UNews - Dena McMartin

Dr. Jennifer Copeland appointed Acting Associate Vice-President (Research)

trevor.kenney — Mon, 02 Mar 2026 23:15:13 +0000

Dr. Jennifer Copeland is stepping into a new role and has been appointed Acting Associate Vice-President (Research) and Dean of the School of Graduate Studies and Postdoctoral Affairs. Copeland will assume the role beginning July 1, 2026, as Dr. Jackie Rice, who served in this capacity since 2020 and was renewed for a second term in 2024, is commencing a one-year planned Administrative Leave.

Dr. Jennifer Copeland

“I am very pleased Dr. Copeland will be assuming the responsibilities of these important portfolios, and I want to thank Jackie for her excellent service over the last five-plus years,” says Dr. Michelle Helstein, Provost & Vice-President (Academic). “Dr. Copeland is a respected faculty member and researcher who has also done outstanding work in her administrative appointments, spanning extensive work in both graduate studies and research across disciplines. Dr. Dena McMartin, Vice-President (Research) and I look forward to continuing to work with her in those capacities.”

Copeland has been with the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge since 2003 as a professor in the Department of Kinesiology & Physical Education and is currently an Associate Dean of the Faculty of Arts & Science. She previously served as Interim Associate Vice-President (research) in 2019-20. Dr. Copeland earned her Bachelor of Science in Biology at Mount Allison ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ before completing an MSc and PhD in Exercise Physiology at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of New Brunswick.

Her lab, the Healthy Active Healthy Aging Lab, examines how physical activity and sedentary behaviour influence health across the lifespan, with a particular emphasis on functional capacity and healthy aging in older adults. Her program prioritizes community-engaged research and knowledge translation through collaborations with community partners and stakeholders.

“The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge is home to excellent graduate programs and a remarkable breadth of world-class research and creative activity,” she says. “I am excited to collaborate with faculty, institutional leadership, and the dedicated teams in ORIS and SGS to support and advance the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s research and graduate education priorities.”

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Research and Creative Activities Plan a framework for discovery

trevor.kenney — Tue, 24 Feb 2026 15:53:11 +0000

Ideas are the lifeblood of research — provoking curiosity and inviting new perspectives. When enriched by a supportive, inclusive and dynamic culture, ideas transform into tangible impact, enhancing lives in our community, our country and around the world.

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge’s Research and Creative Activities Plan, introduced today, provides the framework for sparking ideas and realizing impact through a focused and fearless approach.

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge research is sparked by curiosity.

“We are the people’s university, created nearly 60 years ago because southern Alberta demanded its own university and we relish that responsibility, because it inspires us in all of our research and creative activities,” says Dr. Dena McMartin, ULethbridge’s Vice-President (Research). “The research work that is done here is intentional and strategically focused, building on our strengths, nurturing collaboration, sharing expertise and breaking new ground. This plan represents those ideals.”

Developed through extensive consultations as part of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s strategic plan creation, the process included faculty members, students, community and corporate partners as well as further collaborative efforts of the Research Planning Committee. The new plan reflects the diversity of ULethbridge research activities as well as the breadth of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s many partner relationships.

“It was important to bring as many voices as we could to the table to offer perspective as well as gain insight into how we continue to grow our research programs and create even greater impact on our communities,” adds McMartin.

The plan is built off four fundamental focus areas, including Foundations, Ideas, Systems and Places.

Foundations — Valuing the ways the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ serves, benefits and works with the Blackfoot Confederacy and other Indigenous Peoples, Indigenous culture informs all we do, and our work animates Canada’s commitments to the Calls to Action in the Truth and Reconciliation Commission report.

Ideas — Discovery and knowledge-production are fundamental principles in research and creative activity, with our work driving discovery and re-imagining technologies, our understandings of intelligence and what it means to be a contributing citizen of the world.

Systems — We recognize the complexity of human, ecological and societal systems and that the role of humans in the world is complex and dynamic and must be addressed through a variety of lenses in ways that reflect our liberal education foundations.

Places — Our connection to place is embedded into our nature, and where we live and where we come from shapes how we think, learn and behave. Likewise, knowledge production is the basis for all community and well-being research and advancements in knowledge must encompass the cultural and physical landscapes that inform our work.

“I’m very proud of the work that has gone into making this plan and I believe it reflects who we are and who we aspire to be,” says McMartin. “This will guide our efforts going forward and having been through this process, I know how excited our researchers and our communities are for where our curiosity will take us.”

The full Research and Creative Activities Plan can be viewed on the ULethbridge Research web page.

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge hosting third annual International Women's Day Leadership Conference

caroline.zentner — Tue, 09 Dec 2025 17:15:46 +0000

On March 11, an impressive roster of leaders will be at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge campus for its 2026 ULethbridge International Women’s Day Leadership Conference.

The conference aims to bring people together for a day of conversation, networking and inspiration for International Women’s Day. This year, the keynote speakers are Jully Black, Canadian R&B artist and Juno Award winner and Dr. Malinda Smith, Associate Vice-President (Research EDI), ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Calgary.

Black is an award-winning singer, actress, entrepreneur, motivational speaker and philanthropist and fitness guru. She is a vocal advocate for the LGBTQ2S+ community, and in 2022, she founded the Jully Black Family Foundation, which offers scholarships to help women pursue education.

Smith is a distinguished scholar and leader with a PhD in political science from the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Alberta and multiple degrees from Western Michigan ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, including an MA, MDA, and a BA magna cum laude in political science and criminal justice.

“This event is about connecting and learning from inspiring individuals who have been change makers and leaders in their communities,” says Martha Mathurin-Moe, vice-provost, Accessibility, Belonging & Community at ULethbridge.

“We want to continue to shift the conversation around leadership and representation and celebrate International Women’s Day, a global day that celebrates the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women.”

This annual one-day event will bring together a diverse audience to learn from world-class leaders in research and ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, business, politics and Indigenous education and outreach.

The 2026 conference theme — Disrupting the Superwoman Narrative, Embracing the Power of Rest — will examine how the superwoman archetype is not always empowering but full of hidden expectations, unseen emotional and mental labour. The keynotes and panellists will explore how to navigate opportunities, expectations and outcomes as women in leadership and community, stay grounded and authentic and how rest and self-care is resistance.

The panel of prominent local leaders sharing their insights during the Lethbridge Leaders Forum includes the following:

Whitney (BMgt '06) and Kirby Maronda – The Property Twins Real Estate
Iitoomsaokaa’sii, Diandra Bruised Head (BSc '17), Indigenous Learning and Impact, Manager, Iniskim Indigenous Relations, ULethbridge
Jenn Schmidt-Rempel (BA '93) - Councillor, City of Lethbridge

“Year after year, this conference inspires us to continue breaking barriers and creating opportunities for one another. We look forward to learning from these thought leaders and to providing exceptional professional development opportunities right here in Lethbridge,” says ULethbridge’s Vice-President (Research) and event co-host, Dr. Dena McMartin.

Hosting this annual event demonstrates ULethbridge’s commitment to providing intentional spaces for empowerment, ingenuity, and knowledge-sharing, says event co-host Dr. Michelle Helstein, Provost and Vice-President (Academic), ULethbridge.

“Empowered women empower communities,” says Helstein. “This panel of esteemed local leaders demonstrate how our Lethbridge community is full of individuals shaping the future with resilience, creativity, and courage.”

Tickets are limited and on sale now. Early bird pricing is in effect until Jan. 30, 2026. Exclusive sponsorships are also available until Feb. 13, 2026. For more information, visit go.uleth.ca/womensconference.

New ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Canada Research Chairs at forefront of critical studies

caroline.zentner — Mon, 27 Oct 2025 16:35:05 +0000

Dr. Alex Tetarenko, an astrophysicist in the Department of Physics & Astronomy, has been named a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair (CRC) in Black Hole Astrophysics, and Dr. Amy Mack (BA ’13, MA ’16), assistant professor in the Department of New Media, has been named a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Digital Extremism.

The recent announcement by the Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, was part of $690 million invested in science and research funding across Canada. Of that amount, $198 million will support 259 new and renewed CRCs like Tetarenko and Mack.

In addition to being named Canada Research Chairs, the pair will also receive funding for infrastructure through the John R. Evans Leaders Fund (JELF) from the Canada Foundation for Innovation.

“This recognition reflects the high calibre of research taking place at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge,” says Dr. Dena McMartin, vice-president research. “These Canada Research Chair appointments honour the achievements of Dr. Tetarenko and Dr. Mack and illustrate ULethbridge’s commitment to advancing knowledge and understanding in a broad range of fields from astrophysics to new media.”

Dr. Alex Tetarenko studies the physics of black holes.

Tetarenko is an internationally recognized researcher in high-energy astrophysics. She has built her research program by using innovative methodologies to investigate black holes.

“My research focuses on developing creative new ways to study jets of material launched from stellar-mass black holes in our galaxy and extract vital new information about black-hole physics,” says Tetarenko. “This program will further enhance the growth of the Canadian astronomy talent pool by training postdoctoral fellows, graduate students and undergraduates, and have a wide-reaching impact in Canada and internationally.”

Tetarenko will receive $71,233 from the JELF for high-performance computing resources needed for her research lab.

Dr. Amy Mack investigates anti-democratic movements.

Mack, an internationally recognized researcher, speaker and writer in critical far-right studies and anthropology, uses an anti-fascist framework to research reactionary, anti-democratic movements. She leads several national research projects focused on the relationship between social media, disinformation and extremism. These projects explore how hate-based ideologies circulate online and manifest offine. She works closely with federal and municipal governments, frontline practitioners and communities to support efforts to counter hate, bias and extremism in southern Alberta. Her Countering Digital Extremism Lab, which provides research and skill-building opportunities for students and faculty, translates this academic knowledge into public-facing outputs that use new media technologies like podcasts, documentaries and social media campaigns.

“In an era of democratic backsliding and rising authoritarianism, we need to ensure that academic knowledge about the far right and other reactionary, anti-democratic movements is used effectively by stakeholders to disrupt radicalization and promote trust and social cohesion in our communities. This needs to be a whole-of-society approach that includes policy makers, tech companies, practitioners, educators, community advocates and the public,” says Mack.

Mack will receive $123,435 through JELF to set up her research lab.

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge researchers awarded federal research grants worth more than $3 million

caroline.zentner — Tue, 08 Jul 2025 21:50:59 +0000

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge researchers are among the successful applicants for federal grants announced by The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, and the Honourable Marjorie Michel, Minister of Health.

The more than $1.3 billion in funding supports over 9,700 researchers and research projects in Canada through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC).

“From brain plasticity and the mechanism of low-dose radiation to supporting newcomers through mentoring, these grants illustrate the diversity of research being done at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge,” says Dr. Dena McMartin, vice-president of research. “This funding not only helps established researchers continue their work but also helps our early career researchers build their research programs. Ultimately, our students benefit with increased opportunities to engage in research throughout their post-secondary careers.”

In total, ULethbridge received funding from NSERC for nine Discovery Grants and two Discovery Development Grants. The Discovery Grants will bring in nearly $475,000 a year for the next five years. The research projects include the following:

Dr. Gerlinde Metz (Neuroscience) will receive $96,000 per year for a study looking at the social determinants of experience-dependent brain plasticity.
Dr. Stacey Wetmore (Chemistry & Biochemistry) will receive $89,000 per year for a project involving computer modelling of modified RNA.
Dr. Olga Kovalchuk (Biological Sciences) was awarded $55,000 annually to study the fundamental mechanisms of low-dose radiation.
Dr. Borries Demeler (Chemistry & Biochemistry) is set to receive $47,000 yearly for solution studies of interacting biopolymer systems.
Dr. Hadi Kharaghani (Mathematics & Computer Science) will receive $32,000 a year for his project on special orthogonal matrices.

The remainder of the NSERC recipients are four early career researchers, each of whom received a Discovery Launch Supplement of $12,500 in addition to their Discovery Grant.

Dr. Corina Birghila (Mathematics & Computer Science) was awarded a yearly amount of $31,000 for a project titled Optimal Decision under Uncertainty.
Dr. Jessica Willi (Chemistry & Biochemistry) will receive $44,000 annually for a project on ribosome functions through synthetic biology.
Dr. Vineet Rathod (Chemistry & Biochemistry) will receive $38,000 annually to examine the structure-function relationship of natural and engineered amyloid proteins.
Dr. Dylan Girodat (Chemistry & Biochemistry) will receive $42,000 per year for a project on the structural dynamics of ribosomes during translation.

In addition, Discovery Development Grants, worth $22,000 each, were awarded to Drs. Christopher Hopkinson (Geography & Environment) and Marc Bomhof (Kinesiology and Physical Education).

Hopkinson will use remote sensing to model vegetation and snowpack response to wildland fire in headwater basins.
Bomhof intends to look at the interplay between exercise and dietary factors on appetite regulation.

ULethbridge social science and humanities researchers were awarded $645,000 in SSHRC Insight Grants.

Dr. Daniel O'Donnell (English) will work on a project involving Research Data Management and Research Data Infrastructure by humanities researchers.
Dr. Scott Rathwell (Kinesiology) wants to enhance sport participation, promote physical activity and improve health outcomes for aging adults by establishing a framework for effective sport programming in middle-aged and older adults.

Several ULethbridge researchers are the recipients of Insight Development Grants totalling more than $291,000.

Dr. Toupey Luft (Education) has designed a project to address the gap in understanding how arts-based mentorship may enhance a sense of belonging for newcomer young adults.
Dr. Kenneth Holyoke’s (Geography & Environment) project investigates the nature and scope of climate impacts on the Wolastoqiyik and Wabanaki archaeological record in New Brunswick.
Dr. Justin Raycraft’s (Anthropology) objective in this project is to increase understanding of the social dimensions of human-carnivore coexistence in the Tarangire ecosystem of northern Tanzania.
Dr. Jeffrey MacCormack (Education) will develop a professional development intervention consisting of a community of practice for teachers and principals where they learn evidence-based practices to support students with profound and multiple disabilities.
Dr. Miranda Leibel (Liberal Education) will examine how the creation and maintenance of postal services are an important component of Canadian state- and nation-building.

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge researchers earn Digital Research Alliance grants

caroline.zentner — Mon, 07 Jul 2025 17:51:01 +0000

Four ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge scholars have received $35,000 from the Digital Research Alliance (DRI) of Canada for projects advancing equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility (EDIA) in digital research infrastructure. The funding, announced earlier this year, is part of $2.87 million awarded to EDIA Champions across the country.

From left to right are Toyin Aladejebi, Chiedozie Alumona, Frank Onuh and Dr. Nathan Woods.

“To have four scholars from ULethbridge receive these grants is an indication of the excellence in research, and it is worth celebrating,” says Martha Mathurin-Moe, vice-provost of Accessibility, Belonging and Community. “Investing in this type of research is crucial for creating an inclusive, innovative and diverse research ecosystem where students are able to connect deeply, learn from multiple perspectives and address critical research problems. These research projects will continue to strengthen and broaden the research landscape, but also create meaningful opportunities for all our diverse students to contribute their unique perspectives and talents.”

“Digital research infrastructure is transforming the way we conduct and share scholarly work,” says Dr. Dena McMartin, vice-president of research. “By leveraging digital tools and resources, these researchers can overcome traditional barriers, collaborate more effectively and drive innovation across disciplines. Not only did we see strong interest in this inaugural call for proposals, our success rate reinforces the quality of our research environment.”

Toyin Aladejebi, a PhD student in Population Studies in Health, focused her project on empowering graduate women researchers to build networks that enable them to find and share data and collaborate with other researchers in Canada and around the world.

Chiedozie Alumona is a PhD candidate in the Faculty of Health Sciences studying under Dr. Olu Awosoga. Alumona’s project aims to train racialized scholars in the Faculty of Health Science in using digital research infrastructure.

Frank Onuh, a PhD student, conducts research at the intersection of information disorder, decoloniality and artificial intelligence (AI). His doctoral research centres on decolonizing information verification practices in Africa to leverage the insights and findings to develop appropriate intelligent systems for automated fact checking that capture and represent the African experience.

Dr. Nathan Woods, a postdoctoral fellow in the Humanities Innovation Lab, conducted a needs assessment study that looks at barriers and opportunities for humanities researchers to work with the Canadian digital research infrastructure.

Read the full story.

Neuroscience pioneer Dr. Robert McDonald earns ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Speaker Research Award

trevor.kenney — Wed, 07 May 2025 17:57:11 +0000

A trailblazer in behavioural neuroscience, Dr. Robert McDonald (BSc '89) is internationally recognized for his pioneering research into memory systems, neuroplasticity and Alzheimer’s disease, and has been named the 2025 winner of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge’s Speaker Research Award.

“The Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience has gained its reputation as a world-leading neuroscience hub because of researchers such as Dr. McDonald,” says Dr. Dena McMartin, ULethbridge vice-president (research). “His work does not build off others’ previous work rather he changed the way the neuroscience world approached the study of learning and memory. An exceptional teacher, Dr. McDonald’s contribution to his field have led to significant advances in the study of Alzhemier’s, aging and psychiatric disorders. His positive influence on public health and some of today’s most pressing health issues make him a very deserving recipient of the Speaker Research Award.”

Dr. Robert McDonald is internationally recognized for his work on memory systems, neuroplasticity and Alzheimer's disease.

The Speaker Research Award recognizes the importance of research, scholarship and performance to the philosophy and goals of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ.

McDonald will be presented with the Speaker Research Award at Spring 2025 Convocation, Ceremony I, on Thursday, May 29, 2023, at 9 a.m. in the Centre for Sport and Wellness gymnasium.

Dr. Robert McDonald

Professor Dr. Robert McDonald is a world-renowned neuroscientist whose research has fundamentally reshaped our understanding of learning and memory. Since joining the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge in 2004, he has developed a program of research that advances scientific theory and contributes directly to clinical applications in neurodegenerative diseases, mental health and cognitive disorders.

McDonald’s early work provided groundbreaking evidence that memory is not a unitary process but consists of multiple interacting systems. His seminal 1993 paper on triple dissociations in memory systems continues to be widely cited and has served as a cornerstone for subsequent research in behavioural neuroscience. By designing experiments that isolated specific memory processes and mapped them to neural circuits, McDonald helped establish a systems-based framework for understanding cognition. This approach, once considered outside the mainstream, has now become a central paradigm in the field.

Through more than three decades of continuous research funding — including prestigious grants from NSERC, CIHR and the Alzheimer Society of Canada — McDonald has led a highly productive lab investigating the biological foundations of memory, the effects of neurodevelopmental stressors, and novel models of Alzheimer’s disease. His recent work includes translational research on the sporadic form of Alzheimer’s, exploring how circadian disruption, the gut microbiome and early cannabinoid exposure affect cognitive health.

McDonald’s program is defined by its significant scientific impact and integrative, collaborative nature. His lab has worked alongside experts in biochemistry, imaging, genetics and computational neuroscience to test innovative hypotheses. He has co-authored more than 150 publications — several in high-impact journals — and has been invited to present at international conferences and contribute to leading academic journals. His influence also extends to clinical and public health circles, where his work has shaped thinking on Alzheimer’s, aging and psychiatric disorders.

Equity, diversity and inclusion are at the heart of McDonald’s research and mentoring philosophy. Over his career, he has trained nearly 200 students, many from underrepresented groups, and has created an inclusive lab environment with flexible supports tailored to individual needs. Numerous trainees have gone on to successful careers in academia, medicine and industry, including at institutions such as McGill ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Calgary and Washington ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ in St. Louis.

McDonald is also an exceptional teacher and campus citizen. He regularly teaches foundational courses in behavioural neuroscience and has served on departmental and national committees, including CIHR and NSERC grant panels. His contributions have brought significant distinction to the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and have solidified its reputation as a leader in neuroscience research. His commitment to excellence, mentorship and advancing human knowledge makes him a most deserving recipient of the Speaker Research Medal.

Faculty expertise showcased in lineup of 2025-26 PUBlic Professor Series speakers

trevor.kenney — Thu, 27 Mar 2025 20:29:34 +0000

From legalized gambling to AI in the classroom, testing confidence in eye-witness testimony and more, the 2025-26 lineup of PUBlic Professor Series lecture topics have been finalized, with six intriguing and engaging talks planned for the season.

Initiated in 2014 by the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge’s Faculty of Arts & Science, the PUBlic Professor Series lectures have grown to include the breadth of research expertise on campus, including representation from all its Faculties and Schools.

“The PUBlic Professor Series is one of our key opportunities to showcase the excellent work being done by our faculty members to the external community. It’s really an important example of the research activities taking place throughout campus and how impactful that work is on everyone’s daily lives,” says Dr. Dena McMartin, ULethbridge’s vice-president (research).

The 2025-26 season kicks off on Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025, when Faculty of Fine Arts professor Dr. Anne Dymond presents, From a Communist Doctor to Madonna’s Cone Bra: Museums and Cultural Diplomacy in Troubled Times. Her presentation will take place in a community location to be finalized as the PUBlic Professor Series continues to visit new venues to connect with more community members.

“We started moving the talks around this past year, using venues that opened the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ up to new audiences, and found it to be very successful,” adds McMartin. “PUBlic Professor is for the public, we want to meet them where they frequent, especially when topics lend themselves to specific locations.”

Ensuing talks will take place in October and November, and then January, February and March 2026 and include speakers from the Faculty of Arts & Science, Faculty of Education, Faculty of Health Sciences and Dhillon School of Business. As has always been the case, all PUBlic Professor Series events are free and open to the public and available for viewing on the ULethbridge YouTube channel the following week.

Working with local venues and bringing research activities into the community also creates partnership opportunities. Corporate sponsors and community partners seeking to support creating connections and promoting activities that benefit and inform society are encouraged to connect with External Relations at external.relations@uleth.ca to learn more.

This season’s PUBlic Professor Series talks conclude with Dr. Robin Bright’s presentation, Does Reading even Matter Anymore?, 7 p.m. at the Sandman Signature Lodge.

The PUBlic Professor Series is an example of the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge’s Strategic Plan in action under the strategic direction to Challenge Boundaries and Inspire Curiosity. We value courageous conversation, learning from each other’s knowledge and experiences, and actively promote the safe, respectful, open and accessible exchange of ideas.

The series lineup is as follows:

2025-26 PUBlic Professor Series

From a Communist Doctor to Madonna’s Cone Bra: Museums and Cultural Diplomacy in Troubled Times — Dr. Anne Dymond, Thursday, Sept. 25, 2025

Cockwombles, Cornucopias and the Curious Task of Economics — Dr. Danny Le Roy — Thursday, Oct. 30, 2025

Has AI Made Teachers Obsolete? — Dr. Richelle Marynowski (BEd ’94) — Thursday, Nov. 27, 2025

Playing Telephone with Eyewitness Evidence — Dr. Jamal Mansour — Thursday, Jan. 29, 2026

Indigenous Childhood Stories Transform Worlds – Want Some? — Dr. Don McIntyre — Thursday, Feb. 26, 2026

Legalized Gambling in Canada: Winners and Losers — Dr. Rob Williams — Thursday, March 26, 2026

Lab to Market grants boost entrepreneurial and commercial activities of ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge researchers

trevor.kenney — Wed, 15 Jan 2025 20:21:19 +0000

Entrepreneurship skills and commercialization capacity for ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge researchers earned a valuable boost today from the Government of Canada as $95.3 million of Lab to Market grants were announced in support of four networks of post-secondary institutions and organizations from private, public, not-for-profit and health services sectors.

Canadian researchers make discoveries with extraordinary potential. With the right tools and support, these ideas can become the next great innovations across all sectors of the economy and society.

The Honourable Terry Duguid, Minister of Sport and Minister responsible for Prairies Economic Development Canada, on behalf of the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry, made the funding announcement today. The grants will be administered by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) in collaboration with the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), alongside contributions from Mitacs.

“Lab to Market grants bridge the gap between research ideas and their translation into economic and social innovation. The four impressive networks will collectively offer tools and resources for researchers at all levels across the country to develop the skills they need to translate their great ideas into innovations for the benefit of Canadians,” says Alejandro Adem, FRSC, President, NSERC. “I can’t wait to see the results that will emerge from this new initiative!”

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge researchers are part of two collectives, including 30 colleges and universities that make up the Red River College Polytechnic — College-��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Lab to Market Network for Entrepreneurship & Research Commercialization group; and the Lab2Market: Canada’s National Network for Innovation, Commercialization, and Entrepreneurship Skills Training of Students, Researchers, and Highly Qualified Persons led by Dalhousie ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ.

“Our researchers have demonstrated time and again that their work is world-leading, innovative and can drive economic advancement and societal change,” says Dr. Dena McMartin, ULethbridge vice-president (research). “These grants will open doors for them in terms of access to the tools, resources and expertise they need to transfer scientific, social, and service innovation to market or to community users.”

Among the supports available through the Lab to Market program are digital resources to enhance awareness and knowledge of commercialization processes, mentorship and business coaching, financial assistance, and opportunities for collaboration and sharing best practices.

“These skills are essential to bringing their great ideas forward and creating the positive societal impact we are all seeking to achieve,” she adds.

Quick facts

The four networks are
- Red River College Polytechnic - College-��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ Lab to Market Network for Entrepreneurship & Research Commercialization;
- Dalhousie ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ - Lab2Market: Canada’s National Network for Innovation, Commercialization, and Entrepreneurship Skills Training of Students, Researchers, and Highly Qualified Persons;
- Simon Fraser ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ - National Invention to Innovation (i2I) Network;
- ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Guelph - Sustainable Food Systems for Canada Innovation Platform.
The four networks bring together 243 partner organizations, collaborators and co-applicants across the country, from academia, private, public, not-for-profit and health services sectors.
The Lab to Market grants initiative stems from the Government of Canada’s commitment in the 2022 Federal Budget to launch a new national program to help students and researchers take their work to market.
The Lab to Market grants initiative is a collaboration among the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC), on behalf of the Government of Canada.

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge hosting second annual International Women’s Day Leadership Conference

trevor.kenney — Mon, 16 Dec 2024 20:58:45 +0000

* This event is at capacity *

On March 12, an impressive roster of leaders will once again grace the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge campus for its second annual International Women’s Day Leadership Conference.

Featuring keynote presentations by international bestselling author, obstetrician and gynecologist Dr. Jen Gunter, and Dr. Ranjana Sharma, NRCan Chief Scientist and senior-most scientific authority in Natural Resources Canada, the conference aims to bring people together for a day of conversation, networking and inspiration.

“This event is about creating spaces of engagement with phenomenal individuals who have been changemakers and have shifted the conversation around leadership and representation,” says Martha Mathurin-Moe, vice-provost, Accessibility, Belonging & Community.

Under the theme — Leaders Who Change the Conversation — this conference will foster welcoming spaces of belonging for all voices, as well as share in the possibility and celebration of excellence as women and gender diverse individuals. This annual one-day celebration of success, community and solidarity will bring together a diverse audience to learn from world class leaders in education, arts, athletics and manufacturing who will inspire and uplift the change and thought leaders of tomorrow.

In addition to the keynote speakers, a panel of prominent local leaders will share their insights during the Lethbridge Leaders Forum.

The panel includes:

Kacie Bosch (BA ’20) and Paige Crozon, Canadian 3x3 basketball Olympians
Staahtsisttayaaki Dr. Genevieve Fox (BA/BEd ’03, MEd ’12), Education Director, Blackfoot Confederacy Council
Su Ying Strang, Executive Director, Maansiksikaitsitapiitsinikssin Southern Alberta Art Gallery
Simarjit Bains, Vice-President Manufacturing, Triple M Housing

“Once again, we have brought together thought leaders and innovators to offer an exceptional professional development experience right here in Lethbridge, and we look forward to continuing to provide these exceptional opportunities to our community,” says ULethbridge’s Vice-President (Research) and event co-host, Dr. Dena McMartin.

“Hosting this annual event demonstrates ULethbridge’s commitment to fostering strong connections with the Lethbridge community. This year’s conference offers a valuable platform to engage with our alumni, strengthen ties on and across our campuses, and deepen our community relationships,” says event co-host Dr. Michelle Helstein, provost and vice-president (academic).

Tickets are limited and on sale now. Early Bird pricing is in effect until January 15, 2025. Exclusive sponsorships are also available until January 31, 2025. For more information, please message m.nichol@uleth.ca or visit go.uleth.ca/IWD-conference.

UNews - Dena McMartin

Dr. Jennifer Copeland appointed Acting Associate Vice-President (Research)

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��Ѹ�����Դ���߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Research and Creative Activities Plan a framework for discovery

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��Ѹ�����Դ���߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge hosting third annual International Women's Day Leadership Conference

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New ��Ѹ�����Դ���߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Canada Research Chairs at forefront of critical studies

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��Ѹ�����Դ���߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge researchers awarded federal research grants worth more than $3 million

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��Ѹ�����Դ���߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge researchers earn Digital Research Alliance grants

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Neuroscience pioneer Dr. Robert McDonald earns ��Ѹ�����Դ���߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Speaker Research Award

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Faculty expertise showcased in lineup of 2025-26 PUBlic Professor Series speakers

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Lab to Market grants boost entrepreneurial and commercial activities of ��Ѹ�����Դ���߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge researchers

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��Ѹ�����Դ���߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge hosting second annual International Women’s Day Leadership Conference

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��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Research and Creative Activities Plan a framework for discovery

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge hosting third annual International Women's Day Leadership Conference

New ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Canada Research Chairs at forefront of critical studies

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge researchers awarded federal research grants worth more than $3 million

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge researchers earn Digital Research Alliance grants

Neuroscience pioneer Dr. Robert McDonald earns ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Speaker Research Award

Lab to Market grants boost entrepreneurial and commercial activities of ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge researchers

��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge hosting second annual International Women’s Day Leadership Conference