You are now in the main content area

Dr. Alain Simard named Dean of Graduate Studies and International at Laurentian University

Dr. Alain Simard named Dean of Graduate Studies and International at Laurentian University

Dr. Simard to begin role on September 1, 2024.

July 15, 2024 — Dr. Alain Simard has been named the Dean of Graduate Studies and International. Dr. Simard, an alumnus of Laurentian University, brings a wealth of experience and a deep commitment to academic excellence and community engagement.

Dr. Simard earned both his Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and his Master of Science in Chemistry from Laurentian University. He then completed his PhD in Physiology-Endocrinology at the Université Laval and held post-doctoral fellowships in the United States.

"I am pleased to return to Laurentian University as Dean of Graduate Studies and International," said Dr. Simard. "I believe that Laurentian offers students an ideal environment for advanced learning and I look forward to working collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students to foster an environment where all feel supported and empowered to achieve their full potential."

Prior to returning to Northern Ontario, he served as assistant professor and later associate professor at the Université de Moncton in New Brunswick from 2011 to 2017, where he contributed to the Département de Chimie et Biochimie and the Centre de Formation Médicale du Nouveau-Brunswick. Dr. Simard then accepted an associate professor position at NOSM University in the Division of Medical Sciences in 2017. Since 2020, he has been the Assistant Dean of Graduate Studies at NOSM University and was promoted to full professor on July 1st, 2024.

Dr. Simard has been actively involved on several committees over the years and is a member of the Ontario Council of Graduate Studies. He serves as chair of the Graduate Studies Committee and chair of Masters of Medical Studies Program Committee at NOSM University. He also served as a member of the Research Committee at NOSM University and previously the Graduate Studies Council at Laurentian University and the Graduate studies committee, PhD in Life Sciences at Université de Moncton.

With over 35 published refereed papers since 2001 and supervision of more than 30 students at all academic levels, Dr. Simard has demonstrated dedication to scholarly pursuits and student mentorship. He is also a strong advocate for developing strong international partnerships that promote opportunities for graduate students, research collaborations and serve to enrich learning and understanding.

Dr. Simard’s understanding of the graduate studies landscape in Ontario, his solution driven approach, collaborative demeanor, and commitment to Laurentian University’s tri-cultural mandate will position him well to successfully lead this new portfolio.

Dr. Simard will assume his new role as Dean of Graduate Studies and International on September 1, 2024.

Laurentian University and Staff Union Ratify Collective Agreement

Laurentian University and Staff Union Ratify Collective Agreement

Collective agreement spans 3 years

July 12, 2024 - The Laurentian University Staff Union (LUSU) and Laurentian University’s Board of Governors have voted to ratify a new three year collective agreement. The agreement will be in place until June 30, 2027.

The agreement will see LUSU members receiving annual salary increases of 4%, as of July 1, 2024. A copy of the agreement will be shared on laurentian.ca once finalized.

“This agreement marks a key step in Laurentian’s recovery, enabling us to move forward in a positive way with the execution of our new strategic plan. We are thankful for the work of both bargaining committees and are now focused on delivering a dynamic student experience this fall,” said Dr. Lynn Wells, Laurentian University President and Vice-Chancellor.

"With the ratification of a new collective agreement, we are now able to redirect all our attention towards providing support to students, in both their academic and research goals,” said Tom Fenske, President of LUSU.

LUSU represents approximately 230 staff members at Laurentian University.

Series: Undergraduate Student Research Awards Recipients

Series: Undergraduate Student Research Awards Recipients

July 10, 2024 - This summer, twenty-two students have the opportunity to support research projects through Laurentian University with funding provided by Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC).

Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRAs) are meant to nurture interest among undergraduate students and develop their potential for a research career. This funding provides students with research work experience that complements their studies in an academic setting.

Students support research for a period of 16 weeks, on a full-time basis, from May to August. Students can hold one USRA per fiscal year but can hold up to three USRAs throughout their undergraduate career.

Getting the opportunity to contribute in a meaningful way to a research project is often reserved for graduate students. USRAs grant a unique and coveted opportunity to undergraduate students to get experience in their field of interest. The students’ year of study, major, and areas of research vary but they all similarly demonstrate the positive impact that this opportunity has on their current studies and future goals.

Throughout the summer the students will share in their own words about their ambitions, their interests, and a little about the research project they are supporting.

MacKenzie Hobbs

4th year Biology with a Minor in Environmental Chemistry at Laurentian University

Hometown: Espanola, Ontario

High school: École secondaire catholique La Renaissance

I grew up in Massey and spent many summers at my camp on Whiskey Lake where I developed a profound appreciation of and love for nature. I enjoy kayaking, camping, and hiking during the summer. I’m deeply passionate about the natural world and the urgent need for conservation efforts. Over the past three summers I’ve been given incredible opportunities as a USRA student with the Spiers Research Team at Laurentian. I’ve gained invaluable experience and knowledge, and I have enjoyed every minute of it. I plan to pursue a Master’s in Biology, with aspirations to one day conduct my own research in the field of environmental science.

The title of the research project I’m currently working on is “Elemental Content of Country Foods Growing on Smelter Impacted Landscapes”. We are looking to understand if our food here in Greater Sudbury is different as a result of the industrial past. To do this, we are collecting fiddleheads, blueberries, and various species of mushrooms throughout the summer to digest and analyze for metal and nutrient levels. Additionally, we will collect and analyze the same foods from local markets and grocery stores to compare locally farmed foods and internationally sourced foods with the wild samples collected locally.

Konan Blaise Koko

4th year Biochemistry at Laurentian University

Hometown: Cote d’Ivoire

I graduated from the Biochemistry program in June and am currently working on my second USRA. In my spare time, I love cross country skiing and adaptive rowing. For me, these are the best sports to allow me to stay healthy for hard work at school.

USRA played a significant role in shaping my future career goals and aspirations.The first one allowed me to work in a laboratory at the Northern Ontario School of Medicine, where I was involved in a cutting-edge study on protein expression using a heterologous bacterial system. This hands-on experience enhanced my understanding of molecular biology principles and techniques, and my analytical skills.

My current USRA involves working in a genetics laboratory with Dr. Thomas Merritt at Laurentian University where I delve into the intriguing world of genetics regulation. I actively contribute to experiments involving the exploration of the genetic response to environmental toxins (Nickel) in the gene expression in Drosophila melanogaster. This experience has not only enhanced my laboratory skills but also sparked my curiosity about the potential of genetics molecular biology studies. I am thankful this most recent opportunity gave me the chance to join a laboratory that I would like to continue working with throughout my graduate study.

My experiences in molecular biology laboratories through my time in the USRA program have had a transformative effect on my career goals and aspirations. They enhanced my understanding of molecular biology and sparked my passion for medicine. My ultimate goal is to attend medical school.

Asma Bilgasem

4th year Interdisciplinary Science at Laurentian University

Hometown: Sudbury, Ontario

High school: Lo-Ellen Park Secondary School

I have just completed a Bachelor of Interdisciplinary Science from Laurentian University and will be attending the University of Toronto to pursue a medical degree in the fall. I’m very passionate about community health and have led events such as Wear Red Canada Sudbury and Hoops for Men’s Mental Health. In my spare time, I love going to the gym, trying new coffee shops, and spending quality time with friends and family.

I’m currently working on an antifungal project under the supervision of Dr. Sujeenthar Tharmalingam at NOSM University. The aim of this project is to develop a rapid point-of-care suitable for the needs of individual patients to detect antifungal resistance to manage infections. I'm extremely grateful for the opportunity to learn in a hands-on environment within a collaborative team of scientists while contributing to cutting-edge scientific research. Looking forward, I hope to bring the skills and knowledge I’ve gained through USRA to wherever my professional career takes me.

Noah Fenlon

4th year Astrophysics at McMaster University

Hometown: Toronto, Ontario

High school: Western Technical Commercial School

I’ve always been captivated by space and the vastness of the universe. I consider astronomers to be modern-day explorers, and exploring more of the universe is my dream and ultimate career goal. I proudly consider myself a nerd, and I love playing board games and card games with friends. I also love hiking, biking, and getting outside.

This summer, I was privileged to accept a USRA from Laurentian University for my research. I am working at SNOLAB, a dark matter and neutrino research lab just outside of Sudbury. To block cosmic rays, the main lab is located 6,800 feet underground in a mine! I am part of the SNO+ detector team, working on calibration for an external source and for supernovae in our galaxy. I have found this work very interesting and exciting. I’ve learned so much already, and it’s such a great experience to be working here.

Pictured above from left to right: MacKenzie Hobbs, Konan Blaise Koko, Asma Bilgasem, Noah Fenlon

Laurentian University Appoints James Barltrop to Board of Governors

Laurentian University Appoints James Barltrop to Board of Governors

New member brings significant experience from financial sector

July 8, 2024 - Laurentian University is pleased to announce the appointment of James Barltrop to its Board of Governors.

"Bringing in another experienced leader is exactly what we aim to do and we are pleased to welcome James Barltrop to the Board. With over 33 years as a leader in the financial sector, he brings a rare set of skills that will enable him to guide our decisions as board members. He is someone that will ask the right questions at the right time,” said ​​Vern Cameron, Chair of the Laurentian University Board of Governors.

"I am honored to join the Board of Governors at Laurentian University. This University has a very bright future and I hope to be able to help offer guidance towards that future. Laurentian is truly unique in its tricultural mandate and I am looking forward to contributing in any way possible,” said Barltrop.

About James Barltrop

A senior executive with over 33 years of experience in capital markets and investment banking. His primary focus is on the origination and execution of transactions related to major strategic and financial initiatives. He has held a lead role in numerous complex initial public offerings, equity and equity-linked financings for Scotiabank’s focus clients. He possesses broad experience in dealing with the investment community including corporate issuers, institutional investors, and investment advisors.

He is a graduate of the Ivey School of Business and earned a Masters of Business Administration from York University.

Studying the Pressure on Young Pro Athletes

Studying the Pressure on Young Pro Athletes

Yufeng Li, PhD Studies in Sports Psychology

July 4, 2024 – International graduate student Yufeng Li is exploring the impact that intense competition can have on a person's mental health. Yufeng's research interests were motivated by his own experience as a professional table tennis player in China. With his Master’s in Human Kinetics complete and the end of his PhD in Human Kinetics approaching, Yufeng says that research will continue to be a focus for him throughout his career as a sports psychology scientist-practitioner. 

Originally from Eastern China, Yufeng completed his undergraduate degree at East China Normal University in Sport Training. In 2019, he came to Laurentian University to pursue his master's in Sports Psychology under the supervision of Dr. Robert Schinke. He learned about Dr. Schinke through the International Society of Sports Psychology.

"As a young pro player I learned the psychological effects that competition has on a person. My experience in the sport inspired my interest in this area of academic research," Yufeng says. "During my bachelor's studies, I read about Dr. Schinke's work as the President of the International Society of Sports Psychology. I knew that I wanted to work with him as I continued my exploration of the psychological effects of competition."

Yufeng says that the transition from his home to Sudbury was jarring at first. “When I first got to Laurentian there was some culture shock and language barriers for me but the community was so welcoming,” he recalls. “It’s a small university but the professors and colleagues are so open and supportive. Dr. Schinke has been a wonderful advisor, and such a devoted and exceptional mentor.”

Yufeng’s master’s thesis was largely a self-reflection on his athletic development. Yufeng explored why some of his teammates and opponents were excelling to Olympic-level performance, but he was not able. To do so, he looked at what barriers and challenges he faced, including competition anxiety.

His PhD research expands on that, understanding the ways that pressure of competition and competition anxiety can negatively impact the trajectory of professional table tennis players in China. 

“During their careers, athletes reach different stages and transitions that bring about challenges and barriers to their ability to perform,” Yufeng explains. “If they do not have appropriate resources and support to cope with these barriers, it will not only influence their sport performance but also their holistic development.” 

Discoveries in his research have inspired Yufeng’s career ambitions. “No one was able to provide the kind of support I needed throughout my professional career,” he says. “Table tennis is the national sport of China and that comes with high expectations. There needs to be more understanding of what the young athletes are going through and how to support their needs while they cope with immense physical and psychological pressure.” Yufeng wishes to influence change through his research and future work with table tennis athletes. He hope to see the athletes coached, mentored, and trained in a way that supports every part of them, making them even better, more capable athletes.

When he finishes his PhD this coming winter, Yufeng plans to work as a Sports Psychology Scientist Practitioner. He will continue to conduct research throughout his career and apply that research through evidence-based mental health support for athletes.

Entente de principe conclue entre l'Université Laurentienne et le syndicat des employés

Entente de principe conclue entre l'Université Laurentienne et le syndicat des employés

L’entente proposée s’étend sur trois ans

(28 juin, 2024) - Le Syndicat des employés de l’Université Laurentienne (SEUL) et l’Université Laurentienne ont conclu une entente de principe. Les membres du SEUL auront bientôt l’occasion de voter pour la ratification de celle-ci que l’équipe de négociation du SEUL recommande d’approuver à l’unanimité.

« Cette entente de principe est une excellente nouvelle pour nos employés et l’ensemble de la communauté de la Laurentienne. Je tiens à remercier nos partenaires du SEUL de leur travail acharné et de leur coopération, a déclaré la rectrice et vice-chancelière de l’Université Laurentienne, Mme Lynn Wells. Comme l’indique le Plan stratégique 2024-2029, l’Université Laurentienne a défini quatre orientations stratégiques pour guider la prise de décisions. L’une de ces orientations est « Apprécier et soutenir nos gens » et nous sommes fiers d’y donner suite. »

« C’est un signe positif, a déclaré le président du SEUL, M. Tom Fenske. Cela indique en effet que la direction de la Laurentienne s’engage à réinvestir dans son actif le plus précieux : ses employés. ».

Si elle est ratifiée, cette entente de trois ans sera en vigueur jusqu’au 30 juin 2027.

Le SEUL représente quelque 230 membres du personnel à l’Université Laurentienne.

Tentative agreement reached between Laurentian University and staff union

Tentative agreement reached between Laurentian University and staff union

Proposed agreement spans 3 years

(June 28, 2024) - The Laurentian University Staff Union (LUSU) and Laurentian University have reached a tentative collective agreement. Members of LUSU will soon have the opportunity to vote for ratification of the tentative agreement. The LUSU bargaining team unanimously recommends ratification.

“This tentative agreement is great news for our employees and the entire Laurentian community. I want to thank our partners at LUSU for their hard work and cooperation as well as the administrative bargaining team for their support throughout this process” said Dr. Lynn Wells, Laurentian University President and Vice Chancellor. As outlined in the 2024-2029 Strategic Plan, Laurentian University identified four strategic directions to guide decision making. One of these directions is defined as “Valuing and Supporting Our People” and we’re proud to put that direction into action.”

"This is a positive sign, indicating that Laurentian's leadership is demonstrating a commitment to reinvesting in its most valuable asset: its employees,” said Tom Fenske, President of LUSU.

If ratified, the 3-year agreement would remain in effect until June 30, 2027.

LUSU represents approximately 230 staff members at Laurentian University.

Laurentian Receives Donation to Install a New International Quality Floor in the Ben Avery Gym

Laurentian Receives Donation to Install a New International Quality Floor in the Ben Avery Gym

Athletes to benefit from state-of-the-art sprung floor by September thanks to donors.

June 25, 2024 - The existing flooring and subfloor in the Ben Avery Gym will be replaced this summer thanks to one family's generous donation. Danica Robertson and Robert Martin are the parents of a current Laurentian student and say they felt inspired by their family’s experience with the university.

“We believe that Laurentian students are getting a high-quality education and the athletes on the court deserve a high-quality experience as well,” said Robert Martin. “We have confidence in Laurentian and hope that our investment inspires others to support Laurentian University and help enhance the student experience.”

The Robertson-Martin family donated $250,000 to fund the entire project from start to finish. The donation covers the cost of the removal of the current flooring and subfloor, down to the concrete, as well as the purchase and installation of a new high performance sprung hardwood floor that exceeds the top international standards for basketball floors.

As architects, Robertson and Martin know the positive impact of design and quality environments to foster human wellbeing and develop vibrant communities. “Our family saw an opportunity to support Laurentian and help improve the student experience for current and future generations,” said Martin. “We are very excited at the potential of this improvement to nurture happier, healthier athletes.”

President and Vice-Chancellor, Dr. Lynn Wells expressed gratitude for the donation. “The Laurentian community is deeply grateful to the Robertson-Martin family. This gift will have a significant positive impact on our athletes and beyond. Their investment has a positive impact on our campus culture as a whole and is a testament to the pride that the community has in our school.”

“A high-quality facility will help entice students and student-athletes from across Canada to choose Laurentian. We hope that this impactful upgrade might inspire the continued revitalization of the storied Ben Avery,” said Peter Hellstrom, Director, Voyageur Athletics and Campus Recreation.

Work on the floor in the Ben Avery Gym is already underway and is expected to be completed by the beginning of August.

Ugandan Student Finds Comforts of Home Through Community Work On Campus

Ugandan Student Finds Comforts of Home Through Community Work On Campus

Alice Aol is motivated to brighten the student experience for international students.

June 20, 2024 - International and domestic students alike are familiar with Alice Aol, Student Coordinator with the Equity, Diversity and Human Rights Office (EDHRO) and her infectious personality. Alice is a third-year student who has spent her short time in Canada celebrating culture and creating a sense of community for herself.

After graduating from high school in Gulu, Uganda during the pandemic, Alice started her studies online at Laurentian before moving to Sudbury for in-person classes. Pursuing higher education in Canada was important to Alice. “Back home in Uganda, it is not common for a girl to finish high school or university. Seeing my fellow Africans here and also aiming to finish school is what motivates me to keep going.” 

Reflecting on her time in Sudbury so far, Alice said, “Just one year is enough to feel like Laurentian is home.” Coming from a larger city, Alice was excited to live in Sudbury, a community she describes as calm and connected. Alice is looking forward to exploring the natural beauty of Sudbury more this summer. 

The relationships she has developed with her professors and friends from her classes motivates her each day. “Being far away from home is challenging. Laurentian is a very diverse school where I am able to meet other people who have the same type of beginnings, where we are coming miles away from home to a completely new place. Meeting new friends has helped me a lot and I want to contribute to making this experience away from home brighter for others as well,” said Alice. 

Alice has made connections with other students through her role as a Student Coordinator with the EDHRO. As Student Coordinator, Alice collaborates with events and programming on-campus.

Alice took the lead in planning many of the Black History Month events at Laurentian, such as surprising the community with a dance flash mob during the Cultural Day event. Kayla Deschatelets, EDHRO Sexual and Gender-Based Violence Support Coordinator, says that Alice’s contributions were instrumental in the success of the celebrations. “Alice has been a real asset to our team. She is friendly and helpful and always willing to take on a passion project. She truly contributed to the success of Black History Month on campus,” said Kayla.

In March, Alice helped with the planning of Holi for the Laurentian community. Holi is a Hindu celebration of color and spring. “Students came to us at EDHRO saying they missed home and wanted to host an event celebrating Holi. We all worked hard to coordinate the event and a lot of people showed up. They loved it,” said Alice. She says that she is proud to be a part of a community that celebrates and appreciates diversity.

Alice is a natural fit with the Laurentian University’s African Caribbean Students Association (LUACSA), which she has been a member of since arriving at Laurentian. LUACSA’s goal is to create a home for students who are far away from home, while also providing opportunities for students to explore the different countries, cultures, and backgrounds in Africa and the Caribbean. “LUACSA is not only for African and Caribbean students, it is a community for people to gain knowledge from others and bring knowledge from their own,” said Alice.

Now an executive member of the LUACSA team as Communications Executive, Alice has assisted with many successful LUACSA events, such as movie nights showcasing African or Caribbean culture. “To me, being in LUACSA allows me to share my ideas, to talk about home freely, to learn more from my fellow peers, and see another country from another person’s point of view,” said Alice. 

An outgoing leader and advocate, Alice has found her place within the Laurentian community and continues to improve the quality of life for her fellow students on campus.

Student Spotlight: Maggie Laverge

Student Spotlight: Maggie Laverge

From geology field work to Master’s research, Maggie Laverge is digging in

June 12, 2024 - While balancing a busy schedule as an undergraduate student and varsity rugby player, Maggie Laverge developed a passion for earth science. Maggie began her studies in science at the University of British Columbia but her academic focus sharpened after taking a course on natural disasters with sections on volcanology, geology, and earth hazards. A deep interest in earth sciences developed and eventually led to Maggie’s current research as a graduate student at Laurentian University.

After completing her undergraduate degree in geology, Maggie worked in mineral exploration in the mining industry for five years. She was working for the Canadian silver and gold mining company, Kinross Gold, when she learned about a research partnership between the company and Laurentian University. Her interest in the project and her desire to have a more integral role in the research pushed her to pursue a Master’s in Geology at Laurentian.

Now studying under Dr. Bruno Lafrance at the Harquail School of Earth Sciences, Maggie’s Master’s research explores why gold forms where it does. The subject of her research is the LP fault zone on the Great Bear Deposit, which is a gold-bearing fault in the earth’s crust near Red Lake, Ontario. Maggie is trying to understand the forces which formed the fault zone, the timing of gold in relation to the fault zone, and any events that may have controlled the current orientation of the gold ore body. Maggie’s research is one of the first academic studies on the deposit. With a better understanding of the structural controls that Maggie is examining, the gold can be targeted and mined more effectively, which can help find other gold deposits in the future.

Maggie has an appreciation for the level of geology and mining expertise within the Laurentian community. Throughout her masters, she says that she has learned from not only her professors but also peers and industry experts. “I love that I can reach out to colleagues and ask for advice or guidance. The collaborative spirit at Laurentian and even in the Sudbury community as a whole is something I really value.”

Maggie integrates the same collaborative approach into her work as a teaching assistant. “Getting to work with students is such an inspiring component of my graduate studies,” Maggie says. “I’m nerding-out and teaching them, but I am also learning so much from them, and I always encourage them to work collaboratively and learn from each other.”

Despite only starting her research in September 2023, Maggie has had the opportunity to present at several conferences. She’s received positive feedback and won multiple prizes for her research presentations. “These conferences and opportunities to talk about the research that I’m doing are great. I get to not only share my work but also network with other students, academics, and industry professionals, who will often suggest techniques to further my research. I learn so much every time,” Maggie explains, reflecting on her conference experiences.

Maggie actively seeks opportunities to gain experience and make connections outside of her studies. She is the secretary of the Laurentian University’s Society of Economic Geologists Student Chapter. The group recently explored geological sites internationally during a trip to Chile. Through the Society of Economic Geologists, she has been accepted to attend a mapping field school in Brazil in summer 2024. A field school is an outdoor experiential learning program for students to develop or strengthen the hands-on geology skills that are necessary in the mining industry. In addition to conducting her own field work in Red Lake this summer, Maggie will also help lead Laurentian’s two-week field school for undergraduate students.

When Maggie finishes her Master’s degree, she hopes to work as a consultant in structural geology, traveling to various sites. This will give her the opportunity to continue working in geology while also fostering her love of learning, collaboration, and travel.

Pages