Walking Together in Research

The University of Alberta acknowledges we are on Treaty 6 territory and honours the histories, languages, and cultures of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples. We believe research is strongest when it is collaborative, respectful, and guided by Indigenous perspectives.

Why Indigenous Engaged Research

Indigenous Engaged Research (IER) strengthens relationships between researchers and Indigenous communities. Rooted in trust, respect, and reciprocity, it supports projects that braid together Indigenous ways of knowing with Western methodologies to generate knowledge that benefits all.

This work builds upon "Braiding Past, Present, and Future: The University of Alberta Indigenous Strategic Plan," which guides the university's ongoing commitment to reconciliation and transformation across teaching, learning, and research.

Our Commitments

• Respect, reciprocity + relevance — Every project prioritizes Indigenous voices, protocols, and shared outcomes.
• Collaboration and kinship (wahkohtowin) — We walk as relatives, co-learning and supporting each other's journeys.
• Ethical frameworks (OCAP®, CARE, Two-Eyed Seeing) — Guided by Indigenous data sovereignty and respectful knowledge practices.
• Community-driven impact — Research aligns with community priorities and supports real-world benefit.

What We Offer

• Guidance + Mentorship — Training, workshops, and one-on-one support for researchers, students, and community partners.
• Partnership Development — From protocol creation to co-design, we help build meaningful, lasting relationships.
• Proposal Support + Innovation — We assist in designing research that centres Indigenous perspectives and strengthens funding competitiveness.
• Institutional Transformation — Working across the university to embed Indigenous-engaged practices into policies, training, and culture.