ARCHIVES 2005/2006
DECEMBER 2006
New Genome Map Will Help Trace Genetic Origins Of Diseases
Scientists in Toronto have a taken a huge step forward in the quest to discover the origins of heart disease, diabetes, Alzheimer's and different types of cancer.
A consortium of scientists led by The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) and institutions in the U.S., the U.K. and Japan has created the first map of DNA and gene copy number variation (CNVs) in the human genome. The discovery of about 2900 genetic variations could help scientists explain everything from the uniqueness of each human to why disease develops. MORE
NOVEMBER 2006
Top stem cell researcher returns to Canada from US
Gordon Keller, one of the world's leading stem cell scientists will lead the University Health Network's new McEwen Centre for Regenerative Medicine. Keller, named by New York Magazine in January as one of six doctors the city couldn't afford to lose, will leave his post as professor of gene and cell medicine at Mount Sinai School of Medicine in New York and start full-time in Toronto in January.
Ontario Government recognized at CIPA Awards
Parliamentary Assistant John Wilkinson speaks at the CIPA Gala
The Ontario Government was recognized at the recent Canadian Information Productivity Awards (CIPA) for its participation in a web-based initiative – BizPal -- that helps businesses to identify the permits and licenses they need to either start or expand their enterprises.
SEPTEMBER 2006
Team of six University of Ottawa Researchers receive Interdisciplinary Research Prize
Ottawa, September 13, 2006 — Six University of Ottawa researchers in the field of palliative care were recognized by the University for their contribution to interdisciplinary research.
London Research Institute Recruits Award-winning Researcher
September 12, 2006 —World-class "personalized medicine," researcher, Dr. Richard Kim and his five-member scientific team have been recruited from the United States to join the Lawson Health Research Institute in London. Originally from Saskatoon, Dr. Kim said he's excited about the move from Nashville to London.
Ontario Professors and Students win $198.1 Million in Research Funding and Scholarships
On September 8, 2006, The Honourable John Baird, President of the Treasury Board of Canada, announced that Ontario professors and students in the natural sciences and engineering fields would be awarded funding and scholarships by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).
Carleton University Professor Recognized for his Outstanding Research
On September 7, 2006, Carleton University announced that one of its professors, Dr. John Oommen with the School of Computer Science, was honoured with an international award. He was named: Fellow of the International Association of Pattern Recognition (F-IAPR).
National Biotechnology Week – September 23-30, 2006
National Biotechnology Week is a celebration of the imagination and innovation of Canadian scientists from Vancouver to St. John’s. Every region of the country participates in this national program designed to inform Canadians and showcase Canadian excellence. Participants will take part in career fairs, tour Canadian biotech companies, and see how biotechnology is vital to our future. Many more will hear from influential leaders of the industry and meet with federal and provincial decision makers.
AUGUST 2006
Premier And Minister Of Research And Innovation Dalton McGuinty Named "personality Of The Year"
On August 17, 2006, Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty was named "Personality of the Year 2006" by fDi (Foreign Direct Investment) magazine, part of the Financial Times group of London (U.K.).
The magazine noted they were most impressed with Premier McGuinty's initiatives to boost research and innovation in Ontario. The award is given each year to leaders "who have been the most proactive, dynamic and innovative in securing foreign investment and improving the business environments of their jurisdictions."
Doctoral Student at Carleton University Wins International Fellowship
On August 18, 2006, Carleton University announced that one of its doctoral students, Peter Popplewell, with the Department of Electronics, was one of two international winners of a 2006-2007 Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers Inc. (IEEE) Solid-State Circuits Society Pre-Doctoral Fellowship. The IEEE is the world's leading professional association for the advancement of technology.
New Biology Super-Lab Under Construction in London
August 2, 2006 — A new, first of its kind, biology super-lab — The Biotron — is currently under construction at the University of Western Ontario in London.
JULY 2006
New President and Scientific Director Appointed to Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR)
On July 5, 2006, Dr. Thomas J. Hudson was appointed as President and Scientific Director to the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research.
British Royalty Honours Dr. Anthony Pawson
On July 4, 2006, Her Majesty the Queen named Dr. Anthony Pawson a member of the Order of the Companions of Honour for his services to genetic sciences and cancer research. Only nine Canadians have been offered entry into this very distinguished group.
Agricultural Waste: Who Knew It Could Taste So Good?
On July 28, 2006, The University of Western Ontario and Dorchester-based Agri-Therm Limited announced a new portable technology — The Fast Pyrolysis Machine — that facilitates the production of bio-oils, which can be used in the development of pharmaceuticals, alternative fuels and even cooking.
McGuinty Government Expands Access To Education And Training Opportunities In Northern Ontario
On July 12, 2006, the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities announced an investment of $1.5 million to expand Contact North — a distance education and training network — to 20 new communities in Northern Ontario.
Ryerson University Appoints First Vice-President of Research and Innovation
On July 5, 2006, Ryerson University President Sheldon Levy announced the appointment of Dr. Anastasios (Tas) Venetsanopoulos to the newly created position of Vice-President of Research and Innovation.
JUNE 2006
University Health Network Campaign Attracts International Stars
On June 21, 2006, the University Health Network (UHN) announced an impressive number of international clinical and research talents who have joined the network as a result of its $500 million fundraising campaign — the largest of its kind in Canadian history.
New, Expanded High Performance Computing Virtual Laboratory Opens in Kingston
On June 15, 2006, Parliamentary Assistant, Tony Wong, spoke at the opening of Kingston's new and expanded High Performance Computing Virtual Laboratory (HPCVL) facility at Queen's University.
MaRS Announces Preliminary Guidelines for Premier's Summit Awards
On June 15, 2006, the MaRS Discovery District announced preliminary guidelines for the Premier's Summit Awards. The objectives of the Awards are to provide a high level of research support that will trigger new initiatives and innovations and attract and retain the very best researchers and innovators in the Province of Ontario.
Ontario Announces Council Of Experts On Innovation
June 27, 2006 - TORONTO -- The McGuinty government has taken another step towards strengthening Ontario's innovative economy by announcing the appointees to the Ontario Research and Innovation Council.
Canadian Industry Leaders Recognized at National Biotechnology Awards
On June 19, 2006, BIOTECanada announced the recipients of its annual National Biotechnology Awards. The winners were honoured at the National Presidents' Awards Dinner at the Metro Toronto Convention Centre in Toronto, in conjunction with CANMEDBIO 2006.
Innovative Waste Management Project in Ottawa is Approved
On June 9, 2006, the McGuinty government approved an innovative pilot project that will generate energy from waste. The announcement was made by Ottawa Centre MPP Richard Patten on behalf of Environment Minister Laurel Broten.
Ontario Winners of Top 20 Under 20 ™
On June 6, 2006, recipients of Youth in Motion’s award and mentoring program — Top 20 Under 20 ™ — were announced at a breakfast event sponsored by the University of Ontario, Institute of Technology.
Waterloo Recognized As One of World’s Top Intelligent Communities
On June 9, 2006, the Intelligent Communities Forum (ICF) recognized Taipei, Tiawan as being the world's Top Intelligent Community 2006. This prestigious award identifies the community that best exemplifies the development of a prosperous economy based on broadband and information technology. Waterloo was one of seven cities competing for the award.
Parliamentary Assistant Tony Wong Presents 2006 ORION Awards at MaRS
On June 5, 2006, Parliamentary Assistant, Tony Wong, helped present the second-annual Ontario Research and Innovation Optical Network (ORION) Awards at the MaRS Discovery District in Toronto.
MAY 2006
Ontario Global Traders Awards
On May 31, 2006, the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade honoured Ontario's top exporters for their exceptional contributions to the province's economy at the 8th annual provincial Ontario Global Traders Awards ceremony in Toronto.
The Canadian Association for Girls in Science (CAGIS)
On May 30, 2006, University of Toronto student, Larissa Vingilis-Jaremko, was awarded the YWCA's "Young Women of Distinction Award" for inspiring young girls to pursue their dreams. In 1995, at age nine, Larissa founded the Canadian Association for Girls in Science (CAGIS) to promote, educate and support interest and confidence in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) among girls aged 7-16.
Toronto, Ottawa and Waterloo Unite to Promote Innovation and Commercialization
On May 29, 2006, three of Ontario's leading centres for innovation and technology signed a collaboration agreement to foster innovation, promote the commercialization of research and support entrepreneurs and emerging growth companies.
Ontario’s Wisdom Exchange Highlights Innovation For Business Growth
On May 23, 2006, Joe Cordiano, Minister of Economic Development and Trade, spoke at the 12th annual Wisdom Exchange — a knowledge-sharing forum that presents a unique opportunity for CEOs and presidents of Ontario's leading growth firms to network and discuss the special challenges and opportunities of managing high-performance companies.
Ontario Students Win at Canada-Wide Science Fair
There were over 455 students, from grades 7 and 12, participating in the Canada-Wide Science Fair (CWSF), which took place from May 13-21 in Saguenay, Quebec.
Three Ontario Students Win Manning Innovation Awards at Canada-Wide Science
Three students from Ontario were awarded the Manning Innovation Achievement Award for their work at the Canada-Wide Science Fair, which took place from May 13-21 in Saguenay, Quebec. This is a prestigious award that recognizes the innovations of bright "Canadian" minds at the high school level.
Ontario Youth Come Home Winners at 2006 Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF)
From May 7-13, 2006, close to 1,500 students from 47 countries were competing for nearly $4 million worth of scholarships and prizes at the 2006 Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) that took place in Indianapolis, Indiana.
Team Canada Heads-Off to Indianapolis for the 2006 Intel ISEF
On May 5, 2006, Intel of Canada held a kick-off event for 19 Canadian students who will compete against 1200 international students for $3.2 million in prizes and scholarships at the 2006 Intel International Science and Engineering Fair (ISEF) in Indianapolis, Indiana from May 7-13.
Ontario Signs Agreement with University of Toronto to Endow Research Chair
On May 3, 2006, the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade (MEDT) announced the establishment of a Premier's Research Chair at the University of Toronto.
APRIL 2006
Early Researcher Award Success Stories
The Early Researcher Award program (ERA) is a new $30 million, 3-year program that aims to help promising, recently-appointed Ontario researchers build their research teams of graduate students, post-doctoral fellows and research associates. The ultimate goal of the program is to improve Ontario’s ability to attract and retain the best and brightest research talent in high-priority economic areas.
- New Hybrid Materials (Brock University)
- Efficient Routing in Communications Networks (Carleton University)
- Neurodegenerative Diseases (Carleton University)
- Evolutionary and Behavioural Ecology of Mammals (Laurentian University)
- Origin and Evolution of HIV/AIDS (McMaster University)
- Neural Basis of Visual Behaviour (Queen’s University)
- Biodiversity and Ecosystems (University of Guelph)
- Scalable Interactive Simulation-Based Technology for Distributed Collaborative Virtual Environments (University of Ottawa)
- Thrombophilia – Novel Disease Associations and Therapeutic Interventions (University of Ottawa)
- Alzheimer’s Disease (University of Toronto)
- Evaluation of the Sustainability Implications of Bioenergy Alternatives for Canada (University of Toronto)
- Laser Welding of Advanced High Strength Steels for Automotive Applications (University of Waterloo)
- Large-Scale Computational Simulations and Data Assimilation of Earthquake Fault Systems (University of Western Ontario)
- The Associations of Health Care, Social Welfare and Education Policies with Personal, Familial and Population Health Outcomes (University of Windsor)
- Fish Farming (York University)
Ontario Global Traders Awards – Northern Ontario
On April 27, 2006, the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade (MEDT) honoured northern Ontario's top exporters for their contributions to the province's economy at the 8th annual northern region Ontario Global Traders Awards (OGTA) ceremony in North Bay.
Research Group from University of Waterloo Receives Health Award
On April 20, 2006, a research team led by the University of Waterloo's "Ideas for Health" research group was one of five recipients of the Ministry of Health and Long Term Care's Innovation Award.
Ontario Global Traders Awards – Southwest Ontario
On April 20, 2006, the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade (MEDT) honoured southwest Ontario's top exporters for their contributions to the province's economy at the 8th annual southwest region Ontario Global Traders Awards (OGTA) ceremony in Cambridge.
11th Annual OCRI Awards
On April 19, 2006, the Ottawa Centre for Research and Innovation (OCRI) honoured individuals and organizations for their outstanding contributions to the Ottawa region.
Ontario Global Traders Awards – Eastern Ontario
On April 12, 2006, the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade (MEDT) honoured eastern Ontario's top exporters for their contributions to the province's economy at the 8th annual eastern region Ontario Global Traders Awards (OGTA) ceremony in Kingston.
Ontario Global Traders Awards
On April 6, 2006, the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade (MEDT) honoured central Ontario's top exporters for their contributions to the province's economy at the 8th annual central region Ontario Global Traders Awards (OGTA) ceremony in Barrie.
Ontario Invests $2.2 Million Towards A Cancer And Cardiac Research Centre In Thunder Bay
On April 26, 2006, Ontario Premier, Dalton McGuinty announced a $2.2 million investment for a new Cancer and Cardiac Research Centre in Thunder Bay.
New Partnership Strengthens Community Safety Through Research and Innovation
On April 21, 2006, the Ontario government's Centre of Forensic Sciences (CFS) and the University of Toronto at Mississauga (UTM) partnered to plan a new Forensic Sciences Institute that will offer postgraduate studies and leading-edge research opportunities for forensic scientists. MORE
Early Researcher Awards
On April 20, 2006, Parliamentary Assistant, Tony Wong, spoke at the Early Researcher Awards ceremony held at the University of Toronto (U of T).
Satellite Imagery Helps Protect Communities In The Northwest
On April 18, 2006, the Ministry of Natural Resources (MNR) announced that it's enhancing public safety and emergency planning in the northwest by purchasing high-resolution satellite imagery of remote northern communities.
BIO 2006
On April 5, 2006, some of Ontario's top business and research leaders in the life sciences industry joined Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation, Dalton McGuinty, and Minister of Economic Development and Trade, Joseph Cordiano, to rally Ontario's delegation before it sets off to the world's largest life sciences conference.
Stiller Centre Convergence Laboratory
On April 4, 2006, Parliamentary Assistant, Tony Wong, spoke at the grand opening of the Stiller Centre Convergence Laboratory Facility in London, Ontario.
MARCH 2006
Ontario Exporters Commended for Innovation and Growth
On March 9, 2006, the Ministry of Economic Development and Trade announced they will be hosting the 8th annual southwest region Ontario Global Traders Awards (OGTA) at the Holiday Inn in Cambridge on April 20, to recognize the outstanding contributions exporters are making to Ontario's economy.
First Robotics Canada Competition
On March 31, 2006, Parliamentary Assistant, Tony Wong, spoke at the award ceremony for the First Robotics Canada Competition held at the Hershey Centre in Mississauga.
Robarts Opens Most Advanced MRI Facility in Canada
On March 30, 2006, Deputy Minister, Dr. Alastair Glass, joined senior executives from Merck Research Laboratories and Merck Frosst Canada for the opening of Canada’s most advanced MRI facility at the Centre for Functional and Metabolic Mapping at the Robarts Research Institute in London, Ontario.
Laurentian University Receives Funds to Launch Centre for Excellence in Mining Innovation
On March 23, 2006, the Ministry of Northern Development and Mines (MNDM) announced it would provide $10 million to Laurentian University to launch the Centre for Excellence in Mining Innovation.
2006 Ontario Budget
To strengthen and promote Ontario as an innovative economy, the Ministry of Research and Innovation is investing nearly $1.7 billion over five years to 2009-10 through research, commercialization and outreach programs. MORE
Development Acceleration Award Supports UHN Researchers
On March 23, 2006, the University Health Network (UHN) with support from the Johnson & Johnson Corporate Office of Science and Technology (COSAT) announced the creation of the Development Acceleration Award.
Communications Building That Fosters Exchange Of Ideas Among Students Opens At UTM
On March 2, 2006, the University of Toronto at Mississauga announced the opening of its new communication, culture and technology building.
FEBRUARY 2006
National Engineering Week – February 25 to March 5, 2006
National Engineering Week is a Canada-wide celebration designed to raise awareness of the contributions engineering and technology make to our daily lives.
Generic Pharmaceutical Investment Symposium
On February 28, 2006, Parliamentary Assistant, Tony Wong was a keynote speaker at the Generic Pharmaceutical Investment Symposium hosted by the Public Policy Forum and the Canadian Generic Pharmaceutical Association at the MaRS Discovery District in Toronto.
Premier Appoints Special Advisor on the Future of the GTA and Creative Cities
On February 17, 2006, Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty announced the appointment of John Honderich as special advisor on the future of the GTA and creative cities.
Eight New Research Chairs Support Innovation
On February 15, 2006, the Ministry of Training, Colleges and Universities announced the creation of eight new research chairs at six universities across Ontario.
Ontario Youth Opportunities Strategy
On February 14, 2006, the Ministry of Children and Youth Services (MCYS) announced a three-year $28 million investment for a new Youth Opportunities Strategy to expand programs that help youth succeed in life.
Call for Proposals for the Youth Science and Technology Outreach Program
On February 14, 2006, The Ministry of Research and Innovation (MRI) announced a focused call for proposals to connect at-risk youth with Ontario researchers and technologists.
Second Annual Agri-Food Summit
On February 8, 2006, Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty spoke at the Second Annual Agri-Food Summit.
Discovery 2006: Bridging the Innovation to Commercialization Gap
On February 7, 2006, Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty spoke at Discovery 2006: Bridging the Innovation to Commercialization Gap.
Cancer Care Ontario
On February 7, 2006, Cancer Care Ontario released its progress report on cancer care in Ontario.
DECEMBER 2005
On the Cutting Edge of Cancer TreatmentsClinical trials are an integral part of cancer research. They help researchers develop news drugs and therapies, while giving patients access to new treatments before they become widely available. The Ontario Cancer Research Network has set a goal of doubling participation in cancer trials. With Ontario government funding, it has established the Clinical Trials Infrastructure Fund to help Ontario's cancer centres expand their clinical trials programs. MORE
Using Viruses to Fight Cancer
Usually people want nothing to do with viruses. However, a promising area in cancer research uses viruses to help destroy tumours. Researchers at the Ottawa Regional Cancer Centre studied how one specific cancer-fighting virus is affected by the human immune system. They also gained valuable insight into how the virus destroys tumours and how it is introduced into the body to get the best results. MORE
Customizing Cancer Treatment
Sometimes a small number of cancer cells survive treatment because of their varied chemical make-up, leading to a recurrence of the disease. Researchers at York University have developed a powerful new technology to analyze cell chemistry. The results of this analysis can be used to customize patient treatment, making it more effective in the process. MORE
JANUARY 2006
Deputy Minister Appointment
January 19 , 2006 - QUEEN'S PARK -- Ontario Premier Dalton McGuinty announced the following Deputy Minister appointment:
Alastair Glass will become Deputy Minister of Research and Innovation, effective February 13, 2006.
NOVEMBER 2005
University of Toronto professors receive award for discovery of first stem cell
Great discoveries have happened throughout Ontario's history and continue to happen today. Two scientists, James Edgar Till and Ernest Armstrong McCulloch proved the existence of stem cells in 1961. Stem cells are master cells that provide the source material for all organs and tissue.
Till and McCulloch continued with their work over the years and many other breakthroughs have led to the pioneering of bone marrow transplants, a procedure that saves lives. Today, they're known as the "Fathers of Stem Cell Research" and their efforts have been recognized by one of the world's most prestigious honours - the Lasker Award. Both men have been inducted into the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame. Their ground-breaking work continues to inspire and encourage a new generation of researchers. The emergence of stem cell research has the potential to lead to many other new discoveries that will help people live healthier lives.
SEPTEMBER 2005
Ontario high school students demonstrate award-winning biotech competition projects
The great discoveries of the future will come from some of our youngest and brightest minds. High school students who competed in the 2005 Greater Toronto Sanofi-Aventis Biotech Challenge are already proving this.
The winning projects demonstrate the power of imagination, vision and experimentation.
This was no ordinary high school science fair. One team genetically modified Antarctic hairgrass to improve the way it removes carbon dioxide from the atmosphere.
Another team looked at a possible new treatment for Type-2 diabetes. Another team researched ways to make wounds heal faster.
Premier’s Remarks At The Opening Of MaRS Discovery District
September 26, 2005 - "For months now, I've been looking forward to this day. My office window has given me a good view of construction project and it seems like just yesterday that the old building was gutted in no time at all and the new buildings went up. This is quite simply an amazing facility." VIDEO
Lasker Award Winners
September 26, 2005 - Great discoveries have happened throughout Ontario’s history and continue to happen today.
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