A strong health system needs research expertise right where decisions are made and care is delivered.
To make this possible, Michael Smith Health Research BC partners with the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) to deliver the Health System Impact Program. This national initiative places the next generation of researchers directly within health system organizations to integrate evidence into decision-making.
This year, our shared provincial investment is enabling 15 BC-based doctoral and postdoctoral fellows to contribute to research evidence that improves care and services across British Columbia. These researchers are part of a national cohort of 42 fellows from coast to coast to coast.
While embedded within BC systems organizations — such as government agencies, hospitals, and community organizations — fellows receive hands-on experience, mentorship from senior decision-makers, and national networking opportunities. This training prepares them to drive practical solutions to pressing provincial priorities, including workforce integration, mental health and substance use services, equity in care, and data-driven system improvement.
“Through our long-standing partnership with CIHR, Michael Smith Health Research BC is proud to co-fund Health System Impact Fellows embedded in BC health organizations. By bringing research talent into real-world environments, the fellowship strengthens evidence-informed decision-making and builds BC’s capacity to deliver meaningful improvements in health services and health outcomes across the province.”
— Dr. Geoff Payne, President & CEO, Michael Smith Health Research BC
Thank you to the health system partners for hosting this year’s fellows. No single organization can transform a system alone, and national partnerships like this ensure a shared commitment to shortening the cycle between discovery and action, which leads to better care and stronger, more sustainable health systems for British Columbians.
See full list of 2025 Health System Impact Fellows
Meet Health Research BC co-funded researchers
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Implementing Integrated Mental Health and Substance Use Services in British Columbia’s Correctional Facilities
Read morePeople in correctional facilities in British Columbia (BC) experience high rates of mental health and substance use challenges. Nearly 70% of individuals…
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Lotenna Olisaeloka
Primary Investigator
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Characterizing the role of genetic counsellors in a care coordination setting for children with medical complexity and their families
Read moreIt is challenging for children and families who have complex medical needs to get all the support they need from the healthcare…
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Tasha Wainstein
Primary Investigator
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Strengthening Early Career Nurse Practitioner Workforce Integration: Understanding How Role Transition Impacts Retention and System Performance
Read moreThis proposed project, Strengthening Early Career Nurse Practitioner Workforce Integration, is a British Columbia (BC)- based research study focused on improving the…
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Rebecca Bingley
Primary Investigator
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