Canada has enlisted 64 professors to spearhead scientific research at universities nationwide, receiving significant funding. Industry Minister Mélanie Joly revealed during an address at the University of British Columbia (UBC) that the government is allocating $541 million in research funds to the initial group of research leaders recruited by Canadian institutions.
These academics are part of the Eddie Goldenberg Research Chairs of Canada and the Canada Impact+ Emerging Leaders programs, integral components of Ottawa’s $1.7-billion Canada Global Impact+ Research Talent Initiative launched in December. The research chairs initiative was renamed in memory of the late Eddie Goldenburg, former chief of staff to ex-prime minister Jean Chrétien, who passed away in July. Chrétien acknowledged Canada’s debt to Goldenberg for his public service, especially his investments in nurturing young talents.
Out of the total funding, $504 million is designated for the first 64 professors, with the remaining $37 million aimed at aiding universities in recruiting an additional 63 “emerging leaders” in the coming year. Sylvie Lamoureux, a vice-president at the federal government’s Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, highlighted that these academics possess a track record of leading comprehensive research endeavors.
According to Joly, three-quarters of the recruited professors are from the United States, as Canada competed with other nations offering similar programs. Each professor is poised to receive annual research funding ranging from $500,000 to $1 million over eight years, with the goal of fostering collaborations and building research teams.
One such academic, Peter Caravan, who returned to Canada after years in the U.S., expressed gratitude for being named one of the program’s distinguished research chairs, focusing on translational molecular imaging and therapy. Caravan emphasized the importance of investing in science and fostering a welcoming environment for researchers.
Responding to queries about poaching talent and potential clashes with the U.S., Joly asserted that the government’s focus is on attracting top researchers and supporting academic freedom. Despite challenges in the global academic landscape, Canada remains committed to bolstering its research capacity and welcoming top-tier talent.