brock University since 2005, supporting researchers through a lens of peace, friendship, respect, and coexistence.