A new partnership between Canada's leading nuclear agencies and the University of Alberta promises to advance sustainable energy solutions, drive innovation in nuclear engineering and technology, and create high-tech career opportunities for communities across Alberta and Canada.
(From left) Dr. Monica Regalbuto, vice-president of science and technology for Canadian Nuclear Laboratories; Dr. Simaan AbouRizk, dean of the Faculty of Engineering; and Dr. Amy Gottschling, vice-president of science, technology and commercial oversight for Atomic Energy Canada Limited, signed a memorandum of understanding Nov. 5 at the Engineering Teaching and Learning Complex. (Photo: Christy Dean)
Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL), Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL), and the U of A signed a memorandum of understanding on Nov. 5 to unite their research capacity, specialized infrastructure and expert talent.
While the agreement establishes an operational framework for scientific collaboration among the three organizations, its potential real-world impact could extend to students, industry and consumers across the country, says Aminah Robinson Fayek, U of A vice-president of research.
"In alignment with Canada's Nuclear Energy Strategy, the collaborations flowing from this agreement will help researchers translate leading-edge laboratory science into practical benefits for all Canadians, from protecting the environment and improving quality of life to providing economic opportunities at every level from local to national."
AECL says the partnership will help connect Canada's nuclear research capabilities with academic expertise and create new opportunities for collaboration.
"By bringing together researchers, expertise and specialized infrastructure, we can advance nuclear science and technology in ways that deliver real benefits for Canadians," says Dr. Amy Gottschling, vice-president of science, technology and commercial oversight at AECL.
"For Alberta, this partnership creates new opportunities for researchers and students to connect with Canada's broader nuclear research ecosystem, collaborate on emerging areas of nuclear science and technology, and build expertise that will support the sector's future."
On the environmental front, the partnership will address the need for sustainable, zero-emission energy as researchers collaborate on advanced fission and fusion technologies including small modular reactors, microreactors and research reactors, with an emphasis on safety and security, waste management and disposal, and environmental stewardship.
The agreement will also focus on research into developing fusion energy technologies and applications, including plasma, particle accelerator and additive manufacturing techniques. Researchers will look at the entire fusion fuel cycle, from production, processing and recovery to storage and recycling.
For Canadians, the results of this work could translate to a more resilient power grid and alternatives to fossil fuels. In particular, small modular reactors offer a solution for off-grid industrial sites and remote northern communities, replacing diesel generators with safe, continuous power that protects local ecosystems and reduces energy costs.
By pooling expertise in the health sciences, the partners will focus on technology to produce medical isotopes vital to diagnostic imaging and cancer treatment. Researchers will also team up to advance targeted radiation therapies and better understand the effects of low-dose radiation exposure on patients.
Beyond energy and health, the agreement aims to deliver economic benefits through workforce development and inclusive growth. U of A students, post-doctoral scholars and early-career researchers will gain direct access to national laboratory infrastructure, experiential learning, hands-on internships and industry exchanges preparing young Canadians for high-demand jobs in an expanding energy sector.
The partnership also embeds Indigenous research, knowledge and community involvement into its core mission. By prioritizing meaningful collaboration with Indigenous communities, the initiative ensures that energy expansion respects traditional land stewardship while opening new avenues for local economic participation and skill-building.
"As Canada's national nuclear laboratory, CNL is committed to connecting world-class science with real-world impact," says Dr. Monica Regalbuto, vice-president of science and technology with Canadian Nuclear Labs.
"This new partnership creates exciting opportunities to advance innovation in clean energy, health sciences and advanced nuclear technologies, while introducing meaningful opportunities for students and researchers to help shape Canada's future."
