UPEI Strategic Research Plan

UPEI Strategic Research Plan (2023–2028): Roadmap to Research Excellence 

UPEI Senate has recently approved a new strategic research plan titled Strategic Research Plan (2023–2028): Roadmap to Research Excellence. 

The plan aims to build upon the University’s past success and commitment to excellence in research. Its goals and objectives span a broad range of intellectual, scholarly, and creative endeavours at the University.  

During the consultation process, five signature areas of excellence emerged: 1) Humanity, Justice, and Organizations; 2) Environmental Stewardship; 3) Healthy Communities; 4) Healthy Animals; and 5) Sustainable Development. Other areas that were identified crossed boundaries of multiple fields: Bioscience; Island Studies; Data Science; and One Health. The plan describes how UPEI supports the full range of research programs across the University, including those that may not fall within one of the signature areas. 

Also, new priority areas were identified during our consultations. An example is the new Faculty of Medicine in partnership with Memorial University, with related health programs like Veterinary Medicine, Nursing, Psychology, and Paramedicine. Our plan regarding the Canada Research Chair program is also described in the document. 

Three recurring pillars of strategic objectives materialized during the consultation sessions. The first pillar is to “Foster and Celebrate Research Excellence.” Specific goals are to increase research capacity; promote a climate of research excellence; and raise the profile and visibility of research at the University. The second pillar is to “Develop Talent for Impactful Research,” specifically by engaging more undergraduate students in research, and strengthening graduate programs and recruitment of graduate students. Thirdly, the plan is to “Strengthen Outreach and Partnerships” by expanding internal collaborations and external partnerships.