Thursday, November 24, 2022


$15.8 million awarded to six Waterloo research projects aimed at tackling climate change

Smoke from two smokestacks waft across a landscape.

The Government of Canada's Environmental Damages Fund, administered by Environment and Climate Change Canada, is allocating $15.8 million to six University of Waterloo research projects to identify solutions to environmental challenges.

Funded through the Climate Action and Awareness Fund (CAAF), the research supports building sustainable net-zero emissions in Canada by 2050.

"Scientific research underpins everything we do to fight climate change. This funding provides critical support, allowing government and academia to collaborate to explore practical and achievable climate change solutions. By leveraging our unique expertise, we can foster collaboration across disciplines, sectors, communities, and research bodies," said the Honourable Steven Guilbeault, Minister of Environment and Climate Change.

The research stemming from Waterloo's projects will advance and extend existing collaborations among stakeholders, including municipal and community organizations, academic and federal science partners, researchers and trainees, to support climate change innovation and knowledge transfer.

The projects funded by CAAF are:

"It's critical for us to be working toward net-zero," said Dr. Charmaine Dean, vice president, Research and International at the University of Waterloo. "Using established and emerging strengths in fundamental and applied research, Waterloo is pushing boundaries to accelerate the transition to a climate-resilient, low-carbon sustainable society, and advancing the sustainable use and management of space, land, water, and energy on a global scale."

Nationally, the CAAF funding was part of Minister Guilbeault's $58 million announcement for research projects that will advance science and technology to combat climate change. Discovering solutions to environmental challenges impacting our world is a key priority at Waterloo. The recent launch of the Sustainable Futures initiative aims to make the University of Waterloo a global leader in sustainability research, education, and innovation to benefit the environment, economy, and society.

Waterloo releases 2022 Sustainability Report

A message from the Sustainability Office.

The cover of the Environmental Sustainability Report.The Sustainability Office is excited to release the 2022 Environmental Sustainability Report, on behalf of the University of Waterloo.

This annual report traces through numerous actions and initiatives that have been completed over the past year in support of Waterloo’s Environmental Sustainability Strategy, the Shift:Neutral climate action plan, and other institutional sustainability commitments.

Over the past year, investments have been made in new energy and emission reductions projects, in new academic programs and research activities related to sustainability, and in new engagement programs for employees and students.

The report includes:

  • Measurement of progress against all institutional targets and objectives
  • Case studies of projects and initiatives
  • Reflections on successes and areas needing further support
  • Interactive data and methodologies online

“The annual report is an important step to continue building our accountability and momentum,” says Mat Thijssen, Director of Sustainability. “It is great to see activity happening in many locations across campus, but we need to greatly accelerate these efforts to align with our goals.”

All members of the campus community are encouraged to review the report, and reflect on ways in which we can all support further action.

The report is available on the sustainability website.

A person wears a black and purple t-shirt with the hashtag #ConsentMatters on the side of the image.

A message from the Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Office (SVPRO).

As part of the annual 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-based Violence campaign, the Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Office (SVPRO) is partnering with the Sexual Assault Support Centre of Waterloo Region (SASC), Conestoga College, and Wilfrid Laurier University to address sexual violence on campus through a new campaign: #ConsentMatters. 

Led by UN Women, 16 Days begins on November 25, the International Day for the Elimination of Violence against Women and runs until December 10: Human Rights Day. Within Canada, this time also includes December 6, the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women.

#ConsentMatters invites students, staff and faculty to take a stand against sexual and gender-based violence, and to show solidarity by wearing the 2022 t-shirt or purple clothing and sharing your messages of support towards a culture of consent.

How can you support 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence?

  • Wear your tee or purple clothing during the 16 Days, post a selfie or group photo on social media, use the #ConsentMatters hashtag and #16DaysUW to share your pro-consent messaging with the campus community.
  • Not on social media? No problem! Share your photos and your pro consent messages with us online.
  • Didn’t order a t-shirt in time? Wear purple or pick up one of a limited quantity of free t-shirts on November 30 from 10:00 a.m. to 3:00 p.m. at the SVPRO booth in the DC foyer.
  • Visit the website for more information and a full listing of events, including workshops, resource booths and information on the annual ceremony to honor the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women
    Gender-based violence often feels very solitary and isolating. Wearing your shirt and sharing messages online encourages discussion and learning about the role we all play in creating safer campuses and communities. 

Learn more about 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence.

Position available: Assistant Vice-President, Research and International

A message from the Vice-President, Research and International.

The Office of the Vice-President, Research and International (VPRI) is seeking to fill the position of Assistant Vice-President, Research and International starting January 2023 for a three-year term (with the possibility of renewal).

Responsibilities

The Assistant Vice-President, Research and International will report to the Associate Vice-President, Research and International (AVPRI) and be part of the leadership team in the VPRI office. The role has two primary areas of responsibility, reflecting the changes in the AVPRI portfolio to incorporate research partnerships, research agreements, and government research collaborations due to an amalgamation of the portfolios of the AVP, Interdisciplinary and Sponsored Research (interdisciplinary, institutional and tri-agencies) and AVP, Enterprise Engagement (corporate, government and other partnerships) under a single Associate Vice-President

The responsibilities of the role are:

  1. Initiating and supporting external research partnerships:
  • Working with the Director, Research Partnerships to identify and catalyze new opportunities for research collaborations with faculty and industrial partners, including the development and promotion of large-scale sector-specific connector events; direct outreach to corporations; leveraging existing relationships, e.g. co-op, alumni
  • Developing and supporting research collaborations with priority international organizations, including corporate partners
  1. Facilitating and promoting interdisciplinary research initiatives:
  • Supporting and coordinating with campus-wide stakeholders on interdisciplinary team research initiatives
  • Developing and delivering interdisciplinary events and opportunities, aligned with the Waterloo at 100 Futures research clusters - mixers, collaborative space, seed grant competitions, student team challenges

Qualifications

Applicants to this role should be tenured faculty members who have held and been successful in leadership role(s) and:

  • Have a strong research track record, prominently including industrial partnerships and interdisciplinary collaborations;
  • Have extensive experience with external relationship building
  • Are comfortable being in a visible role, and providing leadership within the University;
  • Have excellent time management skills, including the ability to work with tight deadlines;
  • Have a history of productive interactions with faculty, staff, and administrators, at all levels.

Applicants should submit a cover letter detailing their interest in this role, and CV (or summary of relevant achievements and experience). Material should be submitted via email to Bernard Duncker, Associate Vice-President, Research and International at bduncker@uwaterloo.ca; review of submissions will begin on Friday December 2, 2022.

Food is only an app tap away with Campus Order Up

A message from Food Services.

A banner showing Subway branded food items for the app.

In today’s digital age and even more so after a near two-year long pandemic, we are constantly reliant on fast, seamless service to meet our day-to-day needs. Having been previously launched in 2019, UW Food Services has relaunched its mobile ordering app Campus Order Up after a short hiatus. On the app, customers can place their order in advance, pay by Credit Card or WatCard and pick up their food at the designated pick up location.

You can order from Brubakers Food Court in the Student Life Centre (SLC) which features: Quesada, Subway, Pita Pit, Shawarma Hub, Pizza Pizza, Teriyaki Experience, and Jugo Juice (NEW). You can also order from Rolltation from DC Bytes on the app and get a taste of Toronto’s sushi burritos and rice and/or salad bowls.

You can find the app on the AppStore and Google Play Stores and it is also available on the Campus Order Up website.

Faculty can get their questions added to regional survey; other notes

The University of Waterloo Survey Research Centre is offering the 2023 Waterloo Region Matters survey this spring for interested researchers to purchase space to field their own survey questions while sharing the cost of conducting the research with other parties. The due date to express interest in participating is January 23, 2023. Space is limited and will be filled on a first-come, first-served basis.

More details can be found on the Waterloo Region Matters website. If you have any questions or require more information, please contact t22ly@uwaterloo.ca or 519-888-4567 ext. 35071.

Faculty members may also be interested in a Virtual information session for Waterloo faculty: Collaborate 2 Commercialize (C2C) Program coming up on December 6.

"University of Waterloo faculty members are invited to an information session presented by Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI) and NSERC Alliance where you will learn about the Collaborate 2 Commercialize (C2C) Joint Program," says a note from the Office of Research. "C2C drives the commercialization of IP by supporting collaboration between Academica and Industry. If you have an industry problem you want to solve and are interested in applying your research to a real-world challenge, join the virtual event on Tuesday, December 6, from 10:00 a.m. to 11:00 a.m. and find out if this program is right for you." 

Please register to attend.

The Balinese Gamelan ensemble in cultural attire and with traditional instruments.

The Music Department's end-of-term concert series continues with the Balinese Gamelan ensemble's concert, which takes place Friday, November 25 at 7:30 p.m. at Knox Presbyterian in UpTown Waterloo.

Gamelan ensembles are primarily percussive instruments made of bronze and bamboo but may include drums, flutes, strings, and voice. An oral tradition taught and learned collectively, repertoire is transmitted in a group setting without the use of sheet music. The gamelan ensemble is directed by Balinese artist I Dewa Made Suparta.

The concert is free and open to the public.

Live cooking show banner image.There's still time to register for the Virtual Cooking Show for United Way on November 30. Attendees will join Chef Mark Meinzinger for a one-hour virtual cooking show and learn how to make three delicious appetizers in time for the holiday season. Register for the November 30 event. Registration closes at end-of-day Thursday (today). 

Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs (GSPA) and Co-operative and Experiential Education (CEE) have partnered to support grad work-integrated learning. You too can support the development of grad work-integrated learning opportunities by sharing your feedback in a series of Grad WIL focus groupsApply by Friday, November 25 to join focus groups taking place in early December. All focus group participants will have $10 added to their WatCard as a thank-you for participating. Learn more about the Grad WIL focus groups.

Link of the day

"Those aren't pillows!" Planes, Trains and Automobiles at 35

When and Where to get support

Students can visit the Student Success Office online for supports including academic development, international student resources, immigration consulting, leadership development, exchange and study abroad, and opportunities to get involved.

Instructors looking for targeted support for developing online components for blended learning courses, transitioning remote to fully online courses, revising current online courses, and more please visit Agile Development | Centre for Extended Learning | University of Waterloo (uwaterloo.ca).

Faculty, staff, post-doc and graduate student instructors can find upcoming teaching and learning workshops, self-directed modules and recordings of previous events on Centre for Teaching Excellence Workshops and Events page.

Instructors can access the EdTech Hub to find support on Waterloo’s centrally supported EdTech tools. The Hub is supported by members of IST’s Instructional Technologies and Media ServicesCentre for Teaching ExcellenceCentre for Extended Learning and subject matter experts from other campus areas.

Supports are available for employees returning to campus. Visit IST’s Hybrid Work and Technology guidelines and workplace protocols to assist with the transition.

Students with permanent, temporary and suspected disabilities and disabling conditions (medical conditions, injuries, or trauma from discrimination, violence, or oppression) can register with AccessAbility Services for academic accommodations (classroom accommodations, testing accommodations, milestone accommodations).

Instructors can visit AccessAbility Services' Faculty and Staff web page for information about the Instructor/Faculty role in the accommodation process. Instructors/Faculty members are legally required to accommodate students with disabilities. AccessAbility Services (AAS) is here to help you understand your obligations, and to offer services and resources to help you facilitate accommodations.

The Writing and Communication Centre has in-person and virtual services to support grad and undergrad students, postdocs and faculty with any writing or communication project. Services include one-to-one appointmentsdrop-ins at Dana Porter Libraryonline workshopswriting groupsEnglish conversation practice, and custom in-class workshops.  

Research Ethics: Find yourself with an ethical question, unsure if your work requires an ethics review, or need advice about putting together a research ethics application? Reach out to one of our friendly staff by booking a consultation or email us with your questions.

Co-op students can get help finding a job and find supports to successfully work remotely, develop new skills, access wellness and career information, and contact a co-op or career advisor.

The Centre for Career Action (CCA) has services and programs to support undergrads, grad students, postdocs, alumni, and employees in figuring out what they value, what they’re good at, and how to access meaningful work, co-op, volunteer, or graduate/professional school opportunities. Questions about CCA's services? Live chat, call 519-888-4047, or stop by our front desk in the Tatham Centre 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., Monday to Friday.

Drop-in to in-person Warrior Study Halls on Thursdays from 5:00 p.m. to 6:30 p.m. in DC and DP. Join a Peer Success Coach to set goals and work independently or in groups each week.

Renison's English Language Institute continues to offer virtual events and workshops to help students practice their English language skills.

If you feel overwhelmed or anxious and need to talk to somebody, please contact the University’s Campus Wellness services, either Health Services or  Counselling Services. You can also contact the University's Centre for Mental Health Research and TreatmentGood2Talk is a post-secondary student helpline available to all students.

The Library is here to help, both in person and online. Our spaces are open for access to book stacks, study space, computers and printers, and the IST Help Desk. For in-depth support, meet one-to-one with Librarians, Special Collections & Archives and Geospatial Centre staff. Access our resources online for anywhere, anytime learning and research. Full details on current services and hours are available on the Library’s COVID-19 Update webpage.

The Faculty Association of the University of Waterloo (FAUW) continues to advocate for its members. Check out the FAUW blog for more information.

The University of Waterloo Staff Association (UWSA) continues to advocate for its members. Check out the UWSA blog for more information.

The Sexual Violence Prevention and Response Office (SVPRO) supports all members of the University of Waterloo campus community who have experienced, or been impacted, by sexual violence. This includes all students, staff, faculty and visitors on the main campus, the satellite campuses, and at the affiliated and federated Waterloo Institutes and Colleges. For support, email: svpro@uwaterloo.ca or visit the SVPRO website.

The Office of Indigenous Relations is a central hub that provides guidance, support, and resources to all Indigenous and non-Indigenous campus community members and oversees the University's Indigenization strategy.

The Waterloo Indigenous Student Centre, based at United College, provides support and resources for Indigenous students, and educational outreach programs for the broader community, including lectures, and events.

WUSA supports for students:

Peer support - MATESGlow CentreRAISEWomen’s Centre - Click on one of the links to book an appointment either in person or online for the term.

Food Support Service food hampers are currently available from the Turnkey Desk 24/7 in the Student Life Centre. Drop-off locations are also open again in SLC, DC, DP, SCH, and all residences.

Co-op Connection all available online. 

Centre for Academic Policy Support - CAPS is here to assist Waterloo undergraduates throughout their experience in navigating academic policy in the instances of filing petitions, grievances and appeals. Please contact them at caps@wusa.ca.

WUSA Student Legal Protection Program - Seeking legal counsel can be intimidating, especially if it’s your first time facing a legal issue. The legal assistance helpline provides quick access to legal advice in any area of law, including criminal. Just call 1-833-202-4571

Empower Me is a confidential mental health and wellness service that connects students with qualified counsellors 24/7. They can be reached at 1-833-628-5589.

GSA-UW supports for graduate students: 

The Graduate Student Association (GSA-UW) supports students’ academic and social experience and promotes their well-being.

Advising and Support - The GSA advises graduate students experiencing challenges and can help with navigating university policies & filing a grievance, appeal, or petition.

Mental Health covered by the Health Plan - The GSA Health Plan now has an 80 per cent coverage rate (up to $800/year) for Mental Health Practitioners. Your plan includes coverage for psychologists, registered social workers, psychotherapists, and clinical counselors.

Dental Care - The GSA Dental Plan covers 60 to 70 per cent of your dental costs and by visiting dental professionals who are members of the Studentcare Networks, you can receive an additional 20 to 30 per cent coverage.

Student Legal Protection Program - Your GSA fees give you access to unlimited legal advice, accessible via a toll-free helpline: +1-833-202-4571. This advice covers topics including housing disputes, employment disputes, and disputes with an academic institution.

The Graduate House: Open Monday to Tuesday 11:30 a.m. to 7:00 p.m. and Wednesday to Friday 11:30 a.m. to 9:00 p.m. We’re open to all students, faculty, staff, and community members. The Graduate House is a community space run by the GSA-UW. We’re adding new items to the menu. Graduate students who paid their fees can get discounts and free coffee.

When and Where 

Warriors vs. Laurier Blood Donation Battle. Join our “Waterloo Warriors” team on the Blood.ca website or app. #ItsInYouToGive

Warriors Game Day Tickets and Season Passes, on sale now. Cheer on your Warriors W/M Basketball, Football W/M Hockey and W/M Volleyball teams at home during the 2022-23 season. Purchase today.

Free Staff Workouts, Tuesdays and Thursdays until December 22, 12:15 p.m. to 12:45 p.m. Bootcamp-style classes in the CIF Field House and PAC. Open to all staff and supported by the Staff Excellence Fund. Find out more/register now.

Flu shots available at Student Health Pharmacy, Monday to Friday, 9:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m., dial ext. 33784 for info.

Theatre and Performance presents EVERYBODY, Tuesday, November 22 to Saturday, November 26, Theatre of the Arts.

Translating Policy into Practice: Sexual Violence and the University, Thursday, November 24, 11:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m., HH335 and HH373. 

Grad Information Session for math undergrad students, Thursday, November 24, 4:30 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., M3 Atrium.

NEW - James Downey Celebration of Life, Friday, November 25, 11:00 a.m., live on YouTube.

Knowledge Integration seminar: “Experiential Education and Innovation for Social Impact” featuring speaker Erin Hogan, BKI'20, Programs Manager, GreenHouse social impact incubator, Friday, November 25, 2:30 p.m., EV3-1408.

Balinese Gamelan end of term concert, Friday, November 25, 7:30 p.m., Knox Presbyterian, free admission.

Warriors Basketball vs. Queen’s  Saturday, November 26, (W) 4:00 p.m., (M) 6:00 p.m., Carl Totzke Court, PAC. Camps and Youth Day (free tickets for youth wearing their basketball jerseys) Donor Appreciation Day. Purchase Tickets.

NEW - University Choir: Wintertide, Saturday, November 26, 7:30 p.m., St. John the Evangelist Church. $5 students, $10 for others. Tickets available at the door.

NEW - Chamber Choir: A Light of Song, Sunday, November 27, 4:00 p.m., St. John the Evangelist Church. $5 students, $10 for others. Tickets available at the door.

NEW - Waterloo.AI & Communitech, Industry Day Fall 2022: Data - The Fuel for AI, Monday, November 28, 8:00 a.m. to 6:00 p.m., Fed Hall or virtually via Zoom.

NEW - Applying to the Master of Business, Entrepreneurship and Technology, Wednesday, November 30, 12:00 p.m. to 12:30 p.m. ET, Zoom. Registration required.

NEW - Virtual Cooking Show for United Way, Wednesday, November 30, 5:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. Register here.