New research is underway to develop a coating that will kill the COVID-19 virus immediately upon contact with any surface. The antiviral coating could be applied to all personal protective equipment and high-touch surfaces, greatly reducing the risk of community transmission of the virus.
Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs hosted the first ever virtual University of Waterloo Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition. Biologist Isabel Hilgendag and vision scientist Yara Mohiar both represented the Faculty of Science. Mohiar won second place, making her the fourth student from the School of Optometry and Vision Science to place/win at the university level competition.
The “Class of 2020” may have the most appropriate name possible for a graduating class of optometrists. The fourth year and final year of Waterloo’s optometry program is unique in that it focusses almost entirely on practical “hands-on” training. COVID-19 not only made that impossible, it also prompted the postponement of board exams in both Canada and the US and forced a detour on graduates’ career paths. Waterloo optometry graduates are resilient and flexible. They have found ways to give back to their communities, keep their skill sharp and for a few find a way to start their careers.
This award is given by the Canadian National Chapter of the International Association of Hydrogeologists and Canadian Geotechnical Society to honour an individual's outstanding contributions to the disciplines of earth science and engineering that emphasize the role or importance of groundwater.
Online learning is the new norm at the School of Pharmacy this Spring Term as a result of COVID-19. Like other faculty members, William W.L. Wong is exploring a variety of innovative methods to deliver content and assessments in a virtual space. Together, he and Pharmacy support staff devised a solution to continue offering a hands-on learning experience to his remote students.
The Faculty of Science hosted its virtual Anti-Racism Town Hall yesterday to listen to the Waterloo Science community about their experiences, ideas and suggestions for future change. The Town Hall was the first of many steps that Science will be taking to address issues and problems related to racism.
The recipients of the 2020 Amit and Meena Chakma Awards for Exceptional Teaching by a Student were announced this week by Associate Vice-President, Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs Jeff Casello. Dania Abuleil and Amy Chow, two PhD candidates from the School of Optometry and Vision Science, were among the four winners.
Last week, this year's Vanier Scholarship award winners were announced. Among the prestigious group were Finnian Gray, Christian Ieritano, and Spencer Weinstein, three Faculty of Science graduate students.