Canada has enlisted 64 professors to spearhead scientific research endeavors at various universities nationwide. In an announcement at the University of British Columbia (UBC), Industry Minister Mélanie Joly disclosed that the government is allocating $541 million in research funding to an initial group of research leaders appointed to 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 initiated in December. The research chairs program was renamed after the late Eddie Goldenberg, former chief of staff to ex-prime minister Jean Chrétien, who passed away in July. Chrétien emphasized Canada’s indebtedness to Goldenberg for his public service contributions, particularly his investments in nurturing the capabilities of young individuals.
Out of the total funding, $504 million is designated for the initial 64 professors, while the remaining $37 million will be utilized to assist universities in recruiting another 63 “emerging leaders” within the upcoming year. Sylvie Lamoureux, a vice-president of the federal government’s Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, noted that these academics possess a demonstrated history of spearheading large-scale, ambitious research initiatives.
Industry Minister Mélanie Joly emphasized the government’s commitment to reinforcing research and science endeavors. Joly highlighted that a significant portion of the recruited professors, three-quarters to be exact, are transitioning from institutions in the United States. She underscored that Canada faced competition from other nations launching similar initiatives, necessitating an enhancement in the program’s appeal.
Each professor is poised to receive annual research funding ranging from $500,000 to $1 million over an eight-year period. Joly clarified that this funding is not for personal use but rather aims to enable esteemed academics to assemble teams comprising professors, students, lab coordinators, and other collaborators.
One notable case is Peter Caravan, who returned to Canada after a successful research career in the U.S. Caravan, named one of the program’s distinguished research chairs, expressed gratitude for being part of the initiative, emphasizing his return to Canada as a homecoming. The initiative aims to attract top-tier researchers to Canadian institutions and foster a welcoming environment for scientific advancement.
In response to queries about talent poaching and global competitiveness, Joly stated that the U.S. administration is pursuing its strategies while Canada is pursuing its initiatives. The initiative seeks to counterbalance the reduction in scientific research funds in the U.S. and promote a conducive environment for researchers to thrive. Joly also hinted at a future wave of recruitment for the Eddie Goldenberg chairs program, indicating ongoing efforts to attract exceptional talent to Canada.
