University of Regina researchers combating environmental toxins

News Release Release Date: February 17, 2012 1:00 p.m.

Researchers at the University of Regina have received $115,200 in funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) Leaders Opportunity Fund to study the effects of environmental toxins and $100,803 from the Government of Saskatchewan to examine converting waste to energy and greenhouse gas mitigation technology.

Combating environmental toxins: The incidence of disease and environmental damage linked to human waste products is on the rise in Canada. To better understand and help prevent such disease and damage, researchers at the University of Regina led by Dr. Tanya Dahms (Faculty of Science) will develop novel microscopic methods to investigate the effects of agricultural chemicals on microbial and human cells, and their interactions. By integrating state-of-the-art microscopes for the simultaneous monitoring of the interior and exterior of live cells, Dahms aims to identify previously undetectable cellular events resulting from persistent low-dose exposure to chemical cocktails, designed to mimic those currently released into the environment.

“The CFI is proud to support, through the Leaders Opportunity Fund, the tools needed by talented and well-trained individuals who will undoubtedly drive new ideas, develop original products and discover new ways to tackle issues,” said Dr. Gilles G. Patry, president and CEO of the Canada Foundation for Innovation. “Investing in people, providing them with the research infrastructure they need, and creating opportunities to collaborate across boundaries are all critical factors to fostering an innovative society.”

New funding from the Government of Saskatchewan will also be used to support the following two projects which have received funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation.

Converting waste into valuable energy: The rapid growth of bio-diesel production in Canada has caused an increase in the amount of glycerol, creating a costly waste disposal problem. Dr. Hussameldin Ibrahim (Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science) aims to develop a solution for converting the waste glycerol into valuable hydrogen and improve the economics of bio-diesel production, while helping Canada reduce its greenhouse gas emissions.

Optimizing carbon capture technology: Dr. Raphael Idem (Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science) is advancing carbon capture technology in order to ensure stable carbon capture operations as well as optimize and deploy newly developed and highly efficient carbon capture technologies. The research outcomes will provide new carbon capture technology and operating techniques that will ensure optimal operation during greenhouse gas emissions mitigation.

“Protecting our environment and working to reduce greenhouse gas emissions are key priorities for the Government of Saskatchewan,” Advanced Education, Employment and Immigration Minister Rob Norris said. “The research being conducted on these innovative projects will enhance our understanding of these global issues.” 

“The support of our federal and provincial governments for innovative research and development is helping to protect the health and well-being of Canadians,” said Dr. Dennis Fitzpatrick, Vice-President (Research) at the University of Regina. “Our researchers, through these new projects, are helping to advance Canada’s position as a leader in innovation and provide practical solutions to real-world problems.”

- 30 -