I am excited to present the inaugural SkIN Canada Newsletter. With support from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research – Institute of Musculoskeletal Health and Arthritis, the launch of SkIN Canada provides an unprecedented opportunity to catalyze collaborative research across the country for the benefit of people living with skin conditions. SkIN Canada has three main goals: a) develop national infrastructure to advance multicentre skin research; b) foster new collaborations between patients, researchers, and clinicians at academic and community sites; and c) grow the skin research community. We recognize the value of open science and engaging patients to achieve these goals, and have ensured that the patient voice is integrated throughout all our activities.

Since the network’s launch, we have undertaken several projects to actualize these aims in collaboration with over 450 researchers, patients, clinicians, and trainees who have generously contributed their time and effort. Our landmark Priority Setting Initiative is establishing the most important research topics for nine common skin conditions in Canada. We are developing national infrastructure – including a directory of research expertise, database development support services, and a Master Network Agreement – to lower the barriers to initiating multicentre studies. We have also hosted multiple training events on career development and patient engagement for students and early career investigators.

We intend to make this newsletter more than just a regular update on SkIN Canada’s activities. We will showcase the profiles of early career investigators and patient research partners. Further, we will promote the successes of Canadian skin researchers and highlight opportunities to collaborate.

This is only the beginning of our efforts to catalyze collaborative skin research in Canada, as we endeavour to engage a diverse and powerful community. In the coming months we will be launching a call for Team Development Grant proposals; join our mailing list to stay informed. We sincerely appreciate your support and interest in SkIN Canada, and encourage you to share this newsletter widely. The more eyes it reaches, the more powerful a tool it can become.

An-Wen Chan

Managing Director

SkIN Canada