Institute for Circumpolar Health Research (ICHR)

The Institute for Circumpolar Health Research (ICHR) is an independent, not-for-profit organization based in Yellowknife, Northwest Territories, devoted to advancing health research and education in circumpolar regions.

Our vision is to build on the strengths and knowledge of all cultures to achieve health. Our mission is to foster partnerships for the development of northern health knowledge through research, facilitation, education and knowledge synthesis.

The current team includes researchers, students, and community partners, supported by a dedicated Indigenous Elder advisory group and a board of directors. The Institute has three main objectives:
1. To conduct and facilitate ethical and rigourous research, which will be used to improve health and wellness, and reduce health disparities for northern residents;
2. To synthesize, disseminate and facilitate the exchange of knowledge with decision-makers in the Canadian North and researchers across Canada relevant to health issues and priorities for circumpolar populations and opportunities to improve health care and health system performance in circumpolar regions; and
3. To conduct training and educate northern stakeholders and research partners on health research methodologies.