UNews - Dena McMartin

��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.

Graduate student research highlights strong Research Infosource ranking

trevor.kenney — Mon, 09 Dec 2024 18:23:55 +0000

Graduate student research continues to gain strength at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and that growth is reflected in the latest Research Infosource Canada’s Top 50 Research Universities list.

The rankings consider several measures related to research income, growth and industry partnerships. The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s highest individual measure came in the growth of graduate student research, moving from fifth to second overall. ULethbridge, grouped within the undergraduate universities category, ranked seventh overall amongst undergraduate schools in the country.

“Graduate student programming and research opportunities are key areas we continue to support with strategic planning and investment of resources,” says Dr. Dena McMartin, the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s vice-president (research). “We are unique in that our undergraduate students have opportunities to become involved in research very early in their academic journey and we have made a concerted effort to continue to develop graduate student research so that we can retain those students in a graduate setting, as well as attract top-tier graduate students from other institutions.”

The recent launch of the i4Geo Institute for Geospatial Inquiry, Instruction and Innovation is just one example of the outstanding graduate student research opportunities available on campus. With graduate degree programs in geography, remote sensing, environmental science, agricultural studies, geographical information science and computer science, there is also a major push to foster entrepreneurship, innovation, business incubation and community outreach through the institute.

ULethbridge also rated well in several other ranking markers, including a second place standing amongst undergraduate schools in International Government Research Income Growth, fourth in Corporate Research Income Growth and fifth in Not-for-Profit Research Income Growth.

“Our researchers continue to cultivate strong relationships with external partners who are looking to solve the biggest issues they are facing today,” adds McMartin. “This ranges from work in agri-business and manufacturing to medicine and health care, and so many more. While funding support rankings and growth measurements serve as snapshots of the great breadth of activities our researchers are involved in, the true measure of the importance of their work is how it is benefiting society and the change it is making daily to individuals in our community and beyond.”

Dr. Jackie Rice, dean of the School of Graduate Studies & Postdoctoral Affairs, says ULethbridge graduate students are keenly interested in addressing society’s most pressing needs.

“We believe in supporting research that has a positive community impact, and many graduate students bring a passion for addressing some problem or issue that hits close to home,” says Rice. “It’s rewarding to see them grow their knowledge and skills and be able to address issues that are impacting all of us in our day-to-day lives.”

The annual ranking report, released today by Research Infosource Ltd., identifies the country’s top research universities in relation to research income and is available here.

TECTERRA support helps launch i4Geo Institute for Geospatial Inquiry, Instruction and Innovation

trevor.kenney — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 21:53:25 +0000

Geomatics-related fields of study are taking another significant step forward at the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge thanks to major support from TECTERRA and the opening of i4Geo, the Institute for Geospatial Inquiry, Instruction and Innovation.

“This is something we’ve been working towards for some time and to see it come together is exciting and a real positive push for geospatial study,” says Dr. Chris Hopkinson, Professor in the Department of Geography & Environment, The Board of Governors Research Chair in Remote Sensing and Director of i4Geo. “There is so much opportunity in geographical information science, geospatial positioning and imaging technologies, sensor networks, big data analytics, artificial intelligence and 3D digital twins. Bringing these fields of study together under the i4Geo umbrella, encompassing research, training, networking, business innovation and community outreach will further establish ULethbridge as leaders in geospatial technology and its applications.”

Then graduate students Thomas Porter and Celeste Barnes set up and watch GNSS positioning, long range 3D laser scanner and four imaging systems, including Thermal, RGB, NIR and GoPro video all poised to capture the rates and volumes of avalanche motion as part of an international team of researchers participating in joint experiments for a BBC science documentary.

Geomatics is a branch of science that deals with the collection, analysis and interpretation of data relating to the Earth’s surface. ULethbridge students are the biggest winners with the introduction of i4Geo.

“The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s geography department has provided me with many opportunities to work with emerging technologies, such as airborne and drone lidar, as well as do fieldwork across western Canada, learning the most current GIS and geospatial analysis techniques for both my undergraduate and graduate work,” says Emily Jones, a PhD student member of the i4Geo newly formed executive committee. “The TECTERRA-funded i4Geo institute will help continue these opportunities for myself and other students; opportunities to get hands-on research experience and networking opportunities that have real-life applications.”

The emergence of i4Geo is in large part thanks to TECTERRA’s continued support of geomatics-related study and innovation. Since 2009, TECTERRA has supported the advancement of the geospatial sector in Alberta through funding programs targeted at commercializing technology, and more recently has focused its efforts on academia to foster the next generation of geospatial experts and entrepreneurs.

“We understand that staying ahead of the curve requires constant adaptation and innovation and we are particularly excited about i4GEO’s commitment to developing unique academic programs. As the Institute continues to grow and evolve, we look forward to seeing the impact that its students, faculty and partners will have on the world,” says Monty Carter, Managing Chair at TECTERRA.

In 2023, TECTERRA invested $5.2 million in a Legacy Program for Alberta-based universities, out of which $1.3 million was directed to ULethbridge to fund various undergraduate and graduate awards for students engaged in geomatics-related fields, as well as further growth opportunities — i4Geo being one. The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge Board of Governors also matched a portion of those funds as part of its commitment to student scholarships and bursaries.

“Our group of centres and institutes, now totalling 18, serve as exemplars of the incredible breadth of research taking place on campus,” says Dr. Dena McMartin, vice-president (research). “These centres push boundaries, spur innovation and provide opportunity for undergraduate, graduate and postdoctoral students to thrive in a rich multidisciplinary atmosphere that seeks answers to many of our most pressing societal issues. Adding i4Geo to this group further enhances the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ’s standing as a leader in this field of study.”

What excites Hopkinson about i4Geo is its broad, multidisciplinary nature. The institute offers undergraduate and graduate degree programs in geography, remote sensing, environmental science, agricultural studies, geographical information science and computer science. There is also a major push to foster entrepreneurship, innovation, business incubation and community outreach.

“As a community of nationally leading geospatial ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ and researchers, our faculty and students have so much to offer society beyond the day-to-day activities of degree-focused teaching and grant-funded research projects,” he says. “At its core, i4Geo’s goal is to provide a range of unique and complimentary pathways for community engagement and skills/knowledge dissemination, so that we can more effectively and collectively tackle a wide range of environmental challenges and nurture new opportunities.”

To that end, the institute debuted the first of its three-part series of workshops today — Using R for Geospatial Analysis: Part I. The three-hour workshops are intended for senior undergraduate and graduate students, while also offering individual modules via Continuing Education to members of the public in a blended learning environment.

“These workshops will allow us to support internal degree-level training needs, public education and outreach, as well as provide graduate students and postdoctoral fellows an excellent opportunity to share what they have learned and reinforce their own teaching portfolio in an area of their strength,” adds Hopkinson.

Finishing PhD student, Linda Flade, is hosting the first workshop and says they are designed to grow knowledge of geospatial work internally and externally.

“Through the opportunity afforded by i4Geo to embed my course on using R for geospatial analysis within this innovative series of workshops, I can share the knowledge gained during my PhD program with ULethbridge students and the public in a blended learning framework,” she says. “This will expand knowledge transfer from ULethbridge to the community and will further strengthen my teaching skills and experience.”

Agricultural research at the heart of new collaboration between ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge and county partners

caroline.zentner — Wed, 27 Nov 2024 17:17:51 +0000

The ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge has partnered with Lethbridge County, the St. Mary River Irrigation District (SMRID) and the Lethbridge Northern Irrigation District (LNID) to conduct research into local agricultural priorities.

The funding, $50,000 per year, will support five ULethbridge researchers over four years.

“This research partnership, thanks in large part to the efforts of Professor Emeritus Dr. Jim Byrne, will provide information and results that are extremely relevant to our area,” says Dr. Dena McMartin, vice-president of research. “By helping to identify opportunities to improve efficiency in agricultural operations, evaluating and advising on the viability of new crops and improving soil health, these projects will contribute to a more robust and sustainable agriculture sector.”

Lethbridge County contains more than 297,000 irrigated acres, allowing local farmers to produce a multitude of crops. The County is also home to rich pasture and grazing lands which serve livestock industries such as feedlots, dairies, and meatpacking and poultry processing facilities.

“As the most productive ag community in Alberta, we recognize that collaboration and sustainability are critical to success,” says Cole Beck, Lethbridge County CAO. “We’re proud to partner with the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge, LNID and SMRID to support research projects that will move the ag industry forward by seeking innovative solutions to challenges. We also appreciate the willingness of local producers to participate in research that will impact the future of agriculture in southern Alberta.”

“The St. Mary River Irrigation District is happy to collaborate with the Lethbridge Northern Irrigation District and Lethbridge County to support innovative research from the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge that will benefit farmers and livestock producers in southern Alberta,” says David Westwood, SMRID general manager.

“LNID shares an interest in supporting local researchers who can answer local questions applicable to stewardship of water within irrigated southern Alberta,” says Chris Gallagher, LNID general manager. “LNID recognized the value of partnering with Lethbridge County and SMRID to support ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge research projects that target our mutual interests and that of our constituents/irrigators. Having input into the selection of project areas of study, and some of the research questions to be answered, gives us a vested interest in the outcomes. The LNID Board is pleased to demonstrate a financial commitment to finding solutions to our mutual challenges as we continue to strive toward sustainable growth of irrigated agriculture in Lethbridge County.”

Dr. Neha Vaid, an assistant professor in the biology department, will study the potential for millets as a sustainable crop for marginal lands and as an aid in carbon sequestration and prevention of soil erosion in southern Alberta. She will test 11 millet varieties to analyze their potential as livestock feed, their impact on soil health, and seed and biomass yield.

Dr. Michele Konschuh, an associate professor in biology, will evaluate soil health in newly irrigated land parcels and compare it to land irrigated for longer periods. By comparing newly irrigated land, previously irrigated land and never irrigated land, Konschuh hopes to learn about the changes that occur when irrigation is introduced and what parameters need to be maintained to preserve soil health.

Dr. Dan Johnson, a professor in the geography and environment department, hopes to improve the forecasting of drought-related insect pests like grasshoppers. Johnson will conduct a spring survey of the grasshopper population to update the breeding survey usually conducted in late July and early August of the previous year. Johnson aims to develop better methods of forecasting grasshopper population growth, especially during droughts.

Dr. Hardeep Ryait, a professor at the Canadian Centre for Behavioural Neuroscience, will work on a project to improve sustainability and reduce the environmental impacts of livestock operations. Ryait wants to create a proof-of-concept livestock feedlot operation that incorporates solar panels for animal welfare, both for shade and electrical production. Cattle health would be monitored through an AI-powered video imaging system and radio-frequency identification (RFID) would be used to monitor feeding and watering behaviour to improve growth.

Dr. Paul Hazendonk, a professor in the chemistry & biochemistry department, will explore the production of biofuels from algae using hydrothermal liquefaction (HTL).

Ending homelessness the first topic of engaging 2024-2025 PUBlic Professor Series

trevor.kenney — Mon, 09 Sep 2024 15:33:05 +0000

Six topics, six issues and six opportunities to engage with the experts who are at the forefront of research and fostering understanding — the ��Ѹ��Դ��߿�Ƭ of Lethbridge presents the lineup for the 2024-25 PUBlic Professor Series.

Dr. Rebecca Schiff says hope is not lost in the struggle to end homelessness.

The annual lecture series designed to spark thought-provoking discussions on the most relevant topics of the day brings together a diverse group of experts and researchers from across campus and into the community. Every talk is free of charge.

“At its core, PUBlic Professor has always been about community outreach and allowing the broader community the opportunity to engage with our faculty members and tap into their insight and expertise,” says Dr. Dena McMartin, ULethbridge’s vice-president (research). “This year’s lineup of speakers is diverse in subject matter, extremely topical and one I’m really excited about. We have some very difficult issues that will hit close to home for many people and others that are more light and extremely fascinating. I think it shows the breadth of study here at ULethbridge and the opportunities our students enjoy every day.”

The first talk of the series, on Thursday, Sept. 26, 7 to 9 p.m., at the Sandman Signature Lethbridge Lodge, features Dr. Rebecca Schiff discussing one of the most pressing issues of the day — Ending Homelessness.

The rate of homelessness has exploded across Canada, and Schiff has an important message: hope is not cancelled. For nearly two decades, Schiff has worked with individuals experiencing homelessness, as well as homelessness agencies and organizations across the country on diverse homelessness research and action-research projects to understand how we can move towards a society where everyone is safely housed.

“Unfortunately, over the past two to three years, homelessness has doubled, tripled or more in most communities across our country,” says Schiff. “In my talk, I’ll share ideas, thoughts, solutions and actions that we can take to ensure that we can end homelessness in Canada.”

A transdisciplinary scholar and administrator whose research spans the fields of health sciences, social sciences, humanities and environmental sciences, Schiff began her role as deputy provost in May 2024. Her research work has included funding from a wide array of sources, including the Canadian Institute for Health Research (CIHR) and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC). She has been a principal or co-applicant on 50-plus research projects totaling over $13 million in grants and has authored/co-authored over 60 peer-reviewed publications. She has also produced three books, with her most recent — Pandemic preparedness and homelessness: International lessons from COVID-19 — released in September 2024.

Ensuing talks take place in October, November and January, February and March 2025. The series will also be held at some new venues, including the Agri-Food Hub & Trade Centre, The Slice Bar and Grill, and Owl Acoustic Lounge.

“Some of the topics lend themselves well to new venues and hopefully we will welcome some new community members and ULethbridge alumni who have never experienced a PUBlic Professor presentation before,” adds McMartin.

The series lineup is as follows:

2024-25 PUBlic Professor Series

Ending Homelessness — Dr. Rebecca Schiff, Thursday, Sept. 26, 2024 — Sandman Signature Lethbridge Lodge

Fiat Lux (Or, why honey bees are practically magic) — Dr. Shelley Hoover, Wednesday, Oct. 30, 2024 — Lethbridge & District Exhibition Agri-Food Hub & Trade Centre

Will Generative AI Change the World? — Dr. Sidney Shapiro, Thursday, Nov. 28, 2024 — The Slice Bar and Grill

Political and Policy Innovation in Alberta: The More Things Change . . . ? — Dr. Lars Hallstrom, Thursday, Jan. 30, 2025 — Sandman Signature Lethbridge Lodge

Sentimental Songs for Sentimental People — Dr. Emily Gale, Thursday, Feb. 27, 2025 — Owl Acoustic Lounge

Does Reading Even Matter Anymore? — Dr. Robin Bright (BA ’79, BEd ’82, MEd ’88), Thursday, Mar. 27, 2025 — Sandman Signature Lethbridge Lodge

UNews - Dena McMartin

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