Brent Herbert-Copley, Vice-President, Research Capacity
Brent joined SSHRC in October 2009. As Vice-President, Research Capacity, he is responsible for SSHRC’s Talent programs as well as the Canada Research Chairs,the Canada Excellence Research Chairs and the Indirect Costs programs.
Prior to joining SSHRC, Brent worked at the International Development Research Centre (IDRC), where he held a variety of positions, including, most recently, that of Director for Social and Economic Policy programs. He previously worked at the North-South Institute, a leading Canadian think-tank on development issues.
Brent’s own research has focused on understanding the process of innovation, and the way that government policies—including environmental regulation—affect that process. He has also focused on the links between research and public policy, and the role of scholarly research in helping to inform public debate on policy options. He has extensive experience working with government agencies, foundations and the university community to build support for research and scholarship, both internationally and within Canada.
Brent holds a PhD in political science and a master’s degree in international affairs from Carleton University, as well as a bachelor’s degree in political science from The University of Western Ontario.