News

Have you ever noticed green scum on the surface of a lake? Cyanobacteria are a type of algae that can cause harmful blooms. Harshina Brijlall, a PhD in Biology student, is working to identify potential algal toxin-producing markers and understudied bacterial communities to aid in lake management.

Josh Crone, an undergraduate lab development specialist at the University of Waterloo, recently scored a win in the 2023 Gentec-EO Laser Lab Awards. This global competition is dedicated to enhancing optics labs in educational institutions, ensuring students have access to industry-leading measurement instruments. Collaborating with Nobel Laureate Donna Strickland, Crone paved the way for the win by developing a compelling narrative on how this equipment would benefit physics education at Waterloo.

Dr. Chris Houser, Dean of the Faculty of Science, and Dr. Suzanne Kearns, Founding Director of the Waterloo Institute for Sustainable Aeronautics, have announced a new Pilot in Residence position at the University of Waterloo – the first role of its kind in Canada. 

The University of Waterloo was thrilled to welcome students and researchers from across the country over the weekend for the 59th annual Canadian Undergraduate Physics Conference (CUPC). The conference provided a platform for over 100 students to showcase their research through co-op work terms and internships to leaders in the industry.

Last week, Mila Abaeva and Justin Shmordok, 4th year PhD candidates in the Department of Chemistry, visited and connected with student-run chemistry societies of four Atlantic Canada universities.

Andree Coschizza’s research revolves around low-temperature physics for quantum computing applications. One of the main barriers in quantum computing is that the necessary two-level quantum systems only become prominent at very low temperatures (often below 100 mK).

You have probably seen Phragmites australis in the wild—but did you know it is Ontario’s worst invasive plant species? Jersey Fontz, a PhD student in Biology (Water) is developing a seed mix to promote the growth of native species instead of invasive species after invasive species removal.

Biology Chair Kirsten Müller joins the Waterloo Climate Institute delegation to COP28 happening from November 30^th to December 12^th, 2023. A delegation of four student leaders and faculty researchers will represent the University of Waterloo at the event taking place in Dubai, United Arab Emirates. People from all over the world will be gathered for the climate change negotiations happening at COP28 and Chair Müller will have a front-row seat.

Congratulations Chair Müller and we can’t wait to hear about your experience!

Ryan Moreira received the 2023 PhD Alumni Gold Medal for Outstanding Academic Performance in a PhD Program at Fall convocation.

Ryan is a former PhD student of Professor Scott Taylor in the Department of Chemistry.

Congratulations, Ryan!