About Roots for Indigenous Partnered Research
Roots for Indigenous Partnered Research is a UBC-based research cluster for people involved with or interested in research done in partnership with Indigenous communities, collectives, and organizations.
Our work focuses on Indigenous methodologies, and Ways of Knowing, especially in areas related to health and wellness. Our goal is to strengthen UBC’s capacity to build respectful and reciprocal long-term relationships with Indigenous partners in the realm of research. We do this by first building meaningful connections among ourselves and by sharing what we learn together.
Our members are experienced scholars dedicated to creating a collaborative framework for learning and research that supports Indigenous health and wellness. We aim to both build on existing research and explore new directions led by Indigenous priorities.
Doing Research “In a Good Way”
We believe that meaningful research partnerships begin by centering Indigenous needs, knowledge systems, protocols, and other Ways of Knowing. Working “in a good way” means putting community priorities first, following the protocols put forth by the community or Nation involved, and ensuring our work reflects our values of respect, reciprocity, and accountability.
As Indigenous and non-Indigenous researchers at UBC, we recognize our responsibility to navigate university policies and adapt them when possible, to better support and meet the needs of our Indigenous partners. While this can be challenges, it also provides an opportunity to change how research is done by decolonizing our existing structures and finding new directions for Indigenous-focused research.
Areas of Focus
- Indigenous Methodologies – Sharing and developing Indigenous research approaches through learning opportunities and capacity building, by drawing on cluster members’ diverse research experiences.
- Relational Approaches – Building relationships with one another based on reciprocity, respect, and the honouring of Indigenous protocols and values, both within the cluster and with ICCOs and partner organizations.
- Grant Writing – Sharing funding opportunities and developing training to support researchers in writing ethical and impactful grant proposals.
- Mentorship – Supporting students and trainees through guidance and mentorship from experienced cluster members.
- New Collaborations – Sharing experiences and best practices from early-stage partnerships and creating new opportunities for research by bridging connections between our research circles to explore new research avenues.
- Shaping Research Practices – Identifying gaps in the research landscape and advocating for new policies and practices that support Indigenous-led research and consider potential remedies for common challenges.
Role of Cluster Members
Our approach to collaboration is defined and guided by Elder Duane Jackson, a longtime member of HELP and our Aboriginal Steering Committee. He describes our philosophy as “better together”—meaning, my circle is stronger because you are in it.
Relationships are at the heart of this cluster, and of all the work done for our Roots initiatives. Through collaborative, heart-centered work, we create space for open and respectful dialogue, deepen collective understanding, engagement in complex conversations, and uplifted Indigenous voices.
Each member, whether a student, researcher, or community partner, contributes unique knowledge and experience that strengthens our collective work and helps us move forward together.
Apply to Become a Cluster Member