Three professors from Waterloo Engineering have received $6 million in provincial funding to support made-in-Ontario cutting-edge research projects.
The funding, delivered through the Ontario Research Fund, supports ground-breaking research that will advance knowledge, drive innovation and create a better future for the people of Ontario.
The recipients include Dr. Hamid Jahed, a mechanical engineering professor and University Research Chair in Cold Spray Technology; Dr. Ehsan Toyserkani, a mechanical and mechatronics engineering professor and Canada Research Chair in Intelligent Multi-Scale Additive Manufacturing; and Dr. Slim Boumaiza, an electrical and computer engineering professor. Each has been awarded $2 million to support their research.
Jahed will focus his research on how cold spray technology can make the automotive industry more sustainable. Jahed will explore using cold spray to reduce vehicle weight and control emissions, join different materials with coatings, repair parts to cut waste, and improve electric vehicle battery heat management with 3D printing. His research aims to make vehicles lighter and more efficient, ultimately helping to build a much greener future for transportation.
Toyserkani is advancing the sustainability of metal additive manufacturing (3D Printing) for serial production. His research integrates real-time sensors and artificial intelligence algorithms to detect and correct defects during various additive manufacturing processes. By enhancing efficiency and reliability, his work aims to make additive manufacturing more accessible to industries while supporting the development of standards that foster innovation and practical applications.
Boumaiza will lead a research initiative with private sector partners to develop practical mid-band 6G radio systems. His team will focus on advanced antenna arrays, transceivers, and digital signal processing algorithms to create high-performing prototypes. By addressing key 6G challenges, their work aims to unlock its commercial potential, ensuring these systems are ready for real-world use and advancing faster, more reliable, and innovative communication technologies.
“When we invest in research, we invest in our province’s future,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges and Universities. "These critical investments will ensure Ontario’s researchers can continue making discoveries that drive key sectors, create good-paying jobs, and improve the lives of all Ontarians.”
Go to Waterloo researchers awarded more than $10 million for the full story.