28. Embedding DEI: Prof Reema Harrison on building equitable research practices from grant to impact

View the full show notes, including a summary of practical tips on the Amplifying Research website: https://www.amplifyingresearch.com/podcast/28-reema-harrison

 

Today’s episode is a deep dive with Prof Reema Harrison on how to embed diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) throughout the entire research process — from study design to dissemination.

Prof Harrison leads a program of research at the Australian Institute of Health Innovation, focusing on how increasing stakeholder engagement can contribute to improved healthcare quality, experiences, and outcomes, and she has published extensively on the use of peer support, mentorship, and co-design approaches to create impactful change in healthcare.

We discuss practical strategies for building diverse research teams, effectively engaging with various communities, and ensuring that your research outputs are truly relevant and impactful.

"Diversity, inclusion, impact, stakeholder engagement are all part of a research approach. They're not something to add on after you've designed a project. They are how you develop work and a program of work and sustain it." — Dr Reema Harrison

If you’re a researcher committed to making your work more inclusive and impactful, or if you’re part of a research organisation looking to better support DEI in your projects, this episode is packed with valuable insights and actionable advice!

 

Our conversation covers:

• • Why meaningful co-design and stakeholder engagement should start from the very beginning of a research project

  • Practical strategies for building diverse research teams and why diversity in the research team matters

  • The importance of ongoing stakeholder relationships and community engagement as standard practice, and how it contributes to improved outcomes

  • Approaches for effectively engaging with diverse communities, ensuring their voices are heard and respected

  • Practical advice on handling conflicts and power dynamics in diverse teams and stakeholder groups

  • The role of research institutions in supporting DEI initiatives

  • Tips for early career researchers on building networks and engaging with diverse stakeholders

  • How to use peer support, mentorship, and co-design methods to foster inclusivity in research

  • How to navigate challenging conversations and build emotional intelligence in research settings

  • Ensuring that research outputs are relevant and impactful for all community groups, not just the majority.

  • Challenges researchers may face when trying to embed DEI into their work and how to overcome them.

 

Resources:

• CanEngage project website

  • “Providing review and feedback as a co-author – a guide for consumers“

  • “Visual summary of a national analysis about multicultural consumer engagement practices“

  • “Audit for Consumer Engagement (ACE) Tool“

Find Dr Reema Harrison online:

• LinkedIn — https://www.linkedin.com/in/reema-harrison/

• Macquarie University — https://researchers.mq.edu.au/en/persons/reema-harrison