Office of the Vice-Provost, Research and Innovation

A Message from Dr. Peter Ludlow

Research at Acadia University is driven by a close-knit community of faculty, students, and expert staff. As one of Nova Scotia’s premier universities, we are dedicated to addressing global challenges while also advancing innovative, and community-focused solutions closer to home. Our size is a key strength, supporting strong relationships and a highly engaged academic environment.

Across our historic campus, our faculty participate in interdisciplinary collaboration, creating space for diverse perspectives to come together. This approach fuels creativity and innovation across disciplines. As an institution committed to training the next generation of leaders, research is also a defining element of our student life. Students from all disciplines are encouraged to take part in research initiatives early and often, and close connections with faculty mentors allow our students to get involved in hands-on research early in their studies, building practical skills and deepening their academic experience.

Acadia has a unique responsibility to serve and strengthen our community. We play a vital role not only in educating students but also in contributing to the social, economic, and cultural well-being of Nova Scotia. By aligning world-class research, dedicated teaching, and community-outreach with the needs of our region, we will help create a prosperous future.

Research and Innovation team

The Office of Research and Innovation has a central role in supporting and advancing research excellence at Acadia. Our mission is to foster creativity, fuel cross-disciplinary innovation, and seek discoveries that will strengthen the world around us. A hub for faculty and student-engaged research, our Office ensures that projects are strategically focused and effectively managed.

Portfolio

The Office of Research and Innovation is responsible for the lifecycle of external research grant programs, and for managing our internal grant portfolios, such as the Univeristy Research Fund and the Harrison McCain Awards. Our tasks include research development, partnerships, alignment with Acadia’s Strategic Research Plan 2024-2030, grant administration, research ethics and compliance, as well as capacity building and training. Key activities include, but are not limited to:

Developing and reviewing grant proposals
Ensuring compliance with reporting obligations for federal and provincial funding agencies
Adhering to external and internal compliance requirements, including research ethics reviews, research security, biosafety regulations, animal care and research data protection
Preparing institutional reports for internal leadership and external agencies
Workshops and training sessions on grant writing, compliance and project management
Overseeing the appointment of Adjunct Professors