ECU is pleased to share the 2023-28 Strategic Research Plan, written in consultation with a broad cross-section of faculty and staff and developed under the leadership of an ad-hoc Research Advisory Committee. Approved by Senate in spring 2023, the plan provides a framework for the growth and development of a rich array of research activity across the university.

As one of the most research-intensive art and design universities in Canada, Emily Carr University of Art + Design connects art, media, and design practices with some of the most pressing questions of our time. At ECU, we believe that our research can help to transform the world, build healthier and more vibrant futures, and cultivate cultural resilience throughout our local and global communities.

The plan identifies new Guiding Principles, Research Themes, and Strategic Objectives aimed at increasing our community’s capacity for engaging in research, exploring innovative and dynamic research programs, and advancing our efforts to build stronger training opportunities, partnerships, and innovation pathways.

It also outlines our priorities and the actions we will take to achieve these goals over the next five years and aligns with the Canada Research Chair program’s requirements for strategic research plans.

Building upon the successes of our community’s diversity of research practices and interests, our new Strategic Research Plan will ensure we can align our support structures and capacities with the needs of our world-renowned researchers over the next five years.