Wahi to advance collaboration, equity as next Associate Chair of Research

Dr. Gita Wahi, an associate professor of pediatrics with a Ph.D. in health research methodology, has been appointed Associate Chair of Research for a three-year term.  

Wahi joined the department in 2009 and is an associate member of the Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (HEI). 

Her collaborative research explores the intersection of health equity, health promotion, and the care of children with common health conditions. Her partnerships have led to highly productive relationships with multiple research networks, institutes, and colleagues from McMaster University’s Faculty of Health Sciences, Hamilton Health Sciences, and broadly across regional and national research communities.  

In 2022, Wahi co-chaired the Department of Pediatrics’ Research Summit bringing together 50 investigators from nearly all clinical and research disciplines across pediatrics to develop a vision and 10-year plan for child health research. 

She is a founding member of the Anti-Racism Coalition (ARC), a team of five pediatricians focusing on meaningful anti-racism and anti-oppression action at McMaster University and McMaster Children’s Hospital through education, institutional change, and growing relationships with equity-deserving groups. She has also served as a Lead for Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion on the HHS Scientific Research Committee and will apply this vital lens to advance Pediatrics’ research portfolio.  

“We’re very excited to welcome Dr. Gita Wahi to our executive leadership team,” said Dr. Angelo Mikrogianakis, Chair of the Department of Pediatrics and Chief of McMaster Children’s Hospital. “With a record of research success enabled through collaboration and as a steadfast advocate of anti-racism and anti-oppressive action, I know she will help us make tremendous strides to advance our strategic goals in the department.” 

Wahi will begin the role on August 1st and takes over from Dr. Katherine Morrision, who has held the position since 2020.