Ontario Government Invests in U of G Research
April 04, 2014 - News Release
The Ontario Ministry of Research and Innovation (MRI) will invest more than $680,000 in six ongoing research projects at the University of Guelph.
The funding was announced by Liz Sandals, minister of education and MPP for Guelph-Wellington, during an event at the University.
The investment from the Ontario Research Fund – Research Infrastructure program will help cover costs of renovations, computer labs and technology investments.
“Ontario is pleased to invest in modern infrastructure and equipment for our groundbreaking researchers,” Sandals said.
“Giving our brightest minds access to cutting-edge facilities and equipment is absolutely essential in a relentlessly competitive global economy. Innovations and discoveries made by our researchers will draw investment and opportunity to Ontario, and build our economic strength and competitive edge for generations to come.”
The provincial investment matches funding commitments made earlier this year by the Canada Foundation for Innovation. Support is also provided by the research institutions and private-sector partners.
Support from the provincial and federal governments is key to U of G’s developing and expanding its research efforts, said John Livernois, associate vice-president (research services).
“It’s helped us build a reputation as one of Canada’s top universities,” he said.
“We’re committed to nurturing a culture of diversity, creativity, discovery and innovation, and to focusing on strategic partnerships and collaboration to build better lives for people in Ontario, across Canada and around the globe.”
MRI funding has been provided to the following:
- Prof. Emma Allen-Vercoe, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, $86,906: microbes in the human digestive system promoting improved health;
- Prof. Kris Inwood, Department of History and Department of Economics,$125,000: 1861 census data on Ontario’s population;
- Prof. Joseph Lam, Department of Molecular and Cellular Biology, $147,545: pathogenesis of lung infection in cystic fibrosis patients;
- Prof. Maria Gloria Gonzalez-Morales, Department of Psychology, $124,933: stress and organizational support, and improved health and well-being in the workforce;
- Prof. Eva Nagy, Department of Pathobiology, $88,704: infectious diseases and viruses, and effective vaccines for the poultry industry; and
- Prof. Adronie Verbrugghe, Department of Clinical Studies, $109,042: molecules and metabolism to help develop effective treatments for obesity.
“Ontario is proud to support our cutting-edge researchers in Guelph,” said Reza Moridi, minister of research and innovation.
“As a scientist, I know that in order to produce breakthrough research, one needs the innovative tools and infrastructure to get the job done. We are proud to partner with local facilities to build research excellence and amplify job creation and economic growth in Guelph and across Ontario.”
For media questions, contact Communications and Public Affairs: Lori Bona Hunt, 519-824-4120, Ext. 53338, or lhunt@uoguelph.ca; or Kevin Gonsalves, Ext. 56982, or kgonsalves@uoguelph.ca.
