Brandon University is pleased to announce that Dr. Gustavo Moura has been appointed as the new Director of the Centre for Applied Research and Education in Indigenous, Rural, and Remote Settings (BU CARES).
Dr. Moura brings deep experience in community-based research, inclusive education, and international collaboration. Originally from Brazil, he earned his Bachelor of Education from Dom Bosco Catholic University (UCDB), followed by a Master's in Language Studies and Literature from the State University of Mato Grosso do Sul (UEMS). He completed his PhD at the University of Manitoba in 2022, and then undertook post-doctoral work at the University of Calgary, partnering with newcomers, high schools, and elementary schools in Brooks, Alberta to explore the meaning of home and resilience in small-town contexts through an arts-based research.
His connection to BU CARES is not new, Dr. Moura served as a Research Assistant with the Centre in 2021, and a Research Coordinator from 2022 to 2024, contributing to projects such as examining the potentialities of Zoom in large-scale community-based research and the effects of polarization in Western MB. In the summer of 2024, he also became the first sessional instructor in Brandon University's Faculty of Education to teach a course on queer challenges in education.
As Director, Dr. Moura aims to build capacity in the Centre's research programs, strengthen international partnerships with institutions in Brazil, South Africa, and the United Kingdom, enhance sexual health education initiatives, and expand community-based research in small towns across Manitoba.
"I am thrilled to continue my journey with BU CARES," said Dr. Moura. "This Centre has an incredible foundation of research and community engagement, and I look forward to deepening our connections locally and globally while addressing real-world issues in Indigenous, rural, and remote contexts."
Dr. Michelle Lam, outgoing Director of BU CARES, praised Dr. Moura's vision and leadership. "Gustavo's passion for equity, inclusion, and community-driven research is inspiring," said Dr. Lam. "His experience, both here in Manitoba and internationally, will serve BU CARES exceptionally well as it moves into its next chapter."
Dr. Bernadette Ardelli, Vice-President (Research and Graduate Studies) at Brandon University, welcomed the appointment. "Gustavo's innovative approach to research and his commitment to meaningful partnerships align perfectly with BU CARES' mission," said Dr. Ardelli. "We are excited to see how he will lead the Centre in advancing knowledge and making tangible impacts in communities."
BU CARES conducts applied research and delivers educational programs focused on the unique needs and strengths of Indigenous, rural, and remote communities, working closely with partners to co-create solutions that are culturally responsive and locally grounded.
For more information about BU CARES, visit www.bucares.ca.
