Canada has enlisted 64 professors to spearhead scientific research at universities nationwide, offering them substantial funding. Industry Minister Mélanie Joly disclosed at the University of British Columbia (UBC) that the government is allocating $541 million in research grants to an initial group of research leaders recruited by Canadian institutions. These academics are part of the Eddie Goldenberg Research Chairs of Canada and the Canada Impact+ Emerging Leaders programs, essential components of Ottawa’s $1.7-billion Canada Global Impact+ Research Talent Initiative launched in December.
The research chairs initiative was renamed in memory of the late Eddie Goldenburg, former chief of staff to ex-prime minister Jean Chrétien, who passed away in July. Chrétien expressed that Canada owes Goldenberg gratitude for his public service, particularly his support for young talents. Out of the total funding, $504 million will support the first 64 professors, while the remaining $37 million will aid universities in recruiting an additional 63 “emerging leaders” in the coming year.
Sylvie Lamoureux, a vice-president at the federal government’s Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, highlighted that these academics have a strong track record of leading extensive research programs. Joly emphasized the government’s commitment to bolstering science and research amidst global competition, particularly with countries like France and the EU launching similar initiatives.
The professors, predominantly recruited from the United States, will each receive between $500,000 and $1 million annually for eight years to fund their research. This financial support aims to enable these distinguished academics to attract a team of researchers, students, and coordinators to collaborate with them. Notably, Peter Caravan, a Canadian professor returning from the U.S., expressed his gratitude for being named one of the program’s distinguished research chairs, receiving $1.5 million annually for his work in translational molecular imaging and therapy.
Regarding concerns about poaching talent from U.S. institutions, Joly stated that the U.S. administration makes its decisions, while Canada pursues its strategies. She welcomed the arrival of these exceptional professors and hinted at a second wave of recruitment for the Eddie Goldenberg chairs beginning soon.