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Laurentian’s Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre honoured by the Canadian Wood Council

Laurentian’s Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre honoured by the Canadian Wood Council

The ISLC is a proud recipient of a 2018 Wood Design Award

November 21, 2018 – Laurentian University’s Indigenous Sharing and Learning Centre (ISLC) was honoured last night in Toronto as part of the 18th Wood Design Awards Ceremony organized by Wood WORKS Ontario, a program led by the Canadian Wood Council. The awards program honours people and organizations that are advancing the use of wood in all types of construction through design excellence, advocacy, and innovation.

The ISLC opened its doors in 2017. It features 7500 square feet of space, with a spectacular round room inspired by the wigwam, a traditional building of the Indigenous peoples. The award-winning design has four entry points that face each of the cardinal directions (North, South, East, and West). It also features an environmentally and sustainable green roof, and has views and access to outdoor teaching spaces and the surrounding landscaped area. The ISLC was designed with the input of the Indigenous community and members of the Laurentian University Native Education Council. 

“The distinct architectural character of the ISLC provides a visible presence for Laurentian’s Indigenous community. This award is a testament to the incredible architecture and design of this multifunctional round room, a space that has allowed our Indigenous and non-Indigenous community members to gather and celebrate important events such as Laurentian’s biennial Maamwizing Indigenous Conference,” said Interim President and Vice-Chancellor of Laurentian University Dr. Pierre Zundel.

The ISLC provides students with informal study and learning spaces and creates work and teaching spaces for program staff and elders. The room accommodates large groups in a number of different configurations, allowing for teaching, meetings, lectures and special celebrations. 

 

ABOUT LAURENTIAN UNIVERSITY

Located on the Robinson-Huron Treaty of 1850 territory, Laurentian University recognizes that we are on the traditional lands of the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek and Wahnapitae First Nation. Laurentian is committed to strengthening the foundation of knowledge in higher education and research to offer an outstanding university experience in English and French with a comprehensive approach to Indigenous education. Together with its federated partners, Laurentian University prepares leaders who bring innovative and intelligent solutions to local and global issues. 

Maamwizing 2018: Laurentian’s second Indigenous conference focuses on Indigenous research and the prioritization of the Indigenous voice

Maamwizing 2018: Laurentian’s second Indigenous conference focuses on Indigenous research and the prioritization of the Indigenous voice

November 16, 2018 – Laurentian University, its newly formed Maamwizing Indigenous Research Institute and its federated partner University of Sudbury are honoured to host the 2018 Maamwizing Indigenous Conference under the theme "Pursuing Indigenous Research in a Good Way.”

Building from the success of the inaugural Maamwizing Conference in 2016, this edition aims to promote critical dialogue about Indigenous research by exploring the relationships between students, researchers, and communities. This includes discourse around the prioritization of Indigenous voice and the roles and responsibilities of Indigenous and non-Indigenous researchers.

“With an increased attention towards Indigenous cultures in post-secondary education, both non-Indigenous and Indigenous researchers are working together in various ways,” said Dr. Celeste Pedri-Spade, Director of the Maamwizing Indigenous Research Institute at Laurentian University. “These evolving relationships are affecting the way that Indigenous research is conducted and this conference will encourage modes of exchange that promote the conduct of research carefully, in a good way.” 

“Incorporating Indigenous perspectives and worldviews into research activities can shape them in exciting ways, creating a dynamic environment for learning and discovery,” said Interim President and Vice-Chancellor of Laurentian University Dr. Pierre Zundel. “We will continue to be a part of, and advocate for, research that helps us better understand and integrate Indigenous ways of knowing.”

Maamwizing 2018 runs from November 16 to 18 on the grounds of Laurentian University’s campus in Sudbury, Ontario. For more information and a full listing of events, please visit the conference web page.

 

ABOUT LAURENTIAN UNIVERSITY

Located on the Robinson-Huron Treaty of 1850 territory, Laurentian University recognizes that we are on the traditional lands of the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek and Wahnapitae First Nation. Laurentian is committed to strengthening the foundation of knowledge in higher education and research to offer an outstanding university experience in English and French with a comprehensive approach to Indigenous education. Together with its federated partners, Laurentian University prepares leaders who bring innovative and intelligent solutions to local and global issues.

Laurentian’s Science Communication program honoured by the Royal Canadian Institute for Science

Laurentian’s Science Communication program honoured by the Royal Canadian Institute for Science

The program, offered in partnership with Science North, is recognized for its contribution to the public understanding of science

(2018-11-09) Laurentian University’s Science Communication Program, offered in partnership with Science North, is the 2018 recipient of the Royal Canadian Institute for Science’s William Edmond Logan Award, recognizing excellence in promoting the public understanding of science by a Canadian organization. The announcement was made this morning in Ottawa during the 10th annual Canadian Science Policy Conference. 

Laurentian’s Science Communication Program is unique in Canada. It provides science graduates with the training to transform scientific information into accessible and understandable knowledge for the public. Many scientists recognize the value of doing outreach, but not all are naturally skilled at it. This program fosters those skills, delivering a multidisciplinary experience that covers the theory underlying good communication, as well as the practical challenges of effectively communicating science and the issues involving science in society.
 
Graduates of Laurentian University’s Science Communication Program are working in various fields all across Canada and in other parts of the world, including at Science North, the program’s partner. According to Dr. Reinhart Reithmeier, Chair of the Royal Canadian Institute for Science: “These graduates are taking science communication in this country to new heights, helping Canadians of all ages recognize, understand and appreciate science in the world around them. We believe that this is key to fostering a strong science culture in Canada.” 
 
“Trends in science research, industry, and public policy have prompted a need for trained people in this rapidly growing field,” said Dr. Chantal Barriault, Director of the Science Communication Graduate Program. “Laurentian’s graduates are specialists in communicating the work of leading researchers and scientists to diverse audiences, from young children to politicians. We are incredibly honoured to receive this award."

“This is great news and a well-earned recognition for a very creative and hardworking team. Laurentian is proud to be a pioneer in its rapidly growing field and I want to recognize the essential contribution of our partner, Science North, in the delivery of the program,” said Interim President and Vice-Chancellor of Laurentian University Dr. Pierre Zundel. 

“Our core purpose at Science North is to inspire people of all ages to be engaged with the science in the world around them. It's communicating science in a way that people can understand and enjoy. When the Science Communication Graduate Diploma Program, was launched in partnership with Laurentian University, we saw it as a natural extension of what we do every day at our science centres. This award celebrates a great partnership between two institutions and reinforces the importance of the Science Communication Program and how graduates of this program can have a real impact on our understanding and comprehension of science today.”
stated Guy Labine, CEO of Science North.

The program provides students experiential learning opportunities for research and application of science communication principles. It proposes a master’s degree (M.S.Com) or a graduate diploma (G.dip) in Science Communication. 

More information on the program and admission requirements are available on Laurentian University’s website. 

 

ABOUT LAURENTIAN UNIVERSITY

Located on the Robinson-Huron Treaty of 1850 territory, Laurentian University recognizes that we are on the traditional lands of the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek and Wahnapitae First Nation. Laurentian is committed to strengthening the foundation of knowledge in higher education and research to offer an outstanding university experience in English and French with a comprehensive approach to Indigenous education. Together with its federated partners, Laurentian University prepares leaders who bring innovative and intelligent solutions to local and global issues.

 

ABOUT SCIENCE NORTH

Science North is Northern Ontario’s most popular tourist attraction and an educational resource operating the second- and eighth-largest science centres in Canada. Science North’s attractions include a science centre, IMAX® theatre, planetarium, butterfly gallery, special exhibits hall, and Dynamic Earth: Home of the Big Nickel. Science North also oversees an award-winning International Sales unit, which develops custom and ready-made exhibits and multimedia experiences for sale to science centres, museums, and other cultural institutions all over the world. Science North, in partnership with Laurentian University, offers North America’s first and only comprehensive Science Communication program, a joint Master’s and Diploma program. As part of its mandate, Science North provides science experiences throughout Northern Ontario including outreach to schools and festivals, summer science camps and more, and has a permanent base in Thunder Bay providing outreach to the Northwest. Science North is an agency of the Government of Ontario. For more information please visit sciencenorth.ca. For more information please visit ScienceNorth.ca.

 

ABOUT ROYAL CANADIAN INSTITUTE FOR SCIENCE

The Royal Canadian Institute for Science (RCIScience) is a platform for public engagement with leading scientists, featuring free live talks and panel discussions and an extensive online archive. Founded in 1849, RCIS is among the oldest societies of any kind in Canada. For 169 years, we have worked towards the goal of an informed public that embraces science to build a stronger Canada.
 

Laurentian researchers highlight the value of Indigenous patient engagement in research

Laurentian researchers highlight the value of Indigenous patient engagement in research

The new OSSU Supplement features the work of Dr. Jennifer Walker and Dr. Nancy Young

(2018-11-08)  Two Laurentian University researchers have contributed articles on Indigenous patient engagement in research for the new Ontario SPOR SUPPORT Unit (OSSU) Supplement in the Canadian Medical Association Journal (CMAJ).

The projects of Dr. Jennifer Walker, Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Health, and Dr. Nancy Young, Research Chair in Rural and Northern Children's Health, both focus on research in First Nation communities. 

An Ontario-wide study to support the diabetes-related information needs of First Nations leadership, government and community workers is featured in Dr. Walker’s article, entitled Describing the process of ethical conduct of research in an Ontario-wide First Nations diabetes research project. The study was conducted in partnership with the Chiefs of Ontario and the article was co-authored by Robyn Rowe, an Indigenous Ph.D. student in Rural and Northern Health at Laurentian University. “Our First Nation-led research addresses important gaps where data are needed to improve decision-making and advocacy,” said Dr. Walker.

Dr. Young’s article, Beyond the patient: lessons from community engagement in a rural First Nation, discusses an ongoing project aiming to evaluate the effectiveness of screening, triage and subsequent treatment of the health of children in Wiikwemkoong. The project was co-led by Mary Jo Wabano, Health Services Director for the Naandwechige-gaming Wikwemikong Health Centre. “Research has the potential to improve the health of Aboriginal Children, when all aspects of the work are carried out in respectful collaboration,” said Dr. Young.

Launched yesterday, the Supplement is a collection of articles reflecting on the experiences, learnings and value of 17 research demonstration projects supported by OSSU. It is a resource for researchers and others interested in this growing approach that involves patients and caregivers as partners in health and health systems research.

 

ABOUT LAURENTIAN UNIVERSITY

Located on the Robinson-Huron Treaty of 1850 territory, Laurentian University recognizes that we are on the traditional lands of the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek and Wahnapitae First Nation. Laurentian is committed to strengthening the foundation of knowledge in higher education and research to offer an outstanding university experience in English and French with a comprehensive approach to Indigenous education. Together with its federated partners, Laurentian University prepares leaders who bring innovative and intelligent solutions to local and global issues.

Laurentian tops Canadian undergraduate research schools

Laurentian tops Canadian undergraduate research schools

(2018-10-26) Laurentian University tops the list of research income among undergraduate research universities in rankings of Canada’s Top 50 Research Universities compiled by Research Infosource Inc.

The rankings show Laurentian raised $32 million in research funds in fiscal 2017. Laurentian also demonstrated the largest research income growth for the year in the undergraduate university category. Its research income jumped by 36.8%, while the national average for growth stood at 6.8%. 

This year, Research Infosource spotlighted university research partnerships—measured by grants or contracts received from corporate and not-for profit sources from 2013 to 2017. Laurentian University earned top honours in the undergraduate category for corporate research income growth.

Laurentian also earned the second-best ranking in terms of research intensity per graduate student.

Overall, Laurentian University ranks #28 out of the top 50 undergraduate, comprehensive, and doctoral/graduate institutions across the country. That is up two spots since last year and five spots since 2016.

“Laurentian will continue to build on its research base, pushing the boundaries to increase knowledge. Our research income growth is a testament to the excellence of our researchers in their respective fields,” said Interim Vice-President, Research at Laurentian University Dr. Rizwan Haq. 

“Laurentian’s success in research and innovation has been steadily growing for years,” added Interim President and Vice-Chancellor of Laurentian University Dr. Pierre Zundel. “We are extremely proud to be celebrating this accomplishment for another year and we will continue to excel in this manner.”

View the complete Top 50 Research Universities List of 2018.

 

ABOUT LAURENTIAN UNIVERSITY

Located on the Robinson-Huron Treaty of 1850 territory, Laurentian University recognizes that we are on the traditional lands of the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek and Wahnapitae First Nation. Laurentian is committed to strengthening the foundation of knowledge in higher education and research to offer an outstanding university experience in English and French with a comprehensive approach to Indigenous education. Together with its federated partners, Laurentian University prepares leaders who bring innovative and intelligent solutions to local and global issues.

The Bharti School of Engineering at Laurentian University receives a $250,000 donation from Hard-Line

The Bharti School of Engineering at Laurentian University receives a $250,000 donation from Hard-Line

(2018-10-24) A new partnership between Laurentian University and Hard-Line was announced today at the University Club.

As part of this partnership, Hard-Line will invest $250,000 over five years in the Mechatronics program of the Bharti School of Engineering at Laurentian University. The funds will enhance student experiences through lab renovations and upgrades, new computer work stations and furnishings, multimedia equipment for interactive teaching, and student field trips to Hard-Line facilities.

“The Bharti School of Engineering is one of Laurentian University’s brightest success stories. It is recognized as a top producer of engineering talent for Northeastern Ontario as well as a global leader in mining research and education,” said Dr. Markus Timusk, Director of the Bharti School of Engineering. “This donation shows a commitment to the Bharti School of Engineering and a confidence in Laurentian’s students.”

With accredited programs in Mining, Chemical and Mechanical Engineering (with Environmental, Mechatronics and Metallurgy Options), the Bharti School of Engineering has experienced tremendous growth and success over the past decade. Mechatronics graduates with specialized skills in engineering, software and electrical systems are in increasing demand by leading companies such as Hard-Line.

“We are proud to partner with Laurentian University. Together, we work to support the future of our industry by providing students with the programs and tools they need to succeed in the changing landscape of the field,” added Hard-Line President, Walter Siggelkow.

 

ABOUT LAURENTIAN UNIVERSITY

Located on the Robinson-Huron Treaty of 1850 territory, Laurentian University recognizes that we are on the traditional lands of the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek and Wahnapitae First Nation. Laurentian is committed to strengthening the foundation of knowledge in higher education and research to offer an outstanding university experience in English and French with a comprehensive approach to Indigenous education. Together with its federated partners, Laurentian University prepares leaders who bring innovative and intelligent solutions to local and global issues. 

 

ABOUT HARD-LINE

Established in 1996 in Sudbury, Ontario, Hard-Line is a leading supplier of automation, tele-operation, and remote-control technology to the mining industry. With branch offices in Chile, Peru and the U.S.A., along with a worldwide distribution network, Hard-Line is a global company that develops its products from the ground up, utilizing years of experience in mining, electronics, electrical design, and mechanical design. For more information on Hard-Line, visit www.hard-line.com/.

Laurentian’s Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health co-hosts national ergonomics conference

Laurentian’s Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health co-hosts national ergonomics conference

The 49th annual ACE Conference focuses on the prevention of occupational injuries and illnesses

(2018-10-16) The Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health (CROSH) at Laurentian University recently partnered with the Association of Canadian Ergonomists (ACE) to bring the 49th annual ACE Conference to Sudbury from October 15-18, 2018.

A first for Northern Ontario, the joint conference explores the many ways both ergonomics and health and safety comprehension are expanding, and how the application of this knowledge can have a positive impact on everyone in any sector. The theme “From Research to Practice to Prevention” illustrates the cycle in the prevention of occupational injuries and illnesses. 

“The Association of Canadian Ergonomists is pleased to partner with CROSH to help bring this national conference to the North,” said Patricia Hope, President, ACE Ontario Region. “This year’s event highlights both the research work by CROSH and the continued effort by ACE to promote research and awareness of ergonomics and human factors.”

Over 150 ergonomists and occupational health and safety experts from across Canada are expected to attend the four-day conference which includes 39 presentations, seven workshops, and three interactive sessions. Keynote speakers include:

  • Professor Neil Mansfield (Head of Engineering, Nottingham Trent University, UK);
  • Dr. Catherine Trask (Canada Research Chair in Ergonomics and Musculoskeletal Health and Associate Professor, Canadian Centre for Health and Safety in Agriculture, University of Saskatchewan);
  • Dr. Marie Laberge (Associate Professor, École de réadaptation, Université de Montréal); and
  • Dr. Richard Gasaway (President & Principal Consultant, Gasaway Consulting Group, and Chief Scientist, Situational Awareness Matters).

“The ACE conference has always been one of my favourite conferences to attend due to the mix of practitioners and researchers, along with the sharing of research in very practical ways,” added Dr. Alison Godwin, Associate Director, CROSH. “We are thrilled to partner with ACE and highlight some of our applied field research.”  

The 2018 ACE-CROSH Conference coincides with Global Ergonomics Month, an annual initiative aiming to increase knowledge of musculoskeletal disorder hazards in the workplace while also highlighting the role ergonomics can play in improving health and safety.

 

ABOUT LAURENTIAN UNIVERSITY

Located in the Robinson-Huron Treaty of 1850 territory, Laurentian University recognizes that we are on the traditional lands of the Atikameksheng Anishnawbek and Wahnapitae First Nation. Laurentian is committed to strengthening the foundation of knowledge in higher education and research to offer an outstanding university experience in English and French with a comprehensive approach to Indigenous education. Together with its federated partners, Laurentian University prepares leaders who bring innovative and intelligent solutions to local and global issues. 

Laurentian University celebrates discovery research

Laurentian University celebrates discovery research

University researchers receive $1.4 million in federal funding as part of NSERC’s Discovery Grants Program

(2018-10-09) Laurentian University researchers have received $1.4 million from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) to fund 10 research projects.

Sudbury MP Paul Lefebvre and Nickel Belt MP Marc Serré made the announcement earlier today at a press conference held at the Laurentian’s Cliff Fielding Research, Innovation, and Engineering Building.

“Laurentian University is committed to strengthening the foundation of knowledge in higher education and research,” said Dr. Pierre Zundel, Interim President and Vice-Chancellor, Laurentian University. “Through critical inquiry we strive to discover answers relevant to society. Today’s announcement testifies of our engagement – and particularly the engagement of our professors – to pursue this mission. Congratulations to all the recipients.”

“Our government believes in science, and investments in science support new discoveries and the commercialization of ideas, leading to sustainable growth and new jobs. That’s why our government continues to make significant investments in fundamental science, including right here at Laurentian University,” said Sudbury MP Paul Lefebvre.

“Laurentian University is one of Ontario’s scientific powerhouses fostering innovative ideas with some of the most acclaimed scientist and researcher teams at the helm,” added Nickel Belt MP Marc Serré. “We will continue to support and recognize the efforts of our skilled researchers as their findings hold the key to countless discoveries which will create future opportunities! Congratulations to all the brilliant recipients and their teams for this well-deserved grant. I wish you much success as you forge ahead with each of your research initiatives.”

The Discovery Grants Program is NSERC’s largest and longest-standing program. The grants provide the core funding and freedom so Canada’s best researchers can pursue their most promising ideas and breakthrough discoveries.

 

LAURENTIAN RESEARCH PROJECTS FUNDED BY NSERC’S DISCOVERY GRANTS PROGRAM

Hoyun Lee, Health Sciences North Research Institute ­­
Cell cycle regulation by PP1 and Cdc7.

David Lesbarreres, Department of Biology
Local adaptations to infectious diseases: curse or opportunity?

Thomas Merritt, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry
Genetic dissection of the NADPH metabolic network in drosophila.

Ralf Meyer, Department of Mathematics and Computer Sciences  
Modelling of nanoscale phonemic crystals.

Jesse Popp, Department of Biology  
The influence of natural and anthropogenic disturbance on wildlife diversity, demographics, and distributions.

Michael Schindler, Harquail School of Earth Sciences        
Nano-Earth sciences: Understanding environmental processes at the nano-scale.

Stefan Siemann, Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry         
Metal requirement and mechanism of anthrax lethal factor and other zinc proteases.

Alain Simard, Northern Ontario School of Medicine 
Regulation of immune functions by the non-neuronal cholinergic system.

T.C. Tai, Northern Ontario School of Medicine         
Role of ROS in hypoxia-mediated regulation of the phenylethanolamine n-methyltransferase gene.

James Watterson, Department of Forensics 
Xenobiotic and Metabolite Profiling in Skeletal Remains for Classification of Xenobiotic Exposure Patterns.

 

Laurentian University opens new Research, Innovation and Engineering Centre

Laurentian University opens new Research, Innovation and Engineering Centre

Laurentian celebrates the grand opening of its $30M Cliff Fielding Research, Innovation and Engineering Building

It is a historic day today at Laurentian University as Sudbury MP Paul Lefebvre joined community members and local partners as well as Laurentian University staff, faculty and students for the opening of the new Cliff Fielding Research, Innovation and Engineering Building.

The new 60,000-square-foot facility located in Founders’ Square (between the Parker and Fraser buildings) on the Sudbury campus, houses all engineering labs, including mining, chemical and mechanical, with space to eventually add a full civil engineering program. “There was a critical need for the new building,” said Dr. Rizwan Haq, Interim Vice-President, Research. “Our engineering program has grown to 700 students in 10 years with no new space.” 

The building is also home to a collaborative research hub for Laurentian research centres, an innovation and commercialization space, a state of the art analytical facility for industry and scholars alike. Each of these spaces have been identified in consultation with local industry in order to maximize interdisciplinary opportunities.

“This is a remarkable building and it’s a testament to our commitment to student success and the needs of our community,” said Laurentian Board of Governors Chair Jennifer Witty.  “It’s more than a building.  It represents Laurentian University’s commitment to leadership in research and innovation.”

The $30M project announced almost exactly two years ago on September 23, 2016, was designed by Sudbury-based Yallowega Bélanger Salach Architecture and built by M. Sullivan and Sons. The federal and provincial governments invested $27.4M into the project while private donors provided additional funding. A $3 million investment by Mrs. Lily Fielding and her family was recognized by the naming of the building. A $1 million investment by the Perdue family was recognized by the naming of the University’s new research and development centre housed within the facility.

“A number of individuals and key partners have been integral in realizing this critical expansion of research and innovation space,” said Dr. Pierre Zundel, Interim President and Vice-Chancellor, Laurentian University. “The Cliff Fielding Research, Innovation, and Engineering Building will not only benefit Laurentian students; it will have an immense impact on further driving economic activity and innovation in the City of Greater Sudbury, Northeastern Ontario and beyond.”

Laurentian University professor and research chair among four Canadians selected for women in science expedition

Laurentian University professor and research chair among four Canadians selected for women in science expedition

Dr. Tammy Eger is one of 95 leading women in science worldwide who will journey with “Homeward Bound” to Antarctica in 2019.

Dr. Tammy Eger, Professor of Human Kinetics at Laurentian University and Research Chair at the Centre for Research in Occupational Safety and Health is among only four Canadians selected for the fourth “Homeward Bound” cohort (HB4). She and 95 women representing 28 countries will complete a 12-month intensive leadership program for women in Science, Technology, Engineering, Math, Medicine (STEMM). The leadership program will culminate in a 3-week journey to Antarctica in November 2019 to learn about climate change and polar science. 

“Homeward Bound” is a 10-year global initiative to equip 1,000 women in the STEMM fields with the skills to lead and to influence policy and decision-making in ways that will help to create a sustainable future for the planet.

According to the Unesco Institute for Statistics (UIS), less than 30% of the world’s researchers are women. “Even fewer women are in leadership positions in STEMM,” said Dr. Eger. “Initiatives such as this are critical to provide leadership training for women and to raise awareness about gender issues in these fields.” 

“I am absolutely thrilled to have been chosen for this once-in-a-lifetime opportunity,” added Dr. Eger. “I look forward to meeting the members of my cohort, sharing our experiences and collectively working to increase global leadership opportunities for women in STEMM.” 

The 12-month program has four core development components: leadership development, strategic capability, visibility and science communication, and science collaboration. Delivered by an expert global faculty, “Homeward Bound” comprises lectures, personal and leadership development tools, coaching sessions, visibility training and the opportunity to develop meaningful collaborations in forums, in teams with a focus on areas of interest, and in small diverse cohorts. More information on Homeward Bound, including a full list of HB4 participants, visit the program website.

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