May 31, 2002
World-Renowned Synchrotron Scientist to Lead Canadian Light Source Lab
Posted May 31, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 31, 2002 2002-05-40-OTHER
World-Renowned Synchrotron Scientist to Lead Canadian Light Source Lab
Following an extensive international search, Dr. Bill Thomlinson, a
world-renowned expert in synchrotron medical imaging, has been selected to
lead Canadian Light Source Inc. (CLSI) at the University of Saskatchewan,
effective Nov. 1.
The five-year appointment, a unanimous decision of the CLSI board, was
announced jointly today by CLSI board chair Dr. Arthur Carty, who is
President of the National Research Council, and Peter MacKinnon, President
of the University of Saskatchewan. Thomlinson succeeds Interim
Executive-Director Mark de Jong.
"I am delighted that Dr. Thomlinson has accepted the position of
Executive-Director of the Canadian Light Source (CLS)," said Carty. "His
scientific and managerial leadership skills will be an asset as he works
with the Canadian user community to develop the synchrotron to its full
potential. His first-hand experience at other synchrotrons will be very
important at this critical phase as we move into the start-up and operation
of the CLS."
Thomlinson will also be appointed to a tenured position in the U of S
Department of Physics.
"We are delighted to have found a synchrotron scientist of Dr. Thomlinson's
international scientific stature and administrative skills to launch this
tremendous new national facility which will be one of the most advanced
synchrotrons in the world," said MacKinnon. "With more than two decades of
distinguished synchrotron experience in the U.S. and Europe, Dr. Thomlinson
will enable CLSI to become a global leader in science and innovation."
Thomlinson is currently Head of the Medical Research Group at the European
Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) in Grenoble, France where he has led a
highly successful medical imaging beamline group for the past three years.
He helped start lung and mammography imaging, and in 2000, led the first
human angiography (blood vessel imaging) studies at the ESRF.
Thomlinson is widely published with a broad range of interests in
synchrotron science, and has made many contributions to the worldwide
synchrotron community (see attached backgrounder). He also brings to the job
a wealth of experience dealing with a large and diverse user community,
exceptional administrative skills, and expertise in safety management.
The U of S-owned CLS will be one of the world's most powerful synchrotrons
when it starts operations in January of 2004. Its brilliant light - millions
of times brighter than sunlight -- will be used by university, government
and industrial researchers for unprecedented studies in material, chemical,
and biological sciences.
Thomlinson said he is looking forward to leading the CLS through its
challenging start-up years and to working with users, funding partners, the
U of S and the Saskatoon community to develop a world-class facility.
"I am excited about joining the outstanding CLS team that has worked for so
many years to bring the facility into existence and to its present state of
construction," he said.
"The Canadian scientific community has a great need for this
state-of-the-art research facility. It will take its place among the great
synchrotrons of the world and provide a tool that will help Canada maintain
its position as one of the truly innovative technological nations. With
academic and industrial users working side by side, creativity in solving
problems in material, chemical, and biological sciences is assured. "
He stressed that all of this will depend on the Canadian synchrotron
community "making the CLS a focus for those research projects for which the
facility is designed." He added that the core group of U of S and CLS
synchrotron scientists "has to grow large enough to create the local
environment to which others from all over Canada will seek to come."
CLS funding partners include the Canada Foundation for Innovation, the
Canadian government (including Western Economic Diversification, Natural
Resources Canada, the National Research Council, NSERC, and the Canadian
Institutes of Health Research), Saskatchewan Industry and Resources, Ontario
Innovation Trust, Alberta Innovation and Science, Alberta Heritage
Foundation for Medical Research, U of S, the City of Saskatoon, SaskPower,
and Boehringer Ingelheim, University of Western Ontario, and University of
Alberta. GlaxoSmithKline has also provided funding for a U of S chair in an
area of synchrotron science.
For more information on the CLS, visit: www.cls.usask.ca
-30-
For more information, contact:
Kathryn Warden
U of S/CLS Research Communications
(306) 966-2506
kathryn.warden@usask.ca
Backgrounder -- Dr. Bill Thomlinson, CLSI Executive-Director
Dr. Bill Thomlinson is currently Head of the Medical Research Group at the
European Synchrotron Radiation Facility (ESRF) in Grenoble, France. He has
published more than 120 papers and has made many contributions to the
worldwide synchrotron community.
* He has led a highly successful medical imaging beamline group at the ESRF
for the past three years. He helped start lung and mammography imaging, and
in 2000, led the first human angiography (blood vessel imaging) studies at
the ESRF.
* Prior to joining the ESRF, he was from 1979 through 1998 a member of the
scientific staff and management group at the National Synchrotron Light
Source, Brookhaven National Laboratory, in Upton, New York, ultimately
serving as Associate Chair for Environment, Safety and Health. At
Brookhaven, he also created and led the successful Synchrotron Medical
Research Facility, a multi-discipline facility devoted to medical research.
* In 1996, Thomlinson and three other scientists invented and patented a
diffraction-enhanced imaging technique for applications to mammography and
other medical imaging problems. There are now similar programs at Brookhaven
and major European synchrotrons.
* In 1981, he joined the Stanford University/Stanford Synchrotron Radiation
Laboratory (SSRL) angiography project as a collaborator. In 1986, he
participated in the first human coronary angiography experiments at SSRL.
* Prior to 1979, Thomlinson was a research scientist in low temperature and
solid-state physics at Brookhaven National Laboratory, a Department of
Energy (DOE) laboratory on Long Island, New York. During the early 70s, he
worked as a research associate at Cornell University and later as a
physicist in Germany.
* He received his doctorate from Yale University in 1970.
Thomlinson is also an avid runner who has competed in several marathons.
Although not running marathons any more, he still averages more than five
kilometres a day out on the trails. He also enjoys the outdoors by engaging
in birdwatching, hiking in the Alps, and camping. While on Long Island, he
became an experienced sailor, a pastime that he hopes to continue in
Saskatchewan.
-30-
For more information about the CLS, visit: www.cls.usask.ca
May 29, 2002
MRI Machine Arrives Through Veterinary College's Roof
Posted May 29, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE: WEDNESDAY MAY 29, 2002 2002-05-36-OTHER
PLEASE REVIEW SAFETY CONCERNS AT END OF NEWS RELEASE
MRI Machine Arrives Through Veterinary College's Roof
The world's first magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) machine specifically
developed for companion animals made a dramatic entrance at the Western
College of Veterinary Medicine Wed. May 29.
This morning, a crane lowered the MRI unit's 10,000-kilogram permanent
magnet through a hatch in the roof of WCVM's new MRI and radiation therapy
centre.
The MRI unit's arrival is very significant for Western Canada's only
veterinary college. "We're now only a month away from becoming Canada's
first veterinary teaching hospital to operate an MRI unit that's dedicated
to companion animal health imaging," says Dr. Alex Livingston, WCVM's dean.
"This MRI unit, along with our new radiation machine, opens up new learning
opportunities for our students and faculty. It also gives our clients and
their pets access to the most advanced diagnostic and therapeutic services
in veterinary medicine."
MRI technology is the best diagnostic tool available for examining soft
tissues in the brain or in the central nervous system. Veterinary medical
imaging specialists like WCVM's Dr. John Pharr will use the device to
diagnose neurological, spinal and intracranial diseases in cats, dogs and
other small animals. "Having an MRI unit alongside a radiation machine also
means we can use the two technologies together for more accurate and
effective treatment of cancer," says Pharr, leader of WCVM's MRI initiative.
He adds that the centre will enable WCVM's faculty and graduate students to
collaborate with other U of S researchers on projects targeting animal
health as well as human medicine.
It will take two weeks to install and to commission all of the system's
major components. "If all goes as planned, we should have the MRI system
ready for operation by the end of June," says Calvin Bewsky, a mechanical
engineer with the National Research Council's Institute for Biodiagnostics
(IBD).
Bewsky is part of IBD's Prototyping Facility that has been designing the
device with a team of MRI experts at IBD in Winnipeg, Man., since February
2001.
The MRI machine's owner is MRV Systems Inc., a joint venture company whose
partners include NRC, the University of Saskatchewan and private investors.
MRV Systems used a $750,000 grant from Canada's Western Economic
Diversification program to develop the $450,000 MRI prototype for companion
animal imaging. MRV Systems, which plans on producing commercial models of
the MRI unit, will use WCVM as its demonstration site.
The MRI machine's new home is a 357-square-metre facility that includes a
MRI laboratory and a concrete bunker to house a reconditioned cobalt unit
for radiation therapy. Scheduled to open this summer, WCVM's MRI and
radiation therapy centre will cost nearly $1.4 million to complete and
equip. So far, private and public donors have contributed in excess of half
a million dollars to the veterinary college's ongoing fund raising campaign.
-30-
For more information, please contact:
Dr. John Pharr, Medical Imaging Specialist
Western College of Veterinary Medicine
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-7060
PUBLIC AND MEDIA SAFETY CONCERNS:
- The permanent magnet's magnetic field is strong enough to affect
life-sustaining devices such as pacemakers or neurostimulators, and it may
alter metallic implants like aneurysm clips even though they may not
necessarily be made of ferro-magnetic materials (steel or iron). IF YOU USE
ANY OF THESE MEDICAL DEVICES, PLEASE STAY AWAY FROM THE CONSTRUCTION SITE AT
WCVM.
- The magnetic field of the MRI's permanent magnet is strong enough to
attract ferro-magnetic materials such as iron and steel. FOR YOUR OWN
SAFETY, PLEASE DO NOT ENTER RESTRICTED AREAS AND STAY BEHIND ALL SAFETY
BARRIERS.
- The permanent magnet weighs approximately 10,000 kilograms and there is
always a risk of problems during the installation process. PLEASE DO NOT
ENTER RESTRICTED AREAS AND STAY BEHIND ALL SAFETY BARRIERS. PLEASE FOLLOW
ALL SAFETY INSTRUCTIONS.
U of S Honours Outstanding Graduates
Posted May 29, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 29, 2002 2002-05-34-OTHER
U of S Honours Outstanding Graduates
The University of Saskatchewan will recognize the achievements of its most
distinguished graduates at Spring Convocation, May 29 and 30 at the
Centennial Auditorium. A number of awards and prizes will be presented,
including the prestigious Governor General's Gold and Silver Medals.
Jonathan Fuselsang (Ph.D., Psychology) of Thunder Bay, Ontario, will receive
the Governor General's Gold Medal, awarded to the graduate student with the
highest academic standing.
Kristopher Breen (B.E.) of Saskatoon will receive the Governor General's
Silver Medal, awarded to the undergraduate student with this highest
academic standing. Breen will also receive the Association of Professional
Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan Gold Medal.
In addition, the following outstanding graduates will be honoured for their
academic achievements (listed in order of presentation).
-Mark Kleiner (B.A. Honours with High Honours) of Saskatoon - Copland Prize
in Humanities
-Matthew Emde (B.A. Honours with High Honours) of Saskatoon - Copland Prize
in Social Science
-Daniel Funk (B.Mus.) of Saskatoon - University of Saskatchewan Film
Society Prize
-Bret Hoehn (B.Sc. Honours with High Honours) of Saskatoon - Earl of
Bessborough Prize in Science and Haslam Medal
-Joshua Ramsay (B.Sc.) of Calgary, Alberta - Spring Convocation Three-Year
Medal
-Eustathios Markatos (LL.B.) of Regina - Law Society of Saskatchewan Gold
Medal
-Tyler Russell (B.S.A.) of Meadow Lake - Saskatchewan Institute of
Agrologists Gold Medal
-Shea Zubkow (B.Comm.) of Leask - Goodspeed Prize in Commerce
-Kristopher Breen (B.E.) of Saskatoon - Association of Professional
Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan Gold Medal
-Stephen Korol (D.M.D.) of Saskatoon - Gold Medal in Dentistry
-Jodi Simpson (B.Sc.(Kin.)) of Saskatoon - Dr. Gordon Garvie Prize in
Kinesiology
-Bryce Laing (B.Sc.(Med.)) of Leader - Lindsay Gold Medal in Medicine
-Camille Currie (B.S.N.) of Eastend - Lindsay Gold Medal in Nursing
-Jennifer Stanger (B.Sc.(Nutr.)) of Drumheller AB - Rutter Medal in
Nutrition
-Jodi Franklin (B.S.P.) of Regina - Robert Martin Prize in Pharmacy
-Jennifer Charmbury (B.Sc.(P.T.)) of Saskatoon - Talmage E. Hunt Award in
Physical Therapy
-Simon Otto (D.V.M.) of Warner, Alberta - Western College of Veterinary
Medicine Faculty Gold Medal
-Cynthia Clarke (B.Ed.) of Saskatoon - Saskatchewan Teachers' Federation
Prize
-30-
For more information, please contact:
Jacquie Fraser
Director, Registration, Examinations and Convocation
Office of the Registrar
University of Saskatchewan
Phone: (306) 966-6728
E-mail: jacquie.fraser@usask.ca
May 27, 2002
MOU will support First Nations agriculture teaching and research
Posted May 27, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 27, 2002 2002-05-28-OTHER
MOU will support First Nations agriculture teaching and research
Today, the Federation of Saskatchewan Indian Nations (FSIN), the University
of Saskatchewan, and Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization
signed a memorandum of understanding, which will build and enhance
agricultural education, training, and research for Aboriginal people.
"The First Nations People of Saskatchewan are acquiring significant acreage
of agricultural land," said Guy Lonechild, Second Vice-Chief of the FSIN.
"This land will provide an economic base from which revenue and jobs will be
realized."
As it stands now, 2.4 per cent of Saskatchewan farmland belongs to First
Nations. However, First Nations farmers make up only 0.8 per cent of
Saskatchewan farmers.
In 1995 an economic development strategy was developed for the First Nations
of Saskatchewan. Six sectors were identified in the strategy report as
having the most opportunities for economic development of First Nations.
Agriculture was identified and strongly championed as an economic base for
the FSIN for several reasons.
"Approximately one half of all First Nations people in Saskatchewan live on
reserve; reserves that are often located in rural agricultural areas," said
Lonechild. "Aboriginal people have a social and cultural respect for the
land - a respect that is consistent with agriculture principles."
A gap exists in the training and management education of many First Nations
Peoples in regards to agriculture. This deficit in education poses a barrier
as the FSIN begins to develop large-scale agricultural and value-added
operations. While unskilled labour is in surplus on many reserves, there
remains a critical shortage of individuals with the skill set needed to
manage modern agricultural venues.
"The University of Saskatchewan is a world leader in agricultural education,
training and research," said Peter MacKinnon, President of the University of
Saskatchewan. "This agreement is a natural progression in our commitment to
support the needs of Aboriginal people."
Saskatchewan's Deputy Premier and Minister of Agriculture, Food and Rural
Revitalization Clay Serby said the Government of Saskatchewan is pleased to
participate in the agricultural education program with the FSIN and the
university.
"Saskatchewan's goal is to maintain a commercially viable, self-sufficient,
and sustainable agricultural sector and this partnership will enhance that
goal," Serby said.
-30-
For more information, please contact:
Peter MacKinnon
President
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6612
Guy Lonechild
Second Vice-Chief
FSIN
(306) 227-2853
Scott Brown
Director of Communications
Saskatchewan Agriculture, Food and Rural Revitalization
(306) 787-4031
U of S Spring Convocation to be held May 29 and 30
Posted May 27, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 29, 2002 2002-05-29-OTHER
U of S Spring Convocation to be held May 29 and 30
The University of Saskatchewan will honour its graduates and confer 2955
degrees, diplomas, and certificates at the annual Spring Convocation, May 29
and 30 at the Centennial Auditorium.
The convocation ceremonies for Arts and Science and Law take place Wednesday
at 9:00 a.m., followed by ceremonies for Agriculture, Commerce, and
Engineering at 2:00 p.m. that afternoon. The ceremonies for Dentistry,
Kinesiology, Medicine, Nursing, Pharmacy and Nutrition, Physical Therapy and
Veterinary Medicine take place Thursday at 9:00 a.m., followed by ceremonies
for Education and Graduate Studies and Research at 2:00 p.m. that afternoon.
Receptions will be held after each ceremony.
This year's honorary degree recipients include Alan Cairns, an expert on
constitutional and political issues, Peggy McKercher, a former chair of the
Meewasin Valley Authority, vice-chair of Wanuskewin Heritage Park, and U of
S Chancellor from 1995-2001, and Diane Jones Konihowski, a world champion in
the pentathlon.
Professor Donna Greschner will receive the Master Teacher Award. Greschner,
a faculty member in the College of Law, will be recognized for her
excellence in teaching.
Professor Ali Rajput will receive the Distinguished Researcher Award.
Rajput, a faculty member in the Division of Neurology, College of Medicine,
is one of the world's foremost researchers on Parkinson's disease.
Heather Kuttai will receive the President's Service Award. Kuttai will be
honoured for her contributions as U of S Director of Disability Services
for
Students.
The Convocation addresses will be presented by Cairns, McKercher, and Jones
Konihowski. U of S President Peter MacKinnon will deliver the President's
address at the final ceremony, May 30 at 2:00 p.m. Chancellor W. Thomas
(Tom) Molloy will confer the degrees and preside over the ceremonies.
-30-
For more information, please contact:
Jacquie Fraser
Director, Registration, Examinations and Convocation
Office of the Registrar
University of Saskatchewan
Phone: (306) 966-6728
E-mail: Jacquie.Fraser@usask.ca
U of S Geoscientist Wins Geological Association Medal
Posted May 27, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- May 27, 2002 2002-05-31-OTHER
U of S Geoscientist Wins Geological Association Medal
University of Saskatchewan geoscientist Brian Pratt has won the
Past-President's Medal from the Geological Association of Canada (GAC), an
honor bestowed upon a mid-career scientist who has made continuous and
internationally significant contributions to earth science.
The award was announced today at the joint annual meeting of the GAC and the
Mineralogical Association of Canada at the University of Saskatchewan. The
recipient is chosen by the GAC past-president and a selection committee of
experts.
"Brian has made remarkably numerous fundamental contributions in both
sedimentology and paleontology," states the GAC citation, noting that his
work has taken him around the world and earned him an international
reputation for groundbreaking research. He's described as "always
questioning" and a "rebel against received wisdom."
Pratt's nomination for the award was supported by eminent European and
Australian scientists, along with many Canadians who wrote letters of strong
endorsement.
"This is one of the highest honors in the geological sciences and confers
distinction on both the department and the U of S," said Robert Kerrich, U
of S professor of geological sciences and Fellow of the Royal Society of
Canada.
Pratt's career began unusually early. A childhood spent beside the Niagara
escarpment gave him a passion for rocks and fossils. That initial passion
led him into groundbreaking research on the formation of reefs and
reef-building micro-organisms that has become the foundation for
international reef study.
Pratt also developed a theory for tropical, shallow-water sedimentation in
inland seas, such as the ones that covered Saskatchewan in the past. This
theory helps explain the presence of oil and gas in the province and is
cited as a fundamental model in geological textbooks.
A love of the Rockies led Pratt to turn his focus to paleontology. Through
his research, he was the first to revise classifications for many marine
invertebrate fossils in Canadian rocks and discovered the first fossil
embryos ever found. These were of trilobites, extinct animals related to
crabs and lobsters.
Pratt's latest research has allowed him to solve a series of mysteries that
have stumped geologists for over a century. For example, he ascribed
peculiar sedimentary deformations, such as the internal cracks in stone
balls found in some Saskatchewan river valleys, to earthquake-induced ground
motion. He is still exploring the evolutionary significance of his
findings.
He has published a book on his research and nearly 60 peer-reviewed papers.
He is much in demand as a guest lecturer.
Pratt earned his Master of Science degree at Memorial University in
Newfoundland and his Ph.D. at the University of Toronto. He moved to
Saskatchewan and began his career with the U of S in 1989.
He has been honored with many awards including the United States Antarctica
Service Medal in 1985, the David Strangway Award in Earth Science in 1986,
and Canadian Society of Petroleum Geologists Volunteer Awards in 1997 and
2001.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Prof. Brian Pratt
Department of Geological Sciences
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-5725
Kathryn Warden
U of S Research Communications Officer
Office of the Vice-President (Research)
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2506
kathryn.warden@usask.ca
http://www.usask.ca/research/
Home of the Canadian Light Source www.cls.usask.ca
U of S-Owned Synchrotron Project Wins National Engineering Award
Posted May 27, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 27, 2000 2002-05-32-OTHER
U of S-Owned Synchrotron Project Wins National Engineering Award
The Canadian Light Source (CLS) synchrotron project at the University of
Saskatchewan has been awarded the 2002 National Award for Exceptional
Engineering Achievement by the Canadian Council of Professional Engineers
(CCPE).
The prestigious award is not given out annually, but is reserved for
exceptional Canadian-engineered projects or achievements that have had, or
will have, a significant impact on society, industry and engineering. The
award will be presented June 1 at the annual CCPE awards ceremony in St.
John's Newfoundland.
The CLS building that will house the world's fourth most powerful
synchrotron was designed by a team of engineers from the Saskatoon office of
UMA Engineering Ltd. plus designers, engineers and researchers from
Canadian Light Source Inc. (CLSI). The U of S-owned national laboratory will
start producing synchrotron light for use by university, government and
industrial scientists in January of 2004.
"We are honored that the CLS project has been selected for this award and
that our UMA partners are being recognized for their superb work," said U of
S President Peter MacKinnon. "It speaks to the caliber of Saskatchewan
engineers -- many of whom are trained at the U of S -- that this kind of
project was designed in the province using local engineers."
Criteria for the award include: importance of the project to Canada's
economic and social well-being; ingenuity in conception, design, and
execution; magnitude of Canadian economic growth created by the project;
complexity of the project and success in overcoming challenges; and
minimized impact on the environment. The award has been given out only once
before -- for the Ekati Diamond Mine project near Yellowknife in 1999.
The UMA team had to meet very exacting scientific requirements to build the
first-in-Canada synchrotron facility -- including maximal reduction of floor
vibrations and exceptional air temperature stability. They had to manage the
interests of many different parties, deal with equipment suppliers from
around the world, and ensure that the $173.5-million project is on time and
on budget.
"Great projects like the CLS only happen when you have a great team and a
great owner," said Nizar Dhanani, UMA Project Design Manager. "We are proud
to work with the University of Saskatchewan and commend the University's
significant leadership in going forward with this bold and innovative
project."
The CLS (www.cls.usask.ca) is one of the largest scientific projects in
Canada, and one of the most advanced synchrotrons in the world. The
synchrotron will produce brilliant light - millions of times brighter than
sunlight - that can be used to study the microstructure of materials.
"This new tremendous research tool is already attracting some of the
country's top scientists and will help to find Canadian solutions for global
challenges in agriculture, health, materials science and the environment,"
said MacKinnon.
UMA is providing project and construction management, engineering for the
design of the building, and engineering support to CLSI for the project,
which is on time and on budget. Sub-consultants working with UMA on the CLS
building design include AODBT Architects, AMEC Earth and Environmental,
Bruce Sparling and BKL and Associates. U of S Facilities Management provided
the climate control system design.
Design, engineering and installation of the technical facilities for the
synchrotron is being done by CLSI staff. CLSI is also the licensed operator
and will maintain the facility.
This is the fourth engineering award related to the CLS project. On May 4,
the CLS project was awarded the Exceptional Engineering/Geoscience Project
Award from the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of
Saskatchewan. Last June, UMA Group Ltd. won an award of excellence for
technical innovation from the Consulting Engineers of Saskatchewan for its
work on the CLS. The UMA team has also won an innovation award from the UMA
Group for the management systems and procedures the team developed to keep
the CLS project on track.
CCPE is the national organization of the provincial and territorial
associations that regulate the practice of engineering in Canada and license
the country's more than 160,000 professional engineers.
CLS funding partners include the Canada Foundation for Innovation, the
Canadian government (including Western Economic Diversification, Natural
Resources Canada, the National Research Council, NSERC, and the Canadian
Institutes of Health Research), Saskatchewan Industry and Resources, Ontario
Innovation Trust, Alberta Innovation and Science, Alberta Heritage
Foundation for Medical Research, U of S, the City of Saskatoon, SaskPower,
and Boehringer Ingelheim, University of Western Ontario, and University of
Alberta. As well, GlaxoSmithKline is also providing funding for a U of S
chair in an area of synchrotron science.
-30-
For more information, contact:
Kathryn Warden
Research Communications Officer
Office of the Vice-President (Research)
University of Saskatchewan
Telephone: (306) 966-2506
Nizar Dhanani
Project Design Manager
UMA Engineering Ltd.
(306) 955-3300
May 24, 2002
NSERC Awards $7.6 M to 59 U of S Research Projects
Posted May 24, 2002
September 3, 2002 Note: This release has been revised to reflect
the
total funding from NSERC over the one to five years of these
grants.
An
earlier version of this release provided the figure just for 2002-2003
funding.
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Friday, May 24, 2002 2002-05-27-OTHER NSERC Awards $2.5 M to 59 U of S Research Projects Today, 59 University of Saskatchewan research projects -- ranging from a new approach to cancer treatment to a study of instability in underground mines -- were awarded a total of more than $7.6 million in individual grants and equipment by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) over the next one to five years. "These innovative, nationally competitive projects will help solve challenges in areas as diverse as engineering, forestry, mining, agriculture, computer science, health and the environment, while greatly enhancing U of S undergraduate teaching and graduate student training," said Michael Corcoran, U of S Vice-President of Research. The announcement was made today in London, Ont. by Maurizio Bevilacqua, Secretary of State for Science, Research and Development. "The great success of new federal programs such as the Canada Research Chairs and the Canada Foundation for Innovation means that universities are hiring once again," said NSERC President Tom Brzustowski. "More than 780 professors applied for their first NSERC grants in this competition. Since young researchers are Canada's future, we've given special attention to their needs." A complete list of the 59 successful U of S projects with a brief description of each is located at http://www.usask.ca/research/NSERC.shtml Among them: - Vikram Misra (veterinary microbiology) -- $81,400 a year for five years, plus an equipment award of $45,000 He will investigate how the herpes virus senses stress in its host's nervous system and "breaks out" at high-stress times. He has discovered a protein called Luman (after a mythical character in Beijing opera) that may be the molecular key to understanding how human herpes viruses reactivate after a long period of dormancy. Luman regulates gene expression and could be the stress-induced trigger that causes the re-appearance of this common affliction. Over the next five years, his team hopes to determine how Luman is regulated and how it in turn controls herpes virus replication and latency. Phone: (306) 966-7218 - Deb Saucier (psychology) -- $26,000 a year for four years She will study sex differences in human spatial ability. She will look at how humans represent space and navigate through it with their own "mental maps" of their environment, as well as the degree to which these abilities are affected by sex hormone levels within the body. Her research is the first to examine whether rat models of spatial cognition can be applied to understanding human navigation. Phone: (306) 966-6689 - Ian Fleming (civil engineering) -- $22,000 a year for four years He will study naturally occurring microbial processes in landfills that remove contaminants that might otherwise seep into groundwater. His long-term goal is to optimize this naturally occurring degradation so that no additional treatment is required at landfills. Phone: (306) 966-5341 - Harold Gonyou (animal and poultry science) -- $23,000 for one year. He will look at how pigs with different behavioral traits or "personalities" cope with various environmental stresses such as weaning age, number of pigs in a group, and feeding methods. This knowledge could improve overall welfare of pigs in commercial operations, as well as potentially boost hog production. Phone: (306) 667-7443 NSERC (http://www.nserc.ca/), a key federal research agency, today announced a total of 2,914 new grants worth almost $361 million over five years to university and college professors in 62 Canadian post-secondary institutions. -30- For more information, contact: Kathryn Warden Research Communications Officer University of Saskatchewan (306) 966-2506 kathryn.warden@usask.caMay 23, 2002
U of S Hosts National Conference
Posted May 23, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - MAY 23, 2002 2002-05-24-AR
U of S Hosts National Conference
The University of Saskatchewan will be hosting "Saskatoon 2002 - From the
Plains to Shield: the Making of a Continent's Interior," the joint annual
meeting of the Geological Association of Canada and the Mineralogical
Association of Canada. This is a major national scientific conference.The event will bring more than 600 geologists from around the world to
campus from May 27-29. The conference provides a forum for industry,
government representatives, and academics to discuss geological issues and
trends.The media are invited to speak with keynote presenters.
On Monday May 27, "Fossils, rocks, cookies and bytes: Geoscience in the
classroom" highlights K-12 geoscience education. Godfrey Nowlan and Beverly
Ross will present hands-on activities for teachers and geoscientists who
will learn how to demonstrate earthquakes using bricks, and model drilling
for oil with the aid of a special cake. Media are invited to attend the
presentation, which begins at 9 a.m. The presenters will speak with media at
9:40 a.m. in room 105 Thorvaldson Building. For further information, please
contact Fran Haidl, Saskatchewan Industry and Resources, (306) 787-6116,
fhaidl@ir.gov.sk.ca.On Wednesday May 29, Dr. Mark Rivers from Chicago, and Dr. Pascal Philippot
from France will be on-hand to answer questions from the media about the
applications of the synchrotron light source to the earth sciences. Dr.
Philippot has worked extensively with the European Synchrotron Research
Facility based in France and Dr. Rivers works at the Advanced Photon Source
synchrotron at the Argonne National Laboratory, Illinois, USA. The pair will
meet with the media outside room 105 Thorvaldson Building at noon on May 29.
-30-For more information please contact:
Mel Stauffer
Department of Geological Sciences
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-5683 or 966-5708
mel.stauffer@usask.ca
Conference website: www.usask.ca/geology/sask2002Parkinson's Investigator To Receive Distinguished Researcher Award
Posted May 23, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Thursday, May 23, 2002 2002-05-25-OTHER
Parkinson's Investigator To Receive Distinguished Researcher Award
A University of Saskatchewan neurologist -- one of the world's foremost
investigators of Parkinson's disease -- will receive the Distinguished
Researcher Award at the May 30th convocation ceremony.The award carries a $1,000 prize and recognizes a U of S faculty member who
has made a major contribution to knowledge through research and publication.
"Prof. Ali Rajput's work in Parkinson's disease has been recognized by
national and international bodies and has led to some new standards of
practice in neurology," said Michael Corcoran, U of S Vice-President
Research.Dr. Rajput has done substantial research on levodopa, the first effective
long-term treatment for Parkinson's disease. He was the first to discover
that the drug prolongs life, is not toxic to humans, and that high-dose
treatment is less beneficial than lower doses. His work has settled
controversies about possible toxic side effects, enabling physicians to
prescribe levodopa in appropriate cases without hesitation. This has
improved the quality of life for thousands of Parkinson's patients.Rajput recently discovered a compound in the brain cells of Parkinson's
patients that could be related to the cause of the disease. He has also
done significant clinical research on Alzheimer's disease that has potential
applications for helping both Alzheimer's and Parkinson's patients. Through
his extensive work, prevention of Parkinson's has become a possibility.Throughout his career, Rajput has balanced clinical practice with teaching,
administrative duties, and research, acting as a mentor and collaborator to
faculty, residents, and students."He is not 'just a researcher' who lets others carry the more mundane, but
necessary activities of the Department," says pharmacology department head
Thomas Wilson. "He has, for 35 years, been the quintessential academic
physician."Rajput has been a tireless advocate for people with Parkinson's. He brought
levodopa to the province when patients had no access to the drug. He helped
found the Saskatchewan Parkinson's Disease Foundation and is a member of the
World Health Organization's working group on Parkinson's. He also set up a
Movement Disorder Clinic at Royal University Hospital and in Regina.He has worked on national and international committees, and has published
numerous book chapters, articles, and papers. He is a reviewer for many
professional journals and granting agencies. He is also in demand as a
consultant, guest lecturer, and media resource on Parkinson's disease and
research.Rajput earned Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery degrees at the
University of Sind, Pakistan and a Master of Science degree in neurology at
the University of Michigan. With the exception of a one-year sabbatical at
the Mayo Clinic, he has spent his 35-year career at the U of S.He has been honored with many awards including the Saskatchewan Order of
Merit in 1993, the Order of Canada (Officer) in 1997, the Morton Schulman
Award from the Parkinson Society of Canada in 2001, and the 2002
Distinguished Canadian award from the Seniors' University Group at the
University of Regina.
Rajput served as head of the Division of Neurology from 1985 to 2001. He is
also an associate member of the Department of Psychiatry and the Department
of Community Health and Epidemiology.-30-
For more information, contact:
Dr. Ali Rajput
Division of Neurology, Department of Medicine
College of Medicine
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-8009Kathryn Warden
U of S Research Communications Officer
Office of the Vice-President (Research)
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2506
kathryn.warden@usask.ca
http://www.usask.ca/research/
"Investing in Ideas: U of S Research"May 21, 2002
University recruiting senior position in Aboriginal initiatives
Posted May 21, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 21, 2002 2002-05-21-OTHER
University recruiting senior position in Aboriginal initiatives
The University of Saskatchewan is moving forward with its commitment to
meeting the needs of Aboriginal people by actively recruiting a senior level
person to take a lead role in implementing key Aboriginal initiatives.These initiatives are based on a strategic document,--A Conceptual Framework
for Aboriginal Initiatives -- unveiled by the University last year. It
describes six areas for growth and development: academic programs, research
programs, student affairs, cultural programs, community outreach, and
coordination.The new position, Special Advisor to the President on Aboriginal
Initiatives, will advise and support the president, vice-presidents, deans,
and senior staff in their task of representing the University of
Saskatchewan to the Aboriginal community.
Currently, the U of S has a wide range of achievements in Aboriginal-related
curriculum, research, and awareness - but they're diffuse and need to better
engage Aboriginal people in the life and work of the University. The
Conceptual Framework was developed to bring together existing initiatives
and to identify gaps.A recent audit of all U of S programs for Aboriginal people revealed dozens
of impressive initiatives, many of them leading-edge and nationally
acclaimed. Programs like the Indian Teacher Education Program (ITEP), the
Aboriginal Justice and Criminology Program, Native Law Centre, Indigenous
Business Administration program, CAPES, and others stand out. However, there
is a lack of graduate level programs and Aboriginal enrolment is uneven
across campus.As well, University leaders are concerned about bringing more Aboriginal
culture and values into the activities of the campus. As the University's
Framework for Planning puts it: "Making available to Aboriginal peoples the
full resources of the University is one side of the equation, integrating
Aboriginal knowledge into the curriculum and practices of the University is
the other." The recently signed Memorandum Of Understanding with Wanuskewin
Heritage Park is expected to help in addressing this need.Also as part of the Framework, the University hopes to enhance its support
for Aboriginal students. The majority of Aboriginal students in Saskatchewan
are currently choosing the University of Saskatchewan to pursue their
post-secondary education, but too many are leaving before their studies are
complete. Broader and more innovative support structures that will help
students to achieve their academic goals need to be explored."There are significant challenges, but this is an exciting time to be a part
of the University of Saskatchewan," said Michael Atkinson, Vice-President
(Academic) and Provost. "This job will present a challenge for the
successful candidate, but it also provides an incredible opportunity to take
part in shaping the University's future."-30-
For more information, please contact:
Peter MacKinnon
President
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6612May 16, 2002
Province Awards $1.76 M to University of Saskatchewan Ag Research
Posted May 16, 2002
The following information has been issued in a release by the Government of Saskatchewan today:
Province Awards $1.76 M to University of Saskatchewan Ag ResearchThe Saskatchewan government announced today it is investing $1.8 M in agriculture research and development in the province through the Saskatchewan Agriculture Development Fund. A total of more than $1.76 M will go to 14 U of S projects in the College of Agriculture, the College of Engineering, the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, and the Veterinary Infectious Disease Organization.
The government news release is at: http://www.gov.sk.ca/newsrel/2002/05/16-363.html.
For details regarding recipients and projects, please contact kathryn.warden@usask.ca.
May 15, 2002
Kuttai Honored With U of S President's Service Award
Posted May 15, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 15, 2002 2002-05-16-OTHER
KUTTAI HONORED WITH U OF S PRESIDENT'S SERVICE AWARD
Heather Kuttai, the University of Saskatchewan's Director of Disability
Services for Students, is being honored with the U of S President's Service
Award at Spring Convocation 2002.Kuttai was nominated by co-workers, and received glowing endorsements from
students, staff and faculty for the qualities she has brought to the
University since she became the first occupant of her office in 1994. They
praise her as dedicated, understanding, compassionate, responsive,
insightful, creative, practical, fair, enthusiastic, and showing great
leadership and warmth.One co-worker said, "Heather's dedication and commitment are boundless. She
leads through inspiration, support and respect for others, which has earned
her national acknowledgement for the service and initiatives she has
provided." All who work with Kuttai note she goes the extra mile to help
students succeed in their programs, and to help faculty and staff appreciate
how a bit of accommodation on their part can provide an equal opportunity to
higher education for a student with a disability.Kuttai has firsthand experience of the challenges faced by students with
disabilities. A wheelchair user since the age of 6, when an injury damaged
her spinal cord, Kuttai graduated from the U of S in 1994 with a BA in
Sociology. That year she was hired to start the Office of Disability
Services for Students.In the eight years since then there has been tremendous growth in services.
She has developed a small staff and the number of students being helped has
shot up from 50 in 1994 to about 750 today. The list of initiatives Kuttai
has developed is long, and includes: an exam accommodation program, a
note-taking program, library assistance, academic support groups for
students with learning disabilities, an accessibility inventory of campus,
Disability Awareness Week at the U of S, and a mentoring program. Kuttai
also works to integrate students with disabilities into larger campus
programs, such as the annual fall Orientation. Highlights of her U of S
career include the Board of Governors' adoption in 1997 of a University
policy for students with disabilities and her production in 1999 and 2000 of
two videos, "Teaching Students With Disabilities" and "Faces of Diversity",
which have become invaluable tools for raising awareness, and which she has
shown at talks across North America and as far away as Austria. Last year
Kuttai won the "Excellence in Service to Students with Disabilities" award
from the Canadian Association of Disability Service Providers in
Post-Secondary Education.Not stopping at that, she has been a world-class member of Canada's
wheelchair target-shooting team, winning medals in the 1988 and 1992
Paralympics in Seoul and Barcelona. She is now in the running to compete in
the 2004 Paralympics in Athens.Kuttai's real target at the U of S is how well she helps students succeed in
their University experience. And they say she's hitting the mark. As one
student put it: "She has made it possible for me to flourish in my academic
career ... I can safely say I would not be where I am today without her
assistance, guidance and support."The President's Service Award recognizes exceptional contributions by
non-academic U of S staff. It includes a $1,000 prize and a commemorative
ring or pin.-30-
For more information, please contact:
Bev Dickinson
Chair of the President's Service Award Selection Committee
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6282Developers of a "Molecular Wire" Win Innovation Award
Posted May 15, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Wednesday, May 15, 2002 2002-05-17-ME
Developers of a "Molecular Wire" Win Innovation Award
Two University of Saskatchewan scientists who've developed a "molecular
wire" that could revolutionize micro-electronics and biosensor technology
are the recipients of the first annual Innovation Place/UST "Award of
Innovation."Biochemist Jeremy Lee and his former post-doctoral fellow Palok Aich have
discovered a new DNA molecule -- M-DNA -- that conducts electricity. They've
obtained a U.S. patent, and plans are underway to create a new company --
Adnavance -- to commercialize the technology with the help of Toronto-based
University Medical Discoveries Inc. (UMDI).The $2,500 award was presented May 14 at the "Celebrate Success! Gala", an
event hosted by the Saskatoon and District Chamber of Commerce and Women
Entrepreneurs of Saskatchewan Inc.The award recognizes the efforts of U of S scientists who are developing new
technology into marketable products. The selection committee includes a
representative from each of Innovation Place, UST Inc., and the U of S."M-DNA is a significant scientific advance that will provide an opportunity
to create a new company and a new industry in Saskatchewan," said UST
President Branko Peterman. "It will also encourage highly skilled U of S
graduates to stay in the province and apply their knowledge."Proximity of the new company to the Canadian Light Source synchrotron
(www.cls.usask.ca) will likely draw companies working in the emerging area
of nanotechnology to Saskatoon, he added.M-DNA (the 'M' stands for metal-containing) is a marriage of molecular
biology and electronics. Conducting metal ions such as zinc, cobalt or
nickel are inserted into the centre of the DNA helix, creating an effective
semi-conductor that is only one molecule (roughly two nanometers) thick.Since DNA has the natural ability to self-assemble, M-DNA is in effect a
self-assembling molecular wire that could become the building block for
nanometer-scale (one-billionth of a meter) bio-electric circuits. These tiny
and speedier circuits could potentially replace the smallest of silicon
microchips that drive the world's information technology."The potential economic impact of this technology is enormous," said
Peterman. "The whole area of miniaturization of transistors is at the core
of advancements in computing technology."M-DNA could also pave the way for highly sensitive new biosensors that help
reduce adverse drug reactions, improve diagnosis of disease, predict the
outcome of disease and reduce the cost of drug development. Biosensors are
detection devices that can translate biological events into optical,
electronic or other signals. In addition to medicine, they also have
applications in areas such as environmental monitoring, security and
national defence.UMDI has so far provided $277,000 to help develop the technology and is
considering further investment. Development work has also been supported
through a $271,000 grant from the Saskatchewan government's Strategic
Investment Fund.Aich, now a research officer for the Saskatchewan Structural Sciences Centre
on campus, played a significant role in the discovery of M-DNA when he
worked in Lee's lab. He designed the original experiment that demonstrated
the conducting ability of M-DNA. He has since had offers from Harvard
University and other institutes and companies in the U.S.Other finalists for the award were: Jeff Schoenau, Department of Soil
Science; and Larry Fowke, Department of Biology, and his former
post-doctoral fellow, Stephen Attree.Innovation Place (www.innovationplace.com) is one of North America's most
successful research parks. UST Inc. (www.usask.ca/ust/) is the U of S
technology transfer arm.Note to editors: A workshop on MEMs/Nanotechnology at the Canadian Light
Source, featuring world experts in the field, will be held Tuesday, May 28
at Innovation Place. For more information, contact: kathryn.warden@usask.ca
-30-
For more information, contact:
Professor Jeremy Lee
Department of Biochemistry
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-4371Kathryn Warden
Research Communications Officer
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2506May 13, 2002
Education Profs Win Major Federal Grant to Study New Approach to Schooling
Posted May 13, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Friday, May 10, 2002 2002-05-06-OTHER
Education Profs Win Major Federal Grant to Study New Approach to Schooling
How do schools need to change to prepare students for the "new economy"?
That's a key question to be addressed in a $162,000 University of
Saskatchewan-led study announced today by the Social Sciences and Humanities
Research Council (SSHRC). The three-year study will involve 200 schools in
Saskatchewan and Ontario.U of S education administration professors Larry Sackney and Keith Walker
will join Brock University colleague Coral Mitchell to investigate how to
transform schools into "learning communities" that will improve both
teaching and learning, and prepare students to take their place in a global,
information-based economy.The results of the study are expected to assist educational policy makers
across Canada.In the classroom of the future, the teacher won't be the sole transmitter of
knowledge. "He or she will be a facilitator because there will be so many
sources of information in the new economy," says Sackney. "There will be
greater opportunities for enhanced learning for both teachers and students."
He noted schools are facing a host of challenges such as demographic shifts,
cross-cultural issues, rural depopulation, violence, and a high incidence of
disruptive student behaviors. To meet those challenges, new models of
schooling need to be found that support teachers, students, parents and
administrators working with -- rather than against -- one another."In essence, building a learning community means creating a different
culture in schools, a culture that entails collaborative work and a shared
vision of the future that is supported and understood by members of the
community," he said.The study will build on a decade of the researchers' previous work and will
involve numerous graduate students, he said.
In the first year of the study, 200 schools -- half in Saskatchewan -- will
be surveyed on the extent to which they are functioning as learning
communities with an integrated curriculum, decentralized structure, and
close collaboration among teachers, staff and students. As well, various
experts across Canada will be surveyed electronically on the nature of
schooling required in the new economy.In the second year, 16 of these schools will be selected for further
interviews. In the final year, four schools flourishing as learning
communities will be intensively studied.A book and numerous papers and articles are expected to result. Previous U
of S research on the learning community model is already being applied in
Saskatchewan and internationally.The project is one of 57 funded under SSHRC's new Initiative on the New
Economy program that aims to help Canadians better understand the impact of
the new economy on business, education and society."The New Economy is not just economics on a global scale; it also speaks to
the relevance of the social sciences and humanities to Canada," said SSHRC
president Marc Renaud.SSHRC is an independent federal government agency that funds
university-based research and graduate training through national peer-review
competitions.-30-
For further information, contact:
Larry Sackney
Professor of Educational Administration
College of Education
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-7626Kathryn Warden
U of S Research Communications
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2506May 10, 2002
U of S Board announces 2002-03 operating budget
Posted May 10, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 10, 2002 2002-05-07-OTHER
U of S Board announces 2002-03 operating budget
The University of Saskatchewan's Board of Governors today approved an
operating budget that will complete a two-year national norm tuition policy
and further the University's strategic vision.The $230.5 million operating budget projected for 2002/03 includes a 2.3%
economic increase in the provincial operating grant and a projected formula
funding adjustment of $2.56 million. It also includes an increase in tuition
revenues consistent with the national norm policy adopted by the board of
governors in 2001 and in keeping with increased enrolments.In applying the national norm policy, tuition adjustments will vary
according to program. Over 41% of students will be assessed a tuition
increase of 4% or less. Almost 16% of students, those in programs where
tuition has lagged far behind the national norm, will face double-digit
increases. (See backgrounder)"For the University to remain competitive with our peers on a national scale
requires a comparable level of funding support from both the Province and
students," said University President Peter MacKinnon.The 2002/03 tuition fee structure has also been changed to include computer
lab fees. In the past, these fees have been assessed and paid separately.
Under the new structure, almost all fees will be consolidated with tuition,
which is tax deductible and included on the T2202, eliminating the need to
keep receipts. It will also assist students in planning their budget for the
academic year by minimizing unexpected charges throughout the term.
The new operating budget will direct about $300,000 to enhancing the
university's scholarship and bursary fund, attracting the best and brightest
students and providing assistance to those high need students who may
otherwise find their program of choice inaccessible. (See backgrounder)A further $1 million is being allocated towards support for graduate
students. This expenditure will improve the university's ability to recruit
and retain graduate students, a critical element in strengthening the
university's research capability.Additional funds will also go towards improving student access to computers
and technology ($720,000) and implementing a student information system
($1.15 million), which will better meet the strategic and academic planning
goals of the institution and will provide better services to students."Along with national norm tuition, students expect national norm quality and
services," said Frank Quennell, University Board of Governors Chair. "This
budget continues to build on the President's strategic vision for a
nationally competitive university while also improving areas of particular
student concern."-30-
For more information, please contact:
Peter MacKinnon or Frank Quennell
President Board Chair
University of Saskatchewan University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6612 (306) 933-1352
University of Saskatchewan
2002/03 Budget Highlights* Implementation of the final phase (Year 2) of the national norm tuition
policy.
* Computer lab fees rolled into tuition, providing greater transparency and
comparability with other institutions, enhancing students' ability to plan,
and improving efficiency.
* 10% of the national norm tuition increases allocated to incremental
undergraduate scholarship/bursary support.
* $1 million allocated in support of graduate scholarships/bursaries.
* $.72 million allocated to student computing to accommodate access and
expanded services.
* $1.15 million allocated to the Student Information System.
* Total University of Saskatchewan operating budget in 2002/03: $230.5
million.
* Increase in provincial government grant: $7.021 million, including
economic increases, activity adjustment, and commitment for additional
Medicine and Nursing students.
* Increase in tuition revenue: $6.433 million, including higher enrolment
levels and new tuition increases.
Tuition
In 2001, the University's Board of Governors announced a change in policy
from low-tuition to rates consistent with the national norm of
medical/doctoral universities. The policy was to be implemented over two
years, with an across the board 15% increase in all programs during year
one. Year two will see differential increases, with 41% of students facing
tuition rises of 5% or less.
Other programs, those with tuition considerably lower than the national
norm, will have larger increases in 2002/03, while fees for the Physical
Therapy program will be decreased.
College 02/03 Tuition % Increase # of Students
1. Medicine 9,205 18.6% 221
2. Law 5,681 27.6% 307
3. Pharmacy 5,495 4.4% 301
4. Veterinary Medicine 5,275 0.0% 285
5. Engineering 4,924 1.3% 1341
6. Physical Therapy 4,544 (16.6)% 90
7. Nutrition 4,532 0.8% 94
8. Commerce 4,502 12.2% 1621
9. Nursing 4,440 9.1% 260
10.Agriculture 4,334 4.4% 646
11.Education 4,316 4.0% 659
12.Science 4,271 4.9% 2145 (approx.)
13.Kinesiology 4,244 7.4% 458
14.Arts 4,218 7.2% 5005 (approx.)University proposes to enhance scholarships and bursaries
Posted May 10, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 10, 2002 2002-05-08-OTHER
University proposes to enhance scholarships and bursaries
Today the Board of Governors approved a proposal to create a health sciences
bursary fund, another fund to improve access for high need students, and to
enhance the university's undergraduate scholarship program.The operating budget approved today by the Board of Governors will see an
additional $300,000 (10% of the national norm adjustment) committed towards
the University's scholarship and bursary program.Approximately $100,000 will be added to the university's existing
scholarship program, which is spread across all colleges and based on the
level of student enrolment. Last year, this fund awarded 197 scholarships to
students in all undergraduate programs. The incremental dollars added in
2002/03 will add 66 new awards this year.$100,000 will be allocated towards the Health Sciences Bursary Fund. This
fund will provide a pool of assistance for students in the health science
colleges who typically face higher than average tuition, book and equipment
expenses. The Health Science Bursary Fund will focus on keeping higher cost
health science programs within reach of students from all over Saskatchewan.
The new program will be administered in the Fall of 2002 and funds will be
allocated entirely based on need."At a time when a shortage of healthcare professionals is of major concern
to the people of the province, it is important to ensure students from high
need families and those with additional expenses are not prevented from
entering the health science colleges because of cost," said Peter MacKinnon,
University President.Another $50,000 will be used for access bursaries. It will target students
who are in a position of economic disadvantage and will be distributed
according to actual need, excluding tuition, books, and equipment. It will
assist students from low-income families and those with additional expenses
such as those related to care of dependents. It will also be administered in
the Fall of 2002.Just over $50,000 will be directed towards matching funds for athletic
awards.-30-
For more information, please contact:Peter MacKinnon or David Hannah
President AVP Student Affairs
University of Saskatchewan University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-6612 (306) 966-8710Board approves $1 million in new support
Posted May 10, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 10, 2002 2002-05-09-OTHER
Board approves $1 million in new support
for graduate studentsToday the Board of Governors at the University of Saskatchewan approved a
plan to add $1 million to the Graduate Scholarship Fund used to provide
scholarship and teaching assistantships to graduate students."Graduate students play an integral role in the university's research and
teaching programs," said Tom Wishart, Dean of the College of Graduate
Studies and Research. "Without the valuable contributions of graduate
students the University simply could not teach as many undergraduate
students, nor would faculty be as successful in applications to national and
international granting agencies."The new program was developed by Tom Wishart, with input from the Graduate
Students Association. It will increase the Ph.D scholarship to $18,000 and
the Master's scholarship to $15,000. Approximately $650,000 of the new funds
will be used to raise the scholarships provided to current students, while
the remaining $350,000 will enable the university to increase its cohort of
graduate students.Canada's Innovation Agenda and the federal government's initiatives to
strengthen the country's research capacity have made for an extremely
competitive environment with respect to attracting high quality students.
Universities across the country have begun to take steps to increase
graduate student scholarships and stipends."Our agenda to be nationally and internationally competitive requires the
University of Saskatchewan to be a major presence in graduate education,"
said university president, Peter MacKinnon. "A substantial investment at
this time indicates we are serious about these issues."The University of Saskatchewan offers Ph.D and Master's degrees in over 70
programs. Currently almost 1900 graduate students are studying at the U of S
and more than 400 of them convocate annually. These alumni can be found
living and working in all parts of the world.-30-
For more information, please contact:Dr. Tom Wishart
Dean
College of Graduate Studies and Research
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-5759U of S Announces Scholarships for 2002 Canada-Wide Science Fair Winners
Posted May 10, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE -- May 10, 2002 2002-05-10-OTHER
U of S Announces Scholarships for 2002 Canada-Wide Science Fair Winners
The University of Saskatchewan will offer scholarships totalling $66,000 to
winners of the 2002 Canada-Wide Science Fair that runs May 11-18 on the
campus and at the Saskatoon Field House.Five top students will be awarded scholarships at U of S valued at $2,500
for the first year and renewable for three years. The overall winner will be
offered a scholarship valued at $4,000 for the first year and renewable for
three years."We are delighted to play a part in nurturing the scientists of tomorrow
whose passion for discovery will enhance our health, environment, economy
and quality of life," said U of S President Peter MacKinnon. "With the
first-in-Canada synchrotron and a host of other exciting research
opportunities, the U of S offers these students a bright future."MacKinnon's announcement fulfills a commitment made by former U of S
President George Ivany in 1999 to create national science fair scholarships.
MacKinnon said the U of S is proud to host this national event which will
showcase the work of more than 400 students from across Canada. Student
delegations from Australia, Japan, Taiwan and Slovenia will also attend.Public viewing of the student projects will take place Saturday, May 18 from
9 a.m. to 11:45 a.m. at the Saskatoon Field House. Media are invited to a
special viewing on Thursday, May 16 from 1 p.m. to 3:30 p.m.Students participating in the fair will have an opportunity to tour one of
Canada's biggest science projects -- the $174-million Canadian Light Source
(CLS) synchrotron -- on Tuesday, May 14th in the afternoon. They will also
tour the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, the College of Agriculture,
the Department of Anthropology Archeology, and the Diefenbaker Centre.The logo for the 2002 national fair highlights the CLS, a U of S-owned
national facility that will be the world's fourth most powerful synchrotron
light source when it starts operations in 2004. This brilliant light --
millions of times brighter than sunlight -- will be used to probe the
structure of matter and develop new drugs, advanced materials and a host of
other applications."We'd like every student in the country to know what a synchrotron is and
what it can do for Canadian science and innovation," MacKinnon said. "This
tremendous new research tool will provide new opportunities for discovery in
virtually every scientific discipline. It's critical that schools and
universities across Canada are aware of the synchrotron's potential, and
that the nation's scientists are ready to take full advantage of it when it
opens in 2004."Visit www.cls.usask.ca for more information on the CLS and
www.usask.ca/research for information about the U of S research enterprise.-30-
For more information, contact:
Kathryn Warden
CLS/Research Communications Officer
University of Saskatchewan
Phone: (306) 966-2506Matthew Dalzell
Science Fair Communications
Phone: (306) 966-6436
Cel: (306) 227-8759May 07, 2002
Surviving US! Introduces Students to the U of S
Posted May 07, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 7, 2002 2002-05-03-OTHER
Surviving US! Introduces Students to the U of S
Students preparing to attend the University of Saskatchewan for the first
time this fall will have a chance to get some inside formation about
university life through Surviving US!Surviving US! is designed to familiarize students with the U of S before
they come on campus. The program will visit communities throughout
Saskatchewan, giving students a chance to talk to and ask questions of
current U of S students and advisors."There are many things that students need to do in the next few months,"
explains Cora Schneider, Director of Student Recruitment. "We try to
provide students with the tools to make the transition to university easier.
The sessions cover registration, residence and housing, student loans, the
importance of attending Orientation and much more."Surviving US! will make stops in the following locations:
La Ronge -- May 7 -- Churchilll High
Lloydminster -- May 13 -- Holy Rosary High
North Battleford -- May 14 -- North West Regional College
Prince Albert -- May 15 -- SIAST Woodland Campus
Tisdale -- May 16 -- Tisdale Community Centre
Yorkton -- May 21 -- Parkland Regional College
Estevan -- May 22 -- Estevan Comp. High
Weyburn -- May 23 -- Weyburn Comp. High
Kindersley -- May 27 -- Prairie West Regional College
Swift Current -- May 28 -- Cypress Hills Regional College
Moose Jaw -- May 29 -- SIAST Palliser Campus
Regina -- May 30 -- SIAST Wascana Campus
Saskatoon -- June 1 -- Room 143 Arts, U of S Campus
Saskatoon -- June 3 -- Room 143 Arts, U of S Campus
Saskatoon -- June 4 -- Room 143 Arts, U of S Campus"I had a lot of questions when I was thinking about university," says Gabe
Andrews, third-year Arts and Science student. "The opportunity to talk to
someone who has been there and to the people that can give you answers helps
so much."Students can reserve a spot online at www.usask.ca/students/surviving or
e-mail surviving@usask.ca for more information.-30-
For more information, contact:
Cora Schneider, Director of Student Recruitment
University of Saskatchewan
Phone: (306) 966-6767
E-mail: cora.schneider@usask.caMay 03, 2002
Funding for Powerful Microscope
Posted May 03, 2002
The Government of Saskatchewan announced the following in a news release yesterday:
FUNDING FOR POWERFUL MICROSCOPE
Government funding is helping the University of Saskatchewan buy a powerful microscope to examine structures 6,000 times smaller than the width of a human hair.
For more information, please see http://www.gov.sk.ca/newsrel/2002/05/02-306.html.
May 01, 2002
Greschner Receives Master Teacher Award From U of S
Posted May 01, 2002
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - May 1, 2002 2002-05-01-OTHER
Greschner Receives Master Teacher Award From U of S
Saskatoon, SK - The University of Saskatchewan will honour excellence in
teaching by presenting Donna Greschner with this year's Master Teacher
Award.The Master Teacher Award was established to emphasize the importance of
teaching at the University of Saskatchewan by recognizing those faculty
members who excel in teaching.Professor Greschner earned two degrees at the U of S including a Bachelor of
Commerce degree with Great Distinction in 1979 and a Bachelor of Laws degree
with Great Distinction the following year. In 1982, she earned a
post-graduate degree in Law from Oxford University and returned to the U
of S as a member of the law faculty. In 1991, she was promoted to Professor
of Law in her college.Students praise her mastery and enthusiasm of subject matter and her
approachability, friendliness and concern for their education and wellbeing.
One student says that her knowledge of Constitutional Law is. . .infectious.
Such praise led Greschner to three nominations for the University of
Saskatchewan Student's Union Teaching Excellence Award. Faculty colleagues
in the College's formal teaching evaluation also gave her repeated formal
assessments of "superior.""Professor Greschner is in the select company of outstanding teachers in
this law college and in the legal professorate in Canada," said former Dean
of Law, President Peter MacKinnon.
Greschner's contribution to research and the legal professorate includes
many book chapters, refereed articles, invited papers and over
40 invited lectures or conference presentations around the world.The award is presented at Spring Convocation and includes a $1000 prize.
-30-
For more information please contact:
Gordon Barnhart
University Secretary
University of Saskatchewan
Tel: (306) 966-4632
