Enabling a Vibrant GE³LS Network Across Canada

In consultations with the GE³LS research community, a recurring theme has been the need to stimulate GE³LS culture in Canada and support networking within the research community. Communication and networking strategies work to strengthen capacity, enhance connectivity and foster relevance and excellence in research. The research community itself constitutes a key end-user of GE³LS research outcomes and is a prime beneficiary of a National GE³LS Strategy which places emphasis on translation.

The GE³LS program has launched several communication and networking tools for the GE³LS and genomics research community:

• A new GE³LS Website was launched in June 2009 which, in keeping with principles of openness and transparency, explains the relevance of GE³LS and the National GE³LS Strategy. It includes a Message from the Chief GE³LS Officer, relevant contact information for Genome Canada and the Genome Centres, Frequently Asked Questions, links to Useful Resources (GE³LS-relevant reports, websites, blogs and journals), summaries of funded GE³LS Projects, a Policy Portal dedicated to the GPS initiative, an Events page, a Community Message Board and an active Feedback button.
• A bi-annual electronic newsletter called IMPACT, also launched in June 2009, is developed with active input from the Regional Genome Centres. Each issue features stories, invites Guest Columns, and introduces "new stars" on key selected themes: "Knowledge Translation" (Spring 2009), "GE³LS Integration" (Fall 2009), and "The Making of a GE³LS Researcher" (Spring 2010), available online.
• A CanadaGE³LS Research Database and Search Engine was created under contract with the Center for Genomics and Policy at McGill University in June 2009, and the first annual update will be completed by June 2010. The searchable database, intended to be national in scope, contains summaries and outputs of GE³LS-related projects funded by Genome Canada, the Genome Centres, and other major funders across Canada.
• A report on the New GE³LS researcher survey has been completed and includes recommendations on how Genome Canada could strengthen networking and communication opportunities, particularly for the next generation of GE³LS researchers. The Survey Report and Genome Canada's response to the recommendations are online.

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