CIHR: Discoveries for life

At the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), we believe that research has the power to change lives. As the federal agency that stewards Canada’s health research strategy, we work collaboratively with our partners and researchers to set priorities and find solutions to health care challenges. Through our investments in world-class research, CIHR is improving the health of Canadians and people around the world.

What drives us

Canadians want to know that their investments in health research are wisely managed. CIHR embraces values that guide all aspects of our activities and relationships. We believe in:

CIHR focuses on the health priorities that are important to Canadians.

Supporting innovation

CIHR supports talented researchers pursuing cutting- edge scientific discoveries, for the benefit of Canadians and people throughout the world.

Improved patient outcomes

CIHR accelerates the discovery, development, evaluation, and integration of health innovations into practice so that patients receive the right treatments at the right time.

Health and wellness for Indigenous peoples

CIHR supports the health and wellness goals of Indigenous peoples through research investments, shared research leadership and the establishment of culturally sensitive policies and interventions.

Health promotion and disease prevention

CIHR takes a proactive approach to understanding and addressing the causes of ill health, and to supporting physical and mental wellness at the individual, population, and system levels.

The treatment of chronic conditions

CIHR increases our understanding of multiple, co-existing chronic conditions, and supports integrated solutions that enable Canadians to continue to participate actively in society.

CIHR Institutes

CIHR Institute of Aging
The CIHR Institute of Aging (IA) invests in research that promotes an optimal life-long approach to healthy aging, and improves the health and wellness of Canada’s aging population. By supporting advances in prevention, diagnosis, treatment, care delivery, and social determinants of health, IA seeks to improve the health and quality of life of Canadians in their later years.

CIHR Institute of Cancer Research
The CIHR Institute of Cancer Research (ICR) invests in research in all areas of cancer control. ICR helps reduce the burden of cancer on individuals and families through research on prevention strategies, screening, early diagnosis, effective treatments, psycho-social support systems, and palliation.

CIHR Institute of Circulatory and Respiratory Health
The CIHR Institute of Circulatory and Respiratory Health (ICRH) invests in research on conditions associated with the heart, lungs, brain (stroke), critical care, blood, blood vessels, and sleep. By supporting advances in biological sciences, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention, ICRH seeks to protect and improve the health of all Canadians.

CIHR Institute of Gender and Health
The CIHR Institute of Gender and Health (IGH) invests in research that examines the influence of sex and gender on health. IGH also works to ensure this research evidence supports the development of policies and programs that address pressing health challenges facing men, women, boys, girls, and gender-diverse people.

CIHR Institute of Genetics
The CIHR Institute of Genetics (IG) invests in research on cell biology, biochemistry, human genetics and genomics, and the impact of related scientific advances on society. Genetic research touches all areas of health, allowing IG to strengthen health care policies and practices, and improve the health of all Canadians.

CIHR Institute of Health Services and Policy Research
The CIHR Institute of Health Services and Policy Research (IHSPR) invests in research that will strengthen Canada’s health care system. By promoting evidence-based best practices, IHSPR seeks to improve the way health care services are managed and delivered, to maximize benefits for patients.

CIHR Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health
The CIHR Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health (IHDCYH) invests in research that promotes the best health for all Canadians, from the very start of life. By supporting research to improve reproductive, child, and youth health outcomes, IHDCYH helps young Canadians and families achieve their full potential for ideal growth and development.

CIHR Institute of Infection and Immunity
The CIHR Institute of Infection and Immunity (III) invests in research on infectious diseases and the body’s immune system. Through this research, III addresses a wide range of health concerns related to infection and immunity, including disease prevention and treatment, as well as public health promotion.

CIHR Institute of Indigenous Peoples’ Health
The CIHR Institute of Indigenous Peoples’ Health (IIPH) invests in research to improve and promote the health of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis peoples in Canada. The Institute’s pursuit of research excellence is enhanced by respect for community research priorities and Indigenous knowledge, values and cultures.

CIHR Institute of Musculoskeletal Health and Arthritis
The CIHR Institute of Musculoskeletal Health and Arthritis (IMHA) invests in research related to bones, joints, muscles, skin, and teeth. By supporting advances in prevention, diagnosis, and treatment, IMHA seeks to promote active living, preserve mobility, and improve oral health for Canadians.

CIHR Institute of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Addiction
The CIHR Institute of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Addiction (INMHA) invests in fundamental and clinical research on the brain and spinal cord to enhance the understanding of cognitive, emotional, and sensory motor functions. Advances in these areas will ensure a brighter future for Canadians living with neurological and mental health conditions.

CIHR Institute of Nutrition, Metabolism and Diabetes
The CIHR Institute of Nutrition, Metabolism and Diabetes (INMD) invests in research on diet, digestion, and metabolism. By addressing the causes, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of a wide range of conditions and problems associated with hormones, the digestive system, kidneys, and liver function, INMD seeks to improve health for all Canadians.

CIHR Institute of Population and Public Health
The CIHR Institute of Population and Public Health (IPPH) invests in research to examine how biological, social, and environmental factors and policies affect health. IPPH applies this knowledge to improve health and health equity for all Canadians.

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