Researchers at Memorial University have been transformed into illustrated characters of a graphic novel in The League of Extraordinary Researchers, the university’s newly released creative retelling of the Research Strategy Framework.

The document is available online at www.mun.ca/research/framework.

The Research Strategy Framework sets the vision, mission and guiding principles for research at Memorial and identifies the goals and objectives necessary to achieve success. Its development marks a significant step in the university’s growth and evolution as a research-focused institution.

“Our new research framework, developed using an inclusive and highly consultative process, defines the principles and goals with which we will build even greater capacity, impact and reputation in research,” said Dr. Gary Kachanoski, president and vice-chancellor, Memorial University. “It identifies areas where we have clear cross-disciplinary strengths on which to build, as well as emerging themes with significant potential for growth and importance. All can and will strengthen Memorial’s historic and continued contributions to the economic, social, cultural and scientific well-being of this province and the country.”

Dr. Christopher Loomis, vice-president (research), said the framework is a first for Memorial University.

“As an aspirational document, it pushes us to pursue, support and celebrate research excellence in all its forms at Memorial,” he said. “As a working document, it will shape specific action plans in the academic units and the recruitment of new faculty to achieve the vision set out in the framework. It will also inform Memorial’s future investments in support of research.”  

The framework was guided by the feedback received in more than 100 consultation sessions within the university and around the province. Overall, approximately 2,000 individual participants contributed to its development.

The League of Extraordinary Researchers uses the style of a graphic novel to tell the story of research at Memorial.

“Graphic novels often deal with themes of overcoming challenges, perseverance, and triumph in the face of adversity – traits also important for success in research,” said Dr. Loomis. “Graphic novels often tell the story of everyday people, working to affect positive change in their world. We wanted to share our story in a creative and compelling way, reflecting the talents and ingenuity of our research community. We decided to use original artwork and storytelling to bring both their research work and the Research Strategy Framework to life.  This first volume of Illustrating Memorial is called The League of Extraordinary Researchers.”

The League of Extraordinary Researchers features original art by local illustrator Paul Tucker, a graduate of the visual arts program at Grenfell Campus.

The Strategic Research Framework, along with the Teaching and Learning Framework and the Public Engagement Framework, will be used to guide Memorial’s overall planning process and will inform the institution’s decision-making and strategic direction.