Research

Alex Maierean (MMath ‘24)
Faculty of Mathematics
> PhD student, Institute of Quantum Computing
> CEO and co-founder, Phantom Photonics Velocity

As commercial interest in quantum technologies accelerates, entrepreneurial minds at the University of Waterloo are not waiting for opportunities — they are creating them.

Mark Schaan (BA ’02)
Alum, Political Science
Faculty of Arts
> Associate Deputy Minister, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada

Artificial intelligence (AI) is everywhere — hailed as a revolution, feared as a disruption, but ultimately defined by how thoughtfully we choose to use it.

A new study led by researchers at the University of Waterloo found that members of many Indigenous communities who eat certain types of locally harvested waterfowl, especially ducks with mixed or fish-based diets, may have higher levels of both mercury and healthy omega-3 fatty acids in their blood. 

The research, conducted in partnership with northern First Nations communities, suggests that waterfowl, such as ducks and geese, may need to be included more regularly in monitoring programs that track both contaminants and nutrients in traditional foods. 

Dr. Laura Middleton, associate professor in Kinesiology and Health Sciences and Schlegel Research Chair in Dementia and Active Living, has helped develop Dementia Capable Communities: new resources aimed at communities to help promote the well-being and independence of those living with dementia.

A natural, superabsorbent material developed at the University of Waterloo could dramatically reduce the environmental impact of personal hygiene products like diapers, menstrual pads and tampons.

Unlike synthetic absorbent materials in commercial hygiene products, which are expected to take centuries to break down, the new hydrogel degrades harmlessly in soil within three months.

A team of researchers at the University of Waterloo have made a breakthrough in quantum computing that elegantly bypasses the fundamental “no cloning” problem.  

Quantum computing is an exciting technological frontier, where information is stored and processed in tiny units — called qubits. Qubits can be stored, for example, in individual electrons, photons (particles of light), atoms, ions or tiny currents.  

This year brought countless reasons to celebrate as Waterloo students, alumni and researchers took bold new steps to innovate and create solutions for a complex future. 

As we wrap up 2025, we reflect with pride and share just a glimpse of student success, on-campus initiatives and groundbreaking research of our Waterloo community. 

If it feels as though more people get sick when the weather turns cold, that’s because they do. Dr. Brian Dixon, a professor in the Department of Biology at the University of Waterloo, says there is a connection between outside temperatures and our bodies. He recently collaborated with Dr. Julie Old from Western Sydney University on a recent academic paper and an informative video on temperature and immunity.

Can you catch a cold from the cold?