Dalhousie University Welcomes Nine New Canada Research Chairs

Dalhousie University has announced the appointment of nine new and renewed Canada Research Chairs (CRCs), aimed at addressing crucial issues ranging from environmental sustainability to healthcare equity. The announcement was made on October 22, 2023, by the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Canada’s Minister of Industry, as part of a national funding initiative exceeding $690 million dedicated to science and research. This strategic investment underscores Canada’s commitment to enhancing its status as a leader in research and innovation.

The newly appointed CRCs at Dalhousie are engaged in a diverse array of research initiatives that tackle pressing global challenges. Their work spans critical areas such as the evolving legal frameworks in the Arctic, the emergence of viral epidemics in Africa, and the intersection of energy and water sustainability. These researchers are poised to make significant contributions not only to local communities in Nova Scotia but also to broader global contexts.

Key Research Areas and Innovations

Dr. Mita Dasog, a Tier 1 CRC in Advanced Design for Water-Energy Sustainability, is at the forefront of developing innovative materials aimed at purifying water while simultaneously generating energy. Her research focuses on creating solar-powered systems capable of transforming seawater into fresh water, harvesting valuable minerals, and converting methane emissions into useful chemicals. This pioneering work aligns with Canada’s objectives for a net-zero economy and offers solutions for communities worldwide.

In the realm of healthcare, Dr. OmiSoore Dryden, also a Tier 1 CRC, addresses systemic anti-Black racism in health education and practice. Her research emphasizes community partnerships to reshape health education, focusing on the unique challenges faced by Black and Black queer and trans individuals. Dr. Dryden’s goal is to develop anti-racist healthcare systems that cater effectively to marginalized communities.

Violet Ford, a Tier 1 CRC in Circumpolar Indigenous Marine Governance and International Law, is redefining legal frameworks pertinent to Indigenous rights in the Arctic. As the first Inuit woman lawyer in Canada, she leads the “Nuliajuk Project,” which aims to integrate Indigenous legal traditions into marine governance, ensuring that the rights of Indigenous peoples are recognized and respected on international platforms.

Dr. Natalya Evans, a Tier 2 CRC in Observational Chemical Oceanography, is investigating the ocean’s role in carbon storage. Her research examines the breakdown of agricultural waste in the deep sea and its implications for carbon retention. By understanding the conditions that facilitate carbon storage, her findings could inform effective marine carbon removal strategies.

Dr. Brandon Heung, a Tier 2 CRC in Digital and Precision Agriculture, is developing a national soil database to support sustainable agriculture. His work merges data science and soil mapping to enhance decision-making for farmers and policymakers, ensuring healthier soils crucial for food security and climate stability.

Renewals and Ongoing Research Impact

Several CRCs at Dalhousie have also received renewed funding, continuing their impactful research. Dr. Zoe Finkel, a Tier 1 CRC in Marine Microbial Macroecology, explores the role of marine phytoplankton in carbon regulation and the ocean’s food web. Her work aims to enhance predictions about how oceans absorb carbon, vital for understanding climate change.

Dr. David Kelvin, a Tier 1 CRC in Translational Vaccinology and Inflammation, connects historical and contemporary viral outbreaks to inform public health strategies. His research team was among the first to sequence the virus responsible for the recent Mpox epidemic, facilitating deeper insights into the evolution of infectious diseases.

Dr. Francesca Di Cara, a Tier 2 CRC in Human Immunology and Host-Pathogen Interactions, investigates the cellular processes linked to neurodegenerative diseases. Her studies aim to identify early warning signs of degeneration, potentially leading to new therapeutic approaches.

Finally, Dr. Floris Goerlandt, a Tier 2 CRC in Risk Management and Resource Optimization for Marine Industries, focuses on enhancing maritime safety and resilience. His research develops data-driven tools to aid decision-makers in managing risks associated with marine industries, contributing to safer shipping practices in Canada.

The Canada Research Chairs Program invests up to $311 million annually, attracting and retaining top researchers who drive innovation and knowledge advancement. This initiative not only fosters groundbreaking discoveries but also cultivates the next generation of scholars through mentorship and collaborative efforts. As demonstrated by the recent appointments at Dalhousie University, the CRC program is instrumental in addressing the complex challenges facing society today.