Backgrounder

August 17, 2009

Early Researcher Awards

Ontario is providing $11.5 million to support 82 emerging researchers and their teams at 21 institutions across Ontario. Each lead researcher will receive $140,000 through the Early Researcher Awards program.

University of Windsor

Evolutionary Genetics of Aquatic Invasions
Lead researcher: Dr. Melania E. Cristescu
Number of researchers benefiting: 5

The ecological and economic impact of biological invaders is significant, particularly if the result is the establishment of non-indigenous species. It is therefore imperative to identify the pathways and vectors of invasions, and to understand the evolution of traits that help invasive species succeed in colonizing new habitats. Dr. Cristescu’s team uses a combination of ecological and molecular approaches to identify the major invasion corridors of the most prevalent aquatic invaders. They also explore the genetic consequences of the colonization process, and the evolution of invasiveness in aquatic species. This research will help build a better understanding of how non-indigenous species establish themselves, and help us monitor, predict and prevent future biological invasions in aquatic environments.

Application of Insect Feeding Ecology in the Development of Organic Waste Management Systems, Analysis of Insect Evidence and Development of Pest Management Strategies
Lead researcher: Dr. Sherah Lynnette VanLaerhoven
Number of researchers benefiting: 4

Insects that are omnivorous can choose to feed on plants, dead animals and/or other insects. Dr. VanLaerhoven’s research on insect feeding will contribute to the development of an innovative, environmentally clean, fast and economical process for creating biofuels and animal feed from organic waste. It could also yield new ways to manage agricultural pests, and help homicide investigators learn more about how insects can help them estimate a person’s time of death.