is a podcast about academic research and why it matters. Join podcast host (professor of Accounting at Schulich School of Business) for a special 10-part series featuring extraordinary researchers and creators at 91亚色 and their innovative methodologies and approaches. A new episode is launched every month.

Podcast or Perish is supported by 91亚色鈥檚 Office of the Vice-President Research & Innovation in partnership with Schulich School of Business.

Episodes:

, of 91亚色鈥檚 Osgoode Hall Law School, holds a Canada Research Chair in Environmental Law & Justice. Her work examines the problematic jurisdictional reality that shapes the transition to a green economy, as Canadian mining companies seek to develop resources on land belonging to the First Nations.

 of 91亚色 studies motherhood from a profoundly feminist perspective. Deconstructing the taken-for-granted, culturally normative image of mothers has led her to publish over 20 books on mothering. Her most recent work explores the inordinate impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on mothers.

, of the Faculty of Education at 91亚色, studies the impact that the core beliefs and values of teachers have on classroom practice. She talks here about the emotional experience of online learning and how this has affected teachers and students during the pandemic.

, Chair of the Department of Dance at 91亚色, is an award-winning filmmaker whose documentaries capture the beauty of motion and the dreams of possibility among dancers in the Philippines. His work is gorgeous and human, with carefully framed images and haunting, evocative soundtracks.

, Canada Research Chair in Supply Chain Management at the Schulich School of Business, is a leading expert on the subject of supply chain disruptions. His research on quality management, mass customization, and supply chain relationships has helped supply managers and public policymakers minimize disruptions.

, of the School of Health Policy & Management in the Faculty of Health, studies the emotional, psychological, and contextual factors that shape how healthcare workers do their jobs. Her research has helped thousands of oncologists and neurosurgeons understand how they process grief and how their emotional connection to patients influences life-or-death decisions that they face every day.

, James and Joanne Love Chair in Environmental Engineering at Lassonde School of Engineering, studies emerging contaminants in wastewater. She creates the techniques to identify new pollutants such as pharmaceutical compounds that are hazardous at extremely low concentrations, and then eliminate them in ways that contribute positively to the ecosystem.

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Predicting the success of cancer treatment strategies is paramount for clinicians to provide the highest standard of care to patients. While predicting these treatment outcomes is a difficult science, Lassonde School of Engineering Professor  has been making significant progress in doing just that.

Sadeghi-Naini, an associate professor in the Electrical Engineering and Computer Science department and 91亚色 Research Chair in Quantitative Imaging and Smart Biomarkers, has been working in concert with clinicians from Sunnybrook Hospital to improve the standard of care for cancer patients.

Brain metastases, a cancer in the brain resulting from a primary cancer in another part of the body that has spread, represent an underdeveloped yet critical area in cancer treatment. While whole brain radiation therapy (WBRT) is a treatment option, it is associated with negative side effects such as cognitive dysfunction. This is what has triggered a paradigm shift in radiotherapy, moving towards more precise irradiation of tumors known as stereotactic radiotherapy (SRT).

A recently published study in  entitled, 鈥溾�� by Sadeghi-Naini and his team has outlined a methodology to predict how patients will respond to SRT based off of standard-of-care imaging. Clinicians can use this information, at pre-treatment, to facilitate the best plan for patients.

Using quantitative magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), Sadeghi-Naini鈥檚 team can predict whether a patient鈥檚 tumor is likely to be controlled by SRT or if the treatment is likely to fail.

鈥淎ll patients undergo MRI and CT as part of their standard-of-care treatment planning,鈥� explained Sadeghi-Naini. 鈥淭herefore, this method has the benefit of not requiring anything additional from the patient side, but it has the potential to improve their treatment plan.鈥�

These images are acquired prior to the treatment and, through quantitative analysis, the morphology and heterogeneity of the tumor can be characterized. Specifically, Sadeghi-Naini is concerned with quantifying the heterogeneity within the tumor site and its surroundings as these varied features are shown to strongly correlate with treatment outcomes. His machine learning (ML) models have demonstrated improved accuracy and sensitivity compared to existing methods.

Current medical practice for evaluating treatment outcomes revolve around clinical follow-ups post-treatment, but if the treatment is not successful, as it is for at least 20 per cent of all patients, this process poses a major issue. With clinicians knowing the likelihood of treatment success in advance, they can make more informed decisions and potentially improve the rate of successful outcomes for patients.

鈥淭he features identified with machine learning (ML) algorithms are not easily interpreted by clinicians and, at a glance, individuals can only describe them in terms of heterogeneity,鈥� said Sadeghi-Naini. 鈥淯sing ML, we can differentiate these features and create a model with statistics that we can provide to clinicians to enable them to make the most informed decision possible.鈥�

Going forward, Sadeghi-Naini is aiming to acquire data from larger cohorts of patients to further optimize and validate these methods. While his model is already a major improvement from existing methods of prediction, his team is investigating other ML solutions such as deep learning approaches to enhance the model.

Working within this interdisciplinary field is a long journey of practice, as the jargon and terminology varies drastically between medicine, engineering and computer science. Sadeghi-Naini has worked with clinicians for years and currently holds a cross appointment as a scientist at Sunnybrook Hospital. The willingness of his collaborating clinicians to work closely with him has allowed students from Sadeghi-Naini鈥檚 team to gain unique experiences working with clinicians and in clinical environments.

鈥淢y students have the opportunity to spend time regularly at [Sunnybrook] hospital, acquiring the data, observing the processes and working directly with clinicians,鈥� said Sadeghi-Naini. 鈥淭hese worlds of engineering and medicine are very different, so this is a great opportunity for students to see how interdisciplinary projects are run and learn from both perspectives.鈥�

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For years, scientists have been trying to understand variations in El Ni帽o and La Ni帽a to accurately predict year-to-year disruptions to weather patterns. New findings from 91亚色 scientists at the Lassonde School of Engineering suggest that a conveyer-like motion of heat across the equator in the Pacific Ocean 鈥� called the 鈥渃ross-equatorial cell鈥� (CEC) 鈥� may influence what a specific El Ni帽o or La Ni帽a looks like.

鈥淲hat this CEC is doing, essentially, is sloshing water and heat back and forth between just north of the equator and just south of the equator,鈥� said Neil Tandon, assistant professor in the Department of Atmospheric Science at the Lassonde School of Engineering and co-author of the study. 鈥淚n this study, we looked at what is physically causing this motion in the ocean. Understanding this is crucial, because a small change in the location of ocean heat in turn shifts the locations of the atmospheric jet streams, which sets off a chain reaction, disturbing weather around the globe.鈥�

El Ni帽o and La Ni帽a are both known to have global impacts on weather, from severe flooding to droughts and wildfires 鈥� impacting economies in every country. El Ni帽o is a warming of the ocean in the tropical Pacific over a year, while La Ni帽a is a cooling in this region. But not all El Ni帽os and La Ni帽as are the same: some are stronger than others, and they can arise in different locations in the Pacific Ocean. 

Tandon says the movement of heat by the CEC may help explain this range of behaviour and improve our ability to predict year-to-year changes in weather patterns. Such improvements would benefit countries around the globe across a broad range of sectors, including agriculture, transportation, emergency response services, hydroelectric utilities and the insurance industry.

鈥淲hen scientists see that there鈥檚 going to be a strong El Ni帽o or a strong La Ni帽a, everybody pays attention because no country is unaffected by that,鈥� said Tandon. 鈥淚f we can make any incremental step in improving our prediction of the impact of El Ni帽o or La Ni帽a, that has benefits for everybody in terms of being able to prepare for consequences such as severe flooding or droughts.鈥�

Tandon and lead author Devanarayana Rao, a master鈥檚 student in Tandon鈥檚 lab, examined the CEC using multiple data sets. In the study, the team analyzed relationships between physical quantities to illustrate what this circulation looks like and why this circulation exists. Their analysis found that the CEC arises from the following sequence of events:

• year-to-year changes in winds generate changes in the density of ocean water north and south of the equator in the Pacific;
• these density changes generate changes in pressure north and south of the equator;
• these pressure changes in turn generate a flow of water across the equator in the upper ocean; and
• this flow in the upper ocean generates waves that extend to the deep ocean, where they drive flow in the opposite direction across the equator.

鈥淭his research is a part of ongoing efforts to improve our understanding of the climate system and to develop real-world solutions to the ongoing climate crisis,鈥� said Rao. 鈥淚n general, most [previous] studies focused on deep ocean circulation in the Atlantic Ocean, which is projected to have a 鈥榮lowing down鈥� in the next 100 years. But, here, in the Pacific, the year-to-year variability of the deep ocean is much stronger than in the Atlantic, which can potentially influence the global weather patterns, the deep oceanic carbon reserve and marine habitat.鈥�

鈥淚 think an important next step in this research would be to start looking at the models that we use to predict El Ni帽o and La Ni帽a, and specifically focus on what are those models doing as far as the CEC,鈥� said Tandon. 鈥淚f they鈥檙e doing something very different from what is actually observed, then what are the consequences? If we correct what the model is doing, does that lead to a better prediction?鈥�

The study is published in the聽American Geophysical Union鈥檚聽.

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Diversity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) is critical; it enables the design of inclusive technologies and innovations that benefit all. Creating equitable opportunities in STEM education for youth will ensure that all students have access to experiences that will help them make informed decisions about their career pathways. In this talk, Cole will share her insights and experiences, and the journey that has led her to 91亚色

Brought to you by 91亚色鈥檚 Office of Alumni Engagement, the Scholars鈥� Hub @ Home speaker series features discussions on a broad range of topics, with engaging lectures from some of 91亚色鈥檚 best and brightest minds. Students, alumni and all members of the community are invited to attend. All sessions take place at noon via Zoom.

Events are held in partnership with Vaughan Public Libraries, Markham Public Library and Aurora Public Library.

To register for the event, visit .

The post Find out how Lassonde鈥檚 K2I Academy is creating opportunities for youth at the next Scholars鈥� Hub @ Home appeared first on Research & Innovation.

The CCDM 2021 China-Canada Symposium on Modelling, Prevention and Control of Infectious Diseases was hosted by Northeast Normal University and co-organized by the Center for Mathematical Bioscience and the Chinese Society of Mathematical Biology.

The goal of the event was to understand worldwide challenges and cutting-edge developments related to mathematical modelling of infectious diseases, and to share the timely research findings and experiences. It also provided an excellent experiential education opportunity for young researchers and students from China and Canada to interact with leading modellers and get hands-on research experience.

鈥淢athematical models have played an important role in understanding disease transmission and informing policy-making for public health,鈥� said Faculty of Science Professor Huaiping Zhu, who directs CCDM and served as the scientific co-chair for the symposium. 鈥淭he symposium this year looked at how non-pharmaceutical interventions, vaccination strategies, and social and environmental determinants affect transmission, and how data-driven mathematical modelling contributes to the prevention, mitigation and control of COVID-19. It was another successful international collaboration of CDM during the pandemic.鈥�

A big focus of the symposium was on modelling COVID-19 infection and immunity, transmission, vaccination and other public health strategies; however, mosquito-borne diseases like West Nile virus and dengue fever, and other infectious diseases like HIV and tuberculosis, were also discussed. Distinguished lectures on the first two days of the symposium were organized for young researchers and graduate students and focused on reflections and lessons related to COVID-19. The other invited talks were presentations of recent research findings.

The 91亚色 faculty involved in the symposium were: CCDM Communications Director and Professor聽Jane Heffernan聽of the Faculty of Science; and CCDM members and professors聽Marina Freire-Gormaly聽from the Lassonde School of Engineering, and聽Jude Dzevela Kong,听Iain Moyles听补苍诲听Carly Rozins, all from the Faculty of Science, with each presenting talks at the event. Additionally, 91亚色 postdoctoral Fellow聽Juan Li, also from CCDM, participated in a panel discussion. 91亚色 postdoctoral Fellows and CCDM members聽Elena Aruffo聽and PhD student聽Pei Yuan聽served on the supporting committee. Twelve other CCDM Canadian network members also presented at the meeting.

Courtesy of YFile.

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At a time when financial markets, technologies and products have become more complex and financial crimes are increasing, Canadian universities can play a critical role in addressing the global shortage of trained experts equipped to tackle these crimes 鈥� many of which can impact the most vulnerable such as children, newcomers and elderly.

On Sept. 13, 91亚色 announced a contribution from Scotiabank that will provide $980,000 to support a variety of initiatives at the Lassonde School of Engineering.

The funding will support research into global financial crimes and computer security, while also providing support for programs that advance equity, diversity and inclusion in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields.

鈥�91亚色 is profoundly grateful to Scotiabank for their generous investment of $980,000 in support of the Lassonde School of Engineering. This contribution reflects the shared commitment of 91亚色 and Scotiabank to supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion in science, technology, engineering and math fields and to advancing the groundbreaking work of our researchers in the field of financial crime prevention,鈥� said聽Rhonda L. Lenton, president and vice-chancellor of 91亚色. 鈥淚n recognition of this substantial investment, the fund that supports critical research in global financial crimes will be named the Scotiabank Lassonde Financial Crimes Research Initiative.鈥�

This innovative research initiative will support the essential work of talented graduate students and advance research areas related to global financial crimes, which include Ponzi schemes, money laundering efforts and cryptocurrency-based crimes, along with other serious areas of crime such as human trafficking, wildlife trafficking, sexual exploitation and drug trafficking. 

鈥淭here is a significant shortage of people with the specialized skills and knowledge to do this work,鈥� says聽, associate professor at the Lassonde School of Engineering. 鈥淭his research program will also prepare students and emerging scholars for jobs. We are also helping to further promote Toronto as a global financial hub, and providing professionals and expert specialists to the industry locally.鈥�

This work has already shown promise in the real world, says Nguyen.

鈥淭his initiative with the Lassonde School of Engineering builds on a long history of collaboration between Scotiabank and 91亚色, spanning five decades,鈥� says Stuart Davis, executive vice-president of financial crimes risk management at Scotiabank. 鈥淲e are thrilled to be working with Lassonde鈥檚 students and faculty on leading-edge research to inform techniques used to combat financial crimes risk, while promoting a shared purpose to advance social sustainability goals.鈥�

As part of Scotiabank鈥檚 generous investment in activities that advance equity, diversity and inclusion, the Lassonde School of Engineering鈥檚 Helen Carswell STEAM Program for Women will also receive support to encourage participation from Grade 10 and 11 students from marginalized neighbourhoods in a unique eight-week program of paid research in the school鈥檚 lab, which conducts work related to the United Nations Sustainabile Development Goals. High-school students in the program will work on research projects related to engineering and science under the guidance of undergraduate research assistant mentors, high-school teachers and Lassonde faculty.

As well, Scotiabank will support Lassonde鈥檚 Kindergarten to Industry Academy 鈥� expanding the K2I Academy to three Greater Toronto Area school boards to further enhance Grade 9 to 12 science and mathematics programs. Lassonde鈥檚 K2I Academy is an innovative ecosystem of STEM educators, thought leaders and partners focused on bringing STEM experiences to youth, educators and communities. K2I Academy is working with partners from Kindergarten to industry to dismantle systemic barriers and build sustainable programs that diversify representation in STEM professions.

鈥淭hese programs are not just about STEM education. It鈥檚 social justice work,鈥� says Lisa Cole, director of programming at K2I Academy. 鈥淲e want to make sure that every student has a chance to explore the subjects before they make a decision about their path of studies. We want them to see the possibilities for their futures and the social impact they can make.鈥�

Deinabo Richard-Koko, a third-year Lassonde student and mentor with the K2I Academy, says the program is unique in that it shows students how to apply their learnings in real time. 鈥淢ost people say: 鈥榃hat does this add to my life? I鈥檓 never going to use this again outside the classroom,鈥� 鈥� says Richard-Koko. 鈥淏ut with the K2I Academy, students can see the real-time application of what they learned. They can actually use it.鈥�

The support from Scotiabank is already having a huge impact on Lassonde鈥檚 programs.

鈥淭his funding allowed us to make critical enhancements. We were able to purchase materials and resources, like small electronic devices for engineering learning, to help engage students in hands-on learning,鈥� says Cole. 鈥淲ithout this gift, we wouldn鈥檛 have the creative space that we need to innovate and develop outreach materials for our students.鈥�

The goal of these initiatives is to remove systemic barriers to access for underrepresented students in STEM and increase student achievement and enrolment in the prerequisite courses needed to enter post-secondary studies in engineering.

鈥淎t Lassonde, we know how important it is to support students of all backgrounds,鈥� says聽, dean of the Lassonde School of Engineering. 鈥淭hat鈥檚 why I am pleased we are collaborating with Scotiabank through a shared sense of purpose, determined to equip every student with the skills and values needed to succeed in STEM fields as they work toward a better future.鈥�

The post New partnership to advance fight against global financial crime and support equity, diversity and inclusion in STEM appeared first on Research & Innovation.

This initiative, spearheaded by the  and the Lassonde Research Office, supports the development and enhancement of an inclusive culture at Lassonde and beyond. The funding provides community members with many ways to advance equity, diversity and inclusion, from developing new recruitment strategies and funding EDI training to supporting faculty members during parental leaves and life events.

There are two funding categories available as part of the EDI fund. The first aims to improve work-life balance and support faculty members who are new parents, caregivers or going through extraordinary life events. The second category is meant to support initiatives that strive to catalyze change and create a diverse and inclusive environment at Lassonde.

鈥淒ifferent backgrounds and experiences provide a wide range of perspectives which strengthen our educational and research missions aimed towards making a positive impact on a global scale,鈥� said Jane Goodyer, dean of the Lassonde School of Engineering. 鈥淏y introducing new EDI funding that supports initiatives that promote diversity and inclusion within our community, we can create a cultural change within our school and beyond. Our work can help create systemic change in academia and in the workforce.鈥�

Equity, diversity and inclusion are a key priority for the school, with the EDI Sub-Committee and the  acting as key drivers over the past years in implementing initiatives and programs that can create a systemic change within the school and across the education system.

This EDI fund is meant to empower students, faculty and staff to make a difference and pave the way to a more equitable future for all. With this fund, students, faculty and staff have the freedom to design their own initiatives, get creative, and find ways to think outside the box to make the school a more diverse and inclusive space. Community members can also use this funding towards training opportunities to enhance their EDI knowledge and credentials.

For more information about the funding categories and application instructions, visit聽.

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Over the summer months, more than 80 undergraduate students worked alongside Lassonde faculty members on a variety of research projects, from virtual reality and molecular simulations to investigating other planets. During the conference, students presented their final research findings to fellow students, faculty, industry representatives and staff members. For the second time, the annual research was delivered in an entirely virtual format using a combination of virtual fair, oral presentations and videos. The full conference program can be found .

鈥淭his conference is a magnificent platform to get to know our colleagues and their research at Lassonde, stimulate scientific discussions and bolster interdisciplinary collaboration,鈥� said Lassonde Professor , a faculty mentor and judge for the conference.

The undergraduate summer research program provides students with an opportunity to gain experience in a professional research environment and take part in experiential education. 鈥淧articipating in LURA [Lassonde Undergraduate Research Awards] this summer has been a great experience. Seeing so many amazing and unique research projects done by students like me is inspiring,鈥� said Jessie Chesal, LURA student and a third-place Plenary Award winner.

Raghavender Sahdev (MSc 鈥�18) delivered a keynote presentation titled 鈥淓ngineers cruise through life seamlessly.鈥� His talk described the work he has undertaken since completing his graduate degree at Lassonde, including becoming the co-founder and CEO of NuPort Robotics, Canada鈥檚 first autonomous trucking company.

This year, 62 students were awarded the LURA and the Natural Sciences & Engineering Research Council of Canada Undergraduate Student Research Awards (NSERC USRA) 鈥� the highest number of LURA recipients in the history of the program. Students included representatives from programs across the Lassonde School of Engineering and 91亚色 as well as the University of Toronto, Queen鈥檚 University, the University of Waterloo and McGill University.

鈥淣SERC would like to express our appreciation to the professors and to the Lassonde School of Engineering 鈥� 91亚色 staff members who manage the USRA program. The time and attention that you have invested in training the next generation of researchers in Canada are invaluable,鈥� said Kayla Zavitske, manager of scholarships and fellowships at the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada. 鈥淭he USRA program provides an exceptional opportunity for Canadian researchers to access top student talent and develops the potential for these students鈥� future careers in NSE disciplines.鈥�

Throughout the conference, student projects were evaluated by judges who selected winners across several categories.

The Plenary Presentation Winners

• First place: Scott Watson, Civil Engineering, supervised by 
  • Project: Methodology for the non-linear thermal analysis of structural cables exposed to fire
• Second place: Dhruvi Desai, Mechanical Engineering, supervised by 
  • Project: Tuning mechanical properties of graphene by molecular dynamics simulations
• Third place (tie): Jessie Chesal, Earth & Space Science & Engineering, supervised by 
  • Project: Identifying areas of horizontal wind shear and corresponding cloud morphologies in the middle atmosphere of Venus
• Third place (tie): Yaniv Khaslavsky, Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, supervised by 
  • Project: A software framework for rapid generation of quantitative ultrasound parametric images

Students鈥� Choice - Plenary Presentation

• Dhruvi Desai, Mechanical Engineering, supervised by Cuiying Jian
  • Project: Tuning mechanical properties of graphene by molecular dynamics simulations

Video Presentations

• First place: Sara Hajari, Mechanical Engineering, supervised by 
  • Project: Developing a novel collagen-based scaffold that best mimics the extracellular matrix composition of acute myeloid leukemia cell niche
• Second place: Ellen van Wijngaarden, Mechanical Engineering, supervised by 
  • Project: Testing heavy metal toxicity in zebrafish larvae using microfluidics
• Third place: Walleed Khan, Electrical Engineering & Computer Science, supervised by 
  • Project: Sentiment analysis for a socially engagement robot

Students Choice鈥�&苍产蝉辫;- Video Presentations

• First place: David Tran, Civil Engineering, supervised by 
  • Project: Microsimulation Analysis of Truck Signal Priority in the Region of Peel
• Second place: Ellen van Wijngaarden, Mechanical Engineering, supervised by Pouya Rezai
  • Project: Testing heavy metal toxicity in zebrafish larvae using microfluidics
• Third place: Damith Tennakoon, Earth & Space Science & Engineering, supervised by 
  • Project: Augmented reality sandbox captures beyond the sands using an object detection approach

鈥淚 was grateful for the opportunity to present my research among a group of extremely talented individuals,鈥� said Scott Watson, LURA student and first place Plenary Award winner. 鈥淐ountless interesting projects were introduced this year and it is inspiring to be able to witness the hard work demonstrated by the next wave of young researchers.鈥�

The undergraduate summer research program and conference provide students with a unique opportunity to showcase their talents and learn new skills. 鈥淯ndergraduate research experience is invaluable for the students and for society,鈥� said Lassonde Professor Isaac B. Smith, also a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Planetary Science. 鈥淭he students benefit from being trained by a professional scientist or engineer; this in turn motivates them to pursue research, and that creates knowledge and technology for the next generation.鈥�

For more information on undergraduate research at Lassonde, visit the .

Next year, competition for LURA and USRA will start in early 2021. Stay tuned for more information.

The post Lassonde showcases cutting-edge research at its 2021 undergrad research conference appeared first on Research & Innovation.

While earning her master's in organic chemistry, Brar was doing research in synthetic organic chemistry and was being co-supervised by a senior PhD supervising on reducing side reactions.

鈥淭he work involved used a lot of solvent. We recovered it and used 80 per cent of it for two cycles, but then it was down the drain. I asked about the volume in litres of these carcinogenic solvents that we were discarding and the co-supervising PhD had never done the calculations 鈥� there was no consideration for the environment," said Brar, the new James and Joanne Love Chair in Environmental Engineering at the Lassonde School of Engineering at 91亚色.

鈥淯p to that point, I had planned to do a PhD in organic chemistry, but I decided that I didn鈥檛 want to go into a field where I was contributing to contaminating the environment.鈥�

Instead, Brar decided to do an MSc in environmental engineering 鈥渢o see how I could help solve these challenges.鈥� She studied at the prestigious India Institute of Technology (IIT) in Mumbai, where she was introduced to micro-organisms and 鈥渇ell in love.鈥� Her fascination with micro-organisms led to a position with the Government of India where she created a database of the contamination caused by testing explosives and explored phyto-remediation using microorganisms found in the roots of trees and plants.

While involved in this work, Brar found that much of the literature published originated from Defence Research and Development Canada in Valcartier, Que. Since she was planning to pursue a PhD, she decided to come to Canada to study. Brar travelled to Vancouver, B.C., to stay with cousins and apply to universities and chose to study in Quebec City, Que. based on the prominence of work by a research group there. She took a crash course in French before the semester began and journeyed east to earn a PhD in biochemical engineering and continue her work with micro-organisms.

After graduation, she began a post-doctoral fellowship at McGill University, but the Institut National de la Recherche Scientifique (INRS) soon tempted her to return to Quebec City as a faculty member. She remained there for 14 years until 91亚色 lured her east to serve as the James and Joanne Love Chair in Environmental Engineering at the Lassonde School of Engineering.

鈥淚 was already a professor, so it was a good time to make a change,鈥� Brar said.

She joined 91亚色 in 2019, but with the challenge of moving her lab, followed by the COVID-19 pandemic, Brar hasn鈥檛 yet spent much time on campus. She hopes that will change this fall as Ontario begins emerging from lockdown and she is excited to be in Toronto.

鈥淗ere, in Toronto, I have access to a large network of academics and industry,鈥� Brar said. 鈥淭here鈥檚 lots of action and dynamism, especially from an environmental perspective.鈥�

Brar is especially eager for the interdisciplinary opportunities offered by being at such a large, comprehensive university as 91亚色.

鈥淓nvironmental challenges are complex and need interdisciplinary action to make them work,鈥� she said. 鈥�91亚色 provides the kind of environment where I can interact with social scientists, policy experts and marketing people and ensure that research is promoted to the end user.鈥�

Brar is full of enthusiasm for her research and teaching. She is currently immersed in the bioremediation of sites contaminated by petroleum, using enzymes to restore them to health.

鈥淭his is a biochemical solution for emergencies,鈥� she said. 鈥淲e鈥檙e using enzymes instead of micro-organisms, because micro-organisms need nutrition to do their job, while enzymes simply need to be formulated. They offer ease of application and are more effective.鈥�

One of her graduate students has just discovered enzymes that are active at core temperatures, and they hope to journey to northern Canada to test them in harsh conditions. In addition, Brar is planning to teach an Introduction to Environmental Engineering course at 91亚色鈥檚 Las Nubes Eco Campus in Costa Rica next summer, where she hopes to get students involved in some field experiments related to composting, residues management and pineapple cultivation agro-residues value-addition.

Brar says that for students, choosing an institution that will promote their interests and their curiosity is essential.

She also encourages students to be well-rounded, looking beyond their narrow field of specialty to get a broader picture of the world.

鈥淟iberal arts should be part of engineering,鈥� she said. 鈥淵ou can鈥檛 be creative just by studying engineering. You need to take courses outside, and a university like 91亚色 has such breadth, it should be possible.

鈥淚t鈥檚 important for faculty members, too. Our vice-president of innovation has launched an interdisciplinary cluster network to promote collaboration between faculties. We have all these faculties with excellent researchers and we need to stimulate collaboration, because it鈥檚 important. It鈥檚 the future. As a force, together we can make an impact.鈥�

Brar has already put her words into action. In June 2021, she was a recipient of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada鈥檚 coveted CREATE (Collaborative Research and Training Experience) award. Her , which also included colleagues from the Faculty of Science, received over $1.6 million to collaborate with industry and communities to convert organic waste into products that are more valuable, reduce our carbon footprint and create a circular bioeconomy. One of the goals of this proposal is also to train a future-ready workforce, be they undergraduates or post-doctoral Fellows.

鈥淏rar is representative of the top global talent working on impactful global solutions 91亚色 continues to attract,鈥� said Vice-President Research and Innovation Amir Asif. 鈥淗er bioremediation research work to recover sites contaminated by petroleum is an example of 91亚色鈥檚 commitment to environmental sustainability, in particular, the UN Climate Action Sustainable Development Goal.鈥�

She is also well respected at the Lassonde School of Engineering.

鈥淎 dedicated research leader in environmental engineering, Brar inspires a deep commitment to environmental stewardship in graduates and colleagues through her important contributions to interdisciplinary teaching and research in sustainable development for climate change adaptation and mitigation,鈥� said Professor John E. Moores, Lassonde鈥檚 associate dean, Research and Graduate Studies.

By Elaine Smith, special contributor

Faculty members are invited to share information about global engagement activities 鈥� education/learning, research or service 鈥� with Skandha Sunderasen at 91亚色 International, skandha@yorku.ca.

The post Fighting pollution with nature's tools and faith in interdisciplinary solutions: Professor Satinder Kaur Brar appeared first on Research & Innovation.

Announced on Aug. 11 by Innovation, Science and Industry Minister Fran莽ois-Philippe Champagne, the contribution comes from the Canada Foundation for Innovation鈥檚 (CFI) John R. Evans Leaders Fund (JELF) program, a tool designed to invest in state-of-the-art labs and equipment researchers need to turn their visions into reality.

At 91亚色, Professors Ali Asgary, Marcus Brubaker, Solomon Boakye-Yiadom, Liam Butler, Taylor Cleworth, Claire David, Shital Desai, Matthew Keough, Christine Le, Ozzy Mermut, Arturo Orellana, Enamul Prince, Jennifer Pybus and Emilie Roudier will receive funding totalling more than $1.5 million for their infrastructure projects.

鈥�91亚色 is delighted to have 14 academics receive the John R. Evans Leaders Fund,鈥� said Vice-President Research and Innovation Amir Asif. 鈥淭his vital funding helps ensure we attract and retain the very best researchers who are undertaking truly innovative work. From addiction vulnerability to critical data-literacy research, from age-related impairments to advancements in particle physics 鈥� these projects will make positive change for our students, our campuses and our local and global communities.鈥�

The funded projects at 91亚色 are:

Ali Asgary, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies
DEXR LAB

CFI JELF award: $100,000

Asgary and DEXR Lab will conduct research and develop extended reality (XR) applications for public safety, public health and disaster-and-emergency management training, education and operations. DEXR Lab will be equipped with the latest XR hardware and software for developing XR applications for areas including structural firefighting, wildfire management, hospital-emergency-and-intensive-care units, first-responders' collision simulation, virus transmission and spread, train derailment and volcano eruption, among others. DEXR Lab will be supported by 91亚色's  (ADERSIM) and will enhance Canada's share in the XR research and market 鈥� putting the country at the forefront of XR applications in the aforementioned areas.

Marcus Brubaker, Lassonde School of Engineering
Generative Modeling for CryoEM, Hyperspectral Imagery and Video

CFI JELF award: $140,000

Brubaker will develop novel artificial intelligence (AI) methods focused on applications where labelled-training data is limited or unavailable. The goal of this research is to enable learning from minimal amounts of data 鈥� dramatically reducing the amount of labelled data required and democratizing access to the technology. The methods developed could allow small companies, not-for-profit organizations or even individuals to effectively apply state-of-the-art AI methods, rather than only being available to large companies (which have either vast amounts of data already available or the resources to collect it). To reach this goal, Brubaker鈥檚 research will explore probabilistic-generative methods with specific applications in hyperspectral image analysis, video analysis and the processing of electron cryomicroscopy data.

Solomon Boakye-Yiadom, Lassonde School of Engineering
Machine Learning and Additive Manufacturing for the Development of Next Generation Materials

CFI JELF award: $140,000

For thousands of years since the advent of bronze, alloy development has involved diluting a single base element with small amounts of other elements. This approach is slow, expensive and requires a lot of effort with minimal increments in required material properties. A new idea where alloys have no single dominant element is gaining traction. These multi-principal element alloys, specifically, High Entropy Alloys (HEA), possess superior properties. Research lead by Boakye-Yiadom, along with Professors Marina Freire-Gormaly and Ruth Urner, will guide in the accelerated discovery and development of advanced HEAs and enhance our ability to detect and minimize defects during metal additive manufacturing. This includes innovative discoveries for advanced materials and process monitoring during manufacturing.

Liam Butler, Lassonde School of Engineering
The Climate-Data-Driven Design (CD3) Facility for Built Infrastructure

CFI JELF award: $140,000

The influence of climatic variations on Canada's vast infrastructure stock, valued at more than $850 billion, is largely ignored in infrastructure design. Variations in temperature, humidity and precipitation, along with increased frequency of extreme events will lead to cyclic factors that influence the behaviour of infrastructure materials. Mitigating these adverse effects starts with being able to reliably measure and to better understand the impact that climate variability has on infrastructure. Butler, along with Professors Usman Khan and Matthew Perras, will establish a unique field laboratory, where robust sensing, advanced AI-based data analytics and innovative infrastructure materials will be developed and validated. The vision is for the CD3 Facility to become Canada's leading research laboratory in climate-data-driven infrastructure design 鈥� providing immediate impact to regulators, asset managers and suppliers, and long-term benefits for all Canadians.

Taylor Cleworth, Faculty of Health
Neuro-mechanics of Balance Deficits During Dynamic Stance

CFI JELF award: $125,000

Falls and resulting injuries are a major health and economic concern for older adults, care providers and Canadians at large. Reducing fall rates can be challenging due to the multi-faceted nature of controlling upright stance. Cleworth will study the sensorimotor mechanisms underlying balance control and investigate possible avenues of treatment for balance deficits. The new infrastructure will provide the foundation for an innovative research program aimed at understanding the complex interaction of biomechanical and cortical mechanisms that contribute to human balance and mobility deficits, and to assess and improve the efficacy of balance-related interventions and fall prevention programs.

Claire David, Faculty of Science
Next generation of neutrino detectors for the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment (DUNE)

CFI JELF award: $125,000

David, along with Professor Deborah Harris, will build a versatile cryogenic test bench to develop a prototype for the next generation of neutrino detectors. This modular system will have the ability to test two modules of the current state-of-the-art technology in the same cryostat 鈥� allowing direct comparison of different alternative readout systems. The modules will be paired with revolutionary electronics for light detection that other Canadian universities are developing. Ultimately, the optimized prototype will serve DUNE, the Deep Underground Neutrino Experiment, an international effort hosted by Fermilab in the United States. This will enable David and Harris, also research scientists at Fermilab and part of the DUNE collaboration, to be at the forefront of detector development in experimental particle physics.

Shital Desai, School of the Arts, Media, Performance & Design
Social and Technological Systems lab

CFI JELF award: $50,000

Efforts to develop technologies for older adults is challenged by changing physical and cognitive abilities of older adults. Assistive technologies should adapt to the needs of older adults without them having to adjust settings, change versions or use hacks. Desai's research will investigate a generation of prompts in emerging technologies for people with dementia. Machine-learning techniques will be employed to learn about the user and make inferences regarding their state while using the technology. The research outcomes will be used to develop adaptive-assistive technology and drive pivotal advancements in the area of interactive design and adaptive technology for older adults. It will lead to development of deployable technologies in non-clinical settings, driving independence and social inclusion in older adults 鈥� advancing Canada's position as a leader in interactive-adaptive technology.

Matthew Keough, Faculty of Health
Center for Research on Addiction Vulnerability in Early Life

CFI JELF award: $50,000

Millions of Canadians struggle with co-occurring alcohol use and emotional disorders (e.g. anxiety) but very little is known about why alcohol use and emotional disorders co-occur so frequently, resulting in a lack of understanding of how to treat them effectively. Keough's innovative experimental research aims to uncover the biopsychosocial risk factors for alcohol use-emotional disorder comorbidity in emerging adulthood (ages 18 to 25). Keough will acquire state-of-the-art equipment for his Center for Research on Addiction Vulnerability in Early Life (CRAVE Lab). Using a simulated-bar-lab environment and innovative technology, his research will have the potential to improve treatments for alcohol use-emotional disorder comorbidity and improve the lives of many Canadians and their families.

Christine Le, Faculty of Science
Infrastructure for the Catalytic Synthesis of Medicinally Relevant Organofluorine Compounds

CFI JELF award: $160,000

Le鈥檚 research seeks to develop more efficient, cost-effective and greener methods for the synthesis of medicinally relevant fluorine-containing compounds. On average it takes 10 years for a newly discovered drug to reach the market due to the complexity of clinical trials, production and approval by government agencies. The synthetic methods targeted in this research will improve the efficiency of drug discovery and synthesis, allowing critical medicines to reach the market sooner. The research objectives and methodologies align with Canada's commitment to the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals, which include the efficient use of natural resources, the reduction of chemical waste and the development of essential medicines.

Ozzy Mermut, Faculty of Science
Biophotonics Diagnosis, Treatment and Dosimetry in Age-related Disorders and Human Diseases

CFI JELF award: $160,000

Personalized medicine will improve patient outcomes and limit health-care costs facing aging populations and consequent diseases. Globally, one billion people face vision impairment, with age-related macular degeneration affecting 245 million. Mermut鈥檚 research aims to identify tissue-specific biomarkers for early-stage diagnosis of vision disorders and other diseases, advancing the understanding of molecular pathogenesis. Photonic techniques will then be developed for targeted, minimally invasive phototherapy. A tissue model will be engineered, recapitulating natural, diseased tissues to study laser treatments and develop dosimetry that provides molecular information on initiated-cell responses. The ultimate goal is complete eradication of pathogenic cells that lead to debilitating diseases through absolute, precise laser therapy.

Arturo Orellana, Faculty of Science
Organic Synthesis for Development of Therapeutics

CFI JELF award: $107,000

Orellana鈥檚 research program will focus on developing enabling technologies for new therapeutics to address the healthcare needs of a large portion of the Canadian population. This program brings together multidisciplinary teams of experts from industry and academia to target difficult challenges in health care including diseases such as Alzheimer's, ovarian cancer and diabetes. The fundamental-science focus on design, synthesis and characterization of drug-like organic molecules will provide critical know-how to deliver cures for diseases affecting large patient populations, while establishing Canada as a leader in health and science research.

Enamul Prince, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies
Establishment of the Intelligent Visualization Laboratory

CFI JELF award: $114,726

Prince will establish the Intelligent Visualization Lab with an aim to make analytics more accessible by changing the way we interact with data. A diverse range of people with different levels of skills and backgrounds will perform analysis on large data-sets faster and more effectively through natural and fluid interactions. The lab will significantly improve the ability of professionals 鈥� ranging from data scientists to business analysts, to health-care analysts 鈥� to analyze data and make complex decisions, with the potential to unlock new markets and direct financial benefits for Canadian industry. The lab will also allow students to train for the high-demand fields of AI, data science and analytics.

Jennifer Pybus, Faculty of Liberal Arts & Professional Studies
The Centre for Public AI (CPAI)

CFI JELF award: $69,385

Pybus will establish the Centre for Public AI (CPAI) 鈥� Canada's preeminent centre for the interdisciplinary application of a more grounded, civically driven explainable approach to AI. It aims to foster an understanding of the diverse infrastructures that gather personal data on applications and platforms through the development of tools and participatory workshops. The research conducted will fill an important gap by contributing to a growing field of critical data-literacy studies to examine algorithmic practices impacting the lives of Canadians. New tools will facilitate academic and policy interventions related to algorithmic accountability from the perspective of non-expert users who experience the outcomes of machine-learning technologies.

Emilie Roudier, Faculty of Health
Microvascular Epigenetics of Physical Activity

CFI JELF award: $80,000 

Roudier's research aims to address how physical activity induces beneficial changes in the vascular epigenome. She will establish a specialized lab to study the interaction between physical activity and the vascular epigenome. Canadians are at high risk of vascular diseases due to unhealthy behaviours. Most researchers focus on finding and averting adverse epigenetic marks correlated with vascular diseases. This lab will take a counterpoint approach 鈥� aiming to define what a healthy vascular epigenome is. The discovery of beneficial epigenetic marks generated by this research will support the discovery of new biomarkers to assess environmental risk to vascular health and test the efficiency of lifestyle or preventive interventions aiming to boost vascular health.

About the Canada Foundation for Innovation

For more than 20 years, the CFI has been giving researchers the tools they need to think big and innovate. Fostering a robust innovation system in Canada translates into jobs and new enterprises, better health, cleaner environments and, ultimately, vibrant communities. By investing in state-of-the-art facilities and equipment in Canada鈥檚 universities, colleges, research hospitals and non-profit research institutions, the CFI also helps to attract and retain the world鈥檚 top talent, to train the next generation of researchers and to support world-class research that strengthens the economy and improves the quality of life for all Canadians.

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