The University of Saskatchewan (USask) has appointed two new Canada Research Chairs (CRC) who will address critical issues in health and energy security. Dr. Arinjay Banerjee and Dr. Heather Foulds are leading innovative research projects that link One Health principles and the energy needs of remote communities.
Dr. Banerjee has been named a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Zoonotic Virus and Animal Reservoirs. His work will focus on the One Health approach, which emphasizes the interdependence of animals, humans, and the environment. As a virologist at the Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO) at USask, he aims to better understand how zoonotic viruses—those that transfer from animals to humans—evolve in their natural hosts. “This Canada Research Chair position will enable us to continue to study emerging high consequence zoonotic viruses that pose a serious risk for the next pandemic,” Banerjee stated. His research will also investigate the coexistence of these viruses with wildlife, paving the way for medical countermeasures against potential threats.
In addition to his CRC, Dr. Banerjee has received a John R. Evans Leaders Fund (JELF) Partnership to enhance his research on the relationship between coronaviruses and bats, with a particular focus on developing novel antiviral strategies.
Dr. Foulds has been appointed as the Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Wholistic Health and Well-Being Through Physical Activity for Indigenous Peoples. Her research emphasizes the role of community, culture, and physical activity in promoting health among Indigenous populations. “Connecting to culture is an important way of staying healthy. For Indigenous Peoples, it is also a determinant of health,” Foulds explained. As an associate professor in the College of Kinesiology, she has previously focused on the benefits of community-based activities, particularly through her work with an Indigenous walk/run program.
Foulds, a Métis woman, has actively engaged with her cultural heritage through Métis dancing and has observed the positive impact of such activities on health. She plans to continue her research by making traditional activities more accessible, such as facilitating outdoor dancing in community settings.
Furthermore, Dr. Xiaodong Liang has received a renewal of her Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Technology Solutions for Energy Security in Remote, Northern, and Indigenous Communities. Her research is aimed at finding sustainable energy solutions for communities that traditionally rely on diesel fuels. Liang”s work will explore renewable energy sources, energy storage technologies, and small modular reactors (SMRs) to provide cleaner energy options while considering the challenges posed by harsh weather conditions.
During her previous term, Liang focused on developing renewable energy-based microgrid technologies to electrify remote communities. “These technologies can reduce diesel consumption, improve energy security, and support healthier and more sustainable communities,” she noted. In her renewed role, Liang intends to enhance these technologies, creating efficient energy management systems that integrate renewable sources and SMRs into the energy frameworks of remote areas.
Both Dr. Banerjee and Dr. Foulds exemplify the innovative research being pursued at USask, addressing pressing health and energy issues faced by communities across Canada.
