Our Topics


The study of complexity

No longer is any topic or subject the domain of any one discipline. All fields of study are intertwined, and every topic has many facets – all of which can be examined from many angles.

Here, we take in-depth looks at a wide range of topics, and showcase how our researchers across campus bring the unique points of view of their disciplines to bear on some of the world's most intriguing questions.

Anxiety and Depression

Anxiety and depression can be debilitating disorders. But how they develop is not yet fully understood. Our researchers study the genetic and environmental factors that lead to anxiety and depression, what helps some people overcome them better than others, and what we can do to prevent them in the first place.

Cannabis Legalization

Canada is legalizing cannabis. But there's still much we don't know about what benefits and drawbacks we can expect.  Our researchers study the legal, medical, cultural and social impacts of mainstream marijuana -- whats good, what's less good, and what we need to learn more about.

Democracy in Action

Around the world, democracy is eroding. Fake news, foreign interference and partisanship are only a few of the threats facing our institutions. Our researchers study issues such as election technology, social movements and policy-making.

Gender Dynamics

As societal conversations around gender evolve, UCalgary researchers look at changing perceptions of gender through representation in art, laws and gender discrimination, masculinity, and gender norms in sports.

Living in a Digital World

As our technologies become smarter and more connected – to us and to each other – the line between real and virtual blurs. Our researchers study social change in a digital world, what keeps us human amidst the machines, and how to make data work for us, not against us. 

Our Food

More than a biological necessity, food is meant to nourish, sustain and unite us. Yet poor diet has become the leading risk of death in Canada. Our researchers study how our food affects our bodies, our health, and even our minds

Recommended stories for you

The roots of anxiety

Watch this webinar to find out what we know so far about the factors contributing to anxiety disorders and how advancing our understanding could help us predict who is at risk, as well as better target treatments for those already suffering.

Let food be thy medicine

A growing body of evidence indicates our current diets are unhealthy and a major cause of premature death and disability. Watch to learn more about the risks of poor diet, and how changes in nutrition policy could better support the health of all Canadians.

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