Dalhousie University Welcomes Nine New Canada Research Chairs

Dalhousie University has announced the appointment of nine new and renewed Canada Research Chairs (CRCs), reinforcing its commitment to addressing pressing global challenges. This initiative was revealed on **October 22, 2023**, by the Honourable **Mélanie Joly**, Canada’s Minister of Industry, as part of a national investment exceeding **$690 million** aimed at advancing science and research across the country.

The CRC program acknowledges scholars whose innovative work has the potential to enhance understanding and improve quality of life. The newly appointed CRCs at Dalhousie focus on a diverse array of topics, ranging from the evolving legal frameworks in the Arctic to the dynamics of viral epidemics in Africa. Their research encompasses critical areas such as sustainable energy, healthcare equity, and climate change adaptation.

Dr. Graham Gagnon, acting vice-president of research and innovation at Dalhousie, highlighted the significance of these appointments. “Our CRCs reflect the way Dalhousie researchers are solving real problems faced by Nova Scotians, Canadians, and people around the world,” he stated. These researchers are dedicated to transforming discovery into tangible impact, contributing to a more sustainable and equitable future.

The Canada Research Chairs program is designed to attract and retain top researchers, investing up to **$311 million** annually. It categorizes the chairs into two tiers: Tier 1, which is awarded for seven years to established leaders in their fields, and Tier 2, which is awarded for five years to promising early-career researchers. Each Tier 1 Chair brings in **$1.4 million** in federal funding, while Tier 2 Chairs receive **$600,000** for new appointments and **$500,000** for renewals.

Highlights of New Canada Research Chairs

Among the newly appointed Chairs is **Dr. Mita Dasog**, a Tier 1 CRC in Advanced Design for Water-Energy Sustainability. Her groundbreaking work develops systems that purify water while simultaneously harvesting energy, thus addressing the urgent needs of clean water and sustainable energy in communities worldwide.

Another notable appointment is **Dr. OmiSoore Dryden**, a Tier 1 CRC in Antiracism in Health Education and Practice. Dr. Dryden’s research confronts systemic anti-Black racism within healthcare, focusing on reshaping educational frameworks to better serve Black communities. Through her initiatives, she aims to foster trust and collaboration in healthcare systems.

**Violet Ford**, a Tier 1 CRC in Circumpolar Indigenous Marine Governance and International Law, is working on redefining marine legal frameworks to incorporate Indigenous rights and perspectives. Her innovative “Nuliajuk Project” seeks to establish partnerships that integrate Indigenous legal traditions with international law, addressing the needs of Arctic and subarctic Indigenous peoples.

**Dr. Natalya Evans**, a Tier 2 CRC in Observational Chemical Oceanography, is investigating the ocean’s role in carbon storage. Her research will enhance understanding of how organic material interacts with ocean chemistry, providing insights that could optimize marine carbon removal strategies.

**Dr. Brandon Heung**, a Tier 2 CRC in Digital and Precision Agriculture, is developing a national soil database to aid farmers and policymakers. His work focuses on improving soil health and sustainability, essential for food security and climate resilience.

Renewed Canada Research Chairs Focus on Global Health and Marine Safety

Several researchers also received renewed CRCs, including **Dr. Zoe Finkel**, a Tier 1 CRC in Marine Microbial Macroecology. Her investigations into tiny marine phytoplankton are crucial for understanding ocean ecosystems and carbon cycling, contributing to global climate models.

**Dr. David Kelvin**, a Tier 1 CRC in Translational Vaccinology and Inflammation, is furthering research on infectious diseases. His team has been instrumental in sequencing viruses, including those responsible for the Mpox epidemic in the Democratic Republic of Congo, thus enhancing global health responses.

**Dr. Francesca Di Cara**, a Tier 2 CRC in Human Immunology and Host-Pathogen Interactions, is exploring the links between the body’s immune responses and neurodegenerative diseases like Parkinson’s. Her research may offer new avenues for early detection and intervention.

Lastly, **Dr. Floris Goerlandt**, a Tier 2 CRC in Risk Management and Resource Optimization for Marine Industries, is focused on improving maritime safety. His work integrates mathematical modeling with practical applications to enhance resilience in shipping and maritime operations.

The appointment of these nine CRCs reflects Dalhousie’s strategic commitment to research excellence, innovation, and addressing the complex challenges faced by society. With their diverse expertise, these researchers are poised to make significant contributions to their fields and beyond, shaping a more sustainable, just, and resilient future for all.