Knowledge Translation

Knowledge translation (KT) involves closing the gap between "what we know" and "what we do".

Integrated Discovery is at the core of our KT efforts. This maximizes the impact of neuroscience in Ontario by bringing together researchers, clinicians, industry, and patient advocacy groups upfront to agree on research programs that hold relevance to all stakeholders. We believe that early and ongoing collaboration is the key to ensuring the translation of research into better care, whether it takes the form of new drugs, medical devices, or improvements in treatment protocols.

This approach enhances communication between key stakeholder groups and stimulates industry in Ontario – the better we get at commercializing our own ideas, the more Ontarians will benefit from the creation of new companies and good jobs.

The three aims of OBI’s KT efforts are to:

  • Maximize the opportunity for exchanging knowledge stemming from OBI’s initiatives (e.g., the Integrated Discovery Programs)
  • Build Ontarians’ knowledge of brain and its disorders and the excellent research being done in Ontario
  • Catalyze the translation of research into evidence-informed care (i.e., changing patient care)

Our principles in achieving these aims are to not duplicate efforts (we prefer to partner wherever possible), leverage existing public investments, and always look to catalyze interconnectivity.

Aim 1: Maximize the opportunity for exchanging knowledge stemming from OBI’s initiatives
  • Facilitate KT of OBI-funded initiatives
  • Support the implementation of patient advisory committees for all research programs
  • Offer KT training to researchers
  • Participate in Core Innovation Teams to identify and catalyze KT opportunities
Aim 2: Build Ontarians’ knowledge of brain and its disorders and the excellent research being done in Ontario
Aim 3: Catalyze the translation of research into evidence-informed care
  • Province-wide training and standardization of clinical assessments
  • Implementation pilot for the prevention of brain disorders (more detail coming soon)