On Wednesday, January 8, 2014, the Honourable Greg Rickford, Minister of State for Science and Technology visited TRIUMF to see examples of fundamental research, technology, and applications to industry and health care created at the laboratory. Accompanied by Member of Parliament for Vancouver-South Wai Young, Minister Rickford was guided around the facilities on an express tour with Jim Hanlon, President and CEO (AAPS Inc.) and CEO/CAO (TRIUMF), and Reiner Kruecken, Head of Science Division (TRIUMF), and was intercepted along the tour by researchers, scientists, and engineers who shared examples of success and innovation.
TRIUMF is making discoveries that address the most compelling questions in particle physics, nuclear physics, nuclear medicine and materials science and the tour encouraged Minister Rickford to touch and explore a few components found within the expansive scientific program. Beyond fundamental research, the Minister also took notice of a key ingredient in TRIUMF’s mission that is to commercialize research for the economic, environmental, and health benefits of all Canadians.
The Minister is seen in the photograph holding a target used in cyclotrons for the production of the commonly used medical isotope, Tc-99m. With recent breakthroughs in target technology, along with commercialization efforts through AAPS Inc., upgrades can be made to existing cyclotrons across Canada.
MP Wai Young said, "I'm extremely proud of the contributions the government has made to breakthrough science at my alma mater, UBC. From cyclotrons to e-wearables, the projects funded by our government will change the world."
The visit comes just as Minister Rickford announced the launch of a consultation that will seek input from Canadians on a new federal Science, Technology and Innovation Strategy. As part of the approach, the government has released a discussion paper that solicits ideas and recommendations from the public on how best to shape federal policy on science, technology and innovation.
Stretching every
moment of the visit, the Minister asked hard-hitting
questions and probed about the research and its impact on Canadians. The Minister
thanked TRIUMF warmly for the
visit. He enjoyed learning about the lab and
appreciated its pursuit
of excellence.
More pictures from the Minister's visit available on Flickr.
–Melissa M. Baluk, Communications Coordinator