Dr. Christine Chambers is a clinical psychologist, Killam Professor at Dalhousie University, and Canada Research Chair (Tier 1) in Children’s Pain. Widely published and fully adept at traditional and social media, Dr. Chambers is a leader in knowledge translation and science communication.
Critical to Dr. Chamber’s research is the full participation of patients (defined by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research as “individuals with personal experience of a health issue and informal caregivers, including family and friends”). Her results are available to her peers and more importantly, to patients, parents, and caregivers, providing new power and knowledge to help advocate for children and alleviate their pain.
This focus on engagement increases the understanding, appreciation, and application of science to improve health for children and families. Her communication efforts (i.e. social media, media interviews) ensure that relevant research findings about children’s pain are public and accessible.
She has supervised over 130 trainees to date, including 17 PhD students, all of whom have been awarded training funding and have established independent careers as researchers and/or clinical leaders. Patients are members of her students’ dissertation committees and involved in their research.
Dr. Chambers is a supporter and role model for women in science, advocating for diversity, equity, and inclusion. In addition to her work in the science community, she likes to read, cook, travel, and spend time with her family.