Canada Research Chair

Created in May 2005, the Canada Research Chair in Comparative Public Policy, held by Dr. Patrik Marier, focuses on the policy challenges engendered by population ageing.

Population ageing is a demographic phenomenon occurring in industrialized countries throughout the world. Caused by declining birth rates and higher life expectancy, the policy implications are far-reaching. The Canada Research Chair in Comparative Public Policy focuses on the impact of population ageing on the welfare state. From a comparative perspective, this research explores the ageing strategies adopted by different countries, including their political implications. (See “Mission”)

Students working as research assistants gain valuable experience in a number of fields, including social policy, comparative politics, welfare state, pensions, policy reform and public administration, just to name a few. They are trained in both quantitative and qualitative data analysis and must be prepared to manage long term projects as well as tight deadlines. Many who have worked for the research team have moved on to successful careers in public policy. (See “Students”)

Students are also strongly encouraged to pursue academic excellence throughout their research, some even benefitting from publication opportunities, whether in academic journals or through the CRC Policy Briefs. (See “Publications”)

Recognizing the complex nature of population ageing, the Canada Research Chair is also involved in the creation of the Concordia Ageing Research Network. Through collaboration with Centre for Research in Human Development, the goal of the network is to engage in a constructive dialogue with researchers from a multitude of disciplines, including psychology, political science, economics, geography, marketing, management, philosophy, sociology, mathematics, and many more. (See “Research Network on Ageing”)