Acadia University is pleased to announce that three faculty members have been awarded a total of $696,379 to support cutting-edge research on the Wolfville campus. The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) funding is part of a series of major investments in science and research across Canada recently announced by the Honourable Randy Boissonnault, Minister of Employment, Workforce Development and Official Languages on behalf of the Honourable Francois-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science, and Industry and the Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health.
"The Discovery Research Program fosters research excellence by supporting the long-term goals of a diversified base of researchers at different career stages across Canada while also providing stimulating research training opportunities for the scientists and engineers of tomorrow," said Prof. Alejandro Adem, FRSC, President of NSERC. "The people behind these explorative research programs lay the groundwork for a thriving research enterprise in Canada. They make the discoveries that ultimately improve our society and quality of life. At NSERC, we make sure this program remains relevant and impactful."
Dr. Anna Redden, Vice-Provost of Research and Innovation at Acadia University, praised the investment in Acadia faculty.
"We're immensely proud of our researchers for securing this invaluable funding. These awards not only demonstrate our dedication to creating meaningful advancements in scientific discovery but also highlight Acadia's commitment to supporting researchers who address pressing global issues," she said.
Canada Research Chair in Coastal Ecosystem Connectivity and Resilience and director of the Mallory Lab, Dr. Mark Mallory is investigating the impact of environmental contaminants on seabird populations in Arctic and Atlantic Canada. His groundbreaking study aims to understand how birds' health is affected by pollutants and migration patterns.
Biology researcher Dr. Laura Ferguson, director of the Ferguson Lab, is examining the impacts of climate change on mosquitoes and their roles in transmitting zoonotic diseases. By examining various mosquito species in Nova Scotia, she hopes her findings will lead to an improved understanding of the future of vector-borne disease in Canada.
Earth and Environmental Science professor and director of the Mercury Lab, Dr. Nelson O'Driscoll has been awarded funds to acquire a cutting-edge freeze dryer system crucial for his research on mercury pollution and its deleterious effects on human and ecosystem health.
"These substantial investments serve as testaments to both the quality of the research conducted at Acadia University and the outstanding commitment shown by its researchers," said Redden. "With these funds, our faculty members will continue to excel in their respective fields and contribute vital information to global scientific knowledge."
