Guelph, ON — Genomics research produces dramatic breakthroughs in science, transforming our understanding of the living world. Increasingly, the findings address important challenges and develop innovative solutions in human health and across diverse sectors of the economy.
The federal Minister of Science and Sport, the Honourable Kirsty Duncan, announced the results of three recent Genome Canada funding competitions at the University of Guelph. The projects include agriculture, natural resources, the environment and health. These investments together represent 37 research projects and an investment of $56 million from federal and provincial governments, as well as research institutions and private-sector partners.
This announcement includes support for a Mitacs-funded collaborative research project between Dr. Bonnie Mallard of the University of Guelph and Semex — a Canadian company started and owned by Canadian farmers. The project focuses on improving cattle welfare by fighting Bovine Respiratory Disease, which costs Canadian farmers more than $100 million a year.
Mitacs, a not-for-profit organization that fosters growth and innovation in Canada, helps solve business challenges by applying research solutions. As part of Mitacs’s partnership with Genome Canada, businesses and professors can apply for internship funding through streamlined project proposals.
These investments provide Canadian researchers and businesses access to the tools, technologies, and resources they require to make important advancements in genomics discoveries and applications. Importantly, support for these programs will enhance Canada’s leadership in this field of science while furthering the Government of Canada’s commitment to supporting a robust research and innovation enterprise.
Quotes:
The Honourable Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science and Sport
“Since taking office, our government has worked hard to return science and research to its rightful place. Today’s announcement is another step in that direction. Genomics research is driving innovation across many sectors: including health, forestry, agriculture, fisheries, mining, energy, and the environment. These exceptional projects we are investing in today encourage strong partnerships between researchers and innovators and will lead to breakthroughs in the future.”
Marc Lepage, President and CEO, Genome Canada
“It’s very exciting to see the ways that our different programs help enable large-scale science, pioneering technologies, and the translation of discoveries into real-world applications. Every day we are learning that genomics has very real, very tangible benefits in diverse sectors across Canada.”
Ridha Ben Mrad, Chief Research Officer, Mitacs
“Today’s announcement reflects a commitment that the Government of Canada, Genome Canada, and Mitacs share in supporting our next generation of innovators whose research in genomics will have significant, multi-sector impacts for our country — and for our well-being.”
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