Innovative Projects Realized

Development of Paper-Based Microfluidic Electrochemical Biosensor for Early Detection of Acute Myocardial Infarction

The project’s goal is to investigate the use of a 2D reduced graphene oxide (rGO) based microfluidic channel driven electrochemical biosensor to detect AMI biomarkers. The device could be able to identify heart attacks before they happen. Therefore, it may be beneficial to reduce the enormous number of deaths brought on by this illness worldwide. Experts from the Universities of Waterloo in Canada and Jadavpur University in Kolkata will supervise this study. The researcher intends to work with top scientists and make use of cutting-edge resources by enrolling in the Mitacs Globalink program in order to gain a deeper understanding of this process. The results may result in important breakthroughs in medical technology and research. Shared resources, expertise, and the possibility of ground-breaking medical advancements are anticipated to be advantageous to both educational institutions.

Impression 3D des biocomposites à base de lignine

Le projet de recherche porte sur l’impression 3D de bio composites à base de lignine, un matériau biosourcé issu de la biomasse. L’objectif est de développer des matériaux écologiques et performants pour l’impression 3D en intégrant la lignine dans des composites innovants. Le stagiaire étudiera la formulation de ces bio composites, leurs propriétés rhéologiques et leur compatibilité avec l’impression 3D. Ce projet permettra de valoriser un sous-produit de l’industrie du bois, de réduire l’utilisation de plastiques d’origine fossile et de favoriser des alternatives durables dans le domaine de la fabrication additive.

Using environmental nucleic acids to monitor fish diversity in the main tributaries of the St Lawrence River

This project investigates how human pressure affects fish communities in the St. Lawrence River tributaries through a collaboration between the Comité Zone d’Intervention Prioritaire du Haut St-Laurent (ZIP) and PhD student Simone Miklosi. Together, ZIP and Simone developed research questions, selected sampling sites, and identified key environmental variables to assess.

To support the collaboration a member of ZIP will act as an advisor on Simone’s PhD thesis project. In April, June, and September 2025, Simone will collect DNA and RNA from water samples, a non-invasive method, at 18 sites along a gradient of human impact. ZIP will simultaneously collect water quality data, while both partners will collaborate to evaluate habitat conditions. The team will examine how riparian zones, water quality, and land use influence fish diversity using statistical models and analyses. The study will also compare the effectiveness of DNA and RNA for detecting shifts in community composition over time.

After data collection, Simone and ZIP will co-develop reports and presentations to share findings with government agencies and conservation groups. This collaborative, non-invasive research will provide essential insights into how fish communities respond to human pressures, supporting ZIP’s efforts to identify and protect critical tributaries for at-risk fish species.

Feasibility study on the use of metallurgical slag in the production of thermophosphates

This study investigates the feasibility of reducing metallurgical slag to obtain reactive oxides which, when combined with hydroxyapatite, can form a thermophosphate of high agronomic value. Metallurgical slag is an industrial waste product rich in calcium, iron, and silica, which can be reused in fertilizers. Hydroxyapatite, on the other hand, is a stable source of phosphorus, and its interaction with slag oxides can promote the solubilization of the nutrients in the soil. The process involves the thermal reduction of slag, followed by controlled mixing with hydroxyapatite to promote the formation of phosphate compounds with greater availability for plants. The analysis includes chemical and structural characterization of the products formed to assess their effectiveness as a fertilizer. The expected results include a controlled-release material that is environmentally sustainable and economically viable, contributing to the reuse of industrial waste and efficiency in crop nutrition.

Artificial Empathy in Fundraising

Many nonprofit organizations struggle to create compelling stories that inspire people to donate. This project aims to develop an AI-powered assistant that helps nonprofits improve their fundraising campaigns by using more empathetic and emotionally engaging language. Since people are more likely to donate when they feel a personal connection to a cause, this tool will suggest ways to make campaign messages more impactful.

The AI assistant will analyze and enhance fundraising messages, making them more effective in engaging potential donors. By testing different approaches across causes like environmental conservation, health, education, and community development, the tool will learn which types of messaging work best. Nonprofits will be able to use this AI-powered support to create more persuasive campaigns, build stronger connections with donors, and ultimately increase funding for their important work.

Vancouver Cycling Without Age Program Coordinator

Vancouver Cycling Without Age Society is a registered charity and volunteer-powered organisation based in Vancouver that provides recreational trishaw (3-wheeled bikes with a 2-person bench on the front) rides to seniors, and their families. Our goal is to break seniors free from social isolation and loneliness and help them to smile and reconnect with their loved ones and their community with the simple act of a bike ride. The Program Coordinator wants to bring joy to seniors who are socially isolated and marginalized. They are passionate about getting seniors outside into fresh air and feeling the wind in their hair. The Program Coordinator is responsible for coordinating the day to day operations and supporting the volunteers who are giving the rides. They are responsible for the delivery and quality of our care home and community ride programs.

Détection des rampes de puissance éolienne à l’aide de l’apprentissage machine

Le projet porte sur le développement et l’adaptation d’un modèle d’apprentissage profond existant afin de prévoir de façon automatique à partir de cartes de prévisions météorologiques à haute résolution la probabilité d’occurrence de rampes de puissance éolienne. Ces événements soudains de changement rapide de la production éolienne, difficiles à prévoir, peuvent avoir des impacts significatifs sur la stabilité du réseau électrique et poser des défis au niveau de sa gestion. Plusieurs études ont montré que l’occurrence de rampes est reliée à l’occurrence de phénomènes météorologiques précis. L’apprentissage profond sera ici utilisé pour analyser de façon automatique les patrons associés à ces phénomènes sur des cartes de prévisions et évaluer si les conditions sont propices ou non à l’occurrence de rampes, imitant ainsi le travail d’un météorologue expérimenté. Les avantages de ce projet pour l’organisation partenaire Hydro-Québec (HQ) seront d’augmenter la valeur économique de l’éolien et de faciliter son intégration dans le réseau, l’éolien étant appelé dans les années à venir à composer une part plus importante du mix énergétique au Québec avec des plans de développement ambitieux dont HQ sera le maître d’œuvre, et à remplacer une grande partie de l’électricité produite à partir de combustibles fossiles dans les réseaux

Optimization of photodynamic inactivation (PDI) compounds for control of plant pathogens in vitro and in vivo

This project aims to develop innovative and effective photodynamic inactivation (PDI) formulations as environmentally friendly biopesticides for managing plant diseases in vegetables, fruits, and ornamental crops grown in field and greenhouse settings. By addressing key challenges such as phytotoxicity and optimizing efficacy, the project is expected to create new agrochemical solutions that expand Nutrien’s product portfolio. These sustainable biopesticides, which can function independently or as part of integrated pest management (IPM) programs, align with growing demands for eco-friendly pest control methods. The anticipated outcomes include improved agricultural yields, enhanced food security in the face of climate change, and economic growth through job creation and increased competitiveness for Canada’s agricultural sector.

AI-Driven Ingredient Recognition & Measurement for Meal Planning

MealLens Inc. is developing an AI-driven meal-planning solution designed to help users efficiently manage food ingredients and optimize meal preparation. This project focuses on enhancing the system’s ability to recognize and process ingredient information while improving overall accuracy, user experience, and scalability. The expected outcome is a more intelligent and adaptable platform that will contribute to reducing food waste, streamlining kitchen management, and supporting healthier eating habits. This innovation will strengthen MealLens’ position in the food-tech industry and enhance its commercial potential.

Extrusion cooking of yellow pea starch- and fibre-based puffed snacks: Linking variability in raw materials to extrusion performance

This research project aims to develop nutritious, sustainable puffed snacks using yellow pea starch and fiber—valuable by-products of pea protein production. As Canada strengthens its plant protein industry, finding innovative ways to utilize these underused ingredients is essential for economic and environmental sustainability.
Using advanced extrusion processing, this study will examine how different raw material properties influence the texture, nutrition, and consumer appeal of these snacks. By optimizing processing conditions such as moisture content, temperature, and extrusion screw speed, we aim to enhance product quality and expand the market potential for pulse-based ingredients.
Our industry partner, Pulse Canada, is dedicated to promoting the use of Canadian pulses. A key challenge in incorporating pea starch and fiber into extruded snacks is their unpredictable behavior, which can lead to issues with texture, expansion, and consistency. This project will systematically address these concerns, providing data-driven solutions to improve production efficiency.
The expected outcomes include healthier, high-fiber, low-glycemic snack options, reduced food waste, and new economic opportunities for Canada’s pulse sector. By bridging food science innovation with industry needs, this research supports sustainable food development and strengthens Canada’s leadership in plant-based nutrition.

Optimized Design of a Highly Efficient Safety Barrier for Harsh Environments

The research project focuses on improving and optimizing planar transformers used in safety devices for hazardous areas. The intern will work with HB Safety Automation Group Inc., which develops explosion-proof safety barriers. The project aims to enhance transformer efficiency and safety by optimizing core materials like Manganese-Zinc and Nickel-Zinc ferrites. This will help solve issues like low efficiency and high heat loss. The expected benefits include safer products, reduced accident risks, and better market competitiveness for the company.

Stagiaire marketing : plateformes numériques

Le projet vise à optimiser la boutique en ligne d’Alcyon sel de mer afin d’améliorer l’expérience client et d’augmenter la conversion des visiteurs en acheteurs. Le stagiaire analysera le site web et proposera des améliorations en matière de navigation, de contenu et de référencement naturel (SEO) pour accroître la visibilité et l’accessibilité des produits. Il/elle travaillera également sur l’optimisation des campagnes numériques en utilisant Google Analytics, Shopify et des stratégies de marketing numérique pour mieux comprendre le comportement des consommateurs et ajuster les actions en conséquence. Ce projet permettra à Alcyon d’améliorer sa présence en ligne et de renforcer son positionnement dans le commerce électronique, tout en offrant au stagiaire une expérience concrète et appliquée dans un environnement entrepreneurial en pleine croissance.