Dr. Guneet Kaur, a professor in the University of Guelph's School of Engineering, has been appointed to a three-year term as the new director of the U of G Canada India Research Centre for Learning and Engagement (CIRCLE).
Dr. Guneet Kaur
A unique research centre that launched in 2021, CIRCLE showcases, advocates and builds on research related to India and the Indian diaspora, with a focus on sustainability topics and social and economic well-being.
Dr. Sharada Srinivasan, a professor in the Department of Sociology and Anthropology, helped to establish the centre and served as its founding director. Since last fall, she has been CIRCLE's interim director during the search for the next appointee. Dr. Srinivasan's contributions have helped CIRCLE grow and have a larger impact. The University is thankful for her leadership.
Kaur's research and teaching is on biochemical engineering with the design of innovative, circular and carbon-neutral biotechnological solutions to contribute meaningfully to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Kaur specifically aims to contribute to goals 7, 9, 11, and 12, for capturing and transforming waste carbon from solid wastes and wastewater streams to bioproducts, precision fermentation and renewable energy generation for climate change adaptation.
Kaur holds a PhD in biochemical engineering from the Indian Institute of Technology Delhi, India, and completed her postdoctoral research at University of Westminster (London, U.K.) and City University of Hong Kong (Hong Kong).
A vision for enhancing research partnerships through CIRCLE
"Dr. Kaur's appointment highlights and reinforces the unique interdisciplinary research focus of both the School of Engineering and the University of Guelph on key global issues of climate change, resource conservation, food security, and energy equity that transcend borders and need sustainable, culturally relevant and equitable solutions," said Dr. Ibrahim Deaib, director of the School of Engineering.
"Dr. Kaur brings unique perspectives to advance the vision of CIRCLE."
"U of G and CIRCLE have had a strong relationship with Indian institutes for a long time. With increased focus on sustainable agri-food innovation, circular economy, and community engagement, I am excited about expanding the interdisciplinary collaborations with the Global South and building on CIRCLE's strong and unique foundation," says Kaur.
Due to the University's strong focus and international reputation in agriculture, food, environment, and allied areas, faculty across various departments are leading research and teaching projects in sustainability areas. Kaur hopes to build on this foundation and strengthen collaborative research that could bring benefits at both national and international levels.
