Three researchers from the University of Guelph have been granted $1.7 million through the Canada Research Chairs (CRC) program. This funding will support their innovative projects aimed at advancing pain research, investigating alternatives to antibiotics for animal health, and improving water safety and sanitation controls.
This financial support is part of a larger federal initiative, which allocates over $690 million to bolster science and research in the country. Of this amount, $198 million is designated for 259 new and renewed CRCs. This funding announcement was made public by Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions.
“We appreciate the federal government”s commitment to our researchers, who are dedicated to solving complex health challenges that affect humans, animals, and the environment,” remarked Dr. Shayan Sharif, interim vice-president of research and innovation at the university. He added that this investment will enhance the university”s research capabilities and create positive impacts for healthier communities and more sustainable systems.
The researchers receiving the CRC awards include: Dr. Giannina Descalzi from the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the Ontario Veterinary College (OVC), who will assume a new Tier 2 Chair in Neuroscience of Pain; Dr. Nicole Ricker, also from the Department of Pathobiology at OVC, who will hold a new Tier 2 Chair in Systems Approaches to Reducing Antimicrobial Resistance; and Dr. Heather Murphy, who will receive renewed funding for her existing Tier 2 Chair in One Health.
Tier 2 Chairs are awarded to promising emerging leaders in their respective fields, providing them with annual funding of $100,000 for a period of five years, along with an additional yearly research stipend of $20,000 for those in their first term.
Additionally, the announcement included nearly $7.6 million from the Research Support Fund (RSF), which encompasses the Incremental Project Grant and Research Security Funding. The RSF serves to assist Canadian post-secondary institutions in managing research activities and maintaining high-quality research environments, thereby positioning Canada as a leader in global research and development.
