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91��ܽ has launched SFU Knowledge Link, a new initiative that connects leaders and policymakers with the research evidence they need to make timely, informed decisions. 

It is the latest in a suite of initiatives to support knowledge mobilization, promote open scholarship and ensure university research benefits society. 

SFU Knowledge Link was conceived during the COVID-19 pandemic when decision and policymakers needed thorough reviews of the best available science to guide the pandemic response. The situation was dynamic, which meant that accessing and synthesizing the most up-to-date research was crucial. 

Policymakers working in government, leaders of non-profits or community organizations and other knowledge users may not have the time or resources to study all the available research on a theme, and this is where Knowledge Link can help. 

The initiative connects people with experts and researchers from across B.C. that can comb thru existing studies. It supports researchers with gathering and synthesizing the best evidence available to support decision making. This includes undertaking systematic deep dives into research questions, performing rapid reviews of existing knowledge and conducting environmental scans of external and underlying issues.   

“We leverage expertise from across B.C. and support the growth of provincial capacity to use research to inform planning and decision making,” says Knowledge Link lead Emily Shantz. “Our goal is to create connections between researchers and policymakers or other groups to help them manage emerging issues while enhancing the efficacy of the research.”  

The initiative draws inspiration from programs run at a few other Canadian universities, while offering a distinctively SFU approach. 

In the future, Knowledge Link will be developing training programs for SFU faculty, staff and researchers to build capacity in this area. 

For more information visit SFU Knowledge Link.