News

Researchers at the University of Waterloo created a lightweight, flexible material using tungsten nanoparticles that can replace lead in X-ray aprons. It provides similar radiation protection but is about 90% lighter, reducing strain and health risks for workers. The new material is also safer and non-toxic, and may be used in medical, industrial, and other radiation-shielding applications.

Dr. Lyndon Jones, a member of the Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology (WIN), has received the University of Waterloo Excellence in Science Research Award (Senior Career Category) in recognition of his internationally impactful work in ocular and contact lens research. His contributions to dry eye disease, biomaterials, and drug delivery have advanced vision science and improved outcomes for millions of contact lens users worldwide.

Nazmul Hossain, a PhD student in Mechanical and Mechatronics Engineering at the University of Waterloo, has received multiple prestigious graduate scholarships—including OGS, QEII-GSST, and NSERC CGRS-D—in recognition of his research in sustainable energy technologies. Supervised by WIN faculty members Dr. Y. Norman Zhou and Dr. Aiping Yu, his work in next-generation energy harvesting highlights the impact of strong mentorship and innovative research at Waterloo.

Alfred Yu and Xuemin (Sherman) Shen, professors in Electrical and Computer Engineering, have received prestigious IEEE Canada awards in recognition of their exceptional contributions to engineering. Yu was honoured for his innovations in ultrasound imaging technology, while Shen was recognized for his impactful work in wireless and communication networks. Their achievements highlight the global influence of their research and leadership in advancing engineering technologies.

Congratulations to WIN member Marina Meilă on being awarded a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Reliable Structure Discovery. Her work focuses on developing advanced methods to ensure machine learning results are accurate and trustworthy, strengthening the reliability of data-driven discoveries and advancing innovation across scientific disciplines.

Congratulations to Juewen Liu for his pioneering work in DNA-based materials, where he is advancing the use of aptamers for applications in sensing, therapeutics, and environmental technologies.

Professor Boxin Zhao has been elected a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineering in recognition of his pioneering work in advanced functional materials, adhesion science, and sustainable nanotechnology applications.