On Thursday, at a ceremony in Markham, Ontario, Prime Minister Stephen Harper and Minister of State (Science and Technology) Ed Holder announced the release of an updated federal science, technology and innovation (ST&I) strategy. Titled Seizing Canada’s Moment: Moving Forward in Science, Technology and Innovation 2014, this strategy presents a clear vision for Canadian excellence in ST&I centered on three key pillars: people, knowledge, and innovation.
TRIUMF’s mission is well aligned with these pillars, as the laboratory’s Five-Year Plan 2015–2020 is squarely focussed on developing and attracting talent, driving research excellence, and generating societal and economic benefit for Canada. In addition, the multidisciplinary nature of TRIUMF’s research programs ensures that the laboratory is actively engaged in projects across each of the strategy’s five research priorities areas: environment and agriculture; health and life sciences; natural resources and energy; information and communications technologies; and advanced manufacturing.
“Through TRIUMF, Canada leads the world in isotopes for science, medicine, and business. The updated federal strategy provides the framework and vision to secure this leadership for years to come,” said Dr. Jonathan Bagger, Director, TRIUMF. “The new strategy conveys Canada’s commitment to excellence in science, technology and innovation.”
Also announced today was the launch of the Canada First Research Excellence Fund. Valued at $1.5 billion and supported by a competitive, peer-review system, this program will support world-leading research projects at Canadian postsecondary institutions. TRIUMF supports the Government’s efforts to ensure that Canadian institutions remain globally competitive.
“The fund will enable Canadian researchers to take on novel research opportunities,” said Dr. Bagger. “Canada will remain a top choice for the best and the brightest scientists and researchers.”
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Photo: Minister Ed Holder (left) with TRIUMF Director Jonathan Bagger in August 2014.
-Melissa M. Baluk, Communications Coordinator