Challenges to success among research trainees in Canada: Insights from a national spinal cord injury conference

Nicole Cesca^1,2,3Elina Nezon^1,2Lovisa Cheung^1,2,3Thomas Peter Walden²Guijin Li^2,410th National SCI Conference Trainee Advisory Group⁵Anita Kaiser^1,1,2,3,3*Wagner H. Souza^2*

• ¹Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
• ²KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
• ³Department of Physical Therapy, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
• ⁴Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
• ⁵Members of the 10th National SCI Conference Trainee Advisory Group are provided in Supplement 1, Ontario, Canada

ABSTRACT Background: The active involvement of trainees in research is critical for scientific innovation. However, significant barriers hinder trainees' academic and professional success, limiting career advancement and impairing research translation. Few studies have applied a holistic model to analyze these challenges in Canada. This study aimed to identify multilevel challenges faced by Canadian research trainees to inform future interventions. Methods: A multi-staged participatory workshop, including a literature review and group discussions with trainees, was held at a Canadian spinal cord injury conference. The Socio-Ecological Model (SEM) was used, and data were analyzed using deductive followed by inductive content analysis. Results: Twenty-seven trainees participated, including undergraduate students (n=5), MSc students (n=5), PhD students (n=10), post-doctoral fellows (n=6) and a research associate (n=1). Analysis of review findings at the pre-workshop stage identified four core themes: Financial, Logistical, Cultural, and Mental Health Challenges. Key findings post-workshop included severe financial pressures due to inadequate stipends and high living costs, unclear career pathways, cultural demands for productivity at the expense of well-being, and pervasive mental health struggles linked to stress and isolation. Financial and Logistical Challenges primarily affected trainees at the individual level, while Cultural and Mental Health Challenges were largely prevalent at the interpersonal level of the SEM. Conclusions: Canadian research trainees face complex, interrelated challenges requiring systemic solutions. Increased financial support, improved mentorship, and institutional reforms could enhance well-being, career prospects, and retention of top talent, while supporting the development of research trainees.