Health Research BC launches first Indigenous health research peer review panel

In a step toward reconciliation and equity in health research, Health Research BC introduced its first-ever Indigenous health research peer review panel for the 2025 Scholar and Health Professional-Investigator (HP-I) competitions.

The panel is the result of extensive consultation with Indigenous scholars, advisors, and community partners. It reflects Health Research BC’s commitment to Indigenous self-determination, cultural safety, and the advancement of Indigenous health research careers. The panel brings together primarily BC-based Indigenous reviewers with deep expertise in Indigenous methodologies and knowledge systems, ensuring Indigenous voices are included throughout the review process.

Applicants to the 2025 Scholar and HP-I Programs conducting Indigenous-led research had the option to be reviewed by this culturally grounded panel. The review process emphasized Indigenous worldviews, relevance to First Nations, Inuit, and Métis priorities, and adherence to the Tri-Council Policy Statement Chapter 9 on research involving Indigenous Peoples.

This initiative is a step toward reducing system barriers to Indigenous-led health research. By creating a culturally safe and respectful review environment, Health Research BC aims to increase the success rate of Indigenous applicants and foster trust among Indigenous researchers. Top-up funding is also available to support meaningful engagement with Indigenous communities.

Looking ahead, Health Research BC is working with Reciprocal Consulting to evaluate the panel’s impact and identify opportunities for growth. This work is part of a broader journey toward a health research system that is culturally safe, values Indigenous ways of knowing, and respects the rights of First Nations, Métis, and Inuit Peoples.

2025 Indigenous Health Research Panel members

Health Research BC is grateful to all panel members for guiding us toward better processes in culturally safe review.

• Lyana Patrick, Stellat’en First Nation
  Assistant Professor, Simon Fraser University
• Johanna Sam, Tŝilhqot’in Nation
  Assistant Professor, University of British Columbia
• Mark Matthew, Simpcw First Nation
  Director, Indigenous Health and Patient & Public Engagement, Health Quality BC
• Sherri Pooyak, Sweetgrass First Nation
  University of Saskatchewan
• Chenoa Cassidy-Matthews, Sachigo Lake First Nation
  Population Health Epidemiologist, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute
• Kate Jongbloed, White occupier
  Population Health Epidemiologist, BC Centre for Disease Control
  Adjunct Professor, University of Victoria

Based on the panel’s advice, Elder Gerry Oleman, St’at’imc Nation, was invited to bear witness to the panel’s deliberations, further grounding the process in Indigenous traditions.