Harper Government Invests in Research Excellence at Canadian Post Secondary Institutions Creating Jobs of the Future

MONTRÉAL, QUEBEC--(Marketwire - Oct. 12, 2011) - Senator Larry Smith on behalf of the Honourable Christian Paradis, Minister of Industry, today announced $203.9 million in funding for 253 Canada Research Chairs newly awarded or renewed in 56 Canadian degree-granting postsecondary institutions. This federal investment allows Canadian institutions to strengthen their position as global leaders in research and development, bringing greater economic opportunities for Canadians.

"Our Government's investment in research has had a significant impact on the economy and the lives of Canadians," said Senator Smith. "For more than 10 years, the Canada Research Chairs have led to excellent research, development and innovation in digital technologies, health, education, clean energy, and business practice. By increasing the research power at Canadian postsecondary institutions, students have opportunities to study with world-leading researchers across all academic disciplines."

Today's event at Concordia University featured Dr. Marta Cerruti, recently recruited from the University of California at Berkley, who researches the way our bodies respond to bioactive materials. As Canada Research Chair in Bio-synthetic Interfaces from McGill University, Dr. Cerruti will study what happens between inorganic surfaces—like biodegradable plastics—and biologic molecules. Her leading-edge work will develop new methods of oral drug delivery as well as bioactive technologies that stimulate bone and cartilage regeneration.

Dr. Chad Gaffield, president of the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council and chair of the Canada Research Chairs Program Steering Committee, attended today's announcement.

"The Canada Research Chairs Program fosters a world-leading research environment of international acclaim," said Dr. Gaffield. "For more than 10 years, the Program has enabled our postsecondary institutions to attract and retain the world's most accomplished and promising scholars, to achieve research excellence across the natural sciences and engineering, health sciences and social sciences and humanities, and to offer first-class learning and training experiences to the researchers and leaders of tomorrow."

The investment announced today also includes an additional $10.2 million from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) for research infrastructure associated with the new Chair awards.

"The CFI is proud to support these talented, well-trained individuals who will undoubtedly drive new ideas, develop original products and discover new ways to tackle issues," said Dr. Gilles G. Patry, president and CEO of the CFI. "Investing in people, providing them with the tools they need, and creating opportunities to collaborate across boundaries are all critical factors to fostering an innovative society."

The 253 chairholders included in the announcement will conduct research in a diversity of fields, with potential benefits for policy-makers, businesses, researchers and practitioners, and Canadians.

A full list of the chairholders is available on the Canada Research Chairs website.

Details on the CFI's funding for research infrastructure associated with the new Chair awards are available on the CFI website.