April 30, 2001
New Dean of Extension Announced at U of S
Posted April 30, 2001
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ? April 30th, 2001 2001-04-18-OTHER
U of S Board announces new Dean of
Extension Division
The Board of Governors at the University of Saskatchewan has approved the
appointment of Dr. Walter Archer as Dean of Extension for a five-year,
renewable term, effective July 1, 2001. This appointment was the result of
an extensive, open search for candidates across Canada. Dr. Michael
Atkinson, Vice-President Academic and Provost and Chair of the Search
Committee, said: "Dr. Archer brings a broad range of skills and experience
that will benefit the Extension Division and the University of
Saskatchewan."
Dr. Archer holds a B.A., a B.Ed. and a Ph.D. from the University of Alberta
and an M.A. from Cornell University, New York.
He has held a number of academic teaching and administrative positions at
the University of Alberta, including his current post as Professor in the
Faculty of Extension and Associate Dean of Research. Previously, he was
Acting Director for the Master of Arts in Communications and Technology
program (1997-2001), Assistant Dean and Head of the Division of Applied Arts
(1996-1997) Director of Applied Arts and Director of Educational Media
Services (1995-1996) and Director of Adult and Distance Education
(1988-1994).
Dr. Archer has a considerable reputation for scholarship in Adult Education
and Continuing Education. He has published widely and has research interests
in the trends within the field of university continuing education, the
impact of distance education on conventional universities and the use of
technology in education.
Dr. Archer will replace Dr. Gordon Thompson who has served as Dean since
1991. "Our gratitude and best wishes go to Dr. Thompson. He has made a
significant long-term contribution to the Division of Extension and the
University of Saskatchewan," added Dr. Atkinson.
For further information, contact:
Dr. Michael Atkinson
Vice-President Academic and Provost
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-8484
April 26, 2001
U of S Awarded New Research Chairs
Posted April 26, 2001
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ? April 25th, 2001 2001-04-17-OTHER
U of S Awarded New Research Chairs
The University of Saskatchewan is set to receive an additional $1.1 million
annually from the Government of Canada to create seven Canada Research
Chairs (CRC) on campus. The announcement was made today by Federal Minister
of Industry, Brian Tobin, at a press conference in Winnipeg.
"This is excellent news for the University of Saskatchewan," said University
President, Peter MacKinnon. "The money will play an important role in
strengthening the University?s position as a major centre for research
excellence."
Five of the Chair holders are from the U of S working in the Colleges of
Agriculture, Arts and Science, Engineering, Medicine and Veterinary
Medicine. The other two Chair holders are from the Department of Geography
at Queen?s University and from the Department of Sociology at the University
of Singapore.
The Chairs will focus on the University?s six main areas of research:
biotechnology, environmental sciences, health sciences, identity and
diversity, materials science and technology and change.
"There will be a tremendous infusion of academic creativity. We intend to
build on our deployment of Canada Research Chairs to recruit tenure-track
faculty in the areas of research identified in the strategic research plan
for the Chairs program," added President MacKinnon.
The Chairs are the first of 31 allotted to the U of S by the Canada Research
Chairs Program, a $900-million initiative of the federal government designed
to create 2,000 new research chairs at Canadian universities over the next
five years.
Nominations for the Chairs are submitted by universities to the Chairs
Program and are reviewed by a team of academic peers who choose only the
most outstanding. The Chairs Program offers Tier 1 chairs (a seven-year term
for world leaders in their field -- renewable -- bringing $200,000 per year
to the University) and Tier 2 chairs (a five-year term for researchers with
peer-acknowledged potential to become world leaders -- renewable once --
bringing $100,000 per year).
The Chairs fall into the fields of the three main federal granting agencies:
the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC); the Canadian
Institutes of Health Research (CIHR); and the Social Sciences and Humanities
Research Council of Canada (SSHRC).
The Chairs are expected to take up their appointments by January 1, 2002.
For more information, contact:
Peter MacKinnon
President
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6612
Natalie Beaudoin
Canada Research Chairs Communications
(613) 995-3205.
Chair holders:
Lorne Babiuk
Veterinary and Infectious Disease Organization
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-7477 Phone
Louis Delbaere
Department of Biochemistry
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-4360
James Miller (from May 10th)
Department of History
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-5806
Evelyn Peters
Department of Geography
Queen?s University
(613) 533-6420
Akira Hirose
Department of Physics and Engineering Physics
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6404/6414
Ajay Dalai,
Department of Chemical Engineering
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-4771
Zaheer Baber
Department of Sociology
National University of Singapore
Singapore
(65) 874-6409
Fax (65) 770-2794
Canada Research Chairs Backgrounder
The CRC program will provide:
$1.4M over seven years (renewable) for a CIHR Chair in Vaccinology. Chair
holder, VIDO Director, Lorne Babiuk
The research focus of the Chair spans two of the University?s major thrusts
- biotechnology and health sciences. Dr. Babiul will focus efforts and build
a strong team of collaborators with expertise in virology, bacteriology,
parasitology, genomics, immunology and in animal models of disease. The
Chair will accelerate the development of new, safer and more effective
vaccines for both humans and animals. This will lead to disease prevention,
improved food safety and reduced health costs.
$1.4M over seven years (renewable) for a CIHR Chair in Structural
Biochemistry. Chair holder, Louis Delbaere, Department of Biochemistry,
College of Medicine.
Dr. Delbaere will carry out research using the University?s Canadian Light
Source (CLS) facility. He will use one of the CLS beam lines to get a closer
look at the structure of proteins so that he can study their function in
relation to their structure. His research will lead to the design of new
drugs which will help fight major diseases including diabetes, cancer and
heart disease.
$1.4M over seven years (renewable) for a SSHRC Chair in Native-newcomer
Relations. Chair holder, James Miller, Department of History, College of
Arts and Science.
Dr. Miller will continue to carry out research on the history of
Native-newcomer relations in Canada. Topics will include the history of
treaty-making in Canada, and related issues such as present-day treaty
rights, linguistic survival, indigenous self-government and Aboriginal
self-government. His research will support a major strategic initiative for
the university -- responding to the needs of Aboriginal peoples by
celebrating identity and diversity.
$0.5M over five years (renewable once) for a SSHRC Chair in Identity and
Diversity: the Aboriginal Experience. Chair holder, Evelyn Peters, Associate
Professor, Department of Geography, Queen?s University.
Dr. Peters is an expert in the urbanization of Aboriginal peoples in Canada.
The Chair will play a major role in guiding U of S research on Aboriginal
issues, strengthening the links between researchers and the Aboriginal
communities in Saskatchewan, and moving the U of S to the forefront in
Canadian Aboriginal research. It is especially fortunate that Dr. Peters?
research complements the work being proposed in the recently funded
Community University Research Alliance on Aboriginal housing entitled
Bridges and Foundations.
$0.5M over five years (renewable once) for a SSHRC Chair in Science,
Technology and Social Change. Chair holder, Zaheer Baber, Assistant
Professor, Department of Sociology, National University of Singapore.
Dr. Baber will examine the emerging relations between scientific knowledge
and social change. He will look at the impact of globalization and
government policy on science, technology and research in North America and
other nations and will engage in research on public opinion on major
scientific, technological and social developments.
$1.4M over seven years (renewable) for a NSERC Chair in Plasma Science.
Chair holder, Akira Hirose, Head of Physics and Engineering Physics, College
of Arts and Science.
Dr. Hirose will initiate a broad research and development program in
plasma-based material science. He aims to develop new materials, such as
artificial diamonds and artificial carbon, which are far superior to the
materials found naturally. He also intends to use this technology to
improve the quality of existing materials such as metals and polymers by
making them less susceptible to wear and tear in medical and commercial
applications.
$0.5M over five years (renewable once) for a NSERC Chair in Bio-energy and
Environmentally-friendly Chemical Processing, Chair holder, Ajay Dalai,
Associate Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering, College of
Engineering.
Dr. Dalai will carry out research to develop energy efficient and
environmentally-friendly products, catalysts and processes. This research
has a variety of significant applications including the development of
environmentally-friendly gasoline and other fuels. In addition, Dr. Dalai
will carry out research to produce diesel fuel additives which will improve
lubricity, reduce engine wear and improve fuel economy.
April 25, 2001
U of S Health Sciences Advisory Council Issues Report
Posted April 25, 2001
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ? April 24th, 2001 2001-04-14-ME
U of S Health Sciences Advisory Council
Issues Report
Today the University of Saskatchewan Health Sciences Advisory Council
released a report outlining the proposed changes in the way the College of
Medicine and Saskatoon District Health (SDH) work together which will
improve health services to our community and province.
The study was commissioned by the Council and conducted by a three-person
committee, led by Dr. Peter Glynn, an expert on health care policy, planning
and management, and former Assistant Deputy Minister, Health Services and
Promotion Branch, Health and Welfare Canada.
Dr. Glynn?s recommendations, once implemented, will increase the efficiency
of operating room allocations at SDH leading to shorter waiting times and
improved patient care. They will also improve the College of Medicine?s
ability to recruit and retain high-quality faculty to the province.
Recommendations of the report include:
- Recognize the interdependent relationship between U of S and SDH and
significantly increase collaboration in teaching, research and service.
- Integrate all academic medical staff, both part-time and full-time and
create shared governance structures between SDH and the University Boards.
- Replace the current structure of separate heads of surgery for the College
of Medicine and SDH and create a Joint Chief of Surgical Services position
reporting to the Physician Vice-President at SDH and the Dean of Medicine.
The Joint Chief of Surgical Services will implement a new and more equitable
Operating Room booking system.
- Initiate a review of the District surgical waiting times in order to
establish a new system of allocation and scheduling fundamentally based upon
patient need as well as a surgeon?s waiting list length, teaching, research
and administrative/leadership activities.
This report is a more detailed extension of the work carried out by
Noseworthy in 1999, which was an overall review of the role of the College
of Medicine and its relationship with the rest of the health care system.
Many of the observations are also consistent with those made by Fyke in his
recently-released report on Medicare. For example, Saskatoon should be
designated as an Academic Health District with a governance structure that
is different from the other Saskatchewan Health Districts. This report also
echoed the need for urgent action.
Marcel de la Gorgendi貥, Chair of the Health Sciences Advisory Council,
said: "We acknowledge there are current problems in the way we work together
and this report provides us with some useful recommendations. We are all
committed to resolving these issues in the months ahead."
Jim Fergusson, President and CEO, Saskatoon District Health, commends the
independent review team for its thorough and insightful report. Fergusson
adds: "The District commits itself to working with the other partners in
implementing the report recommendations. The significant changes put forth
will enhance our relationships with our partners and improve patient care
for residents of our community and the province."
David Popkin, Dean of the College of Medicine, said: "I am pleased that the
review team recommended that the Saskatoon Health District be designated as
an Academic Health District and that changes to the governance structure be
made to facilitate that transition. I am also pleased that the Regina Health
District was recognized as a resource highly valued by the College of
Medicine."
The Health Sciences Advisory Council is made up of senior representatives
from the University, College of Medicine, Health Sciences Deans Committee,
SDH, Regina District Health and the Departments of Health and Post-Secondary
Education and Skills Training.
Implementation of the recommendations in the report will be an on-going
process beginning with a joint U of S and SDH Board meeting in May to
discuss strategy. Discussions will also take place with both part-time and
full-time faculty in the Departments of Surgery. Authors of the report, as
well as faculty advisors from the University of Calgary, will attend to take
part in these discussions.
For further information, contact:
Peter Glynn
Consultant
Health Care Policy, Planning and Management
(613) 549-6099
Marcel de la Gorgendi貥
Chair of the Health Sciences Advisory Council
(306) 787-5646
Peter MacKinnon
President
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6612
For Jim Fergusson
President and CEO
Saskatoon District Health
Contact:
Marielle Gauthier
SDH Communications Counsellor
(306) 655-1028
Glynn Report
Backgrounder
The Peter Glynn Report is a further step in the ongoing process to better
meet the health care needs of Saskatchewan people. Many of its
recommendations and endorsements support earlier work done by Tom Noseworthy
and Ken Fyke.
- On January 13th, 1999 Dr. Tom Noseworthy released his report, Blueprint
for Change. The report was commissioned by Saskatchewan Health in
collaboration with Post-Secondary Education and Skills Training. It made
recommendations to strengthen the College of Medicine?s role in
Saskatchewan?s health system.
- Among other things, the Noseworthy Report recommended that a Health
Sciences Advisory Council be formed to provide a forum for advising on the
optimal use of the resources of the health sciences colleges in the
interests of health care in Saskatchewan.
- The Advisory Council was formed in January 2000 and is made up of
representatives from the health science colleges, senior university
administration, the health districts, and the Departments of Health and
Post-Secondary Education and Skills Training. It is chaired by a
representative of the University Board.
- In June 2000, Premier Roy Romanow commissioned Ken Fyke to provide
recommendations to the people and the government on the continuation of
publicly funded, publicly administered Medicare in a manner that responds to
the unique needs of Saskatchewan people, contributes to improved health and
well being, and will be sustainable and affordable to citizens over the long
term.
- On April 11th of this year, Ken Fyke released the report of the Commission
on Medicare. In it, he recommends a renewed commitment to health research
and education, suggesting that the health science colleges are an integral
part of Saskatchewan?s health care system.
- Like Fyke, the Glynn recommendations are consistent with points raised by
Noseworthy. More specifically, Glynn identifies approaches to enhance the
service provided through better management of the Operating Room booking
systems while also creating a joint, common mission for the District and the
University.
- Also like Fyke, Glynn recommended that the Saskatoon Health District be
designated an academic health sciences centre, with a different mandate and
governance structure than those of the other health districts. Educational
requirements would be acknowledged as central to the mission of SDH.
April 24, 2001
U of S College of Dentistry Opens New SciCan UltraClinic
Posted April 24, 2001
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ? April 23rd, 2001 2001-04-13-DE
U of S College of Dentistry Opens
New SciCan UltraClinic
Today, University of Saskatchewan President Peter MacKinnon officially
opened the new SciCan UltraClinic at the College of Dentistry.
The SciCan UltraClinic is a six-chair, self-contained dental clinic,
supplied with the latest dental equipment in partnership with SciCan Canada.
The facility is unique in Canadian dental education.
SciCan, one of Canada?s leading suppliers of dental equipment, contributed
approximately $130,000 towards equipment expenditure. Remaining revenue
costs will be borne by the University of Saskatchewan Capital Equipment Fund
and the College of Dentistry.
Operated by senior dental students, the UltraClinic will be supported by
three certified dental assistants and mentored by an experienced general
practitioner. The UltraClinic will allow students to provide a range of
dental services in a patient-centered, private practice-like environment.
Previously, students only had access to the College of Dentistry?s main
clinic where all practical training was procedure-focused, limited to one
discipline at a time.
Ken Sutherland, Assistant Dean, Clinical Affairs, said: "We are delighted
that SciCan supports the College of Dentistry. The UltraClinic will augment
the clinical educational experience, and increase the availability of
clinical facilities for our students."
SciCan National Sales Manager, Normand LaQuoix, said: "We are pleased to
support such a worthy project in dental education. This is an important
precedent for partnership between business and dental schools."
For further information, contact:
Dr. Ken Sutherland
College of Dentistry
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-5088
April 20, 2001
U of S Announces Outcome of Program Reviews
Posted April 20, 2001
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ? April 19th, 2001 2001-04-12-OTHER
U of S Announces Outcome of Program Reviews
Today the University of Saskatchewan announced the first outcomes of a major
review of the university?s academic programs, which is set to improve the
quality of education it delivers to students.
The Systematic Program Review (SPR) looked at all undergraduate and graduate
programs in agriculture, pharmacy and nutrition, as well as some graduate
programs in toxicology, education and commerce.* Programs were evaluated
according to the quality of curriculum, faculty, learning environment,
infrastructure and outcomes, demand for courses and efficiency in the use of
resources.
This new review process is designed to encourage program improvement,
demonstrate accountability and provide information to guide decisions about
programs and resources. Each review includes a self-study by the program, a
site visit and report by external reviewers, responses from Deans and
program heads, decision on outcome categories, and action-plans to implement
the recommendations.
There are four possible outcome categories: A (few, if any, changes
required; program will be sustained); B (some changes required; program will
be sustained at approximately current level); C (fundamental changes
required; concrete action plan must be developed to address deficiencies);
and D (requirement to consider termination). **
Of the programs reviewed in 1999/2000, four were rated A, 11 were rated B
and 14 were rated C. There were no Ds.
University Vice-President Academic and Provost, Michael Atkinson, said:
"These sorts of reviews are standard practice in most universities and aim
to maintain academic quality. The review standards the U of S sets for
itself are quite remarkable and very ambitious. If all of our programs were
to receive an A rating, we would certainly be in league with the most elite
post-secondary institutions in North America.
"While we can take pride in our world-class A programs and the good, solid
Bs, we?re already working together to address the issues raised by the Cs.
Some program mergers are in the pipeline, and other revisions and
restructuring are on the way.
"Some of the problems identified are the result of resource shortfalls, so
we?re hoping governments will pay attention to the very real impact that
their budgetary decisions have on program quality."
External reviewers were recruited from some of the best universities in
North America. Ernie Barber, Dean of Agriculture, said he "was impressed
with the reviewers. Their guidance will be a tremendous help as we continue
our academic renewal. In Agriculture, we will build on our strengths and
improve in areas of strategic importance. We learned a lot from the SPR
process that will help us to be a preferred place in Canada for agricultural
education."
Further reviews are currently underway for law, nursing, graduate education,
and some undergraduate interdisciplinary programs. Outcomes for these
programs will be available later this year. Preparation has also begun for
next year?s reviews of engineering and the natural sciences.
For further information, contact:
General information:
Michael Atkinson
Vice-President Academic and Provost
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-8484
Gary Kachanoski [after April 22]
Dean College of Graduate Studies and Research
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-5759
Information from Deans and Program Heads:
Ernie Barber
Dean College of Agriculture
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-4050
Ken Jacknicke
Dean College of Education
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-7647
Dennis Gorecki
Dean College of Pharmacy & Nutrition
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6328
Lou Hammond Ketilson
Associate Dean of Commerce
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-4786
Karsten Liber
Director, Toxicology Centre
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-7441
Information on Council decision:
Jene Porter
Chair, Planning Committee of Council
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-5218
**Outcomes of programs reviewed in 1999/2000
AGRICULTURE
B - BSA Agronomy
A - BSA in Ag Economics
A - Grad in Ag Economics
C - BSA in Agriclt?l Chemistry
C - BSA in Envnm?ntl Science
A - BSA in Soil Science
A - Grad in Soil Science
B - BSA in Agricultural Biology
B - BSA Crop Science
C - BSA Horticulture Science
B - BSA Plant Ecology/Rangeland Resources
B - Grad in Crop Science
C - Grad in Horticulture Science
C - Grad in Plant Ecology
B - BSA in Animal Science
B - Grad in Animal Science
C - BSA in Appl?d Microbiology
C - BSA in Food Science
C - BSc in Food Science
C - Grad in Appl?d Microbiology
C - Grad in Food Science
GRAD. STUDIES & RESEARCH
B - Grad in Toxicology
EDUCATION
C - Grad in Ed?l Psychology
C - Grad in Education of Exceptional Children
PHARMACY & NUTRITION
B - BSP in Pharmacy
C - Grad in Pharmacy
B - BSc (Nutr) in Nutrition
B - Grad in Nutrition
COMMERCE
C - MBA
*Systematic Program Review
The Systematic Program Review (SPR) process was approved by Council in
principle in 1994 and in detail in February 1999. It maps out an ongoing,
seven-year cyclical schedule for the review of all U of S undergraduate and
graduate programs.
Colleges and departments under review complete self-study reports on their
programs, and teams of internal and external reviewers visit the campus,
taking an in-depth look at program offerings and facilities, and
interviewing students, professors, deans, department heads, administrators
and others involved.
All stages of the SPR process ? college and department self studies, site
visits and reports by reviewers, responses by the colleges and departments
involved, final assessment by the Vice-President (Academic), Dean of
Graduate Studies and Research, and their committees, and action-plans for
the programs ? are aimed at improving instructional programs, encouraging
program innovation, demonstrating university accountability, and helping the
U of S plan program revisions, program deletions and resource allocation.
Recommendations from the reviewers have already begun to be implemented.
Action plans will specify detailed strategies, timelines and
responsibilities to address the issues raised by reviewers.
Description of Categories
Category A: The program is supported by evidence of academic vitality in
teaching and scholarly/artistic work and extension/public service sustained
over a significant period of time. It has achieved at least a national
reputation, and might be expected to develop as a centre of excellence. Few,
if any, fundamental changes are required. There will be a commitment to at
least sustain the program at existing levels and provide additional
resources where justified.
Category B: The program is supported by evidence of academic vitality in
teaching and scholarly/artistic work and extension/public service sustained
over a period of time but has some weaknesses. Some fundamental changes
should be made. Modifications may include program changes (e.g. curriculum
revisions), internal redirection of faculty resources, additional resource
allocations, (both faculty and non-faculty), and, measures to improve
student satisfaction/quality of experience in the program. There will be a
commitment to sustain the program at approximately the current level and to
consider additional resource needs in the context of regular university
resource allocation processes.
Category C: The program is supported by some evidence of academic vitality
in teaching and scholarly/artistic work and extension/public service but has
identifiable deficiencies which should be rectified in a given timeframe. It
is characterized by sufficient demand, and/or may be essential to the
service requirements of other units. Several fundamental changes must be
made to achieve adequacy and provide a credible program. Deficiencies may be
identified as program (e.g., curricular), faculty/scholarly activity (e.g.
quality and quantity of scholarship or breadth of expertise of faculty), and
non-faculty resources. There will be a requirement for development of a
concrete and realistic action plan by the unit/College to address
deficiencies within an identifiable time frame.
Category D: The program, over a period of years, has shown little evidence
of academic vitality in teaching or scholarly/artistic work or
extension/public service. Such a program may suffer from additional
liabilities including low quality to cost ratio, low student demand, and
lack of provision of an important service component to other programs. The
academic quality of the program area is unlikely to improve without
significant additional resources. Many fundamental changes are required.
There will be a requirement to consider initiation of approved Council
procedures for program termination.
April 18, 2001
Province Awards $521,100 for Two U of S Industry-Related Science Projects
Posted April 18, 2001
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - April 18, 2001 2001-04-10-OTHER
Province Awards $521,100 for Two U of S Industry-Related Science Projects
The University of Saskatchewan will receive $521,100 in provincial funding
for two research projects -- one that will enhance the oil and potash
industries and another that could have far-reaching impacts on the
electronics industry.
The projects are among three announced today for Saskatchewan universities
under the provincial Strategic Investment Fund of Saskatchewan Economic and
Co-operative Development. The U of S projects are:
- $271,100 to U of S biochemist Jeremy Lee for a machine that will
manufacture and test new light-based electronic transistors that have the
potential to revolutionize the electronics industry.
The transistors will use a new conductive material, M-DNA, which is a new
type of DNA molecule that can conduct electricity. Prof. Lee's research team
is the first in the world to create M-DNA. This "molecular wire" is the
ultimate in miniaturization for electronic circuits. Transistors are one of
the basic components of all computers, and light-based transistors would
have the advantage of very small size and very fast speed of operation.
Potentially, these bioelectronic circuits could even replace the smallest of
silicon microchips that drive the world's information technology.
The project could also lead to spin-off benefits in medical diagnostics and
drug discovery.
- $250,000 to U of S geological sciences professor Chris Holmden for an
isotope "fingerprinting" project to develop the subsurface brines found
through oil and potash drilling.
Analysis of these brines could become a useful tool in petroleum exploration
and production and in enhanced monitoring of water in-flows in potash mines.
The project will also map distribution of economically important
concentrations of rare elements found in brines.
"These projects will advance knowledge in emerging areas of biochemistry and
geological sciences and potentially provide new tools for industry," said
Michael Corcoran, U of S Vice-President of Research. "Provincial investments
in university research of this type often have long-term economic
spin-offs."
"These cutting-edge projects help further build the reputations of our two
universities as centres of innovation," Economic and Co-operative
Development Minister Eldon Lautermilch said. "Support to this applied
industrial research underscores our government's commitment to the 'r & d'
that is crucial to our knowledge-based economy and which ultimately creates
jobs and opportunities for all of us."
The Strategic Investment Fund encourages the development of new technologies
and research infrastructure in the province. The fund is designed to
enhance the competitiveness of Saskatchewan industries, as well as to
develop new value-added products and processes to expand the Saskatchewan
economy.
For more information, contact:
Kathryn Warden
U of S Research Communications Officer
(306) 966-2506
Bob Ellis
Economic and Co-operative Development
Regina
(306) 787-1691
April 12, 2001
$592,000 National Study Aims to Help Boost Rural Nurse Recruitment
Posted April 12, 2001
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ?April 12, 2001 2001-04-08-OTHER
$592,000 National Study Aims to Help Boost Rural Nurse Recruitment
Researchers from the University of Saskatchewan and across Canada have
launched a three-year, $592,000 study of nursing in rural and remote areas
that will give communities information to help attract and retain nurses.
The study will examine what nursing is really like in rural and remote
communities, and explore how nurses can best be educated and supported in
their work.
The study involves a total of 18 university researchers and is being led by
nursing professors Martha MacLeod of the University of Northern British
Columbia, Judith Kulig of the University of Lethbridge, Norma Stewart of the
University of Saskatchewan and geography professor, Roger Pitblado of
Laurentian University in Sudbury, Ontario.
An advisory team of 19 managers and policy-makers from all provinces and
territories will be led by Marion Knock of the British Columbia Ministry of
Health.
"We need nurses in rural and remote areas of Canada. This research will
assist us with recruiting and retaining nurses in those areas," Knock said.
The study consists of several parts:
- A survey of 6,000 nurses in all provinces and territories about their
work.
This will be led by U of S researcher Norma Stewart and team members Carl
D'Arcy, director of applied research in the department of psychiatry; Debra
Morgan, CIHR Scholar with the Centre for Agricultural Medicine; and nursing
professors Dorothy Forbes, Gail Remus and Barbara Smith.
- An analysis of the Registered Nurses Database to provide a statistical and
demographic profile of rural and remote nurses.
- Opportunities for nurses nationwide to describe their experiences in
everyday nursing practice.
- An analysis of documents, such as those describing standards and policies
of nursing practice.
"The findings from this study will help to enhance nurses? contributions in
achieving healthy and productive rural and remote communities in the 21st
Century," says Judith Shamian, Executive-Director of Nursing Policy for
Health Canada.
The study is funded by the Canadian Health Services Research Foundation in
collaboration with the Nursing Research Fund, the Michael Smith Foundation
for Health Research, the Alberta Heritage Foundation for Medical Research,
Saskatchewan Economic and Cooperative Development, Ontario Ministry of
Health and Long-Term Care, Nova Scotia Health Research Foundation, Nunavut
Department of Health, the British Columbia Rural and Remote Health Research
Institute based at UNBC, and the provincial and territorial registered
nurses associations.
For further information, contact:
Kathryn Warden
Research Communications Officer
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2506
Rob van Adrichem
Director of Media & Public Relations
University of Northern British Columbia
(250) 960-5622
Robert (Bob) Cooney
University of Lethbridge
(403) 382-7173
Paul de la Riva
Public Affairs
Laurentian University
(705) 675-1151 ext. 3406
April 06, 2001
U of S Research Projects Receive $4.3M From Province
Posted April 06, 2001
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - April 5, 2001
U of S RESEARCH PROJECTS RECEIVE $4.3 M FROM PROVINCE
(Prepared by Saskatchewan Economic and Co-operative Development)
Key research and development projects at the University of Saskatchewan are
receiving a major boost of more than $4.3 million in funding from the
provincial government.
The projects are being funded through the provincial Innovation and Science
Fund, which nurtures research excellence at the province?s universities and
research institutions through matching contributions.
"Saskatchewan has a reputation as a leader in research and development in
Canada," said Economic and Co-operative Development Minister Eldon
Lautermilch. "These projects will enhance the r & d capabilities at our two
universities, and they underscore our commitment to nurturing a culture of
research excellence in Saskatchewan."
Six of the projects will receive contributions from the Canada Foundation
for Innovation (CFI), which will be matched by the province. These include:
- $1,511,570 to purchase state-of-the-art major equipment to establish
facilities for biomolecular research at the university.
- $363,370 to purchase hardware and software for a bioinformatics and
computational biology research laboratory at the university.
- $358,275 to purchase equipment needed for an agent based mobile and
computing laboratory at the university.
- $176,800 for the purchase of equipment to establish a pulse crop genomics
laboratory at the university.
- $125,292 for a stereoscopic particle image velocimetry system.
- $772,972 to the University of Saskatchewan and the University of Regina to
participate in the Canadian National Site Licensing Project, a nation-wide
university library initiative to license electronic versions of scholarly
journals and research databases.
The province will also contribute $35,000 to the University of Saskatchewan
to participate in a national study on the nature of registered nursing
practice with rural and remote Canada. This project will also receive
matching funding from the Canadian Health Services Research Foundation
(CHSRF).
As well, the government is providing $1,000,000 to the University of
Saskatchewan as an initial contribution to the Canada Research Chairs
Program (CRCP), which fosters research excellence in Canadian universities,
research institutes and hospitals. The provincial funding is in addition to
funding that will be received from CRCP.
"The Canada Foundation for Innovation is proud to be an integral part of
these research projects," CFI President and CEO Dr. David Strangway said.
"These funding investments and partnerships contribute to strengthening
research capacity and to support the development of innovation and
world-class expertise, which will lead to beneficial results for the
Province of Saskatchewan and Canadian society
"The University of Saskatchewan is delighted that the Saskatchewan
government will provide $1 million to help launch our Canada Research Chairs
which we expect will be announced soon by the federal government,"
University of Saskatchewan Vice President of Research Dr. Michael Corcoran.
"This money, along with the $3.3 million in provincial matching money for
our CFI projects, will help
build research capacity at the U of S in a variety of areas that are
economically and socially important to Saskatchewan and to Canada."
The CFI is an independent, not-for-profit organization established by the
federal government in 1997 to strengthen the capacity for innovation in
Canadian universities, colleges, hospitals, and not-for-profit research
institutions.
The Innovation and Science Fund is a $10 million annual fund that provides
funding to Saskatchewan universities, colleges, and research institutes in
support of projects receiving approval and funding from the Canada
Foundation for Innovation (CFI), the Canada Research Chairs (CRC), the
Canadian Health Services Research Foundation (CHSRF), and the Canadian
Institutes for Health Research (CHIR).
For more information contact:
Bob Ellis
Economic and Co-operative
Development
Regina
(306) 787-1691
Suzanne Corbeil
Canada Foundation for Innovation
(613) 996-4403
Kathryn Warden
University of Saskatchewan
Saskatoon
(306) 966-2506
April 05, 2001
Saskatoon Researchers to Receive $8M from Genome Canada for Two Projects
Posted April 05, 2001
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ? April 4, 2001 2001-04-04-OTHER
Saskatoon Researchers to Receive $8 M from Genome Canada for Two Projects
University of Saskatchewan and other Saskatoon research centres will receive
a total of roughly $8 million from a $15-million pool of funding announced
today by Genome Canada for two Genome Prairie projects. This money is
expected to create up to 50 new positions at Saskatoon research
institutions.
One project, led by U of S plant scientist Graham Scoles, will look into the
way crops tolerate cold and other environmental stresses. The work has the
potential to improve agricultural productivity in Canada and around the
world.
The other project, led by four Prairie researchers including U of S
agricultural economist Peter Phillips, will look at the ethical,
environmental, legal and social issues related to genomics research (the
study of genes and their function). Roughly $1 million over three years will
come to the U of S for this research.
The projects are among 22 approved for funding under a $136-million
investment in Genome Canada, federal Industry Minister Brian Tobin announced
today.
"We?re delighted that the University of Saskatchewan is a major participant
in these exciting new research programs that build on our strengths in
biotechnology, genomics, and socio-economics," said Michael Corcoran, U of S
Vice-President of Research. "These projects will involve many of our
graduate students and will attract new staff and scientific equipment to the
University."
The $15 million approved for Genome Prairie, which encompasses researchers
in the three Prairie provinces, is contingent upon finding matching funding
from industry, government, foundations or other sources. Federal funding
details for the two projects have not yet been finalized.
Scoles? genomics project will involve academic researchers from three other
provinces, and scientists from both Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada in
Saskatoon and Lethbridge and the National Research Council?s Plant
Biotechnology Institute in Saskatoon. Other U of S researchers include Brian
Fowler and Larry Gusta, both of the plant sciences department, and Gordon
Gray of biochemistry.
The researchers will work with both wheat and canola, examining the whole
plant and studying these crops at the molecular level. Determining what
proteins and genes are involved in regulating a plant?s response to low
temperatures could provide critical information that will lead to more
tolerant crop varieties. The researchers will also study canola?s response
to metal and nutrient stresses.
Phillips? project is called GELS, an acronym for the ethical, environmental,
legal and social issues related to genomics research.
The GELS project will study the impact and use of genomics in the agri-food
industry. It will also examine how citizens think about applications of
genomics research, how regulators manage these technologies, and how the new
knowledge is exploited and protected through property rights. The
researchers will also attempt to improve our understanding of how the
transmission of information affects consumer behavior relative to genomic
technology.
"This funding is a confirmation of the developing capacity we have here to
undertake socio-economic research," Phillips said. "It will provide
resources to expand and improve what we?re doing."
Genome Canada is a not-for-profit corporation dedicated to developing and
implementing a national strategy in genomics research for the benefit of
Canadians. Genome Canada has $300 million to establish five research centres
across Canada. The overall goal is to make Canada a world leader in genomics
research in selected areas such as agriculture, the environment, forestry,
fisheries and human health.
For more information contact:
Kathryn Warden
U of S Research Communications Officer
(306) 966-2506
kathryn.warden@usask.ca
Graham Scoles
Department of Plant Sciences
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-5857
Peter Phillips
Department of Agricultural Economics
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-4021
Sylvia Wallace Sessional Lecturer Teaching Excellence Award
Posted April 05, 2001
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - April 5, 2001 2001-04-05-OTHER
Sylvia Wallace Sessional Lecturer Teaching Excellence Award
To recognize and encourage Sessional Lecturers who have developed and
demonstrated exceptional competence in teaching, the Gwenna Moss Teaching &
Learning Centre has created the semi-annual Sylvia Wallace Sessional
Lecturer Teaching Excellence Award. This award recognizes commitment to and
excellence in undergraduate instruction by Sessional lecturers. The winners
of the award will be honoured at spring and fall ceremonies and presented
with a certificate, $1000.00 in cash, and the registration fee to attend the
conference of the Society for Teaching & Learning in Higher Education.
Candidates for the award demonstrate the following:
- Effectiveness in undergraduate lectures / discussions / studios /
laboratories
- Command of their subject area
- Skills in organizing and developing class material
- Capacity to motivate and inspire students.
At a brief ceremony April 3, Dr. Michael Atkinson, Vice-President
(Academic), presented the first Sylvia Wallace Sessional Teaching Excellence
Award to Dr. Patrick John Coggins.
Jack Coggins (B.A., M.A., B.Ed.: U of S; Ph.D.: McGill) is a Sessional
lecturer in the Department of History where, since 1976, he has taught
courses in European History, Military History, and Modern Civilization. In
her letter of nomination, Dr. Martha Smith-Norris says, "He has gained a
reputation as an exceptional undergraduate lecturer. High enrollments in
his classes testify to his popularity. Student and peer evaluations
consistently describe him as an enthusiastic, knowledgeable, well-prepared,
and inspiring instructor." A former student recalls the effect that Jack?s
History class had on him: "When I started attending University I planned to
major in computers, but after taking 20th-Century Europe in my second year,
I realized that this is what I wanted to do.
My goal [is] to get my degree in History." Another student follows a
similar vein: "I am currently pursuing my M.A. in History, in no small part
thanks to taking Jack?s classes. I hope to complete a Ph.D. When I do, I
will look to my memories of Jack?s teaching style as a guide." Again and
again his referees celebrate Jack?s passion for his subject: "His enthusiasm
is unparalleled and his ability to unleash a captivating and fabulously
entertaining lecture is second only to [the department?s Master Teachers]."
A senior professor of History, after observing Jack teach, offers
unconditional praise for his abilities: "He held his class in the palm of
his hand. He is fluent, dramatic, clear, and well-paced in his lecture
style ? a model for us all." Nothing encapsulates Jack Coggins better than
that metaphor.
The second award for excellence will be presented in November.
For information on how to nominate deserving candidates, please contact:
Ron Marken, Director
Gwenna Moss Teaching & Learning Centre
University of Saskatchewan
37 Murray Building
(306) 966-5532
marken@sask.usask.ca
April 04, 2001
Promising cattle vaccine could reduce E. Coli 0157:H7 threat
Posted April 04, 2001
For Immediate Release:
Promising cattle vaccine could reduce E. coli O157:H7 threat
Saskatoon, Sask., April 3, 2001: A new vaccine for controlling E. coli
O157:H7 in cattle could become an important management tool in the cattle
industry's crusade against the hazardous bacteria as well as in society's
efforts to deal with the food safety concerns and control the disease at
the human level. The vaccine was developed through a collaboration between
the Veterinary Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO) at the University of
Saskatchewan in Saskatoon, the University of British Columbia (UBC) in
Vancouver, and the Alberta Research Council in Edmonton.
E. coli O157:H7 infection in humans, coined as the "hamburger disease" by
the media, garnered immense public attention last year because of its
threat to human health, especially to children and the elderly.
Dr. Andy Potter, VIDO Associate Director (Research), and Dr. Brett Finlay,
UBC, became interested in developing a vaccine for controlling the
bacteria after Finlay identified several novel bacterial components
required for the E. coli O157:H7 bacteria and related organisms to infect
the intestine. Knowing that as many as 50 percent or greater, of all
cattle shed the bacteria at some point during their lives, Potter and
Finlay believed a vaccine to control the bacteria in cattle could help
control its spread to humans.
The project to develop an E. coli O157:H7 vaccine for cattle began three
years ago before the bacteria and its potential human health effects moved
to the forefront of public attention. Potter and Finlay, whose work was
primarily in human health at that point, applied for and received a grant
from the Canada Beef Industry Development Fund to conduct the research.
The research was also supported by the Canadian Bacterial Disease Network
in Calgary, Alberta, which has remained a partner in the further
development of this technology.
By vaccinating cattle with those specific proteins, Potter and Finlay have
been able to significantly reduce the colonization of the bacteria in the
gut of cattle.
"We've been able to demonstrate that by using technology developed by
Finlay, it's possible to substantially reduce the levels of E. coli
O157:H7 in vaccinated cattle," says Potter. He emphasizes that the vaccine
is specific to the deadly strain and its close relatives. Currently, no
vaccine or other methods exist for effectively controlling E. coli
O157:H7, but vaccines that control other types of disease caused by the E.
coli bacteria in cattle are commercially available.
"Immunized animals should harbour fewer E. coli O157:H7 bacteria and
therefore present a reduced risk of contamination at the slaughter level,"
he says. With lower levels of bacteria shed by vaccinated cattle, the risk
of E. coli O157:H7 infecting humans through environmental sources, should
also be reduced.
The commercial partners of UBC and VIDO, Alberta Research Council and
Bioniche Life Sciences Inc., are currently producing large quantities of
the vaccine for the safety and efficacy trials needed for licensing. In
September 2001, large-scale field trials will begin on 30,000 to 70,000
cattle. This work is being funded in part by the Alberta Agricultural
Research Institute.
Field trials for the vaccine are expected to last eight to 12 months, but
Potter expects the required data for licensing the vaccine will be
available within the first two months of the field study. Once the vaccine
has received approval, Potter hopes it will be marketed as quickly as
possible. The field trials will examine other factors that can affect
vaccination efficacy, such as the use of different management practices
and immunization schedules.
"If this vaccine holds up in the field trials, it could become an
important tool for controlling this bacteria and a boon for the industry,
which is working hard to find solutions to this food safety issue."
Both Potter and Finlay know the vaccine reduces the output of E. coli
O157:H7 in manure, but they need to learn more about how the bacteria
works inside the cattle gut.
The proteins used in the vaccine are involved in attachments in the gut,
so in theory, they should be great vaccine components, says Potter. "They
are rather unique, in that the bacteria actually injects at least one of
these proteins into the host cell and then attaches to it, so it carries
its own receptor around and injects it whenever it has to. This has been
demonstrated in mice and humans, but we don't have direct evidence of this
occurring in cattle."
Further research is currently underway to demonstrate that this process is
involved in the colonization of cattle by E. coli O157:H7. Initial results
are validating the vaccine results, says Potter. In the long term, VIDO
will conduct further research into food safety issues such as E. coli
O157:H7. "Food safety is a big issue and we see significant expansion in
that area in the coming years," says Potter. "It also fits with VIDO's
vision of capitalizing on human health research and transferring
applicable knowledge into veterinary medicine and vice versa."
VIDO, a not-for-profit institute, is a global leader in food animal and
poultry vaccine research for the control of infectious diseases and is
wholly owned by the University of Saskatchewan. The E. coli O157:H7
project received core funding from: Saskatchewan Horned Cattle Trust Fund,
Saskatchewan Cattle Marketing Deductions Fund, Kamloops Stockmen's
Association and Manitoba Cattle Producers.
For more information, contact:
Dr. Andrew Potter
Associate Director (Research)
Veterinary Infectious Disease Organization
Phone: (306) 966-7484
Fax: (306) 966-7478
E-mail: potter@sask.usask.ca
Stuart Bond
Associate Director (Marketing and Business Development)
Phone: (306) 966-7474
Fax: (306) 966-7478
E-mail: bonds@sask.usask.ca
April 03, 2001
Former Premier Joins Provincial Universities
Posted April 03, 2001
Release: April 2, 2001 2001-04-03-OTHER
FORMER PREMIER JOINS PROVINCIAL UNIVERSITIES
Roy Romanow has accepted appointments to the University of Saskatchewan and
the University of Regina.
Dividing his time between the two institutions, Romanow will bring his 30
years of political experience to developments at the universities, to
graduate and undergraduate students at both campuses, and to the Canadian
public by providing commentary on public issues and through his research
initiatives.
"Mr. Romanow has played an important role in the history of Saskatchewan and
Canada. His experience and knowledge are an ideal fit for the academic
activities at our University, University of Saskatchewan President Peter
MacKinnon said. "He will provide a unique and valued contribution to the
scholarship of the University of Saskatchewan."
"The appointment of Roy Romanow to work with the U of R will bring many
opportunities to the University, its faculty and students," University of
Regina President David Barnard said. "The vast experience with government
that Mr. Romanow has will be of immense benefit to the University as it
develops several of its activities."
"We have two first class universities in Saskatchewan, and it gives me a
great deal of pride to be involved with them. I?m happy to devote my
energies in support of their work, and look forward to joining them as soon
as possible," Mr. Romanow said.
Romanow will join the Department of Political Studies at the University of
Saskatchewan as a Senior Fellow in Public Policy where he will advance the
public policy agenda in Saskatchewan and Canada by conducting and
facilitating study in policy areas where he has made a contribution during
his public life. These areas may include constitutional issues, health care,
agriculture or Aboriginal initiatives.
Romanow was previously on the U of S faculty from July 1982 to December 1983
as a Visiting Scholar of Law. Also an alumnus of the U of S, he earned his
undergraduate degree in political science before going on to complete his
law degree in 1964.
In the University of Regina?s out-of-scope appointment as Senior Policy
Fellow, Romanow will work in the area of public policy, help design the
University?s Chinese government executive program, write, participate in
seminars, conferences and presentations and be available for class visits.
In addition to his Saskatchewan university positions, the former
Saskatchewan premier will serve as a Visiting Fellow in the School of Policy
Studies at Queen?s University, Kingston, Ont. He will visit Queen?s from
time to time, participate in conference programming and give occasional
talks and lectures.
Romanow was first elected to the provincial legislature in 1967. He was
re-elected in 1971, 1975, 1978, 1986, 1991, 1995 and 2000, assuming
leadership of the New Democratic Party in 1987. He was Premier of
Saskatchewan from 1991 until his retirement this year. Between 1971 and
1982, he served as Deputy Premier and Attorney General.
In 1979, Romanow was appointed Saskatchewan?s first Minister of
Intergovernmental Affairs and was one of the key players in the
federal-provincial negotiations that resulted in the Constitutional Accord
of November, 1981. His involvement in national politics renders him a
statesman of national repute.
The position is effective April 1, 2001.
Contact:
Sandy Cameron
University Relations
University of Regina
Phone: (306)585-5439
Fax: (306)585-4997
E-mail: sandy.cameron@uregina.ca
Cindy Paquette
Government Relations Officer
University of Saskatchewan
(306)966-6640
(306)966-6815
cindy.paquette@usask.ca
Campus Announcement: New Telephone Number (Security Services)
Posted April 03, 2001
New Telephone Number: Security Services
The U of S Security Services Department has a new telephone number
effective May 1st, 2001. The new number is 966-5555 (previously
966-4506).
Use this number for 24-hour assistance for general security requirements.
For more information, contact:
Bob Ferguson
Acting Director, Security Services
966-4505
April 02, 2001
New Director for the Saskatchewan Drug Institute
Posted April 02, 2001
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE ? Monday, April 2, 2001 2001-04-02-OTHER
New Director for the Saskatchewan Drug Institute
Effective today, pharmacist Marianne Greer becomes director of the
Saskatchewan Drug Research Institute, a privately funded organization
affiliated with the University of Saskatchewan that helps researchers
conduct clinical drug trials and link up with industry.
"We?re very fortunate to have someone with such a wealth of experience both
in university research and in the pharmaceutical industry," said Michael
Corcoran, U of S Vice-President of Research and chair of the SDRI board.
"With her impressive credentials and proven leadership skills, I?m confident
that SDRI will be able to forge new links between the pharmaceutical
industry and Saskatchewan drug researchers."
The SDRI?s mandate is to increase the research spending of pharmaceutical
companies in Saskatchewan. The SDRI is now involved in more than 200 active
clinical trials totalling more than $10 million.
Greer, who has been associated with the U of S College of Pharmacy and
Nutrition since 1982 (most recently as adjunct professor), has held senior
positions with pharmaceutical giants Eli Lilly Canada, Boehringer Ingelheim,
and Pharmacia Corporation (1999 to the present).
"Over the next several years, SDRI will aim to increase the amount and
quality of pharmaceutical research conducted in Saskatchewan by developing
even stronger links with the pharmaceutical industry, Saskatchewan
researchers, local authorities, and the public," said Greer. "This will
contribute to the reputation of Saskatchewan as a primary location for
quality, efficient pharmaceutical research."
Greer succeeds Brett Wilson who left the SDRI last fall. A U of S graduate,
Greer has a doctorate in pharmacy administration from the University of
Texas at Austin. She has published numerous papers in refereed journals,
given more than 50 invited lectures and conference presentations, and served
on many boards and committees of professional and editorial groups. Her many
honors include a 1993 presidential citation from the Saskatchewan
Pharmaceutical Association and selection as "Pharmacist of the Year" in 1992
by the Canadian Society of Hospital Pharmacists, Saskatchewan branch.
Established in 1993, the SDRI brings together the interdisciplinary
expertise needed for drug companies to meet their research needs in one
convenient centre at Innovation Place.
More than 200 investigators and coordinators, along with approximately 50
sponsor companies, work with the SDRI on a regular basis. Governed by a
12-member board of directors, the institute also works with health districts
and the U of S to improve research infrastructure and approval processes for
clinical trials.
Pharmaceutical research must meet strict ethical and regulatory
requirements. SDRI, through project management services and contract
monitoring of clinical trials, assists Saskatchewan researchers and the
pharmaceutical industry to ensure this is done in an effective and efficient
manner.
An equally important role for SDRI is encouraging Saskatchewan residents to
become better informed and more knowledgeable about the benefits of the
pharmaceutical research being conducted in the province. SDRI will focus on
public education to ensure that Saskatchewan residents can benefit optimally
from research conducted in the province.
For more information, contact:
Marianne Greer
Director, SDRI
(306) 978-8300
Kathryn Warden
Research Communications Officer
Office of the Vice-President Research
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2506
kathryn.warden@usask.ca
