Message from the Vice-President, Research & Innovation

Health research has never been as important as during the COVID-19 pandemic. The global crisis has been a stark reminder of why innovative and collaborative approaches are vital to the development of evidence-based solutions that address health and well-being. With a focus on communities both near and far, these principles are at the core of research taking place across the schools, departments and faculties at Ryerson University.

Health and well-being encompass the physical body and more. Mental health and equitable access to care are also crucial for individual and community wellness. It is through this perspective that this edition of Innovation explores our university’s scholarly, research and creative endeavours that are committed to a holistic concept of health and well-being.

Our researchers are leading the way in human-centred solutions to health-care challenges. Researchers are illuminating the care access inequities experienced by Indigenous peoples in the past, as well as looking at cultural safety in today’s health care. Others are evaluating new biomaterials, enhancing medical record privacy protections and assessing the ability of federal law to prevent genetic discrimination. Mental health in the workplace has become an increasingly important issue, and our faculty are studying both how mindfulness can support mental well-being and how journalists can better represent mental illness in the media. Other areas of investigation include the impacts of community-led intervention for children, the health consequences of environmental noise and the effects of fashion on physical health.

Ryerson is innovating ways to strengthen individual, community and societal health and well-being. Together, we’re developing solutions that can help to build thriving cities where every person’s health matters. We hope you enjoy this edition of Innovation in good health.

Steven N. Liss, PhD
Vice-President, Research and Innovation
Ryerson University