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.

Keller credits Canada's less-restrictive stance on human embryonic stem cell research with helping him make his decision to move north. But he says it was the critical mass of world-class stem cell researchers working in world-class institutes that clinched the deal. Canada's strong tradition in stem cell science is also an attraction. The era of modern stem cell research began in Toronto in the early 1960s with the work of James Till and Ernest McCulloch at the Ontario Cancer Institute. The two are credited with proving the existence of stem cells.

A Saskatchewan native, Keller studied at the University of Saskatchewan and at the University of Alberta, coming to Toronto in 1973 for a post-doctoral fellowship at the Ontario Cancer Institute. He spent much of his research career in the United States, where he became best known for his seminal research in human embryonic stem cells. We're proud to have Dr. Keller join our province as he continues his important work here.

 

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.

Dr. Kim's research focuses on "pharmacogenomics," or using a person's genetic code to decide their treatment, such as what drugs and dosages should be given, depending on that person's unique characteristics.  Ultimately, the ability to find the right "fit" will help ensure the future health of all Canadians.

Already an adjunct professor at the University of Western Ontario for several years, Dr. Kim will also be a Clinical Pharmacologist at the London Health Science Centre, in addition to serving as the Chair/Chief for the Division of Clinical Pharmacology.

 

Ontario Government recognized at CIPA Awards

Parliamentary Assistant John Wilkinson speaks at the CIPA Gala

On November 1, 2006, 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.

Administered by Industry Canada, BizPal enables all levels of government to share their own permit and license information and the relevant information from other partners. Tapping into BizPal through participating government websites, Canadian businesses can quickly find the information they need regarding licensing and permits required by municipal, provincial or federal governments. This innovative use of information technology won BizPal CIPA’s Diamond Award of Excellence.

 

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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.

Recipients of the Interdisciplinary Research Prize include Pippa Hall (Faculty of Medicine), Susan Brajtman (School of Nursing), Lynn Casimiro, PhD candidate (Faculty of Education), Michael Clarke (i Medicine, Faculty of Medicine), Peter Barnes (Human Sciences, Saint Paul University), and Lynda Weaver (SCO Health Service).

This annual Prize recognizes outstanding contributions to interdisciplinary research collaboration and consists of a cash award of $25,000 to support further 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.

Dr. Kim's research focuses on "pharmacogenomics," or using a person's genetic code to decide their treatment, such as what drugs and dosages should be given, depending on that person's unique characteristics.  Ultimately, the ability to find the right "fit" will help ensure the future health of all Canadians.

Already an adjunct professor at the University of Western Ontario for several years, Dr. Kim will also be a Clinical Pharmacologist at the London Health Science Centre, in addition to serving as the Chair/Chief for the Division of Clinical Pharmacology.

 

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).

As a federal agency, NSERC promotes discovery by funding more than 10,000 university professors every year and fosters innovation by encouraging more than 800 Canadian companies to participate and invest in university research projects.

The awards for Ontario include 1,182 new grants worth $154.1 million and 2,264 scholarships worth $44 million.  Every year, thousands of professors and students across Canada compete for NSERC grants and funding.  Some 3,000 professors from across Canada will receive $383.4 million in Discovery Grants to support their research in the natural sciences and engineering.

 

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). 

The International Association of Pattern Recognition (IAPR) fellowship is conferred on persons in recognition of their outstanding contributions to IAPR and to the field of pattern recognition.  Dr. Oommen is the first ever in Ontario and the fifth ever in all of Canada to receive this honour.

The IAPR is the most prestigious body, which promotes the field of pattern recognition. The latter area deals with an ensemble of fields whose application areas include image processing, speech recognition, fingerprint recognition, medical imaging etc.  Dr. Oommen has worked in this area for almost 30 years. He has published many acclaimed results in both statistical and syntactic pattern recognition, and was earlier (in 1998) a winner of an award-winning paper published in the journal "Pattern Recognition".  He is also the co-inventor of four potential patents, which are also related to the fields of Pattern Recognition and Artificial Intelligence.

 

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.

Check out their 2006 calendar for a list of events taking place throughout Ontario.

 

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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.

Popplewell is researching the design of a new circuit that is wireless and self-powered which eliminates the need for batteries.  This could lead to a major breakthrough for medical sensors, especially those used while treating cancer patients.

The fellowship includes a $15,000 award, another $8,000 towards tuition and fees and a grant of $2,000 to the Department of Electronics.  Applicants must have completed at least one year of graduate study, be in a Ph.D. program in the area of solid-state circuits and be a member of the IEEE.

 

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.

The first facility of its kind, the Biotron will allow researchers to reconstruct entire mini-ecosystems to address complex interactions that occur between biological organisms in air, soil and water, particularly in light of climate and environmental changes.

At a cost of $28.6 million, the five-storey facility will make Canada a testing ground for the latest ideas in disease, ecosystems and agriculture from all over the world.  The Biotron is scheduled to open early in 2007.

 

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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.

The Fast Pyrolysis Machine developed by Franco Berruti and Cedric Briens, Chemical and Biochemical Engineering professors at Western, produces bioproducts and renewable energy from agricultural materials like raw sugar cane, tobacco, rice straw and coffee husks.

Here's how it works: the machine converts materials into bio-oil through pyrolysis — a chemical process of decomposition through heating — liquids produced are then further processed into fuels, pharmaceuticals and food additives like flavour for BBQ sauces and browning agents for meat.  Solid residues can be used as fertilizers.

 

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.

Contact North/Contact Nord is a bilingual distance education and training network that uses advanced technology to bring university, college and secondary school programs and courses to people living in small and remote northern communities.

This investment is intended to fund e-learning access centres in at least 20 new communities, of which 16 are confirmed so far. It will also enable 12 additional northern communities to participate in Contact North/Contact Nord's videoconference network.

 

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.

Dr. Venetsanopoulos is an internationally recognized researcher, scholar, professor, consultant and widely published author in the field of electrical engineering.  For the past five years he has been Dean of the Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering at the University of Toronto. 

In his new role as Vice-President of Research and Innovation, Dr. Venetsanopoulos will oversee Ryerson's domestic and international research and related activities, research ethics and the Offices of Research Services and International Affairs.  The appointment is for five years and begins on October 1, 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.

"On behalf of the Government of Ontario I would like to congratulate both Dr. Hudson and the OICR on this appointment," said Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty."  "By attracting and retaining the best and brightest medical researchers, we are strengthening our health care system for all Ontario families and solidifying our international reputation as a leader in the field of medicine."

The Ontario Institute for Cancer Research is a centre of excellence, moving Ontario to the forefront of discovery and innovation. It is dedicated to research in prevention, early detection, diagnosis, treatment and control of cancer.  The Institute is a not-for-profit corporation funded by the Government of Ontario through the Ministry of Research and Innovation.

 

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.

Dr. Pawson is an international leader in biomedical research and has spent many years investigating how cells communicate with each other.  His research has helped create new ways of treating diseases such as cancer, and his work in cell communication has resulted in greater knowledge of the human body.  Currently, he is the principal investigator at the Samuel Lunenfeld Research Institute at Mount Sinai Hospital.

The Order of the Companions of Honour is limited to 65 members and is sponsored by Her Majesty the Queen.  It is the highest recognition a Canadian citizen can receive from the British government.  Current members include, physicist Stephen Hawking, painter Lucian Freud and British statesman Lord Carrington.  Other Canadians offered entry have been the late Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau and retired General John de Chastelain.

 

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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.

"My government is supporting our province's research talent to help build a culture of innovation in Ontario," said Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty.  "By attracting and retaining the best medical researchers, we are strengthening our health care system and solidifying Ontario's international reputation as a leader in the field of medicine."

The UHN's precedent-setting hospital fundraising campaign has enabled it to attract and retain leading talent, as well as purchase new capital equipment, increase research space and establish 40 new research Chairs.  The new talent will focus on research and the treatment of diseases including cancer, heart disease, arthritis and organ failure.

 

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.

Rimon Therapeutics Ltd., in Toronto won an award for "Promising Early Stage Company".  This category recognizes early stage (no commercialized product) biotechnology companies in Canada that are poised to take off and have distinguished themselves from their peers with demonstrated leadership and significant achievement.  The award is a one-year membership in BIOTECanada.

 

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.

"...How does investing in High Performance Computing benefit Ontarians?  The answer is simple.  It allows researchers to access the computational services they need to do their vital work.  From analyzing global weather patterns to designing molecules for new drugs.  Drugs that may one day help you or your neighbour or your friend.  When our researchers do their work and do it well, Ontario benefits..."

Tony Wong, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Research and Innovation

The High Performance Computing Virtual Laboratory (HPCVL) was formed by four Ontario universities: Carleton University, Queen's University, The Royal Military College of Canada, and the University of Ottawa, and now includes Ryerson University and Seneca College in Toronto. HPCVL is dedicated to providing Canadian researchers with the secure High Performance Computing (HPC) resources they need to conduct innovative research in a variety of disciplines.

 

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.

"It is vital to our future economic prosperity that we create a culture of innovation in Ontario," said Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty.  "These awards will champion the efforts of innovative researchers whose efforts help maintain the high quality of life Ontarians enjoy."

The Ministry of Research and Innovation announced the creation of the $25 million fund allocated to the Awards in March 2006 and named MaRS as the administrator of the program.

 

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.

Plasco Trail Road Inc., of Ottawa was given the green light to construct and operate a pilot plasma gasification facility.  The plasma gasification process will break down non-recyclable municipal waste that is destined for landfill to create a synthetic gas to power electricity generators.  Up to 85 tonnes of Ottawa's waste will be gasified per day, producing 5.2 megawatts of electricity at a facility to be built at the closed Nepean landfill in Ottawa.  Construction on the facility is scheduled to begin this summer.

 

MaRS Discovery District Wins Intelligent Building of the Year Award

On June 9, 2006, the Intelligent Communities Forum (ICF) named the MaRS Discovery District in Toronto as the winner of its "Intelligent Building of the Year" at the annual Intelligent Community of the Year Awards in New York City.

"Congratulations to the MaRS Discovery District on winning the Intelligent Building of the Year Award," said Ontario Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty.  "Research and innovation are critical to building a high-wage, high-quality-of-life economy for Ontario families.  That's why we're so proud to work with this world-class centre to ensure Ontario stands above the crowd in the knowledge-based, global economy."

The MaRS Discovery District was selected among three finalists that included: the University of Sherbrooke in Quebec and Ballantyne Village in Charlotte, North Carolina.  The ICF recognized MaRS as a development that would feed innovation and economic progress for the community.

 

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.

"I congratulate the City of Waterloo for placing among the top seven intelligent communities," said Ontario Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty. "Research and innovation are critical to building a high-wage, high-quality-of-life economy for Ontario families.  That's why we're so proud to work with innovative cities like Waterloo to ensure Ontario stands above the crowd in the knowledge-based, global economy."

Waterloo was the only Canadian city on the list of Top 7 Communities, and one of only two cities in North America, the other being Cleveland, Ohio.  Rounding out the Top 7 were: Gangnam District, Seoul, South Korea; Ichikawa, Japan; Manchester, England, Taipea, Tiawan; and Tianjin, China.

 

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.

Top 20 Under 20 ™ is a program of Youth in Motion and is designed to seek out and reward young Canadians who have demonstrated significant levels of innovation, achievement and leadership.

Recipients from Ontario include:

• Kayla Cornale, Burlington
• Naveen Hassan, Toronto
• Keith Peiris, London
• Douglas Price, London
• Natalie Raso, Hamilton
• Jordan Tannahill, Ottawa
• Heather Muir, Walkerton

Each recipient received a financial award up to $2,000, to be put towards their continuing area of study or training, participation in a Four Day Leadership Summit, designed to enhance their leadership and innovative skills and mentoring by a Canadian leader for a period of eight months.

 

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.

"On behalf of the Ontario government, I want to commend the ORION Award winners for connecting our best researchers with teachers and students," said Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty.  "We are on the side of Ontario families who are working hard to provide opportunities for their children's future.  By building a province that capitalizes on its people's talent we can create wealth and a higher quality of life for us all."

The ORION Awards recognize outstanding achievements in the following three categories: discovery, learning and leadership.  This year's winners include:

• ORION Discovery Award:

Winner:  Sudbury Neutrino Observatory (SNO) team, otherwise known as "Canada's Eye on the Universe"

Award of merit:  Professor Robert S. Orr and the ATLAS Canada Group

• ORION Learning Award: 

Winner:  Advanced Broadband Enabled Learning (ABEL) Program

Award of merit:  Cooperative Learning Object Exchange (CLOE)

• ORION Leadership Award: 

Winner:  Shared Hierarchical Academic Research Computing Network (SHARCNET)

Award of merit:  ABEL Program Office Learning Leads Team

The ORION Award recognizes individuals and groups within Ontario's research and education (R&E) community that have successfully championed and demonstrated the use of advanced networks and collaborative technologies in scientific research, teaching and learning. 

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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.

This year's provincial "Innovation" award winner is:

• Aecometric Corporation in Richmond Hill

The awards recognize the outstanding export achievements of the most innovative and successful small and medium-sized enterprises, leaders and students in Ontario.

 

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.

CAGIS is a network of girls, aged 7-16, who like science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and want to learn more.  Members of CAGIS meet on a regular basis to explore science with women and men who have chosen careers in science and technology fields.  The club has 500 members nationwide and chapters in New Brunswick, Ontario, Alberta and British Columbia.

 

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.

The MaRS Discovery District in Toronto, the Ottawa Centre for Research and Innovation (OCRI) in Ottawa and Communitech in Waterloo Region have signed a collaboration agreement to build the MaRS Network — an initiative to develop programs, share networks, knowledge and best practices and support national and international outreach activities.

 

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.

In his speech, Minister Cordiano highlighted several initiatives in support of the McGuinty government's commitment to a strong economy, innovation and business growth and competitiveness such as — creating the Ministry of Research and Innovation — which invests in projects throughout Ontario, including the new Medical and Related Sciences Discovery District (MaRS) in Toronto and the Waterloo Technology and Research Park.

 

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.

Here are some of the Ontario winners:

• Sarah McCuaig, a grade 10 student at Sir John A. Macdonald Secondary School (Waterloo) won a bronze medal for her work on how antibacterial toothpaste can harm useful bacteria in the human gastrointestinal system.  She also won a $1,000 scholarship to the University of Western Ontario and an invitation to the 12-day National Youth Science Forum in Canberra to work with University of Australia professors in their labs.
• Daniel Burd (Waterloo) won a gold medal and a $1,500 cash prize in the biotechnology and pharmaceutical sciences category for his investigation into how chicken feathers could be biodegraded into feed.  He also won a $2,000 scholarship from the University of Western Ontario and the $700 Dr. Michael Smith Innovation Award.
• Jonathon Tomkun a Grade 12 student at St. John's-Kilmarnock School near Breslau earned a bronze medal, $300 cash and a $1,000 scholarship to the University of Western Ontario.  His project measured the air pressure as balls are spun when exposed to varying wind speeds.  He also won the Senior Physics prize of $250.
• Fiona Emdin and Isaac Bass, Grade 7 Destination Program students from Harry J. Clarke School but attending classes at Moira Secondary School (Quinte region), won a silver medal and a $700 prize in the junior category for their project called: "Substandard surfaces: Northern Leopard Frogs avoid man-made and disturbed surfaces during autumn migration". 
• Erik Yao a Grade 10 student at Moira Secondary School (Quinte region), won a silver medal and a $700 prize in the intermediate division for his experiment called: "Saving your water: mathematically optimizing sprinkler irrigation".  He also received a Petro Canada Peer innovation award and a monetary prize of $200.
• Connor Emdin, a Grade 9 student at Moira Secondary School (Quinte region), won a bronze medal and a $300 prize in the intermediate division for his experiment called: "The efficacy of corn gluten meal, fatty acids, acetic acid and glyphosphate on Vincetoxicum rossicum growing under field conditions."
• Justin Reardon, of Bishop Smith Catholic High School (Renfrew region), won a bronze medal in Senior Computing and Information Technology, for his project called: "The Hierarchical Clustering System: Finding Similarities in Data Using Hierarchical Clustering."  He also won $300, a certificate sponsored by Intel Canada Ltd., and a University of Western Ontario scholarship of $1000.
• Roopa Suppiah, of Mackenzie High School in Deep River (Renfrew region), won a number of awards for her project called: "Sun Shines on Wind Power."  She won the Intermediate AECL Award for Excellence in Science, which included $750 and a certificate sponsored by Atomic Energy of Canada Ltd.
• Derek Clouthier of Arnprior District High School (Renfrew region), won the Senior Ontario North and East Petro-Canada Peer Innovation Award, $200 and a certificate sponsored by Petro-Canada for his project called: "How to Maximize your Concentration and Brain Performance."
• Philip Schmidt, a Grade 12 student at Fenelon Falls Secondary School in Woodville, placed second overall at the Canada-Wide Science Fair competition and won close to $10,000 in scholarships for his project called: "Cornboard".  By using corn residue he developed a material for use in place of wood construction and which could provide farmers with an alternative income source.   
• Charlaine Ziegler, a Grade 8 student at St. Nicolas' School in Barrie, won a bronze medal and a $1,000 scholarship for her science fair project.  She built a miniature Savonius wind turbine that can pump out 4.5 volts — just enough power to turn on a flashlight.
• Alexandria Tsimiklis, a Grade 8 student from Marymount Academy in Sudbury, won a gold medal in the fair's Life Sciences category, junior division, and an entrance scholarship to the University of Western Ontario for her project that demonstrated the effect and dangers of fumes on Teflon pans.
• Ashley Patel, a Grade 8 student from Peterborough, won the $500 Actuarial Foundation of Canada Award for her project that showed there is no correlation between scores on cognitive tests and academic performance.
• Tyson Gratton, a Grade 12 student at Denis Morris High School in St. Catharines, won an expenses-paid research summer at a prestigious Israeli institute — the Wiezmann Institute of Science.  He also won a bronze medal in the health sciences division for his project called: "Metabolism and its processes: in vitro", which looked at the speed at which cells from different animals metabolize.
• Bryan Wilger, a Grade 7 student at Bishop Hamilton School in Ottawa, won a gold medal, $1,500 and a $2,000 scholarship to the University of Western Ontario for his robot named: "Shallow Blue".  His robot uses a light sensor to scan a board, filled with foam squares representing X and O, and figures out what move to make.  It then uses an arm to point to the square it wants to mark.
• Michelle Morin, a Grade 7 student at Sacred Heart High School in Stittsville, won a bronze medal for her portable panic alarm called: "Jennifer Alert".  She designed a button, as small as a penny, that can be connected to a cell phone or BlackBerry carried by a child.  When the button is pressed, it sends as e-mail or text message to police, parents and whoever else the child carrying it wants to alert if they're being attacked.  The button also has a locator that lets people getting the messages know where the child is.
• Prashanti Baskaran, a Grade 10 student at Elmwood School (Ottawa region), won a prize in the medical science field and $500 for her project that studied two of the most potent moulds in indoor environments, and identifying the parts inside those species that cause allergic reactions in people.
• Megan Schlorff, a Grade 7 student at Holy Family School (Grey-Bruce region), won a gold medal in the junior physical and mathematical sciences division, $1,500 and a $2,000 scholarship to the University of Western Ontario for her project called: "What's the Spatter?"  Her project proved blood and water spatter according to the same formula. 
• Allan McKechnie, a Grade 8 student at Central Senior School in Lindsay, won a gold medal in the earth and environmental services division and a $2,000 scholarship from the University of Western Ontario for his project called: "Dune't You Worry?"  His project focused on the use of vegetation rather than fences to reduce, and hopefully prevent the erosion of sand dunes.
• Katie Pietrzakowski, a student from Sault Ste. Marie, won a bronze medal in the earth and environmental sciences, junior division, for her project called: "Shock the Grey."
• Jonathan Hodgins (student from Victoria County) won a gold medal in the senior computing and information technology category, $1,500 and a $6,000 scholarship for his project called: "Writing on the Wall."  He created a computer-controlled robotic hand that could write.
• Alexandra Milak, a Grade 9 student at Innisdale Secondary School in Barrie, was awarded the Actuarial Foundation of Canada Award for her project called: "Smart Stuff 2 — Multiple Intelligence and Human Cognition."  Her project investigated multiple intelligence theories by creating new intelligence tests and comparing them to the traditional tests.

 

Three Ontario Students Win Manning Innovation Awards at Canada-Wide Science Fair

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.

• Philip Schmidt, a Grade 12 student from Fenelon Falls, Ontario, was recognized with both a Manning Innovation Achievment Award and a Manning Young Canadian Innovation Award for developing a fibreboard made of corn stover (residue).  In addition, Philip's innovation was recognized with the Canadian Commission for UNESCO's Science for Peace and Development Award and the Silver Medal in the Biotechnology and Pharmaceutical Sciences division.
• Kayla Cornale, a Grade 11 student from Burlington, Ontario, was awarded the Manning Innovation Achievement Award for "Sounds into Syllables II: Windows to the World of Childhood  Autisim".  In addition, Kayla was also awarded the EnCana Best in Fair Award, the EnCana Platinum Award for Best Senior Project, the Gold Medal in the Health Sciences division and the Canadian Psychological Association Award.
• Sean Bhalla, a Grade 12 student from Mississauga, Ontario was recognized with a Manning Innovation Achievement Award for his project called "Photodynamic Therapy: A Red Light for Cancer".  In addition, Sean also won the Silver Medal in the Health Sciences division from the University of Western Ontario.

 

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.

Nineteen students from Canada competed at the science and engineering fair — 11 brought home prizes.  Here is a list of Ontario winners:

• Kayla Cornale, a Grade 11 student from Burlington, Ontario, won a $3,000 US first-place grand award in the behavioural and social sciences category for her project called "Sounds into Syllables" which uses music to teach children with autism.
• David Wang, a Grade 11 student from London, Ontario, won a $3,000 botany award for discovering an alternative treatment for Type 1 diabetes made from tobacco plants.  He also earned an honourable mention from the Endocrine Society.
• Anne Marie Child, a Grade 9 student from Hamilton, Ontario, won the $500 fourth-place grand award for chemistry and a trip to China from the China Association for Science and Technology for her project called "Date Rape Drugs: Can They Be Detected".
• Philip Schmidt, a Grade 12 student from Fenelon Falls, Ontario, won $2,000 for the first-place United Technologies Corp., award for his project called "Cornboard".  He also won the $1,000 scholarship award from the National Collegiate Inventors and Innovators Alliance/The Lemelson Foundation and a $1,000 third-place grand award in engineering.
• Benjamin Gulak and Alexander Molloy, Grade 11 students from Milton and Hamilton, won a $1,000 first place award and a $1,000 third place award for their team project called: "CSI: Controlled Spherical Intelligence."

 

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.

Also announced today was Intel's inspireyouth.ca, a nationwide initiative geared towards inspiring more Canadian students to pursue science and technology education and careers.

"Tomorrow's innovation economy depends on a highly educated, highly skilled population of young creative minds," said Ontario Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty. "On behalf of Ontario families, I commend Intel Canada, Actua, and the YSF in enhancing mentorship programs aimed at encouraging more Canadian youth to pursue science and technology careers.  I also want to extend my best wishes to Team Canada as they get ready to compete in Intel's ISEF. The experience of competing in an international science fair not only exposes our youth to innovative ideas and new experiences but allows them to showcase their talents on a global scale."

This initiative will enhance the pool of Canadian educators, researchers and industry professionals who will mentor students and will improve the mentorship programs offered by Youth Science Foundation Canada (YSF) and Actua, the premier youth science educators and supporters in Canada.

 

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.

"Our government is dedicated to providing Ontarians with more opportunity to build a better life for themselves and their families, and one way we're doing that is by supporting research and innovation," Ontario Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty said. "A new idea can change the world - but first it needs to get out into the world.  This new chair will help bring ideas to the marketplace by improving Ontario's productivity and competitiveness."

The Ontario government is spending $31 million to establish Research Chairs at selected universities across the province, including $3 million for the Premier's Chair at the University of Toronto.  The university will be responsible for the selection process to fill the Chair position.

 

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.

This year's "Innovation" award winners for northern region are:

• Gold Level: Rezplast Manufacturing Ltd., located in Sudbury  
• Silver Level: Henley Boat Manufacturing located in Manitowaning
• Bronze Level: McLaren's Bay Mica Stone Quarries located in Redbridge

The awards recognize the most innovative and successful small and medium-sized exporters, business leaders and students throughout Ontario.

 

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.

"All of us know family and friends receiving cancer or cardiac care, and we all know how important research is to bringing our loved ones back to full health," said Premier McGuinty. "This research will not only benefit northerners, but Ontarians and Canadians whose health care could depend on the answers this type of research will provide."

The Cancer and Cardiac Research Centre is expected to house several different research initiatives that will be supported by local medical professionals, educational institutions and private sector partners.

 

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

"Research partnerships like this one are part of Ontario's commitment to put our money where our minds are," said Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty.  "And not only will the UTM-CFS partnership enhance our province's expertise in forensic sciences, it will help promote safer communities, too."

The institute will host laboratory research programs; specialized research infrastructure including high-resolution imaging technologies; graduate programs in laboratory sciences, forensic accounting and information security; undergraduate programs; professional development and continuing education; and community outreach.

 

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.

George Smitherman, Minister of Health and Long Term Care, presented the award to John Hirdes, a University of Waterloo professor, at a recent ceremony during the Celebrating Innovations in Health Care Expo in Toronto.

The University of Waterloo team's full name is: Innovation in Data, Evidence and Applications for Health and or Ideas for Health and was selected from more than 600 projects submitted for consideration. 

The research activities include the test of new assessment, screening and risk-appraisal systems for Community Care Access Centres (CCACs) and emergency rooms and crisis units in psychiatry.  Several projects deal with improving collaboration and communication between different sectors of the health-care system.

 

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).

"...On behalf of Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty, I congratulate all of you here at the University of Toronto on your great success. Winning 21 of 64 Early Researcher Awards is an impressive achievement...One of our top priorities is to maximize the benefits that your research can bring to the people of Ontario and the world.  To do that, we must support promising young researchers..."

Tony Wong, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Research and Innovation

The Early Researcher Award (ERA) program is a three-year, $30 million program aimed at helping promising, recently-appointed Ontario researchers build their research teams of graduate students, post-doctoral fellows and research associates.  The goal of the program is to improve Ontario's ability to attract and retain the best and brightest research talent in key economic areas. View Parliamentary Assistant's Remarks.

 

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.

The following are some of the awards presented:

• OCRI Technology Company of the Year — Awarded to Lumenara Corporation.
• Technology Partnership Award — Awarded to the three-way partnership between the National Research Council Canada (NRC), Government of Ontario and Carleton University.
• Most Promising Start-Up Award — Awarded to Liquid Computing.
• Student Researcher of the Year — Awarded to Dharmendra Saraswat from Carleton University for his research in computer-aided design (CAD) tools.
• NCIT "Under 40" Award for Photonics Research — Awarded to Dr. James Gupta, a Research Officer in the Institute of Microstructural Sciences at the National Research Council Canada (NRC).

The awards celebrate excellence in research, technology, entrepreneurship, partnership development, educational leadership, technology journalism and community-mindedness.

 

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.

This year's "Innovation" award winners for southwest region are:

• Gold Level: Sport Systems Unlimited Corp. located in Waterloo
• Silver Level: Agile Systems located in Waterloo
• Bronze Level: Punch Integrated Communications Inc. located in Cambridge

The awards recognize the most innovative and successful small and medium-sized exporters, business leaders and students throughout Ontario.

 

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.

The following are some of the awards presented:

• OCRI Technology Company of the Year — Awarded to Lumenara Corporation.
• Technology Partnership Award — Awarded to the three-way partnership between the National Research Council Canada (NRC), Government of Ontario and Carleton University.
• Most Promising Start-Up Award — Awarded to Liquid Computing.
• Student Researcher of the Year — Awarded to Dharmendra Saraswat from Carleton University for his research in computer-aided design (CAD) tools.
• NCIT "Under 40" Award for Photonics Research — Awarded to Dr. James Gupta, a Research Officer in the Institute of Microstructural Sciences at the National Research Council Canada (NRC).

The awards celebrate excellence in research, technology, entrepreneurship, partnership development, educational leadership, technology journalism and community-mindedness.

 

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.

"Jurisdictions that invest in innovative ideas and technologies will be home to thriving communities and the best quality of life," Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty said. "By investing in this satellite technology, we are delivering services more efficiently and helping safeguard our northern communities."

The purchase of the high-resolution satellite imagery is being partially funded by the province's Innovation Fund.  The fund invests in innovations by Ontario Public Servants which will help deliver high-quality public services.

 

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.

This year's "Innovation" award winners for eastern region are:

• Gold Level: EMS-Tech Inc. located in Belleville
• Silver Level: Oz Optics Limited located in Carp
• Bronze Level: Ross Video located in Iroquois

The awards recognize the most innovative and successful small and medium-sized exporters, business leaders and students throughout Ontario.

 

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.

This year's "Innovation" award winners for central region are:

• Gold Level: Aecometric Corporation located in Richmond Hill
• Silver Level: Eco-Tech Inc located in Pickering
• Bronze Level: Hostopia located in Mississauga

The awards recognize the most innovative and successful small and medium-sized exporters, business leaders and students throughout Ontario.

 

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.

Led by Premier McGuinty, and Minister Cordiano, the delegation will attend BIO 2006 April 9 to 11 in Chicago.  An Industry Liaison Committee, co-chaired by the Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Research and Innovation, Tony Wong, and Biotechonology Council of Ontario Chair, Dale Patterson, has been working hard to ensure Ontario's life sciences industry has a significant presence at the conference.

Expected to draw some 18,000 biotech professionals from 46 states and 24 countries, 1,600 exhibitors and more than 500 members of the media, BIO 2006 represents the world's largest life sciences networking opportunity. The Ontario delegation includes more than 300 people representing private sector companies, universities and colleges, municipalities, agricultural organizations and research institutions.

 

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.

Parliamentary Assistant Tony Wong at the opening of the Stiller Centre Convergence Laboratory in London. From left to right: Anne Marie DeCicco, Mayor of London, Parliamentary Assistant Tony Wong, Marvin DeVries, President, Trojan Technologies Inc., and Moira Burke, Chair of the Stiller Centre for Biotechnology Commercialization.

"We are proud to have worked with our London partners by providing a Regional Innovation Network (RIN) Program grant of $800,000 to help fund operations and staff positions. This convergence lab will let researchers do ground level work, with great equipment and facilities, at a very affordable price. Up to six new companies will benefit from this convergence laboratory.   Matching up early-stage entrepreneurs and small technology-based companies within the region will produce results we can't even imagine today."

Tony Wong, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Research and Innovation

The Convergence Laboratory Facility is a project funded by the Ministry of Research and Innovation (MRI) through the Regional Innovation Network (RIN) Program, the matching funding partners as well as Corporate Sponsors.   The laboratory is located at the University of Western Ontario's Research Park, and provides a home for young science-based companies who need laboratory facilities but find it difficult to access the expensive array of equipment they need. In addition, small and medium-sized companies can also access the facility to perform short-term research work in order to solve a current problem or research new products. View Parliamentary Assistant's remarks.

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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.

"One of our ministry's first priorities is to harness the passion and the brainpower of the next generation of scientists, researchers and great creative thinkers.  That's why we have invested $3 million over three years to provide high school students with the opportunity to meet Ontario researchers and technologists and gain face-to-face experience in the innovation arena."

Tony Wong, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Research and Innovation

First Robotics Canada is a not-for-profit organization that holds two annual robotics competitions for high school students in Ontario.  Their goal is to inspire students to consider studies and careers in engineering, mathematics, technology and science. View Parliamentary Assistant's remarks.

 

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.

"Ontario's ability to compete and win in a global economy depends on our capacity to grow and sustain meaningful partnerships," said Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty. "The renewed partnership between Merck Frosst Canada, Merck Laboratories and the Robarts Research Institute will not only enhance our province's research expertise in the field of lung disease and beyond, but will also improve our quality of life for years to come."

The new MRI scanner will help accelerate the study of a range of disorders like respiratory illnesses, stroke and Alzheimer’s.

 

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

 

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.

"Our government believes that research and innovation help create prosperity and build opportunity," said Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation, Dalton McGuinty. "Places that invest in innovation, that tap and stoke the creativity of their people and successfully bring their ideas to market, will be home to the most rewarding jobs, the strongest economies and the best quality of life."

The Centre's research priorities, developed with industry input, will focus on mining exploration, deep mining research, integrated mine process engineering, telerobotics and automation, and environment and reclamation.

 

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.

"In an increasingly competitive and truly global economy, opportunities belong to the economies that innovate - which move ideas from the lab and into the marketplace," said Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation, Dalton McGuinty. "This new partnership between UHN and Johnson & Johnson's COSAT will help Ontario stay at the forefront of important, life-enhancing medical breakthroughs that will build a better quality of life here, and around the globe."

The Development Acceleration Award is an unrestricted grant made available to UHN researchers to help get research breakthroughs in diagnostics, medical devices and new therapies from the lab to the marketplace.

 

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.

The Ontario Global Traders Awards (OGTA) recognize the outstanding export achievements of the most innovative and successful small and medium-sized enterprises, leaders and students in Ontario.

 

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.

"...In our knowledge and information-based culture, cutting-edge facilities like this one are more important than ever,” says Dalton McGuinty, Premier of Ontario and Minister of Research and Innovation. “We’re pleased to be a partner in this investment because it will help ensure Ontario remains a world leader in research and innovation – improving our quality of life for years to come..."

This innovative facility will allow students, faculty and staff to work together, to exchange and explore ideas and ensure students succeed in today's workplace. The new four-storey, 112,819-square-foot, glass-walled building features multimedia studio theatre and editing suites, interactive computer classrooms and labs, a 500-seat lecture theatre, an auditory research facility and an e-gallery for electronic art exhibits.

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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.

"...The Premier has said that in Ontario he wants innovation to be inevitable... Standing here at the MaRS Centre — which is a monument to collaboration among research and innovation partners — it’s apparent that that culture of innovation is inevitable..."

Tony Wong, Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Research and Innovation

Senior government officials, researchers and business leaders from the relevant industries attended the symposium to engage each other on the issues surrounding Ontario’s place in the international generic pharmaceutical industry. View Parliamentary Assistant’s remarks.

 

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. Professional engineers, engineering technicians and technologists and engineering and technology students will stage 140 events in 30 centres throughout Ontario to raise awareness of the contributions engineering and technology make to our daily lives and to encourage young people to pursue a career in these professions.

Check the Event Calendar for a complete list of events taking place during Engineering Week 2006.

 

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.

"John Honderich's knowledge and expertise will help build a more dynamic future for the GTA and a stronger province for all," said Premier McGuinty. "Ontario is home to some of the best and brightest minds in the world -- this appointment will also help capitalize on the creative potential of our cities and build an Ontario where innovation is sustained, engrained and cultivated."

Mr. Honderich will provide counsel and advice in the areas of civic and economic development related to the GTA and on the role of cultural industries in creating new jobs and moving urban areas forward as creative cities of worldwide recognition.

 

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.

"The inspired leadership role provided by our universities is vital to Ontario's research and innovation agenda," said Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation, Dalton McGuinty. "By creating Ontario Research Chairs, we are building a strong foundation for cutting-edge, pioneering ideas that allow us to compete and win in the global innovation race."

The Ontario government provided $25 million to the Council of Ontario Universities to create new Ontario research chairs at universities across the province. The council established a selection panel that developed criteria and decided which universities would receive an endowment to create the new research chairs. The following universities were selected: McMaster University, Queen's University, University of Toronto, University of Waterloo, University of Windsor and York University.

 

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.

MCYS is also working with other ministries across government to develop and enhance programs that address the needs of at-risk youth:

"... the government is investing $1 million to provide more opportunities for youth by supporting projects that advance students' interests and abilities in science and technology through the Youth Science and Technology Outreach Program

 This program is part of the province's plan to encourage youth to pursue careers that strengthen Ontario's people and economy. An initiative of the Ministry of Research and Innovation, the program promotes science awareness activities in rural, remote and underserved urban communities..."

 

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. Eligible applicants are invited to submit applications to the Youth Science and Technology Outreach Program (YSTOP) by 4:30 p.m. on April 10, 2006. For more details on the program, view the Program Guidelines.

 

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.

"Our agri-food sector is a key contributor to our economy, a huge employer of people and exporter of goods, and an anchor in our smaller communities," said Premier McGuinty. "But we have to look beyond today to ensure that the sector -- and the people in it -- are positioned for long-term success."

The summit, held in Toronto, brought together producers, processors, retailers, industry, researchers, environmentalists and sector associations to focus on the future of agriculture and food in Ontario. View Premier's remarks.

 

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.

The conference, hosted by the Ontario Centres of Excellence (OCE) was held in Toronto and was host to leading edge innovators, academic researchers, industry and government leaders .

The conference showcased emerging innovation trends, how companies and researchers take ideas from the lab to the marketplace and what it takes to support the creation and growth of innovative businesses. Some of Ontario's top student researchers presented their work and close to 100 exhibitors featured the latest research and some of Ontario's most innovative businesses. View Premier's remarks.

 

Cancer Care Ontario

On February 7, 2006, Cancer Care Ontario released its progress report on cancer care in Ontario.

"...The Ontario Government's Access to Cancer Services Innovation Fund resulted in 22 innovative projects that identified ways to improve access to care by reducing wait times, improving processes, and making better use of health professionals and technology. This investment is well aligned with a newly announced Ministry of Research and Innovation..." View Progress Report

Ontario Cancer Plan: 2005 Progress Report