University of Regina and Canadian Light Source solidify research collaboration

By Krista Baliko Posted: February 18, 2016 3:00 p.m.

Dr. David Malloy (left) Vice-President (Research) U of R, and Dr. Robert Lamb, Executive Director CLS, shake hands after signing MOU. Photo courtesy Canadian Light Source Inc.

The Canadian Light Source (CLS) is the brightest light in Canada – millions of times brighter than even the sun – used by scientists to get incredibly detailed information about the structural and chemical properties of materials at the molecular level.

Over the last decade this synchrotron radiation has developed into one of the most valuable scientific tools for the investigation of new materials, bio-medical samples, and biological and chemical processes. The University of Regina and the CLS signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) which lays out a framework of technical and scientific collaboration in synchrotron science. This agreement will strengthen both existing research programs.

“The CLS is one of the world's greatest facilities for synchrotron research, so it is vitally important to strengthen an already great relationship with scientists close to home," said CLS CEO Dr. Robert Lamb. "We have researchers from the University of Regina using this facility all the time, and this collaboration can get even better."

Researchers and graduate students from the University’s Institute for Energy, Environment, and Sustainable Communities are using the synchrotron for projects such as finding new techniques for soil remediation, paleontology studies, and studying the emerging pollutants of pharmaceuticals and personal care products.

“The advanced technologies that the CLS offers allow our scientists to look deeper at their work than ever before, resulting in not only new scientific discoveries, but also more discoveries,” said University of Regina Vice-President (Research), Dr. David Malloy. “The scientific innovations that emerge from these investigations will benefit those in Saskatchewan, Canada, and beyond.”

This MOU will also help to build more robust partnerships with industry and government organizations, increase funding from provincial and federal organizations, increase joint research initiatives, and create mentorship programs.

With this agreement, the University of Regina and the CLS will further develop their relationship, expertise, and research impact while pushing the boundaries of what is possible in novel scientific discovery in Saskatchewan.