Funding will help build knowledge on economic, social and cultural issues, and develop a new generation of scientists
Today at Carleton University, the Honourable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State (Science and Technology), announced a significant investment in Carleton’s social science and humanities research. The investment will fund projects that examine topics directly linked to enhancing Canada’s long-term prosperity, productivity and quality of life. Over 102 Carleton projects will receive a total of $6.3 million in funding.
“As a research intensive university, Carleton is proud of its many nationally funded researchers, and we are very pleased to have been asked to host this important research announcement that will impact the future of Canada,” said Kim Matheson, vice-president (research and international) at Carleton. “It is clear that Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) is truly committed to its mandate, and is a boon to Canadian research and innovation.”
Today’s event at Carleton highlighted the research initiative led by Laura MacDonald, a professor in the Department of Political Science. The project, which received one of SSHRC’s inaugural Insight Grants, focuses on Canada’s increasing role in Latin America’s economic development. The research team, drawing on a network of experts from across the Americas, will investigate the impact of Canada’s increased economic engagement in the region. In addition, MacDonald’s team will provide policy recommendations and electronic models that can contribute to the prosperity of both Canada and its Latin American partners.
Robert Coplan, who received an Insight Grant, is exploring how certain activities and key relationships affect levels of shyness in preschool-age children. His research will help teachers and caregivers better understand how to help children prone to social anxiety and self-consciousness better interact with others to enhance social, cognitive and communication skills.
Mathieu Charbonneau received a Joseph-Armand Bombardier Canada Graduate Scholarship for doctoral students. His research will focus on the history of the industry and its position in the global marketplace. By surveying trends and incentives that have shaped the Canadian insurance industry, he will produce a statistical and historical overview that will allow us to better understand the role that insurability plays in both fiscal efficiency and social justice.
The SSHRC grants and scholarships, totaling over $200 million, will support more than 3,200 of Canada’s best researchers at post-secondary institutions across the country.
“Canada’s position as a world leader in research excellence leads to discoveries, innovations and advanced skills that drive job creation and opportunities in the knowledge economy,” said Goodyear. “Through Economic Action Plan 2012, our government provided additional resources to support advanced research at universities and other leading research institutions, which will build on previous investments to further strengthen Canada’s research advantage.”
Through its Insight Development Grants and new Insight Grants, SSHRC is awarding more than $101 million to post-secondary institutions over the next five years. These grants will support 815 research initiatives by individuals and small teams of researchers across Canada. Also included in today’s announcement is more than $102 million to support nearly 2,400 masters, doctoral, and post-doctoral fellowships and scholarships through SSHRC’s Talent program.
“This research is the key to innovation and to building knowledge for Canada’s future,” said Chad Gaffield, president of SSHRC. “Through this funding support, we are generating insights and developing innovative solutions for today’s social, economic and cultural issues, while training the next generation of researchers and leaders.”
-30-
About SSHRC
SSHRC is the federal agency that promotes and supports post-secondary-based research and training in the humanities and social sciences. Through its programs, SSHRC works to develop talented leaders for all sectors of society, helps generate insights about people, ideas and behaviour, and builds connections within and beyond academia that will build a better future for Canada and the world. For more information, visit www.sshrc-crsh.gc.ca .
Brilliant Research. Brilliant Researchers
Carleton University is a dynamic, interdisciplinary research institution located in Ottawa-Canada’s capital. It has innovative programs in sciences, engineering, arts, and public administration and has realized partnerships with numerous public and private sector organizations. Its strengths have led to international recognition for its faculty, as well as an ability to attract outstanding students.
For more information
Steven Reid
Media Relations Officer
Carleton University
(613) 520-2600, ext. 8718
(613) 240-3305
Steven_Reid3@Carleton.ca
Follow us on Twitter: twitter.com/Cunewsroom
Need an expert? Go to: www.carleton.ca/newsroom/experts