Researchers earn provincial awards for innovation

Tuesday, May 13, 2025

Five professors from Waterloo Engineering have received Early Researcher Awards (ERA) from the Government of Ontario to support innovative, homegrown research that benefits Ontario’s workers and communities.

The Early Researcher Awards program supports early-career faculty members by providing funding to build research teams and pursue transformational research. Each recipient is awarded up to $140,000 over five years. The awards were announced as part of a $75 million provincial investment to advance research and innovation across Ontario.

“Our government is investing in made-in-Ontario research that will protect our economy, jobs and workers,” said Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges, Universities, Research Excellence and Security. “By driving cutting-edge research at our world-class postsecondary institutions, hospitals and research institutions, people in Ontario, Canada and around the world will benefit from discoveries made in our own backyard.”

The five Waterloo Engineering faculty members awarded ERA funding are the following:

Dr. Nima Maftoon, Department of Systems Design Engineering, Biomedical Engineering program

Maftoon’s research aims to improve treatment for otitis media, one of the most common childhood illnesses. Current methods rely on tympanostomy tubes, which may cause complications and require surgical procedures. Maftoon’s team is developing an innovative medical device to address these challenges, potentially improving health outcomes for children and reducing burdens on families and the health care system.

Dr. Parsin Haji Reza, Department of Systems Design Engineering, Biomedical Engineering program

Haji Reza is transforming surgical oncology through Photon-Absorption Remote-Sensing (PARS), a patented imaging technology that uses lasers and artificial intelligence to visualize cancerous tissue in real time. PARS supports more complete tumour removal during surgery, which may reduce repeat procedures, improve recovery times and lower health care costs.

Dr. Yimin Wu, Department of Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering

Wu’s research addresses climate change and energy demand through the development of artificial leaves — engineered systems that mimic photosynthesis to convert carbon dioxide into sustainable fuels. By exploring the role of structural defects in these materials and integration of reactive carbon capture and conversion, his work aims to improve efficiency and support carbon-neutral energy technologies.

Dr. Chul Min Yeum, Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering

Yeum is advancing automated, vision-based inspection systems to monitor aging civil infrastructure. His research focuses on developing novel imaging tools and assessment methods that provide accurate, real-time data on structural deterioration. The work supports safer, longer-lasting infrastructure and more cost-effective maintenance strategies.

Prof. Linda Zhang, School of Architecture

Zhang is rethinking heritage preservation through equity-focused, community-led approaches. Her research challenges traditional methods by recognizing local histories and collective stewardship practices. In partnership with the Toronto Chinatown Land Trust, Zhang is piloting a digital platform in Chinatown West that enables residents to document, protect and shape their own heritage.

Headshots of the 2025 ERA winners

From left to right, top to bottom: Dr. Nima Maftoon, Dr. Parsin Haji Reza, Dr. Yimin Wu, Dr. Chul Min Yeum and Prof. Linda Zhang.