Champagne Annouces Funding for research projects at 30 universities

Saeed Akhtar, Local Journalism Initiative

The federal government has announced new funding for research infrastructure projects.  Innovation, Science, and Industry Minister Francois-Philippe Champagne announced a $77 million in support to go to 332 research projects across 50 universities.

Our researchers have always thought big. Now, more than ever, they need state-of-the-art labs and equipment to turn their visions into reality. Investing in our university research infrastructure is key to our continuing role as an innovation leader in wide-ranging fields, from Indigenous research to quantum computing, from neurobiology to advanced robotics. These investments will not only support our ground-breaking contributions to science and research but also improve our economy, environment, and quality of life,” Champagne said.  The funding will come through the Canada Foundation for Innovations (CFI) John R. Evans Leaders’ Fund (JELF).

“With the necessary spaces and tools, Canada’s researchers will play a meaningful role on the global stage and contribute significantly to the quality of life today and for generations to come,” said Roseann O’Reilly Runte, President, and CEO, Canada Foundation for Innovation.

Universities benefitting include projects based at the University of British Columbia. Bioengineer Anna Blakney will focus on the prevention and treatment of infections, such as COVID-19, as well as inherited disorders and diseases, including cancer.

Her work aims to revolutionize treatments with new biotechnologies involving the engineering of vaccine formulations.