CIHR Scientific Director Charu Kaushic appointed Chair of Global Research Collaboration for Infectious Disease Preparedness

The Global Research Collaboration for Infectious Disease Preparedness (GloPID-R) today announced the appointment of Dr. Charu Kaushic as its new Chair for a two-year term. Dr. Kaushic is Scientific Director of CIHR’s Institute of Infection and Immunity and was previously one of the Co-Chairs of GloPID-R.

Established in 2013, GloPID-R brings together research funding organizations on a global scale to facilitate effective and rapid research in response to a significant outbreak of an infectious disease with epidemic and pandemic potential. GloPID-R is composed of 29 members, representing national research funding organizations in countries around the world, and 3 partners, including the World Health Organization. CIHR’s Institute of Infection and Immunity is a founding member of GloPID-R.

“I am honoured to serve as the new Chair of GloPID-R,” said Dr. Kauchic.”The role of this unique global network in coordinating and funding research in the area of pandemic preparedness and response has never been more vital than in the context of the ongoing COVID-19 crisis. GloPID-R is led by a Board of Chairs who are elected from among the members and who work in close cooperation with the Secretariat, a Scientific Advisor, and committees composed of network members.

“I am delighted that Charu will assume this global leadership role,” said Dr. Michael Strong, President of CIHR. “Collaboration has been an essential component of our research response to COVID-19 in Canada and internationally. As Chair of GloPID-R, Charu will be a powerful advocate for science and research in public health emergencies and will help us align our priorities so that we support research that responds to the needs of Canadians while contributing to the global community.”

Minister of Health Patty Hajdu took to Twitter to congratulate Dr. Kaushic on her new role.

Congratulations Dr. @CKaushic! https://t.co/1StUPFDb5H

— Patty Hajdu (@PattyHajdu) November 5, 2020

Dr. Kaushic will work with the Co-Chairs to pursue, strengthen and expand GloPID-R’s goals to support the development of research preparedness activities, to reinforce rapid response capacities, and to coordinate the membership to facilitate the rapid and aligned funding of research in a public health emergency.

Photo courtesy of CIHR