uOttawa News
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University of Ottawa receives $8.7 million boost for photonics and renewable resource projects
OTTAWA, January 15, 2013 — As the colder weather sets in and more than 40,000 students return for the winter term, things are heating up at the University of Ottawa. The Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) has earmarked $8,703,736 in research funding for two major uOttawa projects.
“The CFI’s support for cutting-edge research is extremely valuable. This investment will enable these two top researchers to continue their world-class research and innovation, and give the University of Ottawa a competitive edge to succeed on the world stage,” said Mona Nemer, vice-president, research.
“Research and innovation is a forceful driver of growth in our communities,” said Gilles G. Patry, president and CEO of the Canada Foundation for Innovation. “Today’s funding will allow a talented group of researchers and students to create the solutions, products and ideas Canada needs to prosper.”
The CFI Leading Edge and New Initiatives funds aim to enhance Canada’s research capabilities and to strengthen development of highly competitive research and technology in priority areas.
The following projects will receive funding:
Robert Boyd – Faculty of Science, Department of Physics and Canada Excellence Research Chair in Quantum Non-Linear Optics
Centre for Advanced Photonics: Translating Discovery to Innovation
Recognized as a world leader in the field of photonics, the University of Ottawa is home to a remarkable group of researchers working on the science of light. Photonics is important not only in everyday applications, including using light to carry information, but also in medical diagnostics and in detecting sub-atomic processes. This funding will enable the University to acquire key equipment to provide state-of-the-art capability at the forthcoming Advanced Research Complex.
R. Tom Baker – Faculty of Science, Department of Chemistry and Canada Research Chair in Catalysis Science for Energy Applications
Sustainable Chemical Synthesis from Renewable Feedstocks
As readily accessible fossil fuel resources decline, we are at a crossroads where petroleum refineries must make way for biorefineries: integrated systems that harness renewable biomass such as agricultural and wood wastes. This funding will enable the Centre for Catalysis Research and Innovation to explore the conversion of renewable biomass into fuel to significantly improve both the quality of our environment and Canada’s competitiveness in clean energy technology.
The University of Ottawa is committed to research excellence and encourages an interdisciplinary approach to knowledge creation, which attracts the best academic talent from across Canada and around the world. The University plays an important role in the economic development of the National Capital Region.
INFORMATION
Karine Proulx
Media Relations Officer, University of Ottawa
Office: 613-562-5800 ext. 3149
Cell: 613-219-3058
karine.proulx@uOttawa.ca
