NU researchers earn federal funding
Researchers at Nipissing University have earned $429,789 in federal funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI). The investment supports cutting-edge research equipment, laboratories and tools the researchers will employ to improve the lives of Canadians. Dr. Graydon Raymer, associate professor in the Schulich School of Education’s Bachelor of Physical Health and Education program, received $201,756 from CFI to establish the Exercise Physiology Laboratory at Nipissing University. Dr. Raymer is currently researching how the heart, lungs, and muscles may become synchronized during physical activity and what implications this may have in health or disease. Additionally, the CFI funded Environmental Chamber will allow Dr. Raymer to test his hypotheses and study the human response to work and exercise to the extremes of our geographical climate — hot, cold, dry, humid, low-altitude, and high-altitude — all within a state-of-the-art research laboratory. The Environmental Chamber is one of only a few in the world with these capabilities, and will be an asset to the study of human performance in the unique climates of Northeastern Ontario region, above ground and below.
Dr. Ryan Graham, assistant professor in the Schulich School of Education’s Bachelor of Physical Health and Education program, received $122,627 from CFI to establish the Occupational Biomechanics and Ergonomics Laboratory at Nipissing University. The advanced movement analysis equipment purchased with the funds will support Dr. Graham’s growing research program that combines basic and innovative applied research to better understand and assess low back pain mechanisms and risk factors such as spine instability and impaired neuromuscular control in laboratory, rehabilitation, and workplace settings.
Dr. Adam Csank, assistant professor of Geography, received $100,406 from CFI to establish a light stable isotope mass spectrometry facility at Nipissing. The equipment, an Isotope Ratio Mass spectrometer (IRMS), will assist Csank in analyzing tree rings to understand past climate and ecosystem function. The facility will be home to the only isotope measurement facility in Northern Ontario and is intended to become a valuable resource for the Northern Ontario scientific and industrial community, applicable to studying environmental, geological and biological questions.
The funding was announced at the university by Jay Aspin, Member of Parliament for Nipissing-Timiskaming.
“The projects receiving funding today are truly at the cutting edge of technology in their respective fields,” said MP Jay Aspin. “I am very proud to continue supporting science & technology in our region, fostering advancements in the health and resource sectors. I am also proud to be a member of our federal government which recognizes the value of these investments and continuing to pursue an innovation agenda.”
“Thank you to the federal government for this investment in Nipissing University. This funding enhances the university’s capacity to conduct cutting-edge research that significantly benefits the lives of all Canadians,” said Dr. Mike DeGagné, Nipissing University president and vice-chancellor. “The equipment purchased with this CFI funding also provides great opportunity for our students to participate in high-level research, perhaps leading to new a discovery of their own that results in a better quality of life for all.”
“On behalf of my fellow researchers, thank you to the CFI and the federal government for this investment in our work. It provides significant assistance in building cutting-edge research facilities that are unique in our region as we work with colleagues, students and partners to create new knowledge,” said Dr. Raymer.