Research

A study led by a University of Waterloo researcher has learned that climate change is increasing the potential for algal blooms in the United Kingdom’s River Thames despite a four-decade-long decline in phosphorus loads. The study completed a detailed analysis of the river’s 150-year water quality record to learn this information.

Thursday, February 20, 2025

Cancerous breast tissue glows in new AI-enhanced MRI images

by Media Relations

Imaging technology developed and refined at the University of Waterloo promises better detection and treatment of breast cancer by more accurately pinpointing cancerous tissue.

First successfully applied to prostate cancer, the new form of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has now been optimized using artificial intelligence (AI) to make cancerous tissue appear to light up or glow next to healthy breast tissue in images.

Thursday, February 20, 2025

New platform helps evaluate AI for complex computer use

by Mayuri Punithan, Cheriton School of Computer Science

Imagine asking AI to plan your trip itinerary, book and pay for all your flights, and arrange your airport transport — all within a single click. Fortunately, an international research team is making this vision a reality.  

Victor Zhong

Dr. Victor Zhong
Co-creator, Computer Agent Arena
> Faculty of Mathematics

University of Waterloo researchers, staff and students have a strong tradition of working together to effectively address local and global challenges. Several outstanding members of the Waterloo community have been recognized for those efforts with the King Charles III Coronation Medal.

Thursday, February 13, 2025

Waterloo awarded $5 million to accelerate sustainable additive manufacturing

by Darren McAlmont, University Relations

What began as a 150-square-foot windowless lab at the University of Waterloo in 2004 is today the Multi-Scale Additive Manufacturing (MSAM) Lab — Canada’s largest academic metal additive manufacturing (AM) facility. With a space spanning 15,000 square feet, equipped with more than $25 million in cutting-edge infrastructure, MSAM leads innovation in advanced manufacturing, developing the next generation of sustainable 3D printing technologies for industries worldwide.

Thursday, February 13, 2025

Are cities bad for your health?

by Elizabeth Rogers, Faculty of Arts

On a crowded urban street corner, a crush of people waits for a pedestrian crossing signal. Above them 20, 30, 60-story concrete and glass skyscrapers block out the sun. Cars made of steel, powered by gasoline, hurtle past. It’s enough to make anyone feel a little uneasy.

As a mental health occupational therapist, Waterloo PhD candidate in cognitive neuroscience Robin Mazumder saw first-hand how some of his clients seemed happier in certain built environments — and stressed out in others.