by Heather Sanders
Simon Fraser University (SFU) is welcoming three new faculty members who have been named as Canada Excellence Research Chairs (CERCs).
Professors Darren Grant, Thomas Jennewein, and Nicholas Reo were announced today (Nov 16) by the federal government. These researchers are the first CERCs for the university and will receive a total of $16M over eight years, including one chair receiving $1M per year and two receiving $500,000 each per year.
SFU's new research chairs will work to advance leadership in both quantum and astroparticle physics and Indigenous-focused coastal regeneration.
"At Simon Fraser University, we are committed to engaging in global challenges that affect us here in B.C. and around the world, from quantum computing and particle physics to Indigenous ways of supporting the environment," says SFU President and Vice-Chancellor Joy Johnson. "I am excited to see how our new CERCs advance this critical work, and grateful to the federal government for their ongoing support."
The CERCs program supports world renowned researchers to establish ambitious research programs that build on Canada's contributions as a global leader in research and innovation. The CERCs are among the most prestigious research positions available globally, designed to foster innovation, promote knowledge mobilization and attract top talent to Canada's research universities.
"We are thrilled to welcome these three talented new scholars to SFU, as well as to celebrate our success in the CERC competition," says Dugan O'Neil, SFU's vice-president international. "Each of these chairs demonstrates a commitment to partnership with Indigenous communities, industry and other academic institutions around the world."
As one of the country's fastest growing intensive research universities, SFU is consistently ranked among Canada's top 15 research universities in global and national rankings With unique support structures for knowledge mobilization, entrepreneurship, and partnerships, the university is home to more than 60 research centres and institutes. Since 2001, more than 90 Canada Research Chairs have been appointed at SFU.
