Here’s what shaped our year in research
The André E. Lalonde National Facility: a decade of success and a look at those who will lead it into the future
The André E. Lalonde Accelerator Mass Spectrometry Laboratory (AEL-AMS) has been at the forefront of advanced radiocarbon dating for a decade, supporting groundbreaking research in archaeology, climate science and environmental monitoring.
Looking ahead, the facility aims to expand its impact by integrating new technologies, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and training the next generation of scientists to tackle global challenges with innovative solutions.
New uOttawa-France science diplomacy research chair to tackle global health and security
In partnership with the French Embassy in Canada, uOttawa and Sorbonne University launched a joint research chair to explore how science diplomacy can address global challenges, such as antimicrobial resistance and national security.
Co-held by professors Patrick Fafard and Pascal Griset, the chair investigates how scientific collaboration can transcend borders and balance universal ideals with national interests. The initiative fosters Franco-Canadian dialogue, promotes science-informed global governance, and aims to develop solutions for pressing international crises.
Canadian Pandemic Preparedness Hub to boost Canada’s capacity for home-grown vaccines and biotherapeutics
The Canadian Pandemic Preparedness Hub (CP2H), co-led by uOttawa, The Ottawa Hospital, and McMaster University, has secured over $115 million to boost Canada’s vaccine, gene therapy and cell therapy capacity.
The initiative includes upgrading facilities at The Ottawa Hospital and McMaster, establishing a new center at Dalhousie, and equipping the University of Saskatchewan’s Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO) with cutting-edge equipment. This funding supports research, infrastructure and training to enhance pandemic preparedness while positioning Canada as a global leader in life sciences and biotherapeutic innovation.
Pelvic floors and glass ceilings: uOttawa researcher advances knowledge in women’s health
Linda McLean, at the Faculty of Health Sciences, combines physiotherapy and biomedical engineering to address women’s health issues, including pelvic floor disorders, urinary incontinence and endometriosis. Her lab develops custom tools, such as specialized electrodes and dynamometers, to advance pelvic floor research and develop interventions.
By sharing her designs openly, Professor McLean fosters collaboration and advocates for greater access to pelvic health physiotherapy. Beyond physical health, her work aims to reduce stigma, ultimately improving the quality of life for countless women.
Music-led program helping people with dementia backed by the Public Health Agency of Canada
Professor Gilles Comeau, director of the Music and Health Research Institute, received a $1 million grant from the Public Health Agency of Canada to study music-based interventions for dementia patients and their caregivers.
Using the Dalcroze method, which combines music and movement, the program enhances cognitive, physical and social well-being while reducing isolation. The research also provides training for health-care professionals and resources for music educators, and there are plans to expand the program across Canada.
uOttawa’s Kanata North campus to expand on innovation and impact
Due to its growth over the past five years, the uOttawa Kanata North campus will move to a new facility by spring 2025. Since opening, the campus has doubled in size, launched the Smart Connected Vehicle Innovation Centre, and established a second space at Hub350. It has become a trusted partner in R&D and talent development, bridging the gap between academia and industry.
Looking ahead, uOttawa Kanata North aims to further expand industry partnerships, increase faculty engagement, and strengthen its commitment to innovation and community collaboration.
Sickle cell disease: Researchers and community advocates winning Senate battle for transformative health-care policy
Community advocates and researchers at uOttawa are driving transformative change for sickle cell disease (SCD) through Bill S-280, which proposes national care standards, newborn screening and a national registry.
The bill addresses stigma and systemic barriers, aiming to improve patient care, treatment access and family support.
With over 6,500 Canadians affected by SCD, an affliction that can reduce life expectancy by 30 years, this initiative is a critical step toward equitable, life-saving care.
Mitigating the impact of climate change and shipping in the Arctic: uOttawa Killam Fellow and local Inuit are taking action
Professor Jackie Dawson leads research on the environmental and social challenges of shipping through the Canadian Arctic. Collaborating with Inuit researchers, she addresses the risks of such shipping, such as invasive species, noise pollution and contaminants, while predicting future navigation routes.
Blending Western science with Inuit knowledge through the aajiiqatigiingniq framework, Dawson promotes Inuit-led marine management, fostering collaboration and advancing sustainable practices to protect fragile ecosystems and enhance climate resilience in one of the world’s most vulnerable regions.
The 91st Annual ACFAS Conference
Last May, the University of Ottawa proudly hosted the 91st annual Acfas conference, the largest multidisciplinary scientific gathering in the French-speaking world, under the theme of mobilizing knowledge in French.
More than 6,000 delegates from 30 countries came together to explore topics in AI, health, education, environmental challenges, and more.
Highlights included an inspiring conversation with the Honourable Michelle O’Bonsawin, Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada and honorary president of the conference, who shared her journey, passion for mental health research and perspectives on forensic psychiatry.
With the support of 250 volunteers and a strong commitment to sustainability, the conference marked a significant milestone in Francophone research.
Research chairholders driving innovation
Canada Research Chairs (CRC)
With 26 new and renewed CRCs in 2024, uOttawa researchers are tackling pressing challenges, from advancing health equity and AI ethics to addressing climate science and quantum communications. Their work connects cutting-edge research with community needs, driving transformative solutions in cybersecurity, sustainable technologies, and beyond.
Megan Cotnam-Kappel, who holds the Research Chair on Digital Thriving, addresses inequities in French-language schools and the impact of emerging technologies on linguistic diversity. Her work empowers educators and youth with tools and resources to foster an inclusive digital environment.
As the holder of the University of Ottawa/Institut du Savoir Montfort Joint Chair on the Health of Francophones in Ontario, Michelle Lalonde addresses barriers faced by Francophone nurses, such as language inequities and resource shortages. Her research promotes equitable care for Francophone communities and supports the development of a sustainable nursing workforce.
