LU awarded three new Canada Research Chair positions

Laurentian University has been awarded three new Canada Research Chairs. Researchers Albrecht Shulte-Hostedde, Zhibin Ye and Robert Schinke will join current chairholders John Gunn and Nancy Young.

The three new chairholders at Laurentian University will be conducting research in a variety of fields, including multicultural sport and physical activity, applied evolutionary ecology and polymer nanomaterials.

"The Government of Canada's investment in research has made our economy stronger and created new jobs," federal Industry Minister Tony Clement said, in a press release.

"Through the Canada Research Chairs program, our government is committed to developing and attracting top research talent from Canada and around the world to help bring new ideas into the marketplace and improve the quality of life of Canadians."

In celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Canada Research Chairs program, Clement announced an investment of $275.6 million in the program Nov. 24 to fund 310 new or renewed Canada Research Chairs at 53 Canadian universities.

"Over the past 10 years, this program has been integral to funding research excellence in Canada, attracting renowned international experts to Canadian universities and retaining the world's best researchers," Chad Gaffield, [resident of the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada and head of the Canada Research Chairs Program Steering Committee, stated.

"The program has helped build world-class research centres across the country, propelled Canadian research into a leadership position on the world stage, and enhanced the education and training of thousands of Canadian and foreign students."

Laurentian University is one of 53 Canadian institutions with Canada Research Chairholders in residence.

"This support from the federal government has played a key role in Laurentian University's ability to strengthen its position as a leader in research and development, and to continue attracting the best faculty and students," Patrice Sawyer, Laurentian University's vice-president of Research and Graduate Studies, said.