Government of Canada invests in research partnerships in areas of importance to Canadians

(Ottawa, Ont. March 25, 2011) ― Researchers at universities across Canada, in conjunction with community organizations, will look at key issues affecting Canadians and through their research offer concrete solutions to societal concerns.

The Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State (Science and Technology), today announced funding over five years totaling $8,993,254 for nine large-scale research projects that will bring communities and universities together to build knowledge in areas that impact Canadians.“The Government of Canada remains committed to strengthening Canada’s research advantage,” said Minister Goodyear. “This investment will help ensure that Canadians in communities across Canada have the tools they need to prosper and develop.”

The projects, funded through the Community-University Research Alliances (CURA) grants of the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC), focus on a wide range of issues of importance to Canadians, including parental separation and blended families; responsible investing; community-based water monitoring and management; intimate partner violence in rural and northern communities; community engagement for children and youth; repatriation of First Nations heritage and cultural artifacts; poverty and social inclusion; and, promoting diversity in leadership.

All the projects include partners from across the university sector and numerous community and not-for-profit organizations from throughout the country.

“These grants highlight the excellence of our country’s talented researchers and recognize the importance of fostering collaboration to keep Canada at the leading-edge of research, development and innovation in the 21st century,” said Chad Gaffield, President of SSHRC.

Following is the full list of grant recipients:

• Marie-Christine Saint-Jacques, Université Laval
• Tessa Hebb, Carleton University
• Catherine Conrad, Saint Mary’s University
• Nancy Nicol, York University
• Mary Hampton, University of Regina
• Alex Michalos, Brandon University
• Élise Dubuc, Université de Montréal
• Cheryl Forchuk, The University of Western Ontario
• Wendy Cukier, Ryerson University

For additional information on this release and other SSHRC research projects, please contact:

Trevor Lynn
Manager, Communications
Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada
Tel.: 613-992-7302
Cell: 613-302-9879
Email: Trevor.Lynn@sshrc-crsh.gc.ca

Steve Outhouse
Director of Communications
Office of the Honourable Gary Goodyear Minister of State (Science and Technology)
Tel.: 613-943-7602

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