MIRA Governance Overview

MIRA’s governance and management structure ensures scientific excellence and has successfully supported the Institute over the last five years with management and oversight from both the Labarge Gift Board and the University’s senior leadership. In 2021, MIRA underwent an external five-year review. On the recommendation of the external review board, MIRA started to refocus and redesign the composition of both the End User Stakeholder Committee and the Training and Capacity Working Group. Going forward, the End User Stakeholder Committee will be separated into a Stakeholder Committee and a Community Partner Network to ensure efficiency and an optimal consultation model.

In 2022 MIRA will finalize recruitment of new members for its governance committees, providing time for a gradual transition to new members. Renewing the governance committees and working groups will ensure the Institute’s work remains relevant and continues to reach communities that will most benefit from research that supports older adults to live longer, healthier lives.

As outlined in the governance structure, MIRA’s Scientific Director reports to the MIRA Governing Board and the Labarge Gift Board. The Scientific Director is advised by the Executive Committee and the International Scientific Advisory Committee. The Scientific Director of each focused centre has a seat on the Executive Committee. Working groups, the Stakeholder Committee and the Community Partner Network provide a variety of perspectives to support MIRA’s research initiatives and programs.

“Since first forming, MIRA has benefitted from the critical insight and guidance of a dedicated group of researchers holding key roles in our governance structure. I am excited to see how MIRA continues to evolve as our committees and groups bring in new members.” — Ine WaubenManaging Director, McMaster Institute for Research on Aging