There are several ways that researchers and scientists can access ICES data.
1. Becoming an ICES scientist
ICES scientists are independent researchers with a university academic appointment at the level of assistant professor or higher and who have experience using ICES data to conduct health services research. ICES scientists enjoy access to all ICES data holdings. ICES scientists are appointed to the ICES Research Program which best fits their interests and, as such, become members of a network of health services researchers from across Ontario.
All initial scientist appointments at ICES are probationary and are contingent on:
- A university academic appointment at the level of assistant professor or higher.
- At least two publications with a lead role (primary or senior author) using data from ICES (or substantially similar data from another jurisdiction).
- Funds to carry out the proposed program of research from sources such as grants, departmental funds or funds from a mentor or collaborator's grant. Applicants need not hold a grant for ICES research personally at the time of their application for appointment.
- Absence of unmanageable conflicts of interest as determined by the ICES CEO.
For more information on how to apply for an ICES scientist appointment or to complete an appointment application package, see Scientist Applications. You may also contact the appropriate research program coordinator for further information.
2. Collaborating with an ICES scientist
Collaborations with investigators external to ICES require an ICES principal investigator or co-investigator on the grant or project. The ICES co-investigator will participate fully in the research project and is the responsible party within ICES. The ICES investigator is expected to attend all project meetings, co-direct the analysis, and ensure that all ICES policies and procedures are followed.
For more information on research collaboration opportunities, please contact an ICES scientist. Our complete listing of ICES faculty is also available by research program and includes the scientist’s primary research content areas.
3. Using Data & Analytic Services
As part of the Ontario SPOR SUPPORT Unit (OSSU), ICES is providing researchers, students and knowledge users with access to these data through the newly created ICES Data & Analytic Services (ICES DAS). The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), the Ontario Ministry of Health and Long-Term Care (MOHLTC) and the Ontario Ministry of Research and Innovation (MRI) have partnered to fund the OSSU as part of Canada's Strategy for Patient-Oriented Research (SPOR).
Visit the Data & Analytic Services page for more information.
4. Becoming an ICES Post-Doctoral Trainee, Fellow or Visiting Scholar
The ICES Post-Doctoral Trainee, Fellow and Visiting Scholar Program provides opportunities for scientists from other institutions to work with ICES scientists and staff to learn and share research knowledge and expertise. These opportunities may be supported at any of the ICES sites.
For more information on how to apply for one of these appointments or to complete an application package, see ICES Post-Doctoral Trainee, Fellow and Visiting Scholar Application Instructions.