Developing health research capacity and capability in underserved geographies: a case study from a new medical school

To promote equity in research funding and reduce health inequalities, national funding bodies should adopt more inclusive investment strategies that actively support emerging centres. Structural reform is needed to ensure that funding mechanisms do not solely reward existing capacity but also foster its development in underserved regions. Our findings offer a scalable model for building sustainable research ecosystems in new or underfunded centres, aligned with local health needs and population outcomes.