June 25, 2007
Sod-Turning Celebration Launches U of S International Vaccine Centre
Posted June 25, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 25, 2007
2007-06-19-VIDO
Today representatives of all three levels of government and the Canada Foundation for Innovation turned the sod to launch construction of the International Vaccine Centre (InterVac) at the University of Saskatchewan, a $110.4-million project that will significantly enhance Canada's capacity to fight infectious disease in both animals and humans.
"We are delighted to celebrate the visionary partnership that has made possible this state-of-the-art vaccine research lab to help save lives and prepare Canada for future public health risks," said U of S President Peter MacKinnon. "This project represents the largest investment to date in vaccine research in Canada and it will greatly enhance the unique cluster of world-class science research centres on our campus."
The Biosafety Level 3 research centre -- part of a national effort to address existing and emerging infectious diseases -- will be built on the U of S campus next to VIDO (Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization) by 2010. Excavation of the InterVac foundation will start next month. Roughly 400 jobs will be created during InterVac construction.
InterVac, which will be the largest vaccine research centre in Canada and one of the largest in North America, will develop new vaccines and new methods of delivering vaccines against diseases that may include tuberculosis, hepatitis C, SARS, HIV, and avian influenza.
Funding for the project comes from the Government of Canada ($49 million), the Canada Foundation for Innovation ($32.5 million), the Government of Saskatchewan ($24.78 million), the U of S ($3.85 million), and the City of Saskatoon ($250,000).
"Control of infectious diseases is a global concern," said Warren McCall, Saskatchewan Minister of Advanced Education and Employment. "Intervac will help put Saskatchewan researchers on the world stage."
"Canada's New Government is dedicated to working in partnership with other orders of government to protect the health and safety of Canadians," said Bradley Trost, Member of Parliament for Saskatoon-Humboldt on behalf of Canada's New Government. "We have chosen to make a strategic investment in InterVac - an institution that will boost the country's technology and knowledge infrastructure, attract more highly-skilled researchers to the community and accelerate the development of important new vaccines."
"Saskatoon took the lead in becoming the first municipality in Canada to invest directly in a major research and development project, the Canada Light Source synchrotron," said Mayor Donald Atchison. "We are proud to extend that innovative thinking with an investment in InterVac. These projects will attract top researchers from around the world to Saskatoon, where they will work on solutions to improve the quality of life at a global level."
"Once completed, InterVac will become one of the flagship vaccine research facilities not just in Canada, but around the world," said Dr. Eliot Phillipson, President and CEO of the Canada Foundation for Innovation. "This is an exciting project that reinforces the University of Saskatchewan's reputation as one of the pre-eminent hotbeds of research in the country."
VIDO and InterVac will be operated as one entity. VIDO/InterVac is expected to become the research centrepiece of the new U of S School of Public Health and assume an increasingly important role in the development of Canada's national infectious disease-fighting strategies.
Andrew Potter, currently VIDO's associate director and an internationally recognized authority on vaccine development, will become VIDO/InterVac's new director on July 1. He succeeds Lorne Babiuk.
While there are more than 90 Canadian laboratories with InterVac's biosafety rating (Level 3), InterVac will be one of the few Biosafety Level 3 labs in the world that can undertake vaccine testing with large animals such as cows. This advantage is expected to attract researchers from around the world.
InterVac will be built to exceed international biocontainment safety standards and its many special design features will ensure the safety of workers, the community and the environment. Both Health Canada's Office of Laboratory Security and the Canadian Food Inspection Agency will be involved in regulating the safety of InterVac.
The U of S has set up an independent Community Liaison Committee to provide full and open communication regarding the safety of the world-class facility. Comprising up to 12 community participants, the CLC is chaired by Community Co-Chair Patricia Roe and the VIDO/InterVac Director. The CLC is directly accessible to the media and the public. Questions concerning the CLC and its role should be directed to the Community Co-Chair at: w.roe@sasktel.net
More information about InterVac including a media backgrounder is available at: http://www.vido.org/intervac/index.php
A downloadable image of the new building is available at: http://www.vido.org/images/InterVacAerial2006.jpg
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For further information, contact:
Tess Laidlaw
VIDO/InterVac Communications Officer
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-1506
Kathryn Warden
Director, Research Communications
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2506
Cameron Zimmer
Communications Officer
Western Economic Diversification Canada
(306) 975-6125
Jill Tzupa
Communications Officer
Saskatchewan Advanced Education and Employment
(306) 787-1331
Angus McKinnon
Media Relations Coordinator
Canada Foundation for Innovation
(613) 996-3160
Jill Cope
Communications
City of Saskatoon
(306) 975-3207
June 21, 2007
University of Saskatchewan and Canadian Light Source Welcome U.S. Ambassador
Posted June 21, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 21, 2007
2007-06-17-OTHER
The University of Saskatchewan and the Canadian Light Source showcased some of Canada's leading investments in innovation during a visit by His Excellency, U.S. Ambassador David Wilkins to campus Thursday, June 21. The visit reflects the increasing international interest in Saskatoon's place in the global knowledge economy.
"This is an important opportunity, not only for the University of Saskatchewan, but for the greater Saskatoon community," says University of Saskatchewan President Peter MacKinnon. "This visit informed Ambassador Wilkins about the evolution of our campus, some of our centres of excellence and our enhanced profile in North America and around the world."
During his visit, the ambassador toured both the Canadian Light Source synchrotron and the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization. He also met with graduate students in the School of Business and attended a reception with the Board of Governors. The campus visit was preceded by a luncheon at TCU Place, co-hosted by the Greater Saskatoon Chamber of Commerce and the University of Saskatchewan.
"The Canadian Light Source is a key tool for discovery and innovation in our country," says CLS Executive Director William Thomlinson. "The CLS is developing capabilities that are unique in North America and complement the research activities being done at synchrotrons in the U.S. We wanted to ensure that the Ambassador is aware of ongoing cooperation within the North American synchrotron community."
"This visit reinforces that senior stakeholders from around the world are learning about the University of Saskatchewan. As we continue to evolve, our campus community is growing more distinctive and distinguished," said Rob Norris, University of Saskatchewan Global Relations Coordinator. "The University embodies the province's best traditions and our bright future, including a spirit of innovation and inclusion as well as vital connections to our community."
The Canadian Light Source (CLS) is Canada's national centre for synchrotron research. Located on the University of Saskatchewan campus in Saskatoon, the CLS is a powerful tool for academic and industrial research in a wide variety of areas including environmental science, natural resources and energy, health and life sciences, and information and communications technology.
The University of Saskatchewan is one of the leading medical doctoral universities in Canada. With 58 degrees, diplomas and certificates in over 100 areas of study, the University is uniquely positioned in the areas of human, animal and plant studies. World-class research facilities, renowned faculty and award winning students make the University of Saskatchewan a leader in post-secondary education.
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For further information, contact:
Rob Norris
Coordinator, Global Relations
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 612-2428
Rob.Norris@usask.ca
Matthew Dalzell
Communications Coordinator
Canadian Light Source Inc.
Ph: (306) 657-3739 Cell: 227-0978
matthew.dalzell@lightsource
June 20, 2007
New SIAST, U of S Agreement Expands Student Options
Posted June 20, 2007
June 7, 2007
The College of Arts and Science at the University of Saskatchewan and SIAST signed a new agreement that further facilitates the transition of students from a diploma to a degree program.
For more information: http://www.siast.sk.ca/departments/mktgcomms/pdf07/chemtechuofsrelease2007.pdf?
June 15, 2007
University of Saskatchewan Explores Impact of Climate Change on the Prairies with Support of SGI CANADA
Posted June 15, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 15, 2007
2007-06-15-OTHER
SASKATOON, SK - The University of Saskatchewan is working to understand and predict the impact that climate change will have on the Prairies, thanks to a significant donation from SGI CANADA.
Today at the U of S, Premier Lorne Calvert announced a $250,000 donation from SGI CANADA to the Centre for Hydrology as part of the University's Thinking the World of our Future campaign. This funding will allow the Centre to find better techniques to anticipate the types of weather events that will occur on the Prairies in the future, while developing ways to better understand extreme weather patterns.
"A greater understanding of extreme weather and climate change will provide practical tools to communities right across the Prairies that could help minimize damage caused by severe storms," said Premier Calvert. "This research will be of interest not only to the insurance sector, but many other sectors including municipal and government agencies, the construction and agriculture industry and environmental groups."
As the impacts of climate change become visible on the Prairies - through rising temperatures, increasingly dry summers and higher frequency of extreme weather events - the need to understand and address climate change becomes more urgent.
"This donation will help a number of researchers and graduate students examine the characteristics and severity of weather events occurring in the province - from droughts to flooding," said Dr. Pomeroy, Director of the Centre for Hydrology and the Canada Research Chair in Water Resources and Climate Change. "We thank SGI CANADA for enhancing the Centre's ability to conduct this important research and develop much-needed tools for the future."
In recognition of SGI CANADA's support of the Centre for Hydrology, the program will be named the "SGI CANADA Hydrometeorology Programme" and the primary researcher will be named the "SGI CANADA Research Fellow."
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For more information, please contact:
Christy Miller
Development Communications Officer
University of Saskatchewan
Phone: 306-966-8917
Shaun Humphries
Supervisor
SGI Communications
Phone: 306-775-6907
U of S Opens Canada's Premiere Water Pollution Research Facility
Posted June 15, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Friday, June 15, 2007
2007-06-14-OTHER
Canada's premiere water pollution research facility opened today as part of an $11.8-million expansion to the University of Saskatchewan's Toxicology Centre - the successful result of co-operation among academic, government and industry partners.
The Aquatic Toxicology Research Facility - the flagship of the Toxicology Centre's expansion - is the first of its kind in Canada and one of only a few similar research resources in the world.
"Our researchers are among Canada's pioneers in understanding the impact of contaminants on wildlife and aquatic systems and ultimately on human health," said U of S President Peter MacKinnon. "Their vision, together with the support of our funding partners, strengthens our national role in aquatic toxicology research and training. It will allow us to claim a leading role on the international stage."
The innovative facility is the culmination of a concerted five-year effort led by the Centre's director, Karsten Liber. The expansion provides U of S scientists with the tools needed to detect, monitor and evaluate toxic pollution in Canada's lakes, rivers and other aquatic ecosystems. Their findings will help address critical questions about water quality, ecosystem health and national environmental policies.
"Canada's New Government is creating a knowledge advantage in Saskatoon by investing in people, new ideas and advanced technologies," said Bradley Trost, Member of Parliament for Saskatoon-Humboldt. "Our investment will advance the University of Saskatchewan's research infrastructure by providing it with the equipment needed to solidify itself as an international leader in aquatic toxicology research."
"This new research facility is an impressive example of the type of strategic orientations and partnerships that are essential to ensure the long-term health and stability of Canada's ecosystems," said Dr. Eliot Phillipson, President and CEO of the Canada Foundation for Innovation. "This facility represents what the CFI is all about: providing the tools to institutions and researchers so that they can do the leading edge research that will benefit all Canadians."
The infrastructure project, which took two years to complete, adds 760 square metres of new space to the Toxicology Centre while other areas of the 21-year-old building have been renovated to accommodate additional faculty, staff and students. The expansion provides researchers with larger laboratories for analytical, wet chemistry, biochemistry and molecular biology research, specialized tanks for aquatic species, separate areas for animal culturing and experimentation, and dedicated water treatment areas.
These resources will enable U of S researchers to explore the effects of water quality and pollutants on fish, amphibians, plants and other aquatic species under controlled conditions. Their findings will guide regulatory decisions about issues such as economic development in Canada's North and the use of "green chemistry" to produce environmentally friendly alternatives to toxic chemicals used in industry.
A core group of 14 U of S toxicology researchers - including Canada Research Chairs John Giesy and Monique Dubé - will use the new resources with research collaborators and partners, technical staff and visiting scientists. The expansion will add about 50 to 60 new staff to the roster over the next few years, and will also serve as a training ground for undergraduate and graduate students starting their careers in environmental toxicology.
Capital funding for the Toxicology Centre's expansion comes from a variety of sources. The Canadian Foundation for Innovation (CFI) awarded $3.2 million, while Western Economic Diversification Canada provided $650,000 in funding to buy specialized research equipment. As well, the U of S is making a $4.6 million strategic investment as part of its aim to promote research excellence in environment, resources and sustainability. Industry, researcher and vendor in-kind contributions account for $700,000, while the remaining $2.6 million is anticipated to be contributed by the Government of Saskatchewan.
Established in 1986, the Toxicology Centre serves as the hub for undergraduate and graduate programming in toxicology at the U of S. It's also home to the internationally-recognized Toxicology Group whose multi-disciplinary members from across campus promote research, academic programs and public awareness in toxicology. A major priority is the Northern Ecosystem Toxicology Initiative (NETI) - a program that focuses research, education and public awareness on environmental toxicology issues in Canada's North.
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For more information, contact:
Karsten Liber
Director, Toxicology Centre
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-7444
karsten.liber@usask.ca
www.usask.ca/toxicology
Michael Robin
Research Communications
University of Saskatchewan
306-966-2427
michael.robin@usask.ca
www.usask.ca/research
June 14, 2007
University of Saskatchewan's New Schools to Expand Graduate Programs
Posted June 14, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 14, 2007
2007-06-13-OTHER
Three new interdisciplinary schools established at the University of Saskatchewan (U of S) will offer innovative opportunities for graduate education, research and partnerships. The Schools of Public Health, Public Policy, and Environment and Sustainability have been established to challenge contemporary issues the U of S is uniquely positioned to explore.
"Many universities pursue research, but comparatively few focus on the relationship between education, research, science and communities," said Michael Atkinson, U of S Provost and VP Academic. "This interdisciplinary approach is where the University of Saskatchewan will make a distinct contribution."
The three new Schools will work cooperatively with partners at and beyond the U of S to create innovative teaching, learning and research initiatives in service to the broader community. Each School, led by an executive director, is expected to enroll its first graduate students as early as fall 2007.
With the recent signing of a Memorandum of Understanding, the U of S and the University of Regina will create a single school of public policy from the public policy schools now in place at both universities. The Johnson-Shoyama Graduate School of Public Policy will assist in the renewal of the public sector across Canada and will advance the agenda of research, graduate program offerings, and outreach in the areas of public policy and public administration.
The School of Public Health at the U of S will excel in agricultural, rural and Aboriginal health, the social and behavioral dimensions of health vaccine development, and veterinary public health. The School of Environment and Sustainability will position its activities around four core themes: ecological integrity and resource use; energy use and climate change; earth system processes; and environmental ethics, justice and governance.
Located in the heart of Saskatoon, the University of Saskatchewan is one of the leading medical doctoral universities in Canada. With 58 degrees, diplomas and certificates in over 100 areas of study, the University is uniquely positioned in the areas of human, animal and plant studies. World-class research facilities, renowned faculty and award winning students make the U of S a leader in post-secondary education.
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For additional information, contact:
Patty Martin
Community and Media Relations Specialist
University Communications
University of Saskatchewan
Telephone (306) 966-6919
Nobel laureates, celebrities make physics friendly at CAP Conference at U of S
Posted June 14, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Thursday, June 14, 2007
2007-06-12-AR
Nobel laureates Carl Wieman and Anthony Leggett, Discovery Channel's Jay Ingram, and champion of science literacy Lawrence Krauss highlight the Canadian Association of Physicists (CAP) Congress 2007 hosted by the University of Saskatchewan from June 17-20, 2007.
Wieman will deliver the CAP Congress Herzberg Memorial Lecture, entitled Science Education in the 21st Century: Using the Tools of Science to Teach Science. He argues that while science has advanced rapidly in the past 500 years, science education, shackled by tradition and dogma, remains largely medieval. He will discuss research that reveals how teachers badly misinterpret what students learn from traditional classes and exams - and how it also provides insight on how to do much better.
The public is encouraged to attend this free public lecture on June 17 at 7 p.m. at TCU Place, and to bring their questions.
On June 18, CAP Congress offers a full-day workshop for high school science teachers. The day includes seminars by award-winning researchers from across Canada, kicked off at 9 a.m. by Nobel laureate Anthony Leggett from the University of Illinois at Urbana and the University of Waterloo. Carl Wieman will present in the afternoon. About 50 teachers from across the province have registered to attend.
On June 19 at 9 a.m., Discovery Channel's Jay Ingram takes a look at science outreach in his presentation It Was the Best of Times... He says on one side there is a growing chorus of interest by governments and funding agencies in stimulating innovation and establishing a science culture - a lot of "talking the talk." Ingram asks: who is walking the walk? Who knows what to do to achieve any of the goals?
At 1:30 p.m. Lawrence Krauss, theoretical physicist, author, commentator, and champion of science literacy will present Selling Science to Unwilling Buyers. Krauss, based at Ohio's Case Western Reserve University, says that while the advanced mathematics that are the hallmark of physics can scare off the public, they need to be reminded that cool concepts such as black holes and time travel are also the physicist's stock in trade.
Both the Ingram and Krauss presentations are reserved for CAP Congress delegates and the U of S community. Both will speak in Room 143 and 146 at the U of S Arts Building.
The CAP Congress is the premiere general physics conference in Canada. This year's event is expected to draw 475 local, national, and international delegates.
This year's CAP Congress coincides with several U of S milestones, including the university centennial, the 50th anniversary of the Institute of Space and Atmospheric Studies, and the 25th anniversary of the first U of S tokamak fusion reactor. It also coincides with the Annual Users Meeting of the Canadian Light Source, the national synchrotron research facility at the U of S (www.lightsource.ca).
CAP is a broadly-based national network of physicists working in Canadian educational, industrial, and research settings. More information about this year's congress can be found at http://cap07.usask.ca/index.php.
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For more information, contact:
Rob Pywell, Professor
Department of Physics and Engineering Physics
College of Arts and Science
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 229-0730
rob.pywell@usask.ca
Michael Robin
Research Communications
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2427
michael.robin@usask.ca
www.usask.ca/research
U of S BioVenture Challenge fosters ideas from aquaculture to soil cleanup
Posted June 14, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 14, 2007
2007-06-10-OTHER
Five budding entrepreneurs whose bio-economy ideas range from aquaculture to bioremediation have been named the finalists in the U of S Industry Liaison Office (ILO) BioVenture Business Plan Challenge.
The finalists were announced today at the Atrium in the U of S College of Agriculture and Bioresources.
"The BioVenture Challenge targets one of the biggest hurdles for people with innovative bio-economy ideas: the need for startup capital," says ILO managing director Doug Gill. "The contest also offers top-notch business planning advice to help set our new entrepreneurs on the path to success."
The five finalists will now receive intensive coaching and mentorship to refine their business plans. Once complete, one of the five entrepreneurs whose plan is judged the best will receive $50,000 from the U of S Industry Liaison Office to launch or run their venture. Contest sponsor Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food is providing funding and support for the program. In addition, all five business plans will be submitted to the Saskatchewan Angel Investors Network (SAINT) for consideration for funding.
"The Government of Saskatchewan is very happy to support the BioVenture Challenge," said Agriculture and Food Minister Mark Wartman. "In addition to keeping bright young entrepreneurs in Saskatchewan, this initiative will ensure that research funded at the University of Saskatchewan will be commercialized for use by the province's growing bio-economy."
The finalists are:
* Plant sciences researcher Rachel Buhler with Aquaponics, a system that combines fish farming and hydroponics greenhouse techniques to reuse water for the fish and process fish waste into plant nutrients. Her goal is to promote commercialization of fish farms coupled with herb and vegetable production in Saskatchewan. Buhler plans to establish a production facility north of Saskatoon near the town of Osler.
* Joel Campbell plans to further develop a commercial greenhouse facility to grow hardy fruit species. His goal is to promote development of fruit production in Saskatchewan and further diversify its agricultural economy. Campbell currently operates a test facility near Lumsden.
* Patrick Mah has been developing an "in situ bioremediation" process for use on contaminated soil, particularly at oil field and mining sites. His potential customer base has been continually growing and currently lacks economically-viable remediation solutions. Mah's process promises to allow previously contaminated sites to be re-used for both urban and commercial development. He plans to base his company in Saskatoon.
* Steve Mamchur has been working to develop hormone concentrates from natural plant sources that can be used in bio-identical hormone replacement therapies (BHRT). He has developed a prescription mixing process that will increase the number of pharmacies able to mix prescriptions from 400 to 7,500 in Canada alone. Mamchur sees the growing market for hormone replacement treatment creating an opportunity for his processes. He is currently working as a pharmacist in Prince Albert and is a student in the U of S College of Law.
* Tyler Whale is developing a curbside collection company to gather and process compostable material. Whale intends to divert some of the more than 85 million kilograms of compostable waste that goes into Saskatoon's landfill every year. This will help reduce greenhouse gas emissions and extend the landfill's lifespan.
The 2007 BioVenture Business Plan Challenge is a joint initiative of the U of S ILO and Saskatchewan Agriculture and Food to help promote, develop, and accelerate the bio-economy within Saskatchewan. It is open to recent U of S graduates who are less than 35 years old.
The ILO is dedicated to helping U of S researchers, faculty, staff, and students identify inventions arising from their research and to work with them to protect their intellectual property and help commercialize promising new technologies.
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For more information, contact:
Doug Gill
Managing Director
Industry Liaison Office (ILO)
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-7335
Doug.Gill@usask.ca
http://www.usask.ca/research/ilo
Michael Robin
Research Communications
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2427
michael.robin@usask.ca
www.usask.ca/research
June 11, 2007
CFI funding advances a wide range of U of S research including hypertension, nanotech, molecular design, environment and social systems
Posted June 11, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Monday, June 11, 2007
2007-06-06-OTHER
Thirteen U of S researchers have been collectively awarded $654,000 from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) for an array of projects, including developing new ways to control high blood pressure, exploring nanotech catalysts to break down pollutants such as PCBs, and developing bio-fertilizers and bio-pesticides.
"These latest strategic investments will allow some of our leading researchers to explore questions in key areas from Aboriginal health and environment to sustainable agriculture and drug design," said U of S Vice-President Research Steven Franklin.
The U of S grants are part of $39.2 million to support 261 researchers at 42 institutions across Canada. The funding was announced on June 8 at the University of Montreal by federal minister of Public Works and Government Services Michel Fortier and CFI President and CEO Dr. Eliot Phillipson.
"Knowledge-intensive economies and societies of the 21st century will be characterized by innovative research and a highly educated and skilled workforce," Phillipson said. "Over the past 10 years, the CFI's investments have been a major factor in enabling the University of Saskatchewan to attract some of the world's best researchers. Today's investment will ensure that this trend continues."
"I would like to offer congratulations on behalf of the Government of Canada," said Carol Skelton, Minister of Revenue and Western Economic Diversification and Member of Parliament for Saskatoon-Rosetown-Biggar. "Research done here at the University of Saskatchewan is second to none and has a huge impact on the lives of all Canadians. Saskatchewan clearly benefits along with the entire country."
The CFI grants, provided through its Leaders Opportunity Fund, will cover 40 per cent of project costs. The remainder will be contributed by the Government of Saskatchewan, the university, and other funding partners. The total collective price tag for the U of S projects is $1.7 million.
The recipients are:
1. Ian Burgess (Chemistry) receives $60,800 for equipment to study and develop photonic applications of metallic nanoparticles at electrical interfaces. The work could lead to advanced ways of manipulating light to transfer and store data.
2. Geoff Cunfer (History) receives $51,500 to create a historical geographic information systems laboratory to support research on human-environment interaction, on how people have altered landscapes, and how they have responded to changing climates in the past 100 years.
3. Oleg Dmitriev (Biochemistry) receives $60,000 for equipment to study interactions between proteins and small molecules. His work aims to map contacts between drugs and their protein targets in humans, and to design new molecules to regulate enzymes for possible therapeutic use.
4. Joseph Fomusi Ndisang (Physiology) receives $62,000 for a new facility to develop and study a novel anti-hypertension strategy. This work could lead to new ways to prevent and manage high-blood pressure.
5. Xiao Qiu (Applied Microbiology and Food Sciences) receives $62,000 for equipment to explore metabolic engineering of oilseed crops to produce oils for nutraceutical and industrial uses.
6. Robert Scott (Chemistry) receives $60,000 for equipment to study the design and activity of nanometer-sized metallic catalysts. The goal is to produce novel catalysts for industrial reactions. Such catalysts are the foundation of a wide array of manufacturing processes.
7. Yang Shi (Mechanical Engineering) receives $42,000 to study high-performance networked control systems. He aims to develop intelligent autonomous helicopter surveillance systems and design a networked robot rehabilitation system for people suffering from stroke.
8. Ulrich Teucher (Psychology) and Roanne Thomas-MacLean (Sociology) receive $60,000 to create the Qualitative Research Centre, which will feature computerized analytical and telecommunications tools to foster local and international collaboration in areas as diverse as Aboriginal health, cancer, and human development.
9. Chris Todd (Biology) receives $59,100 to study how legumes use fixed nitrogen and why the process is sensitive to water limitation. His work could lead to decreased reliance on nitrogen fertilizer for crop production - a rising concern for farmers in light of strong petroleum prices.
10. Vladimir Vujanovic (Applied Microbiology and Food Science) receives $24,000 for state-of-the-art equipment for molecular and functional microbiology. The work could lead to microbial-based bio-pesticides and bio-fertilizers as alternatives to sometimes hazardous chemicals.
11. Lee Wilson (Chemistry) receives $51,600 for equipment to analyze supra-molecular porous materials. His work could lead to the development of new materials for use in nano-drug delivery, membrane nanomaterials, and gas storage devices.
12. FangXiang Wu (Mechanical Engineering) receives $60,000 for a high performance computer cluster for computational bioengineering. He will use the equipment to model and simulate biological systems, and to improve tandem mass spectrometry, a powerful tool for diagnosing disease.
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For more information, contact:
Michael Robin
U of S Research Communications
Tel: (306) 966-2427
michael.robin@usask.ca
www.usask.ca/research
June 08, 2007
Dr. Vera Pezer Elected Chancellor of the University of Saskatchewan
Posted June 08, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 8, 2007
2007-06-05-OTHER
Dr. Vera Pezer, distinguished educator, administrative leader and Canadian sports champion, has been elected as the next Chancellor of the University of Saskatchewan (U of S).
Dr. Pezer begins her three-year term July 1, 2007. Elected by U of S alumni, she will serve as a member of the U of S Board of Governors and play a central role at the University, presiding over Convocation, conferring degrees, and chairing the Senate. Her installation ceremony will take place in conjunction with fall Convocation, on October 27, 2007.
Dr. Pezer first joined the U of S in 1966 in Student Counselling Services and as a part-time instructor in the Department of Psychology. She later became Director of Student Counselling, an Assistant Professor of Psychology, Assistant Dean for the College of Arts and Science, and the Associate Vice-President Student Affairs. Under her leadership, student retention and academic success were enhanced and the University's first offices dedicated to student emergency financial assistance, disability services for students, and Aboriginal student support programs were established.
An active volunteer and accomplished athlete, Dr. Pezer has served as Chair of the 1989 Jeux Canada Games Foundation, Director of the 1991 Scott Tournament of Hearts, and Ceremonies Chair of the 1989 Brier. As a Sport Psychologist, Dr. Pezer was an advisor and trainer to Canadian curling teams in two Olympic Games. She is a four-time Canadian ladies' curling champion, a Canadian softball champion, two-time member of the Saskatchewan senior women's golf team, and a honoured member of both the Saskatchewan Sports Halls of Fame and Canadian Curling Hall of Fame. Dr. Pezer received the University of Saskatchewan Alumni Award of Achievement in 2002 and the Saskatchewan Centennial Medal in 2006.
Dr. Pezer is the 13th Chancellor of the University, and the third woman to hold the position.
Located in the heart of Saskatoon, the University of Saskatchewan is one of the leading medical doctoral universities in Canada. With 58 degrees, diplomas and certificates in over 100 areas of study, the University is uniquely positioned in the areas of human, animal and plant studies. World-class research facilities, renowned faculty and award winning students make the U of S a leader in post-secondary education.
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For additional information, contact:
Patty Martin
Community and Media Relations Specialist
University Communications
University of Saskatchewan
Telephone (306) 966-6919
June 04, 2007
U of S Distinguished Researcher Leads in Reproductive Health, Medical Imaging
Posted June 04, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - Monday, June 4, 2007
2007-06-04-OTHER
A University of Saskatchewan professor lauded for his groundbreaking work in reproductive biology and leadership in medical imaging will receive this spring's Distinguished Researcher Award at the Spring Convocation ceremony on June 5 at TCU Place in Saskatoon.
Gregg Adams, professor of veterinary biomedical sciences at the Western College of Veterinary Medicine, has worked with a wide variety of mammals, including many endangered species, and has also worked to develop models applicable to humans.
"Professor Adams' exceptional work and collaborative approach is putting the University of Saskatchewan on the map nationally and internationally in the fields of animal and human health," says U of S Vice President Research Steven Franklin. "His leadership and enthusiasm, as well as his dedication to his students, set an example for all of us to follow."
Adams' collaborative research with the College of Medicine revealed that women, like some other mammals, experience two to three "follicular waves" per menstrual cycle. This finding, with its profound implications for both contraception and assisted reproduction, was identified as one of the Top 100 Science Stories in 2003 by Discover magazine.
As a leader of the university's successful bid for the Biomedical Imaging and Therapy (BMIT) beamline at the Canadian Light Source synchrotron on campus, Adams has helped give biological sciences researchers across campus the opportunity for great advancements with this powerful new technology. BMIT is currently under construction.
Over his distinguished 25-year career as a veterinarian, researcher and educator at the U of S, Adams has authored or co-authored more than 100 papers in refereed journals as well as writing chapters in books and review articles. He regularly presents his findings at regional, national, and international conferences.
Adams' drive and passion is also apparent through his devoted mentorship of his students. Over the course of his career he has mentored 25 graduate students and supervised more than 30 summer students.
Adams earned a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine degree from the U of S in 1982 after completing pre-veterinary classes in biology in 1978. He continued his studies at the University of Wisconsin, earning his Master's degree in 1987, clinical specialization in 1988, and his PhD in 1991.
A video featuring Adams, his work, and role within the BMIT team is available at the U of S Research website: http://www.usask.ca/research/communications/videos.php.
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For more information contact:
Gregg Adams
Department of Veterinary Biomedical Sciences
Western College of Veterinary Medicine
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-7411
gregg.adams@usask.ca
Michael Robin
Research Communications
University of Saskatchewan
(306) 966-2427
michael.robin@usask.ca
www.usask.ca/research
June 01, 2007
University of Saskatchewan to Honour Distinguished Graduates
Posted June 01, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 1, 2007
2007-06-02-OTHER
The University of Saskatchewan (U of S) will honour distinguished graduates during its annual Spring Convocation, June 4 to 6, 2007 at TCU Place in downtown Saskatoon.
Monday PM, June 4, 2007, beginning at 2:00pm
* Agriculture and Bioresources - Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists Gold Medal: Nadia Sara Mori, Kallnach Switzerland, Bachelor of Science in Agriculture with Great Distinction
* Agriculture and Bioresources - Fulton Family and Saskatchewan Institute of Agrologists Award: Pauline Bolay, Fairford MB, Diploma in Agriculture
* Education - Saskatchewan Teachers' Federation Prize: Michael Paul Fowler, Saskatoon, Bachelor of Education with Great Distinction, and Jillian Emma Vinish, Saskatoon, Bachelor of Education with Great Distinction
Tuesday AM, June 5, 2007, beginning at 9:00am
* Kinesiology - The Dr. Gordon Garvie Prize in Kinesiology: Carly Sarah Whittaker, Saskatoon, Bachelor of Science in Kinesiology with Honours and Great Distinction
* Nursing - Lindsay Gold Medal in Nursing: Tracy Lynn Stephen, Weldon, Bachelor of Nursing with Great Distinction
* Nutrition - Rutter Medal in Nutrition: Melissa Suzanne Brasnett, Saskatoon, Bachelor of Science in Nutrition with Great Distinction
* Pharmacy - Saskatchewan College of Pharmacists Gold Medal: Lisa Marie Denie, Rosetown, Bachelor of Science in Pharmacy with Great Distinction
* Veterinary Medicine - Western College of Veterinary Medicine Faculty Gold Medal: Chelsea Gardner Himsworth, Vancouver BC, Doctor of Veterinary Medicine with Great Distinction
Tuesday PM, June 5, 2007, beginning at 2:00pm
* Dentistry - Gold Medal in Dentistry: Matt Alexander Soroski, Saskatoon, Doctor of Dental Medicine with Great Distinction
* Engineering - The Governor General's Gold Medal and the Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Saskatchewan Gold Medal: Phillip Roland Desautels, Saskatoon, Bachelor of Science in Engineering with Great Distinction
* Law - Law Society of Saskatchewan Gold Medal: Benjamin David Pullen, Prince Albert, Bachelor of Laws with Great Distinction
* Medicine - Lindsay Gold Medal in Medicine: Donna Lynn Ledingham, Saskatoon, Doctor of Medicine
* Physical Therapy - Talmage E. Hunt Gold Medal in Physical Therapy: Ramsey Ezzat, Saskatoon, Bachelor of Science in Physical Therapy with Great Distinction
Wednesday AM, June 6, 2007, beginning at 9:00am
* Arts and Science - Copland Prize in Humanities: Raquel Delea Dyck, Swift Current, Bachelor of Arts Honours with High Honours
* Arts and Science - Earl of Bessborough Prize in Science and Haslam Medal: Leah Katherine Sauchyn, Regina, Bachelor of Science Honours with High Honours
* Arts and Science - Governor General's Gold Medal: Tara Dawne Gariepy, Montreal QC, Doctor of Philosophy
Wednesday PM, June 6, 2007, beginning at 2:00pm
* Commerce - The Goodspeed Award: Brittany Anne Schlosser, Regina, Bachelor of Commerce with Great Distinction
* Arts and Science - Copland Prize in Social Science: Jennifer Leanne Hiatt, Saskatoon, Bachelor of Arts Honours with High Honours
* Arts and Science - University of Saskatchewan Film Society Prize: Caitlin Margaret Vancoughnett, Saskatoon, Bachelor of Fine Arts with Great Distinction
* Arts and Science - Spring Convocation Three-year Medal: William Truong, Saskatoon, Bachelor of Science Three-year with Great Distinction
For convocation details, visit www.students.usask.ca/convocation.
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For additional information, contact:
Patty Martin
Community and Media Relations Specialist
University Communications
University of Saskatchewan
Telephone (306) 966-6919
University of Saskatchewan to Honour Governor General's Medal Recipients During Spring Convocation, June 4 to 6, 2007
Posted June 01, 2007
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE - June 1, 2007
2007-06-01-OTHER
The University of Saskatchewan (U of S) will honour the Governor General's Gold Medal and Silver Medal recipients during its annual Spring Convocation, June 4 to 6, 2007 at TCU Place.
Governor General's Gold Medal, Tara Gariepy (Wednesday June 6, 2007, beginning at 9:00am)
Born in Montreal, Quebec, Tara Gariepy received her Bachelor of Science in Biology from Concordia University in Montreal. She went on to study molecular diagnostics and epidemiology of fungal pathogens Simon Fraser University in Burnaby, later receiving her Masters of Pest Management degree and winning the B.P. Beirne Prize in Pest Management. She worked at CABI Europe-Switzerland as a project entomologist on a variety of insect biological control programs. In 2003, Tara started her PhD research in the Department of Biology at the University of Saskatchewan. She was the recipient of the Margaret Mackay scholarship and an NSERC Canada Graduate Scholarship. Tara completed her Doctor of Philosophy degree in 2007. Her research presents some of the novel ways in which molecular techniques can be used in classical biological control programs for insect pests. Tara has been awarded an NSERC post-doctoral fellowship, and will continue research on molecular diagnostics in basic and applied ecology.
Governor General's Silver Medal, Phillip Desautels (Tuesday June 5, 2007, beginning at 2:00pm)
Raised in Saskatoon, Phillip Roland Desautels graduates from the U of S with a Bachelor of Science in Engineering Physics and with a Bachelor of Science in Computer Science, both with Great Distinction. Phillip is the recipient of the 2007 Spring Convocation Gold Medal from the Association of Professional Engineers & Geoscientists of Saskatchewan (APEGS) for the most distinguished Engineering graduate, and the Dr. E.L. Harrington Prize (Engineering Physics Distinguished Graduate Award). He is also a recipient of the NSERC Postgraduate Scholarship (Master's), James and Mary Girgulis Memorial Scholarship, Russell (Russ) William Haid Memorial Award, APEGS Prize, J.P. Tremblay Book Award, Teuro Natori Scholarship, IEEE North Saskatchewan Section Award, NSERC Undergraduate Student Research Award, Peter N. Nikiforuk Scholarship, George N. Listwin Scholarship and the U of S Undergraduate Scholarship. A member of the Greystone Scholars Society and the Golden Key National Honour Society, Phillip is pursuing a Master's degree in Engineering.
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For additional information, contact:
Patty Martin
Community and Media Relations Specialist
University Communications
University of Saskatchewan
Telephone (306) 966-6919
