Ways to Help & Get Involved

Volunteer with MicroResearch

After presenting the success of MicroResearch in Africa, the team was asked to bring the program to Nova Scotia, recognizing poor health rates and the strained health care system in the province. In 2016, the first MicroResearch workshop was held in Truro, NS. Since then, it has spread to other provinces and has been adapted for specific audiences, including marine researchers, public safety personnel, and even elementary grade students.

What does a reviewer do?

When a grant application is received, we seek out two or three reviewers with expertise in the topic to examine the application and suggest ways to help the applicant improve it. Reviewers receive instructions on how to review and score the 4-page applications. The reviews are sent to the MicroResearch office, summarized, and emailed to the applicants to help them improve their research.

What does a coach do?

The coach helps MicroResearch teams refine their research question, develop proposals, and provide guidance on methods and budgets. They assist with reviewer suggestions and support during the project. Coaching typically requires less than an hour weekly via email or Zoom, pairing teams with local and international coaches.

What skillsets are required in a coach?

Experience in a developing country is an asset but not a prerequisite. Being practical and being eager to help grow research capacity are the critical factors with research experience an asset. MicroResearch gives tips on the principles needed. The coach’s skills and expertise are always matched to the needs of a project.

What do workshop teachers do?

Workshops are taught by a range of experienced researchers and clinicians. With a mix of virtual, in-person, and hybrid workshops, there are many opportunities to teach. All PowerPoint and learning materials are provided ahead of time. Please indicate on the volunteer form which lectures you’re interested in teaching.

Donate

If you would like to support our efforts in building community health research capacity, you can donate to MicroResearch online through Dalhousie University. Dalhousie University – a partner in MicroResearch – will provide a charitable receipt for tax purposes. Simply go online to: giving.dal.ca/microresearch (note- it will automatically specify “MicroResearch”) Once the donation has been processed, Dalhousie University will issue a tax receipt. Have questions about donating? Contact us at MicroResearch@dal.ca

Improving health care outcomes with innovative community based research