In 2024, uOttawa celebrated transformative achievements in research, from advancing women’s health and dementia care to tackling climate change and pandemic preparedness. Highlights include partnerships in science diplomacy, Arctic protection, and cutting-edge innovation at Kanata North. With a focus on collaboration, equity, and sustainability, uOttawa continues to drive impactful solutions to global challenges.
(Image Source: uOttawa)
uOttawa’s 2024 Research Highlights: As 2024 draws close, the University of Ottawa (uOttawa) celebrates a year marked by groundbreaking research, impactful collaborations, and transformative ideas. Supported by the Office of the Vice-President, Research, and Innovation, these achievements demonstrate the university’s commitment to advancing knowledge and fostering meaningful progress. Let’s revisit some milestones that shaped uOttawa’s research landscape this year.
The André E. Lalonde Accelerator Mass Spectrometry Laboratory (AEL-AMS) celebrated ten years at the forefront of advanced radiocarbon dating. The facility has become a cornerstone for research in archaeology, climate science, and environmental monitoring, enabling scientists to unlock insights from the past to inform the future.
Looking ahead, the AEL-AMS is set to expand its influence by integrating state-of-the-art technologies, promoting interdisciplinary collaborations, and training a new generation of scientists. These efforts aim to equip researchers with the tools to tackle some of the world’s most pressing challenges through innovative solutions.
In a groundbreaking partnership with the French Embassy in Canada, uOttawa joined forces with Sorbonne University to launch a new research chair in science diplomacy. Co-held by Professors Patrick Fafard and Pascal Griset, the initiative explores the potential of science to address global challenges like antimicrobial resistance and national security.
The chair fosters a Franco-Canadian dialogue, advancing science-informed governance and balancing universal ideals with national interests. This initiative highlights how cross-border collaboration can lead to solutions for pressing international crises, underscoring the importance of diplomacy in an increasingly interconnected world.
uOttawa took a leading role in the Canadian Pandemic Preparedness Hub (CP2H), a national initiative to bolster Canada’s capacity for home-grown vaccines and biotherapeutics. With $115 million in funding, the hub unites uOttawa, The Ottawa Hospital, McMaster University, and other institutions to enhance infrastructure, research, and training.
The project includes facility upgrades, establishing new centers, and acquiring cutting-edge equipment at institutions like Dalhousie University and the University of Saskatchewan’s Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO). By fortifying Canada’s life sciences sector, CP2H positions the country as a global leader in pandemic preparedness.
Professor Linda McLean from the Faculty of Health Sciences is breaking women’s health research barriers. Combining physiotherapy and biomedical engineering, her work addresses pelvic floor disorders, urinary incontinence, and endometriosis.
McLean’s lab develops specialized tools such as custom electrodes and dynamometers to advance research and create targeted interventions. She encourages collaboration and advocates for greater access to pelvic health physiotherapy by openly sharing her designs. Her efforts aim not only to improve physical health but also to reduce stigma, transforming the lives of countless women.
Under the leadership of Professor Gilles Comeau, the Music and Health Research Institute secured a $1 million grant from the Public Health Agency of Canada to study music-based interventions for dementia patients and caregivers.
Using the Dalcroze method, which integrates music and movement, the program enhances cognitive, physical, and social well-being while reducing isolation. The research also provides training for healthcare professionals and resources for music educators, with plans to expand the program nationwide. This initiative exemplifies how creative approaches can bring meaningful improvements to the quality of life.
uOttawa’s Kanata North campus continues growing as a research and development hub, bridging the gap between academia and industry. Over the past five years, the campus has doubled, launched the Smart Connected Vehicle Innovation Centre, and established a presence at Hub350.
With a move to a new facility slated for spring 2025, the campus is set to expand its partnerships further, increase faculty involvement, and strengthen its role in fostering innovation. This expansion underscores uOttawa’s commitment to collaboration and community impact.
uOttawa researchers and community advocates made strides in advancing sickle cell disease (SCD) care. Through Bill S-280, they championed national care standards, newborn screening, and the creation of a national registry.
This initiative addresses stigma and systemic barriers, aiming to improve treatment access and support for families. With over 6,500 Canadians affected by SCD, this advocacy is a critical step toward equitable, life-saving care, demonstrating the power of research-driven policy change.
Professor Jackie Dawson, a uOttawa Killam Fellow, leads innovative research on the environmental and social impacts of shipping in the Canadian Arctic. Collaborating with Inuit researchers, Dawson addresses challenges like invasive species, noise pollution, and contaminants while predicting future navigation routes.
Using the aajiiqatigiingniq framework, which blends Western science with Inuit knowledge, Dawson promotes Inuit-led marine management. Her work advances sustainable practices, protecting fragile ecosystems and enhancing climate resilience in one of the world’s most vulnerable regions.
Last May, uOttawa hosted the 91st annual Acfas conference, the largest multidisciplinary scientific gathering in the French-speaking world. Under the theme “Mobilizing Knowledge in French,” the event brought together over 6,000 delegates from 30 countries.
The conference featured an inspiring address by the Honourable Michelle O’Bonsawin, Justice of the Supreme Court of Canada, who shared her journey and passion for mental health research. With the help of 250 volunteers and a commitment to sustainability, the event marked a significant milestone in Francophone research.
In 2024, uOttawa celebrated the appointment of 26 new and renewed Canada Research Chairs (CRCs). These researchers tackle critical challenges in health equity, AI ethics, climate science, and quantum communications.
The CRCs drive transformative solutions in cybersecurity, sustainable technologies, and beyond by connecting cutting-edge research with community needs. Their work highlights uOttawa’s dedication to leveraging research for societal benefit.
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Reflecting on 2024’s accomplishments, it’s clear that uOttawa’s research community remains committed to advancing knowledge and addressing global challenges. From health care innovations to climate resilience and beyond, these milestones showcase the transformative power of collaboration, creativity, and discovery.
With an eye toward the future, uOttawa continues to champion research that makes a difference—locally, nationally, and globally. Follow Education Post News for more latest global updates.
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