The University of Waterloo is home to a diverse group of researchers, entrepreneurs and students, including world-renowned faculty who engage in all forms of scholarship. Our community builds on the University’s core research strengths while also leading inquiry into new and emerging fields and industries. Additionally, Waterloo researchers are strengthening Canada's economy by developing new businesses and training the next generation of highly qualified personnel.
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The Office of the Vice-President, Research (OVPR) provides guidance and expertise to researchers through each stage of the research trajectory. From applying for and managing funds to safeguarding research and cultivating collaborations with industry or public sector partners, the OVPR offers tailored advice and administration at every stage.
We move ideas from the lab to the marketplace through our key differentiators, including Waterloo's unique creator-owned IP policy, Velocity – Waterloo’s flagship hub for entrepreneurship and the Waterloo Commercialization Office (WatCo).
Guided by the University’s Global Futures, our researchers work across disciplines to advance society, health, the environment, technology and the economy. It is at these intersections that we are uncovering and driving the bold solutions needed to address the world’s most complex challenges.
OVPR staff work with our community to accelerate research outcomes, innovation, entrepreneurship and global impact.
Charmaine B. Dean
Email: vpri@uwaterloo.ca
Connect with me on LinkedIn
Research and innovation news and events
News
Eight University of Waterloo researchers earn Canada Research Chairs
Eight University of Waterloo researchers have been awarded new or renewed Canada Research Chairs, bringing more than $7.7 million in federal funding to support research with local, national and global impact. Spanning areas such as climate action, water sustainability, reproductive justice, quantum technologies, health, mathematics and engineering, these appointments strengthen Waterloo’s leadership in addressing some of society’s most pressing challenges while helping train the next generation of researchers and innovators.
Linda Nazar awarded Herzberg Gold Medal for transformative energy research
University of Waterloo Distinguished Professor Linda Nazar has received the 2026 NSERC Gerhard Herzberg Canada Gold Medal for Science and Engineering, Canada’s highest honour for scientific excellence.
Monica Emelko’s research and leadership recognized with Norman J. Howard Award
Professor Monica Emelko, a member of The Water Institute’s Board of Directors, has been recognized with the prestigious Norman J. Howard Award from the Ontario Water Works Association (OWWA).
Events
Enhancing research impact through engagement with media
You are invited to a Enhancing Research Impact through Engagement with Media, an in-person panel session featuring Waterloo’s James Danckert, Diana Parry, Anabela Bonada, Naila Ayala and Pamela Smyth.