Backgrounder

August 13, 2007

ONTARIO RESEARCH FUND – RESEARCH INFRASTRUCTURE PROGRAM

The McGuinty government is helping researchers obtain the tools they need to stay on the forefront of innovation, including lab space, equipment and computer software through the Research Infrastructure program of the Ontario Research Fund. This round of funding under the program will provide $247,383 to support two world-class projects in Peterborough.

Trent University

Biogeochemical laboratory for trace metal speciation in aquatic environments: role of dissolved organic matter
Monitoring movements within lakes and rivers

Lead researcher: Céline Guéguen
Total project cost: $418,504
Provincial funding: $167,383

In order to gauge the health hazard that might be posed by heavy metals such as lead in Canada’s northern lakes and rivers, we must first understand how different types of material move around in these waterways. Trent University researcher Céline Guéguen, who holds the Canada Research Chair in Aquatic Sciences and Biogeochemistry, is looking specifically at these movements of dissolved organic matter, including such items as dead algae, fallen leaves, and soil runoff. She and her team are establishing a research facility that will study the dynamics of such matter in the underwater environment, and how it affects the fate of metals that might also be found there. This work will lay the foundation for much more accurate measurements of the potential impact of waterborne contaminants, along with prevention or clean-up strategies to safeguard the quality of a resource that is vital to all Canadians.

Establishment of a CRC in DNA Profiling, Forensics and Functional Genomics
Applying forensic science to environmental issues

Lead researcher: Paul Wilson
Total project cost: $230,000
Provincial funding: $80,000

Police investigators make everyday use of an ability to identify individuals through biochemical markers found in their genes.  Authorities who manage wildlife populations would like to take similar advantage of this technique. Trent University researchers are enhancing the ability of their institution’s DNA Centre to meet the needs of conservation officials, including equipment to allow the rapid identification of various mammals, birds, insects, and microscopic organisms. Led by Paul Wilson, who holds the Canada Research Chair in DNA Profiling, Forensics and Functional Genomics, this initiative will enable a more accurate assessment of the impact of hunting on animal populations in the wild, the conservation of endangered species under the Species-at-Risk Act (SARA) as well as broadening partnerships with biotechnology firms in the Peterborough area.

Ontario Research Fund

The McGuinty government is investing $527 million over five years through the Ontario Research Fund. The fund is a key part of the government’s plan to promote scientific excellence by supporting research that can be developed into innovative goods and services that will boost Ontario’s economy. The fund also helps researchers move new ideas from Ontario’s labs to the global marketplace.

The fund provides one window for research funding. Proposals for funding are evaluated through a competitive, peer-review process.

The province matches funding commitments made by the Canada Foundation for Innovation through the Research Infrastructure program. Project funding is shared among the Canada Foundation for Innovation (up to 40 per cent), the province (up to 40 per cent), and the research institutions and industry partners (at least 20 per cent).

For more information about the Ontario Research Fund, please visit www.ontario.ca/innovation.