Faculty and Staff
Composite image of features from the report, including NMR lab in lower left, Dr. Rozita Dara and a student using a computer upper left, a chemistry student in a lab, and the exterior of University Centre.

CEPS Annual Report 2023-24: For Our Future

Dean's Message

In this report, themed For Our Future, we’ve highlighted just a few of the many achievements from our community that align with key priorities for the University of Guelph: Deepening our global impact, building a sustainable future, and developing a vibrant student experience.

Our community is advancing our commitment to providing an inclusive learning environment, such as through CEPS’s new Indigenization, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion committee this past year. I am grateful to the faculty, staff and students who have stepped forward to establish this inaugural committee.

Our faculty and researchers have been laser-focused on impactful research in both applied and fundamental subjects. In 2023-24 received $23.6 in government and tri-agency funding to advance knowledge in our diverse disciplines.

We are also enhancing our programs, giving our students the skills they need to succeed in a changing world, while ensuring alignment with Canada’s labour market. This year, we approved new programs such as the Master of Cybersecurity and Cyberpreneurship (MCLC) and the Bachelor of Mathematics undergraduate program.

Our partnerships with industry and government have been instrumental in innovative, real-world applications of our research. We launched the Canada Cyber Foundry to help eliminate cyber poverty. Provincial funding supported the Centre for Advancing Responsible and Ethical AI’s new micro-learning platform aimed at sparking interest in AI in the automotive and mobility sectors. Our experts have received recognition from industry for their pioneering research, such as Dr. Beth Parker’s Synergy Award for Innovation.

As I look to my own next adventure in retirement, I would also like to welcome Dr. Moncef Nehdi as the new dean for the College effective September 1, 2024, and Dr. Monica Cojocaru as the Associate Dean, Research and Graduate Studies effective June 15, 2024.

We hope you enjoy reading just a few of our community’s many success stories in the report. Thank you for your ongoing support.
 

Dr. Richard G. Zytner, P.Eng., FEC, FCSCE (he/him)
Interim Dean | College of Engineering and Physical Sciences, University of Guelph

Moncef Nehdi
Effective September 1, 2024, Dr. Moncef Nehdi began his five-year term as Dean, CEPS. An experienced academic leader, Nehdi comes to U of G from McMaster University where he has served as chair of the Department of Civil Engineering since 2022. Nehdi, an award-winning researcher and educator, holds a PhD in civil engineering from the University of British Columbia and is a fellow of several Canadian and international engineering institutes.

Dr. Moncef Nehdi
Dean, College of Engineering and Physical Sciences
U of G Appoints Dean, CEPS

Dr. Monica Cojocaru sitting on a rock on campus, smiling.
Effective June 15, 2024, Dr. Monica Cojocaru began her five-year term as Associate Dean, Research and Graduate Studies, CEPS. Cojocaru served as interim ADRGS since August of 2022. Cojocaru is a Professor of Mathematics in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics. She holds a PhD in Mathematics from Queen’s University and has received numerous prestigious awards and grants for her leading research and graduate student training.

Dr. Monica Cojocaru
Associate Dean, Research and Graduate Studies, CEPS
CEPS Appoints Associate Dean, R&GS

CEPS by the Numbers 2023

59,017
Total citations
597
Average citations per researcher
$2.09
Million in donations
11
New patent applications
$23.6
Million in research funding
$8.7
Million in NSERC funding
3,510
Undergraduate students
731
Graduate students
225+
Faculty and staff

CEPS Research Financials Distribution. Total for 2023-24: $23,630,946

Visual of College research financial debrief. Includes the following information on breakdown of research revenues sources and respective totals, demonstrated by a visual pie chart.


Groundbreaking Vaccine Development Surpasses $1 Million in Royalties

Dr. Mario Monteiro and team stand in lab together while wearing PPE

Pictured from left: Dr. Luis G. Arroyo Castro, Professor, Large Animal Medicine, Department of Clinical Studies; Nolan Frame, PhD candidate; Dr. Mario Monteiro, Professor, Department of Chemistry; Jamie Dawson, M.Sc. candidate; Victoria Longato, undergraduate student

By Jamie Dawson, M.Sc. Student, Department of Chemistry

A licensed patent for a vaccine against the common bacterial infection Clostridioides difficile (C. diff), developed by chemistry professor Dr. Mario A. Monteiro, has just earned its first $1 million in royalties for the University of Guelph (U of G).

Innovative Discovery and Patent Journey

In 2007, Monteiro and his PhD student Jeya Ganeshapillai mapped out the structure of a polysaccharide on the surface of C. diff, the leading cause of healthcare-associated infectious diarrhea in Canada. They tested a glycoconjugate vaccine, which binds polysaccharide to a protein to stimulate the immune system, ensuring a robust response. Their discovery won the U of G's Innovation of the Year Award in 2016.

Through U of G’s Research and Innovation Office (RIO), Monteiro and Ganeshapillai filed patents in 12 countries for their discovery in 2008. The patent process varies by country, but on average it takes five years for approval, with patents being active for 20 years from the filing date.

“One of the challenges we face is finding the balance between celebrating our research publicly and delaying the release of those critical details needed to secure the intellectual property of our patent,” said Monteiro.

Monteiro’s lab in U of G’s Department of Chemistry is one of a few in the world that develops carbohydrate-based vaccines; most current vaccine candidates focus on targeting bacterial proteins.

In 2022, four vaccine innovations developed by Monteiro and team, including the C. diff vaccine, were listed by the World Health Organization (WHO) for potential use in treating what medical experts call a “hidden pandemic.”

Commercialization and Financial Milestones

The C. diff vaccine patent was licensed in 2017 by Matrivax, a Boston-based biotech company focused on human vaccine development. Since U of G owns the patent, Matrivax pays royalties and milestone fees following any successes with the vaccine.

“This milestone is significant because it is a relatively unique success for a patented innovation to hit this $1 million milestone,” said Dr. David Hobson, Manager of Technology Transfer & Entrepreneurship at U of G’s RIO. “It speaks to the research innovation happening in U of G labs and facilities.”

Royalty fees for vaccines come from sales, typically about 3-6 per cent, meaning most vaccines become profitable only after hitting the market. For a vaccine to reach the market, preclinical and clinical trials must prove its safety and efficacy via standards outlined by Health Canada and the FDA. Preclinical testing done on specialized mice showed promising results in preventing C. diff infections. The next step is to prepare for Phase 1 clinical trials.

“Clinical trials are a significant hurdle due to their high cost and the tremendous boost in value if they secure regulatory approval. Since the C. diff vaccine is patented in 12 countries and has already made $1 million despite not entering clinical trials yet, the revenue from licensing this patent has only begun,” said Hobson.


Community Partnerships and Innovative Research in 2023


Connecting Through Physics

Christian Schultz-Nielsen works with a student in a lab.

By Adya Dash, PhD candidate, School of Engineering

For Christian Schultz-Nielsen, Laboratory Development Specialist in the Department of Physics, teaching isn’t just about lab experiments and lectures—it’s about building a community. As a dedicated lab instructor, Schultz-Nielsen has spent years helping build authentic connections between students and faculty at the University of Guelph (U of G).

In 2023, Schultz-Nielsen received the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences Staff Excellence Award for his efforts, given annually to a staff member who has made exceptional contributions to the College’s mission.

“As an undergraduate and graduate student, I got to experience the sense of family that permeates the Department of Physics when my parents passed away. In all of my subsequent roles (graduate TA, sessional instructor and finally staff member), I have done my best to uphold that sentiment and pay it forward.”

Schultz-Nielsen’s academic journey began in 1995 as an undergraduate student majoring in Physics, followed by a master’s. He now teaches intermediate and senior undergraduate physics lab courses. His decision to stay in the department throughout his career was driven by the strong relationships he built with both faculty and students throughout his journey. 

Supporting Students through Tumultuous Times

During the COVID-19 pandemic, Schultz-Nielsen focused on the emotional well-being of students. When lockdowns ensued, Schultz-Nielsen made it his mission to build and maintain a sense of community among physics majors.

“One of my primary goals was to ensure that students didn’t feel alone during such a difficult time,” he says, also noting he was concerned about over-reliance on digital media and lockdowns exacerbating feelings of isolation.

“It was important to maintain some normalcy for the students. We worked hard to ensure that pandemic-era students received the same exposure to experimental skills—like working with lasers, radioactive samples, or cryogenics—that their peers had. This kind of training couldn’t be done safely using remote lab experiments,” says Schultz-Nielsen.

From organizing social nights to hosting Grad Student Information Nights and liaising with the Physics & Astronomy Club for their events, Schultz-Nielsen actively works to build connections between students and enhance their learning experience. 

“I’ve found that there are two types of students: those who thrive no matter what, and those who need guidance. I focus on the latter,” he says. "One of my students struggled with confidence, questioning whether they were 'good' enough to attend graduate school. I encouraged and reassured them that they had nothing to worry about. Sure enough, they went on to grad school and even won awards for their research. It was all their talent, hard work, and ambition—but sometimes students need a little nudge to realize how capable they really are.”

He also strives to tailor lessons to students’ strengths and interests.

“Some students thrive on the theoretical, while others are more motivated by the practical applications of physics,” he says. “For example, one student might get excited about why light slows down when traveling through different materials, while another would be more inspired by how that same concept applies to medical imaging techniques like positron emission tomography, used in cancer detection.”

“I always try to find new examples that are relevant and useful to the students to help them grasp complex concepts.”
Schultz-Nielsen’s unique approach to education—blending academic rigor with personal connection—continues to shape the lives of the students he mentors, creating a legacy of support, learning and friendship.

2023 CEPS Faculty and Staff Awards

Four additional members of the CEPS community were recognized for their outstanding efforts in teaching, research and excellence:

  • Dr. Adrian Schwan, Department of Chemistry, Excellence in Undergraduate Research Supervision Award 
  • Dr. Sheng Yang, School of Engineering, Assistant Professor Research Excellence Award
  • Dr. Monica Cojocaru, Department of Mathematics & Statistics, Excellence in Graduate Supervision Award
  • Dr. Michael Massa, Department of Physics, Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching Award
     

Tackling Gender Bias in AI's Language Models

Composite AI image created by Hillary Dawkins

By Kasra Ghasemi, PhD, School of Engineering

Decoding Bias in Artificial Intelligence Models

The pervasive issue of gender bias in pre-trained language models, particularly those like BERT (a type of artificial intelligence program), is of great importance due to the widespread use of these models in natural language processing (NLP) applications. These models influence a vast array of technologies from search engines to voice-activated assistants, serving as essential building blocks upon which numerous tasks are built. Ensuring these models do not perpetuate gender bias is fundamental to making technology more inclusive and representative of the diverse societies that it serves.

Mitigating gender bias in language models presents several challenges. Firstly, the inherent biases in training data, which reflect historical and societal inequalities, are often encoded inadvertently in these models. Secondly, the complexity of language make identifying and quantifying biases a difficult task, particularly when these biases are deeply embedded within the implicit knowledge these models learn. Lastly, finding a balance between reducing bias and maintaining the performance of the model on NLP tasks poses a significant technical challenge for researchers.

Cutting-Edge Fixes for AI Bias

Drs. Hillary Dawkins, Isar Nejadgholi, Daniel Gillis and Judi McCuaig outline a methodical approach to handling these challenges by employing projective debiasing techniques, which were previously used in simpler models, on BERT’s complex architecture. By focusing on both intrinsic bias within BERT and observed biases in downstream applications like NLI, the researchers aim to understand and mitigate gender bias effectively. They also propose an enhanced test set and new bias measures to better quantify the biases, providing a more robust framework for assessing and addressing gender bias in language models. 
Their findings indicate that projective debiasing methods can be effective at reducing gender bias both intrinsically and in downstream tasks. However, they also highlight that there is no direct correlation between reduced intrinsic bias and bias in downstream applications, suggesting that different strategies might be necessary depending on the specific application and context. This nuanced understanding of bias mitigation is crucial for developing more effective methods in the future.

AI's Next Leap: Fairer Futures

Looking forward, bias mitigation in AI and language models is set to become even more vital as the deployment of these technologies becomes more widespread. Developing models that can dynamically adjust to reduce biases without extensive retraining or manual adjustments will be key. Furthermore, expanding beyond binary notions of gender to include more diverse identities represents a significant horizon for future research. This progressive approach will not only refine the effectiveness of NLP technologies but also enhance their fairness and inclusivity, aligning them more closely with societal values. 

“The significance of pre-trained language models, such as BERT, is that they can be directly employed as foundational resources for various applications, meaning their debiased versions have far-reaching effects,” says Dawkins.

Funding: The research was financially supported by the NSERC which played an appreciable role in facilitating the study and accessing data.

Reference: H. Dawkins, I. Nejadgholi, D. Gillis, and J. McCuaig, “Projective Methods for Mitigating Gender Bias in Pre-trained Language Models.” arXiv, Mar. 27, 2024. doi: 10.48550/arXiv.2403.18803. (To appear at LREC-COLING 2024) 
 


Driving STEM Research and Engagement in 2024


U of G Chemistry Graduate Student Innovating and Indigenizing Science

Genievieve Borg, Chemistry PhD student, stands on alumni walk smiling at camera

By Dr. Maya Aaram, acting Graduate Studies Manager, CEPS

After nearly a decade at the University of Guelph, PhD candidate Genievieve Borg’s impact is felt both inside the classroom and beyond.

Originally from Brantford, Ontario, Borg had a passion for chemistry and fell in love with U of G campus during a tour. She enrolled in the B.Sc. Chemistry co-op program in 2014.

“I love the sense of community on campus and within the city. I’ve always found the people of Guelph incredibly kind,” says Borg.

Exploring Chemical Materials to Advance Scientific Knowledge

Now a PhD candidate in Dr. Kathryn Preuss’s Chemistry lab, Borg’s thesis looks at the development of molecule-based magnetic materials.

“One possible avenue for the next technological advancement could be quantum computing, however, we do not have a material to bring quantum computing to life,” says Borg. “When I say my research is focused on molecule-based materials, it means we are looking at designing and synthesizing individual molecules with technologically relevant properties. Specifically, we focus on magnetism and molecules that demonstrate magnetic memory.”

Borg’s goal is to grow existing knowledge by characterizing these materials, which can have implications for practical applications by other scientists – such as potential new materials to serve quantum computing.

Indigenizing STEM Education and Navigating Identity

Another area of research interest for Borg is chemical analysis of environmental samples in Indigenous communities to help inform about potential presence of chemical contaminants. Borg aims to incorporate this work in chemistry lab courses in an effort to help Indigenize STEM education.

While her love for the sciences is deep-rooted back to high school, there were times when Borg struggled with other elements of her academic and personal journey. Borg is Ojibwe First Nations and grew up off reserve.

“I knew I was Indigenous, but I didn’t really know what that meant,” says Borg. “When I got to the University of Guelph, I knew there was an Indigenous Student Centre (ISC) on campus, but I never accessed the resources there until my last semester of undergrad because I didn’t feel I was ‘Native enough’. I think this is a common experience amongst Indigenous students. The ISC has been a safe space where I can explore my identity with other Indigenous students.”

Borg saw her non-Indigenous peers seemingly excel while she was still reconciling her own experiences and intergenerational trauma. At times, she still feels conflicted about her place in academia due to the lack of Indigenous representation.

Her experiences compelled Borg to take action to support future generations of Indigenous scientists: She, along with other Indigenous peoples, worked with Mitacs and other agencies to help develop the Indigenous Innovation Policy Framework, along with other advocacy and initiatives.

Read more about Borg’s U of G journey below.
 


Research Centres, Institutes and Initiatives

Dr. Rozita Dara and a student work on a problem in front of a laptop

AI4Food

2024 marked the launch of AI4Food, an initiative aimed at enhancing data and AI technologies in agri-food. Led by computer science's Dr. Rozita Dara, AI4Food will collaborate with stakeholders to address agri-food challenges, including production and sustainability, through AI-related research and education. In 2024, AI4Food organized a webinar series with Wageningen University & Research on key themes related to AI technology adoption.

Canada Cyber Foundry researchers and students stand as a group outside research park buildings smiling at camera

Canada Cyber Foundry

In October 2023, the CCF was established as a premier research centre dedicated to combating and eradicating cyber poverty in Canada. Recognizing U of G’s roots in agriculture and food, the CCF has directed its immediate focus towards supporting farmers, producers, and food processing businesses in understanding, addressing and mitigating cyber-attacks. The CCF welcomes new partnerships with businesses to combine industry needs with Guelph’s research strengths.

A CARE-AI workshop with Kevin Matsui and students

Centre for Advancing Responsible & Ethical AI

U of G’s interdisciplinary ethics and AI hub, CARE-AI, enhanced its research, training and entrepreneurship presence through 2023. CARE-AI spoke at U of G’s 2023 Teaching & Learning Innovations Conference and Spring IT Day; awarded four seed fund projects; trained 700+ students through the OVIN Regional Future Workforce program; participated in youth-oriented outreach events; launched an Entrepreneurial Network; and hosted a talk series for seniors.

ETC lab equipment

Electrochemical Technology Centre

The ETC aims to advance electrochemical science and technology, and facilitate research collaborations. To celebrate the 150th anniversary of Chemistry at U of G and Dr. Jacek Lipkowski’s 80th birthday, the ETC organized the International Symposium on Electrochemistry and Surface Science. This symposium highlights the recent advances in interfacial electrochemistry and surface science. Additionally, the X-ray photoelectron spectrometer and infrared spectrometer were upgraded.

Morwick G360 groundbreaking with U of G leadership and research team

Morwick G360 Groundwater Research Institute

In 2023, U of G’s groundwater research institute led courses, meetings, workshops and events to promote the importance of groundwater as a vital resource. MG360’s program facilitated interdisciplinary collaborations, including Dr. Beth Parkers' NSERC Synergy Award-winning partnership with the City of Guelph, Matrix Solutions and WSP Canada. In 2023, construction began for MG360’s new research facility, thanks in part to a $10 million gift from Edward (Ted) Morwick.

ORWC presentation in classroom

Ontario Rural Wastewater Centre

The ORWC promotes the use of environmentally sustainable wastewater treatment approaches. They conducted four five-day licensed courses tailored for designer, installers and inspectors. Additionally, ORWC welcomed Ministry of Environment trainees to its demonstration site, highlighting wastewater management solutions. ORWC supported three graduate students last year, fostering future advancements in rural wastewater technologies and practices.

Robotics institute researchers stand in front of robot arm

Robotics Institute

U of G’s Robotics Institute focused on strong industrial partnerships last year. In 2024, they completed a joint project with Vehcom to develop an advanced machine vision inspection station for production lines. A project to develop a robotic harvester for tomato greenhouses in partnership with greenhouse growers and AAFG reached a significant milestone, with field testing of a harvesting prototype in summer 2023. The project received additional funding for 2024-2027.

Guelph Wastewater Facility interior

Water Industry Growth

Drs. Emily Chiang, Fatima Haque and Hongde Zhou have been leading the effort for Guelph Wastewater Pilot Facility Upgrades. A new project leveraged funding support from OWC’s Water Industry Growth program (WIG) for facility upgrades and renovation. This funding enabled continued research to support technology development and competitiveness to Southern Ontario companies, addressing water challenges at the intersection of climate change, sustainability and society.


Unfolding Mysteries: U of G's Breakthrough in Protein Research

Two biophysics graduate students work together in U of G's NMR facility

By Mehran Bozorgi, PhD candidate, School of Engineering

At the University of Guelph (U of G), Drs. Vladimir Ladizhansky and Leonid S. Brown from the Department of Physics and Biophysics Interdepartmental Group are making groundbreaking strides in understanding how proteins work, particularly those that reside in cell membranes. Their latest research which was recently published in Science Advances in collaboration with graduate students Peng Xiao, Philip Drewniak and Dylan Dingwell, sheds light on the complex process of membrane protein unfolding, which is crucial for understanding various biological functions and diseases. 

The Fascinating World of Proteins 

Proteins are essential molecules in our bodies, performing a wide range of functions. They need to fold into specific three-dimensional shapes to work properly. Membrane proteins are embedded in cell membranes and are particularly tricky to study due to their complex environment. This complexity is due to the interactions between the protein and the surrounding lipids which affect the protein's structure and function. Understanding how membrane proteins fold and unfold can provide insights into their functions, factors contributing to their stability, and how to tackle diseases caused by their malfunction.

The research team at U of G focused on a specific protein called human aquaporin 1 (hAQP1), which acts as a water channel in cells. Using advanced techniques like solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy (which is a powerful tool used by scientists to study the structure of molecules including proteins, allowing researchers to visualize how atoms are arranged within a protein), they studied how this protein unfolds when exposed to heat.

Their findings reveal a simple two-step pathway of unfolding which begins with the unfolding of a structured loop outside the cell membrane. This step is crucial because the loop keeps the entire protein stable. Next, the main part of the protein that spans the cell membrane unfolds all at once. 

“We wanted to understand how proteins maintain their structure and how various interactions contribute to protein stability,” said Ladizhansky.

Overcoming Challenges

The journey was not without obstacles. One major issue was ensuring that their samples remained stable during experiments, as the high-frequency spinning (called magic angle spinning) required for solid-state NMR could sometimes damage the samples. They overcame these obstacles through persistence and innovative problem-solving, refining their methods to obtain accurate results. 

"It took us quite a bit of time before we got good results. We had to develop new methods such as stabilizing samples and refining techniques to ensure precise measurements of protein changes," says Ladizhansky.

A Message of Inspiration

The implications of this research extend beyond fundamental science. The methods developed by Ladizhansky and his team can be used to study other membrane proteins, providing a broader mechanistic understanding of their roles in health and disease. This research not only highlights the importance of basic scientific inquiry but also showcases the potential for practical applications in medicine. This knowledge can be applied to develop new treatments for diseases linked to protein misfolding, such as cystic fibrosis and Alzheimer’s disease.

For young aspiring scientists, this story serves as a testament to the power of curiosity and perseverance. “Even though sometimes you don't see any immediate application, any technological or medical advance we have today relies on fundamental discoveries made in the past,” said Ladizhansky.

By exploring the intricate details of protein folding, Ladizhansky and Brown's work exemplifies the exciting research happening at the University of Guelph, inspiring the next generation of scientists to pursue their passions and contribute to the ever-expanding world of scientific knowledge.

Funding Acknowledgement: This work was supported by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada to V.L. (RGPIN-2020-04489) and L.S.B. (RGPIN-2018-04397).


A Lasting Legacy to Improve STEM Education and Engagement in Canada

Group of participants in 2024 RISE conference stand together smiling at the camera in front of U of G background

By Mehran Bozorgi, PhD Candidate, School of Engineering

In 2023-24, the College of Engineering and Physical Sciences (CEPS) raised nearly $2.1 million in donor and gift support to advance its mission and support current students. These donations were distributed to high priority areas such as scholarships, bursaries and travel grants, class projects and research.

Women in Engineering

Only 25 per cent of undergraduate engineering students in Canada are women – a troubling statistic that helped inspire a generous gift from the Doody Family: The Doody Family Chair for Women in Engineering. The initiative, led by inaugural Chair Dr. Jana Levison and Jean Hein, Outreach Manager, aims to help increase the enrollment and retention of women in engineering programs. Events in 2023 such as International Women in Engineering Day, HeForShe and more engaged our community in important conversations to promote gender equity. Four new research assistantships enabled engineering students who are women to engage in research opportunities throughout the summer. K-12 outreach events, including Go CODE Girl and Go ENG Girl, offered hands-on activities and mentorship to girls and gender-diverse youth. In September, the annual RISE conference for women in engineering returned to campus with 80 attendees participating in networking and learning throughout the day.

Speaker Series Promotes more Women in Science

The Tremaine Visiting Speaker Series for Women in Science, funded generously by Dr. Peter and Karin Tremaine, held its first event at U of G in October 2023. The first in a multi-year series with each year rotating between chemistry, computer science, mathematics and statistics, and physics, the series is designed to encourage gender equity and retention in STEM, and to create new and meaningful connections with other institutions. The first event was hosted by the Department of Chemistry and featured Dr. Jennifer Heemstra, Chair and Professor in Chemistry at Washington University. Heemstra spoke at four different events over the course of three days, with topics ranging from the psychology of failure to future careers in Chemistry and other STEM fields.

Bringing Physics Education Across Ontario

In 2023, the Department of Physics and affiliated not-for-profit Royal City Science (RCS) acquired a portable planetarium with the help of a grant from the Canadian Space Agency and a generation donation in the memory of Dr. Jim Stevens, University Professor Emeritus. Over the past year, Physics and RCS have been travelling around southern Ontario to spread the wonders of the cosmos to the next generation of STEM professionals, and also hosting many young scientists at U of G to explore the planetarium from campus.

Rob Reed and Yvonne Clifford visit a classroom in 2023

From September to May, approximately 500 chemistry students and 150 physics students participated in visits to the Departments of Chemistry and Physics. Rob Reed, instructor, and Yvonne Clifford, chemistry teacher, are pictured above.

RISE Conference for Women in Engineering

Attendees at the 2023 RISE Conference for Women in Engineering.

Dr. Joanne O'Meara and Orbax stand with Planetarium

Orbax and Dr. Joanne O'Meara stand with the portable planetarium.

Enhancing Outreach Efforts for Youth in STEM

Outreach and recruitment efforts to engage the next generation of scientists and engineers are critical priorities for CEPS, aiming to inspire youth and underrepresented groups to consider careers in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM).

Innovative Programs and Events

In March 2024, the University of Guelph hosted more than 60 girls and gender-diverse youth in grades 7 to 10 for its first-ever Go PHYS Girl event, designed to ignite attendees’ interest in physics and help improve gender disparities in physics.

Another highlight was ChemEd in July 2023, when CEPS hosted the 50th anniversary of North America's largest conference in high school chemical education. A special feature of this year's conference was the first Indigenous Perspective Chemistry Symposium, emphasizing the importance of diverse voices in STEM.

Engaging Minds through Inclusive STEM

Creative Encounters with Science remained a cornerstone of our outreach strategy, delivering workshops, summer camps, and special events to community youth. The summer camps engaged hundreds of young participants over eight weeks, providing hands-on experiences that nurture a love for science and engineering. Collaborators included community organizations such as Royal City Science and local Girl Guides.

Throughout the 2023 school year, the Departments of Chemistry and Physics invited Grade 11 and 12 high school classes to spend a morning on campus engaging in hands-on lab experiences such as caffeine extraction experiments in chemistry and the photoelectric effect in physics. 

CEPS also engaged prospective undergraduate students globally through webinars on STEM programs that were held for domestic and international students, attracting attendees from countries such as Mauritius, Vietnam, Ghana, India, Switzerland and Hong Kong.

A large group watch a demonstration at ChemEd 2023

More than 460 people from across North America attended ChemEd 2023 to advance their chemistry teaching knowledge, with 100+ U of G staff and faculty volunteers.

Two youth work together at an outreach event in 2023

Twenty-eight volunteers from U of G, including Creative Encounters, the Department of Physics, and Women in Engineering, helped execute Go PHYS Girl workshops.

Image of Dr. Peter Tremaine standing with talk attendees

Dr. Peter Tremaine and Dr. Jennifer Heemstra stand with graduate students at Dr. Heemstra's research talk.


Vinay Joshy wears a University of Guelph sweater and stands in the Summerlee Science Complex

Student Leader Leverages Experience to Support Peers

We spoke with Vinay Joshy, a fourth year student majoring in Mathematical Science, about his University experience and decision to come to the University of Guelph (U of G).

Joshy's unique experience as a transfer student with prior work experience at the University of Guelph helped him transition to student leadership roles, as well as research and teaching assistantships.


Climate Change Impacts Urban Lake Ecosystems

Dr. Ed McBean looks at a glass of water. There is a bookshelf behind him.

By Carley Miki, PhD candidate, Department of Physics

A Colourful Contaminant

The effects of climate change are far reaching and impactful, affecting the largest glaciers to the smallest microorganisms. On World Water Day, the importance of preserving our oceans, lakes, and other water bodies is at the forefront of our efforts.

You may have visited a freshwater lake or small body of water and seen colourful blue-green layers on the surface, especially during the summer months. These layers, called blooms, result from the growth of a microorganism called cyanobateria. These blooms may pose a dangerous threat to aquatic ecosystems, as several types of cyanobacteria produce harmful toxins. Urban lakes, frequently visited by people and pets, are of particular concern since exposure to cyanobacteria toxins may result in illness.

Cyanobacteria thrive in warm temperatures. With global temperatures on the rise, the health of freshwater lakes and the people and pets that visit these lakes are of concern now more than ever.

Modelling the Impact of Rising Water Temperatures

Dr. Ed McBean, a Professor in the University of Guelph’s School of Engineering, developed a study together with the Credit Valley Conservation Authority to predict the future impact of cyanobacteria on an urban lake.

While there are many factors that influence the health of an aquatic ecosystem, water temperature is a key parameter. In the context of cyanobacteria blooms, warmer water means longer bloom durations, which could translate into higher levels of cyanobacteria toxins.

The team looked at water temperatures in Fairy Lake, located in Halton Region in Ontario. They began by developing a method for measuring water temperature at various locations and depths within the Lake. A model was applied to the data and predictions of water temperatures in 2050 were generated. They found that the number of hours per year where the temperature of the Lake exceeded 20 °C (the temperature that cyanobacteria flourishes in), would increase by 221-647 hours, depending on the specific location within the Lake. This translates to up to 39.7 per cent increase in cyanobacteria bloom duration.

The Future of Urban Lakes

The results from this study indicate that if current climate trends continue, we could see substantial increases in cyanobacteria blooms in future years. The health of lakes and the ecosystems that rely on them could be negatively impacted, with levels of toxins rising. Studies like this provide important information to better manage the effects of climate change.

“These findings are relevant to an important urban lake in the Halton Region, but the results also provide good insights into how climate change will impact other urban lakes,” explains McBean. “The next step is to work with government agencies to now go from a particular lake, to creating a general methodology that will be able to demonstrate the needs for urban lakes across the country.”

McBean thanks the Town of Halton, Halton Region, and the Credit Valley Conservation Authority for their participation with this study. “They have all been instrumental to making this research a reality.”

The work on cyanobacteria is supported by the National Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) of Canada.