Government of Canada Celebrates Three New Canada Research Chairs at Laurentian University

SUDBURY, ONTARIO--(Marketwire - Jan. 20, 2011) - Today, the Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry, joined with the faculty of Laurentian University to celebrate the awarding of three new Canada Research Chairs. Researchers Albrecht Shulte-Hostedde, Zhibin Ye and Robert Schinke will join current chairholders John Gunn and Nancy Young, each of whom will also receive additional funding, in undertaking research at the leading edge of their respective fields.

"The Government of Canada's investment in research has made our economy stronger and created new jobs," said Minister Clement. "Through the Canada Research Chairs program, our government is committed to developing and attracting top research talent from Canada and around the world to help bring new ideas into the marketplace and improve the quality of life of Canadians."

The three new chairholders at Laurentian University will be conducting research in a variety of important fields, including multicultural sport and physical activity, applied evolutionary ecology and polymer nanomaterials. The results of their research could potentially benefit all sectors of Canadian society.

"Over the past 10 years, this program has been integral to funding research excellence in Canada, attracting renowned international experts to Canadian universities and retaining the world's best researchers," said Chad Gaffield, President of the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada and head of the Canada Research Chairs Program Steering Committee. "The program has helped build world-class research centres across the country, propelled Canadian research into a leadership position on the world stage, and enhanced the education and training of thousands of Canadian and foreign students."

The Government of Canada's investment in the Canada Research Chairs program is helping to make Canada a world leader in university research and development. In celebration of the 10th anniversary of the Canada Research Chairs program, Minister Clement announced an investment of $275.6 million on November 24, 2010, to fund 310 new or renewed Canada Research Chairs at 53 Canadian universities.

"This support from the federal government has played a key role in Laurentian University's ability to strengthen its position as a leader in research and development, and to continue attracting the best faculty and students," said Patrice Sawyer, Laurentian University's Vice-President of Research and Graduate Studies.

Laurentian University is one of 53 Canadian institutions with Canada Research Chairholders in residence. A full list is available on the Canada Research Chairs website.