About Research

Our Vision

A nationally recognized, interdisciplinary and sustained research and knowledge resource centre for developmental disabilities serving the whole community.

Our Mission

To improve the quality of life of people living with intellectual and developmental disabilities through research.

We believe all people, including those with an intellectual or developmental disability, have a right to develop to their fullest potential and to become as independent as possible in all areas of their lives.

We also believe that research is essential to develop environments that emphasize dignity and respect for each person, that enable individuals to make choices and take reasonable risks, and that will enhance their quality of life and sense of worth as valued members of our society.

We value partnerships with others interested in research because combined efforts are more likely to achieve each partner’s desired outcomes.

Our Strategic Directions

Comprehensive Knowledge Resource Centre – In addition to creating new knowledge, researchers need to deliver useful knowledge to influence practice for caregivers, practitioners and policy-makers whose decisions affect the lives of people living with developmental disabilities. The Centre’s interdisciplinary research team is uniquely equipped and positioned to collaborate with stakeholders and develop a knowledge-translation process for developmental disabilities.

Diverse and Growing Research Network – The Research Centre’s relationships with community stakeholders and other researchers are vital to its success in becoming a knowledge resource centre. Our Community Advisory Group provides valuable input from diverse perspectives and our Research Affiliates (distinguished researchers from across Canada) contribute to the creation of important new knowledge. The Research Centre strives to build on the existing network.

Sustained Research Institution – A secure foundation is needed to support the rapidly-growing activities of current and future researchers. The Centre pursues permanent infrastructure funding to build on support from our current partners.

Effectively Shared Identity – Communicating the Centre’s identity to the community is important to raise awareness and support of developmental disabilities research. The Research Centre does so accurately, effectively and with a diverse audience.