Program LEAD (Lifelong Education and Development) is an innovative open education resource designed to support the mental well-being and professional development of highly qualified personnel (HQP) engaged in health sciences research. The program includes five adaptable modules that equip HQP with lifelong learning tools to navigate high-pressure research environments. This project aims to assess how LEAD impacts mental health across diverse HQP at different career stages, optimize the program based on feedback, and build strategies for national and international uptake. The study will include surveys and interviews to explore the program’s effectiveness and long-term value, prioritizing accessibility, equity, and scalability across post secondary institutions. By building professional skills early, LEAD empowers future researchers to thrive personally and academically.

This project will generate practical, scalable solutions to address the mental health crisis affecting early-career researchers in health sciences. The findings will inform institutional strategies and national programming to foster a more inclusive, resilient, and sustainable research workforce.