COPE in the Coast Mountains of British Columbia
A writing retreat to focus, connect, and collaborate
From October 13-18, COPE researchers gathered at Wolverine Chalet at Tyax Lodge, north of Whistler, to advance research manuscripts and strengthen international connections. Protected writing sessions, group check-ins, and collaborative discussions were balanced with shared meals and opportunities to enjoy the surrounding nature.
Research Productivity and Goal Achievement: Protected time enabled participants to focus deeply and advance their research. As one attendee reflected, 鈥淭he focused environment allowed me a lot of focused time to make progress that otherwise I would not have made.鈥�
Collaboration and International Research Networks: Meeting in person strengthened international relationships and team cohesion, accelerated decisions, and encouraged knowledge exchange. As one participant noted, 鈥淚t uniquely provides the opportunity to connect with international collaborators in dedicated meetings as well as unstructured social settings.鈥�
Mentorship and Early Career Researcher Development: Trainees and early-career researchers gained valuable research feedback, career advice, and opportunities to learn from senior colleagues. One attendee captured the value of this experience: 鈥淭he unhurried access to my supervisor transformed our communication into deep intellectual co-creation.鈥�
Well-Being, Mental Clarity, and Sustainability: Nature, movement, and fewer everyday distractions improved researcher well-being, supporting sustainable productivity. As one participant put it, 鈥淚 was more productive and felt healthier and more mindful.鈥�
Creating Space for Creativity and New Ideas: Time to reflect and exchange perspectives encouraged novel ideas and new research directions. One attendee shared, 鈥淚 was inspired to pursue more opportunities as I was able to think outside the box and gain new perspectives.鈥�
Across these experiences, participants described the retreat as a research accelerator, bringing together analysis, planning, manuscript development, mentorship, and collaboration. Its combination of protected time and personal connection supported progress that attendees felt would have been difficult to achieve through virtual meetings or everyday academic work.
Warm thanks to COPE Principal Investigator Dr. Theresa Pauly and Dr. Victoria Michalowski for their care and effort in organizing this inspiring and productive retreat!