Editor:
Brandon Sweet
University Communications
bulletin@uwaterloo.ca
Waterloo leads university and industry consortium to advance Canada's security and defence
The University of Waterloo announced a 5G and beyond mobile network technology consortium to develop secure 5G mobile networks and improve Canada’s security and defence. The group is funded by the Department of National Defence (DND) through its Innovation for Defence Excellence and Security (IDEaS) program. A team of computer scientists at Waterloo is leading the $1.5 million multi-partner consortium.
The three-year project brings together academic and industry partners from École de technologie supérieure in Montréal, University of Regina, BlackBerry, NoviFlow, and Rockport Networks, with support from Rogers Communications Canada to create new solutions to secure 5G mobile networks. This latest global wireless standard delivers reliable, high-speed data transfers with very little delay — advanced communications technology that is transforming businesses, industries, and nations.
“Our mobile communications networks can be sliced using software into fit-for-purpose networks that operate virtually, each with a different degree of isolation and level of quality-of-service to meet security and performance requirements,” said Dr. Raouf Boutaba, the project’s principal investigator and director of Waterloo’s Cheriton School of Computer Science. “However, network softwarization also introduces vulnerabilities that can compromise services, including slices. The goal of the consortium is to deploy 5G network slices that not only have high performance, flexibility and reliability but also have increased security levels required for critical applications.”
Among the technologies the consortium will develop are artificial intelligence systems to detect a range of cyberattacks on 5G network slices as they happen, then respond quickly and automatically with countermeasures to keep the network secure. Additionally, security requirements will be built into the 5G network slices themselves using end-to-end network slice orchestration that responds dynamically to an application’s security requirements and the severity of threats.
5G network slicing can be defined as a network configuration that allows multiple networks to be created on top of a common physical infrastructure.
“The solution we are developing will have many, long-lasting impacts on Canadian industry and defence,” said Dr. Noura Limam, a research professor at the Cheriton School of Computer Science and the project’s coordinator. “Applications that range as widely as healthcare, public safety, emergency response and unmanned vehicles will benefit from these secure, responsive 5G network slices, positioning Canada as a leader in 5G and beyond mobile networks. Additionally, the innovations developed in collaboration with our industry partners — Rockport Networks, NoviFlow and BlackBerry — will further Canada’s economic prosperity.”
Ultimately, the various solutions will be integrated with the consortium’s partner and collaborator technologies to create a proof-of-concept on the University of Waterloo–Rogers 5G testbed.
Engineering student brings the Mecha Mayhem
By Jon Parsons. This story was originally featured on Waterloo News.
An undergraduate student in the Faculty of Engineering’s mechanical and mechatronics engineering program is a key organizer of an upcoming international robotics contest.
Jonathan Zhou, a 2022 Schulich Leader at Waterloo, is getting set to kick off an event called Mecha Mayhem in his hometown of Calgary. Zhou was recently a semi-finalist in the Breakthrough Junior Challenge for his work in science communications.
He is organizing the event with his brother, Justin, who is currently completing a Masters in Electrical Engineering at Waterloo and is a member of the Engineering Excellence Fellowship.
The Mecha Mayhem tournament will take place over three days of competition, with more than 120 middle and high school teams attending from around the world. It will feature Canadian tech and robotics companies and will be a chance to promote new talent on the world stage.
The event also aims to promote and diversify robotics and STEM education by donating leftover robotics kits after the competition is over.
“Robotics is not just a fun hobby,” Zhou says. “Many of the real-world skills and lessons I learn in classes at Waterloo, I’ve encountered before in robotics. It’s a great way to develop skills and an interest in mechatronics early on.”
Mecha Mayhem is the first VEX Robotics signature event in Canada. VEX Robotics is a company that offers educational opportunities for students, all the way from elementary school to university. Zhou says that VEX Robotics opportunities in Canada are few and far between, with only select schools across the country offering the programs.
This event is the latest work for Zhou and his non-profit, Western Mechatronics, which he started to help get young people involved in robotics competitions and robotics education.
“My entire team has been hard at work on this for the better part of a year,” he says. “It’s been a lot of work, but I’m incredibly proud of what we’ve done and can’t wait to see the event happen.”
Mecha Mayhem will be held at Calgary’s BMO Centre from February 3 to 5.
Ever considered becoming a Senator?
The University of Waterloo Act of 1972 established the terms and provisions for the institution including the roles and responsibilities of the Board of Governors and the Senate. The Board is responsible for the day-to-day operation of the University including the administration, finances, and assets while the Senate oversees the institution's academic policy.
The Senate includes students, faculty, staff, representatives of Affiliated and Federated Institutions and observers. Senator terms vary depending on their role and/or affiliation.
Senate nominations open in early February, with elections running March 2 -9.
If you would like to learn more, visit https://uwaterloo.ca/secretariat/nominations-elections.
Quantum for Health Design Challenge throws down the gauntlet
A message from Transformative Quantum Technologies (TQT).
Transformative Quantum Technologies (TQT) presents the Quantum for Health Design Challenge (Q4Health) to search for opportunities where quantum technology can advance health. This challenge is open to the entire University of Waterloo community, including undergraduate and graduate students, postdocs, faculty and staff.
Q4Health invites teams to develop well-motivated, quantum-based ideas that can lead to innovation in health. The focus is on the impacts that new technologies can have. No prototype is required. Winning teams can receive up to $10,000.
The application deadline is 5:00 p.m. ET on February 6, 2023.
To learn more about the Q4Health Design Challenge, visit Q4Health.
Velocity Innovation Ecosystem Mixer tomorrow and other notes
Velocity is mixing it up and wants you to join in the fun. "The Innovation Ecosystem Mixer is an opportunity to enjoy some food and refreshments, meet fellow students and aspiring or emerging entrepreneurs, make friends, gain valuable contacts, and build connections to all things Velocity including our people, spaces, and resources," says a note from Velocity. "Plus, find out about Zero, the Conrad School of Entrepreneurship and Business, GreenHouse (Social Impact Incubator), Grebel Peace Incubator, and the Library."
"Anyone can benefit from an entrepreneurial mindset and the Velocity community starts on the Waterloo campus. Whether you have experience or not, are exploring a big idea, or founding a company, Velocity is here to help."
The mixer takes place on Friday, January 13 from 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m. in SCH 228.
There's still time to register for the event.
The University of Waterloo IT Professional Development Advisory Group (PDAG) is hosting a talk on the Campus IT Review on Friday, January 13 from 9:00 a.m. to 9:45 a.m on Microsoft Teams. Presenting will be Andrew McAlorum and Connie van Oostveen, with Nathan Lee moderating.
"The IT Review process culminated in a report that was published in late 2019, with over 100 recommendations listed," says the event synopsis. "In the spring term of 2022, work was begun to organize and bring some structure to the work of implementing the recommendations. The following September, the project was launched with a defined scope, theme co-leads assigned, and the identification of inflight and new projects and initiatives related to the recommendations within the themes. In this session, you will learn about the organization and structure of the IT Review, the scope of the work, timelines, what actions are being taken, where progress is being made and how you can get involved."
Andrew McAlorum is the Director of Client Services in IST, which includes the Service Desks, Customer Relations and Support, and Project Management Office. He has held previous positions in higher ed IT at University of Waterloo, University of Toronto, and York University.
Connie van Oostveen is the Manager of the Project Management Office, and is currently the project manager for the IT Review. Connie has over 25 years of experience in IT, as a business analyst, portfolio and strategy manager and project manager, implementing large projects and initiatives for core business activities, as well as leading the development of an IST Strategic Plan (2017-2020). Connie has PMP and PMI-ACP certifications, a business analyst certificate and a BMath. With Nathan Lee, Connie leads the Project and Portfolio Community of Practice.
This session will be recorded and available via the PDAG MS Teams site.
Link of the day
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 Services, Centre for Teaching Excellence, Centre 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 appointments, drop-ins at Dana Porter Library, online workshops, writing groups, English 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 Treatment. Good2Talk 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 Office of Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Anti-Racism (EDI-R) works with students, faculty and staff across campus to advance equity and Anti-racism through evidence-based policies, practices and programs. If you have a concern related to Anti-racism and/or equity, please complete our intake form.
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 - MATES, Glow Centre, RAISE, Women’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 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.
Fitness and Personal Training - Registrations opened January 5 this winter with Personal Training and Small Group Training as well as a Free Warrior Workout Program.
Knowledge Integration seminar: “Prioritizing Wellness”, featuring speaker Anvita Desai, BKI’21, Equity, Inclusion, Diversity, and Anti-Racism Specialist on Ontario Health’s Provincial Equity and Indigenous Health portfolio, Friday, January 13, 2:30 p.m., EV3-1408.
Velocity presents Innovation Ecosystem Mixer, Friday, January 13, 4:00 p.m. to 6:00 p.m., SCH 228.
Master of Taxation Open House, Saturday, January 14, 9:30 a.m., 220 Yonge St, Unit 115, Toronto. To register visit www.mtax.ca.
NEW - Warriors Volleyball vs. RMC, Saturday, January 14, (W) 4:00 p.m., (M) 8:00 p.m., PAC. Warriors Night – first 10 teams to RSVP WarriorsTickets@uwaterloo.ca will receive free tickets. Buy your tickets today.
Warrior Rec Instructional Programs registration deadline, Monday, January 16, 1:00 p.m. Find out more.
Warrior Rec Intramurals registration deadline, Monday, January 16, 1:00 p.m. Sign up here.
Senate meeting, Monday, January 16, 3:30 p.m., NH 3407.
Introduction to Equity, Tuesday, January 17, 9:00 a.m. to 12 noon, online.
Master of Taxation, Virtual Information Session, full-time program, Tuesday, January 17, 4:00 p.m. To register visit www.uwaterloo.ca/mtax.
Deadline to register for Centre for Extended Learning (CEL) "Getting Ready to Facilitate Online Courses: TA Training – Winter 2023" course, Monday, January 30.
PhD oral defences
Computer Science. Xiang Fang, "A Generalized Blending Scheme for Arbitrary Order of Continuity." Supervisor, Stephen Mann. Thesis available from MGO - mgo@uwaterloo.ca. Oral defence Thursday, January 12, 9:00 a.m., DC 2310.
Computer Science. Ji Xin, "Efficient Inference of Transformers in Natural Language Processing: Early Exiting and Beyond." Supervisors, Jimmy Lin and Yaoliang Yu. Thesis available from MGO - mgo@uwaterloo.ca. Oral defence Friday, January 13, 9:30 a.m., online.
History. Jesse Abbott, "The Art of Getting Drunk: Martial Masculinity, Alcohol, and the British Army in the Canadas in the War of 1812." Supervisor, Julia Roberts. Available upon request from the Faculty of Arts, Graduate Studies and Research Officer. Oral defence Thursday, January 19, 9:30 a.m., PAS 2464 - hybrid.
Global Governance. Jennifer Kandjii, "Xenophobic citizenship, unsettling space, and constraining borders: Assembling refugee exclusion in South Africa’s everyday." Supervisor, Suzan Ilcan. Available upon request from the Faculty of Arts, Graduate Studies and Research Officer. Oral defence Thursday, January 26, 1:00 p.m., remote participation.