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We build knowledge

The Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) is the federal agency that promotes and supports university-based research and training in the humanities and social sciences. Through its programs and policies, the Council enables the highest levels of research excellence in Canada, and facilitates knowledge sharing and collaboration across research disciplines, universities and all sectors of society. Created by an act of Parliament in 1977, SSHRC is governed by a Council that reports to Parliament through the Minister of Industry.

President's Desk Council News

Research in the social sciences and humanities advances knowledge and builds understanding about individuals, groups and societies—what we think, how we live and how we interact with each other and the world around us. Knowledge and understanding inform discussion on critical social, cultural, economic, technological, environmental and wellness issues and provide communities, businesses and governments the foundation for a vibrant and healthy democracy. Through research and training programs, SSHRC fosters the development of talented and creative people who become leaders across the private and public sectors and who are critical to Canada’s success in the globalized 21st century.

Budget

SSHRC's Grants and scholarships budget for 2007-08 is $312.7 million (excluding the Indirect Costs program and the one-time program Centres of Excellence for Commercialization and Research).

SSHRC's budget is determined each year by Parliament. SSHRC reports to Parliament annually on how it spends its budget, but the Council has full authority to set its priorities, policies and funding programs and to make granting decisions.

Programs

SSHRC grants and fellowships programs allow researchers to explore, invent and develop deep expertise in a wide variety of disciplines, as well as to target research to specific social needs. SSHRC programs also provide support for research training and research communication activities.

SSHRC administers the Canada Research Chairs Program. With a budget of $900 million over five years the program aims to establish 2,000 research chairs at universities across the country.

Peer review

SSHRC grants and fellowships are awarded through an independent, national, peer-review process designed to ensure excellence. Peer review is universally recognized as the most objective and effective way to allocate public research funds.

Each year volunteer selection committees made up of Canadian scholars and experts assess thousands of research proposals and, based on academic excellence and other key criteria, they make recommendations about which projects to fund. About 5,200 other Canadian and international experts provide written assessments of proposals to help the review committees in their decision-making.

Partnerships and Joint Initiatives

SSHRC partners with a variety of government, business and non-profit organizations to develop and fund strategic research programs. These Joint Initiatives build knowledge and expertise on key social, cultural and economic issues.

To partner with SSHRC, please contact:
Murielle Gagnon
Director
Strategic Programs and Joint Initiatives
murielle.gagnon@sshrc.ca
613-992-3027

Program Contacts

For information about Research and Dissemination Grants, Fellowships and Institutional Grants, and other programs, please visit our Contact Us page.

Updated: 11/20/2008 2:18:13 PM