2026

Call for Abstracts: The 2026 Indigenous Health Research Symposium (March 19th)

The 2026 Indigenous Health Research Symposium showcases a broad range of research related to Indigenous health and well-being.[1] The Symposium will feature presentations and other offerings[2] by faculty, staff, and students from across Memorial University and other academic institutions, as well as from individuals or organizations conducting independent health research.[3] Previous research featured at the Indigenous Health symposium included:

  • Research focused on the health status of Indigenous Peoples,
  • Research concerning the social determinates of Indigenous health,
  • Research responding to community identified health research priorities,
  • Health and wellness research conducted in Indigenous landscapes or with Indigenous Peoples, and
  • Health and wellness research that mobilizes Indigenous research methodology/methods.

The symposium planning committee invites presentation submissions for in-progress or recently actualized (since 2021) Indigenous health research related to these and other related themes. We welcome submissions for virtual presentations and in-person presentations at the Faculty of Medicine, Memorial University (St.John’s Campus).[4]  Submissions for pre-recorded presentations are also accepted. We encourage early-stage and established researchers from a broad range of disciplines and backgrounds to submit a statement of interest by March 1st, 2026.

Please email Indigenoushealth@mun.ca with the subject line: Indigenous Health Research Symposium and include:  

  • A title for your presentation
  • A list of authors
  • A 300-word (max) description including, if appropriate: background, objectives, methods, and key findings.
  • Presentation format (e.g., in-person, remote, or pre-recorded) and technical support requirements if needed.

You will be informed about acceptance of your abstract no later than March 3rd, 2026. For more information and to submit, please contact Edward Allen at Indigenoushealth@mun.ca.

[1] The symposium planning committee embraces a holistic conception of health that includes physical well-being as well as mental, emotional, social, and spiritual aspects of individual, collective, and environmental wellness.

[2] The format for presentations at the Indigenous Health Research Symposium is open-ended in that we encourage knowledge sharing via poster presentations, slide presentations, performances, screenings, storytelling, or other creative outputs. Oral presenters will choose a 10, 20, or 30-minute time slot.

[3] The Indigenous Health Research Symposium is a no-cost, public event that offers researchers and research collaborators, Elders, community members, students, and others the opportunity to share knowledge and teachings derived from Indigenous health research. We embrace strength-based and solution-focused dialogue.

[4] Please note that we are unable to aid with travel and any costs incurred will be the responsibility of the participant.