Nova Scotia is investing in research and innovation that will help protect people and animals from tick-borne diseases and strengthen the province's life sciences sector.
Research Nova Scotia, which is funded by the Department of Advanced Education, is supporting the development and commercialization of technologies to address tick-borne diseases. The announcement was made on August 25 at Acadia University in Wolfville as part of the official opening of the Canadian Tick Research and Innovation Centre.
"Our government is supporting research that responds to an important issue for Nova Scotians while creating opportunities for economic growth," said Advanced Education Minister Brian Wong, the Minister responsible for Research Nova Scotia. "This work will move promising technologies for tick-borne disease prevention and management toward commercialization, building on Nova Scotia's expertise in tick repellency and helping local companies, such as the South Shore's PureGard, compete in new markets."
The Research Nova Scotia investment of $1.2 million supports a project led by Drs. Nicoletta Faraone, Laura Ferguson and Neil Kirk Hillier that brings researchers and industry partners together to develop and test new tick-control and repellency technologies. This local research is expected to lead to practical health solutions and build life sciences expertise and capacity in Nova Scotia.
Quotes:
"Tick-borne illnesses remain a significant public health concern in Nova Scotia and it's important that we invest in research and innovation that helps protect Nova Scotians. We are encouraged by the advancements underway at Acadia University. This work supports our commitment to keeping Nova Scotians informed, healthy and safe."
Michelle Thompson, Minister of Health and Wellness
"Tick-borne diseases are an increasingly important challenge for people and animals and addressing them requires research that can move beyond the lab and into practical use. Focused Research Investments give us a way to invest in research where there is a clear opportunity to tackle societal challenges and create economic value."
Stefan Leslie, CEO, Research Nova Scotia
"This investment will support the development and evaluation of new tick repellents and control technologies, helping translate scientific discoveries into products while strengthening surveillance and our ability to detect and monitor emerging tick-borne pathogens."
Dr. Nicoletta Faraone, Associate Professor of Chemistry, Acadia University, and Director, Canadian Tick Research and Innovation Centre
Quick Facts:
- In 2025-26, Research Nova Scotia received $6.396 million in funding from the Department of Advanced Education to support, organize and coordinate funding for research that increases economic growth and productivity.
- Research Nova Scotia's priority sectors include natural resources, climate change and clean energy; life sciences and health sciences; and construction and transportation.
- Nova Scotia is home to several kinds of ticks, including blacklegged ticks that can transmit illnesses like Lyme disease, Anaplasmosis, Babesiosis and Powassan virus
Additional Resources:
- Research Nova Scotia: https://researchns.ca/
- Canadian Tick Research and Innovation Centre: https://www.acadiau.ca/
- Nova Scotia tick safety resources: https://novascotia.ca/ticksafety/
