“This is a great moment for our two countries, Canada and India,” said Nigel Lockyer, Director of TRIUMF. “This partnership is poised to contribute to future growth in both countries. We can achieve this by working together.” On the evening of August 7, 2008, representatives from the India-based Variable Energy Cyclotron Centre (VECC) and TRIUMF gathered downtown Vancouver to witness the signing of a significant agreement between these two world-class laboratories.
“By working together, we expect to increase the economic, social, and environmental benefits that can be realized through this research,” commented the Director of VECC, Bikash Sinha. The partnership focuses on accelerators and rare-isotope beam physics and features an initial investment of $2.25 million. This collaboration will facilitate the exchange of knowledge, scientists and innovative ideas between TRIUMF and VECC.
VECC and TRIUMF have many common research goals. Like TRIUMF, VECC carries out research in accelerator physics, and nuclear and materials sciences. Both laboratories are key producers of accelerator-generated medical isotopes and contribute to life sciences research. Together, the facilities are able to learn, grow and achieve their research and development goals.
Others who were present at the signing reception included the Assistant to the Consul of India (Vancouver), UBC Associate Vice President Research, Western Economic Diversification Canada, NSERC, several BC-based businesses, and MLA Richard T. Lee and MP Raymond Chan. The signing of the Memorandum of Understanding is the outcome of hard work and cooperation from both laboratories. Thank you to everyone involved in this collaboration and making this event a reality and great success.
See the full press release HERE.
By Nicole Dublanko
TRIUMF's Communications Assistant