Premier's Research Chair to Discuss 'New Agriculture'
February 20, 2008 - News Release
The University of Guelph's Premier's Research Chair in Biomaterials and Transportation will give his first public lecture Feb. 27 at 5:45 p.m. in Roome 1714 of the Lifetime Learning Centre. The event is free and open to the general public.
Amar Mohanty, a former Michigan State University professor and an international leader in the field of biomaterials, will speak on "The New Agriculture: The Journey for a Sustainable Bioeconomy" as part of the Ontario Agricultural College's (OAC) Public Lecture Series.
Mohanty joined U of G last fall following an international search. The University was awarded the $3-million Premier’s Research Chair as part of the Ontario Research Chairs program, which was established to create a culture of innovation and to strengthen Ontario’s economic advantage.
Biomaterials is a fast-growing research area that focuses on revolutionizing the use of agricultural products to develop novel products for industrial uses, ranging from car parts and building materials to fuel.
Mohanty’s research focuses on developing biobased materials and biofuels to provide sustainable alternatives to petroleum-based resources.As the Premier’s Research Chair, Mohanty will encourage the innovation of new cost-effective biobased consumer products and technology, and will liaise with government, industry and other universities. He will engage in and support interdisciplinary research in chemical and structural engineering, agricultural chemistry, plant biology, and traditional and molecular plant breeding.
He will also serve as director of the new Bioproducts Discovery Centre, a facility planned for the southeast end of campus that will be the hub for the University’s bioproducts research.
The OAC Public Lecture Series were developed with support from alumni and friends. They feature distinguished speakers on topical issues related to agriculture, food, the environment and rural communities in Canada and around the world. The series promotes better understanding of the challenges and opportunities of rapid change and global connectivity.
For media questions, contact Communications and Public Affairs: Lori Bona Hunt, 519-824-4120, Ext. 53338, l.hunt@exec.uoguelph.ca or Deirdre Healey, Ext. 56982, d.healey@exec.uoguelph.ca
