On June 14, the Government of Canada announced more than $94.5 million will be invested in the Canada Research Chairs (CRC) Program to support 121 new and renewed chair holders at 39 postsecondary institutions across the country in a wide range of disciplines including health, sciences and engineering, social sciences and humanities.

This latest Spring 2024 cycle of Canada Research Chairs, awarded to exceptional emerging researchers acknowledged by their peers as having the potential to lead in their field include:

C_Markle

Dr. Chantel Markle

Canada Research Chair in Wildlife Ecohydrology and Global Change (NSERC Tier 2)
Assistant Professor, Department of Geography & Environmental Management (GEM)

Markle’s research aims to advance our understanding of the effects of disturbances on the resilience and vulnerability of reptile habitat to support evidence-based policies for the conservation and management of species at risk.

In addition, she has received a $76,000 investment from the Canada Foundation for Innovation's John R. Evans Leaders Fund to advance her work. 

Tiz Mekonnen

Dr. Tizazu Mekonnen

Canada Research Chair in Sustainable Multiphase Polymers (NSERC Tier 2)
Associate Professor, Director - IBET PhD Project, Department of Chemical Engineering

Mekonnen’s research focuses on tackling the plastic waste crisis through the development of sustainable multiphase and multifunctional plastics. This work encompasses the development of novel routes and modification chemistries for the conversion of renewable chemicals, such as sugars, lignin, plant oils, and other naturally sourced starting materials into sustainable plastics. Canada Research Chair funding will allow Mekonnen to attract and train highly qualified personnel who will go on to become independent scientists, providing future solutions for future needs and challenges.

Ward

Dr. Valerie Ward

Canada Research Chair in Microalgae Biomanufacturing (NSERC Tier 2)
Assistant Professor, Department of Chemical Engineering

Ward’s research group is investigating using algae as a sustainable alternative to the chemicals currently used to produce plastics, textiles and some medications. Algae is particularly promising as it photosynthesizes and uses carbon dioxide. Receiving a CRC designation will allow Ward to focus on training graduate students. The chemical engineers learning their trade in her lab will be an essential part of a sustainable future.