Pre-Conference Virtual Short Talks - Thursday
2024-11-14 12:00 - 13:30 (America/Toronto) | Zoom
CSPC is happy to announce that this year the Pre-Conference Virtual Short Talks will be open and accessible to the general public. Please join us for some stimulating 10-minute presentations on diverse topics, ranging from cutting-edge research innovations to practical applications in science policy. This event will feature an engaging lineup of speakers who will share their insights and expertise, fostering meaningful discussions and inspiring new ideas. Don’t miss this opportunity to expand your knowledge and engage with thought leaders in the field!
6- Demonstration of Research Security Review Process at a Major US Research UniversityPresented By: Dustin Yocum
This session details the challenges facing US and Canadian universities pertaining to foreign influence and research security. Session includes a demonstration on the strategies, tools, and processes used by the University of North Carolina to review and approval international visitors and collaborators.
Dustin YocumAssociate Director of Research SecurityUniversity of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC)See Bio×Dustin Yocum
Dustin Yocum is the Associate Director of Research Security at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill (UNC). Prior to joining the Research Security Program at UNC, Dustin was the Associate Director of Operations and Education in the Office of Human Subjects Research at UNC and Senior Manager of the Office for the Protection of Human Subjects at the University of Illinois. He has a MA in Gerontology from Eastern Illinois University and an MBA from the University of Illinois.

26 – A transdisciplinary approach for inclusive science diplomacyPresented By: Kim Portmess
Is a transdisciplinary approach feasible? Let’s discuss and uncover the underlying conditions and power dynamics that promote inclusive and participatory environmental governance. The speaker will share ideas on bridging the gap between transdisciplinary knowledge production and diplomacy to facilitate effective and equitable policy-making and technology transfer.
Kim PortmessProgram ManagerInter-American Institute of Global Change ResearchSee Bio×Kim Portmess
Kim Portmess is the Program Lead for the Science, Technology and Policy (STeP) Fellowship Program at the Inter-American Institute for Global Change Research (IAI). She has coordinated training in science diplomacy, communication, and transdisciplinary leadership tailored for over 90 early career researchers and policymakers across 16 countries in the Americas. Kim lives and works from Panama. She has a BSc. in Plant Science and Natural Resource Management from Cornell University and an MA in Disaster Risk Management and Climate Governance.
115 – Is academia the new alternative? Professional development opportunities and career outcomes for Canada’s postdoctoral researchers / Le milieu universitaire est-il la nouvelle alternative? Opportunités de perfectionnement professionnel et et perspectives de carrière pour les chercheurs postdoctoraux du CanadaPresented By: Dr. Henrietta Bennett & Dr. Edris Madadian
Postdoctoral positions can be essential steps for careers in both research and higher education. Data collected from Canadian postdocs since 2009 shows a growing range of career options for PhD holders. We evaluate distinct training needs and how these trends impact diversity and inclusion in research careers.
Henrietta W. BennettPostdoc/ChairCanadian Association of Postdoctoral Scholars (CAPS)See Bio×Henrietta W. Bennett
Dr. Henrietta Bennett is Chair of the Canadian Association of Postdoctoral Scholars (CAPS). CAPS is a researcher-led, professional association that aims to improve the lives of all Canadian postdoctoral researchers through evidence-based advocacy. Dr. Bennett is a US-trained cell and molecular biologist, with a PhD in Cancer Biology (Stanford University) and working experience as a consultant in biopharma. She moved to Canada to pursue postdoctoral research first at the Hospital for Sick Children (Toronto), and now at St. Michael’s Hospital (Toronto), where she investigates the cellular and molecular basis of human health.
Dr. Edris MadadianHead of the Science Laboratory NetworkGeological Survey of Canada, Natural Resources CanadaSee Bio×Dr. Edris MadadianDr. Edris Madadian is the head of the Science Laboratory Network at the Geological Survey of Canada, Natural Resources Canada. Holding a PhD in Bioresource Engineering from McGill University, his career spans academia, the private sector, and federal government roles. Passionate about supporting emerging scholars, he advocates for research funding, mentorship and professional development for graduate and postgraduate fellows. Dr. Madadian received the Killam Postdoctoral Scholarship and the AMTD Waterloo Global Talent Fellowship. He currently is advisor to the Canadian Association of Postdoctoral Scholars Executive Council and served as VC Membership, Chair and Past Chair of CAPS from 2019-2023.11 – Practices to Make Glue Work MatterPresented By: Stacia Thompson McCoy
This presentation will propose inclusive and equitable practices to recognize, value, and manage glue work, the non-technical work critical to a technical team’s performance. Case studies will show how increased recognition and active management of glue work can improve team performance, promote leadership skills development, and advance women in STEM.
Stacia Thompson McCoyProgram DeveloperUniversity of CalgarySee Bio×Stacia Thompson McCoyStacia Thompson McCoy earned her PhD in Civil and Environmental Engineering and Engineering and Public Policy from Carnegie Mellon University and her BSE in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Princeton University. Her work experience includes projects on drinking water quality, bioremediation of contaminated river sediments, water reuse classification, life cycle assessment of new technologies, and policy recommendations to address barriers for women engineers. She acted as a consultant for the UNESCO Engineering Initiative and currently serves as the Program Developer for the Women in Science and Engineering for a Diverse and Sustainable Planet (WISE Planet) program.41 – Water: The Overlooked Harbinger of Climate Change/Water is the messenger of climate change we all have been ignoringPresented By: Palash Sanyal
Water is the messenger of climate change we have all been ignoring. How do you see climate change happening? It’s the floods, droughts, hail, too much water, too little water, water when you don’t need it, and water when you don’t want it. The question then becomes: are we measuring the right metrics to ensure people understand climate change better?
Palash Ranjan SanyalLecturer/Adjunct InstructorUniversity of SaskatchewanSee Bio×Palash Ranjan SanyalPalash Sanyal is a seasoned sustainability professional, distinguished by his global engagement in training that converges management, governance, and sustainability. At the heart of his expertise lies a profound understanding of water issues, informed by extensive experience in securing and managing multi-million dollar research projects. He currently contributes his knowledge and skills to several for-profit and nonprofit boards.43 – Bridging Sustainability and Society: Leveraging Transformative Scenarios, Science Communication, and Science Policy for Global ImpactPresented By: Dr. Laleh Behjat & Parand Meysami
This talk outlines a transdisciplinary approach to sustainability in a world facing environmental, social, and economic challenges. Using Canada as a case study, it highlights the importance of integrating Indigenous knowledge. It emphasizes the roles of science communication, policy training, and transformative scenario planning in addressing climate change and fostering sustainable development.
Laleh BehjatProfessorUniversity of CalgarySee Bio×Laleh Behjat
Dr. Laleh Behjat is a professor at the Department of Electrical and Software Engineering at the University of Calgary and the NSERC Chair for Women in Science and Engineering – Prairies. Her research focuses on developing mathematical techniques and software tools for automating the design of digital integrated circuits. Dr. Behjat acted as an academic advisor for of Google Technical Development Guide and was a member of the Google’s Council on Computer Science Education. She is an Associate Editor of the IEEE Transactions on CAD, ACM Transactions on Design Automation of Electronic Systems.
Dr. Behjat is passionate about increasing the status of women in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) and removing systemic barriers. She was the recipient of the 2015 Association of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Alberta (APEGA) Women in Engineering Champion Award, Association of Computing Machinery, Special Interest Group in Design Automation Service Award in 2014 and 2017 and 2017 Killam Graduate Student Supervision and Mentorship Award. Her team, Schulich Engineering Outreach Team, was also the recipient of the ASTech Leadership Excellence in Science and Technology Public Awareness Award in 2017. Currently, she is leading a change leadership program, WISE Planet, with the mission to envision and build a just, equitable, diverse and inclusive society.
Parand MeysamiSee Bio×Parand MeysamiParand Meysami is an administrative judge, and a community organizer for two decades. Before her 2017 appointment as a hearing commissioner, she held leadership roles in the Canadian energy industry. She is involved with the Canadian Council of Administrative Justice, the Canadian Judicial Council, APEGA, and the Canadian Public Accountability Board. Ms. Meysami holds a B.Sc. in Chemical Engineering, an M.Sc. in Environmental Engineering, and an LLB in International Law. She founded Calgary Farsi School and Children of Labour, supporting underage laborers in Iran, and has supported Syrian refugee sponsorship.See all CSPC 2023 Virtual Events

Maintaining trust in published scientific research
2025-02-26 12:30 - 14:00 | Zoom
Watch videoReports of research fraud and mass retractions have combined with populist distrust of expertise to contribute to widespread mistrust of scientific research. This session, composed of panelists with backgrounds in research, ethics, and publishing, will explore some of the many ways that allies within the research ecosystem can rebuild readers’ trust in science, including readers in within the research community itself, policymakers, and the public. Key topics will include research fraud, ethics education, peer review, open science practices, and research assessment reform.
Moderated by: David MoherClinical epidemiologist and Senior Scientist, Ottawa Hospital Research InstituteSee Bio×David MoherDavid Moher is a clinical epidemiologist, and Senior Scientist at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, where he directs the Centre for Journalology (publication science). He is also a full Professor of Epidemiology and Public Health, University of Ottawa and full Professor, Institute of Health Policy, Management & Evaluation, Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto. Professor Moher spends his time trying to help improve academic scholarship.Natasha McDonaldDirector, Peer Review, Canadian Science PublishingSee Bio×Natasha McDonaldNatasha McDonald is responsible for advancing the system of peer review at Canadian Science Publishing to yield a more inclusive, transparent, and rigorous research output. She is passionate about Open Science and is a proponent of challenging long-held narratives in scientific publishing that have led to the underrepresentation of researchers from a number of communities and regions. Before moving into scholarly publishing, she held a career as a researcher in the field of marine biogeochemistry. She currently serves as a Higher Education Sustainability Initiative (HESI) UN SDG Publishers Compact Fellow.Sarah Elaine EatonProfessor and Research Chair, Werklund School of Education, University of CalgarySee Bio×Sarah Elaine Eaton
Sarah Elaine Eaton is a professor and research chair at the Werklund School of Education at the University of Calgary (Canada). Dr. Eaton leads transdisciplinary research teams focused on integrity and ethics in educational contexts. Dr. Eaton also holds a concurrent appointment as an Honorary Associate Professor, Deakin University, Australia.
Juan Pablo AlperinAssociate Professor, School of Publishing and Scientific Director, Public Knowledge Project, Simon Fraser UniversitySee Bio×Juan Pablo AlperinJuan Pablo Alperin is an associate professor in the School of Publishing, scientific director of the Public Knowledge Project, and the co-director of the Scholarly Communications Lab at Simon Fraser University, Canada. He is a multi-disciplinary scholar who uses a combination of computational techniques and traditional qualitative methods to investigate ways of raising the scientific quality, global impact, and public use of scholarly work.Kaia MotterHead of Academic Affairs, North America, Springer NatureSee Bio×Kaia MotterKaia Motter is Head of Academic Affairs, North America at Springer Nature where she leads academic affairs activities in the US and Canada, building relationships and collaborating with funders, institutions, and other non-profit organizations in the region. Kaia has a background in publishing, having held editorial positions at Elsevier and Wiley. In recent years, her work has been centered on open science development, policy, and outreach with a topical focus on research assessment reform, research integrity, AI, and other issues impacting the research community.See all CSPC Virtual Events

Panel 479 - Bridging Minds and Borders in Conflict
2025-03-24 09:00 - 10:30 | Zoom
Watch videoPanel 479 – Bridging Minds and Borders in Conflict: Canadian Red Cross’s Evidence-Based Support to Ukrainian Red Cross to Strengthen Ukraine’s Health System and Innovations in Conflict Psychotherapy
The war in Ukraine has left a profound impact on its population, causing extensive damage to infrastructure and weakening healthcare systems. Since the onset of the conflict, the Canadian Red Cross (CRC), alongside other Red Cross Red Crescent movement partners, has been actively engaged in providing support to the Ukrainian Red Cross (UKRC). Leveraging evidence-based learning from past and ongoing programming initiatives, the CRC has embarked on a comprehensive effort to bolster the UKRC’s capacity to respond to the crisis.
One significant aspect of this support involves the establishment and operation of mobile health units, for which the CRC provides technical and financial assistance. Drawing upon insights gained from previous programming experiences, these mobile units are deployed strategically to deliver essential healthcare services to affected populations. The data collected from the service delivery model serves as invaluable decision-making points, aiding in the evaluation of the effectiveness and relevance of mobile health programming in the context of the conflict.
Furthermore, the CRC is actively engaged in empowering healthcare professionals at the Lviv hospital in Ukraine. Through evidence-based trainings and updates, nurses are equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary to provide quality care amidst challenging circumstances. Of particular note is the CRC’s collaboration with the Lviv hospital to support psychotherapists who are addressing the mental health needs of individuals staying at the hospital. This interdisciplinary team employs innovative approaches such as talk therapy, art therapy, and full-body therapy, with a focus on addressing the unique challenges faced by former prisoners of war. The utilization of full-body therapy, in particular, represents a novel and potentially transformative approach within the field of psychotherapy, with implications for addressing the mental health consequences of conflict-related trauma.
Against the backdrop of escalating conflicts worldwide, with Canada playing a pivotal role in humanitarian response efforts, this panel discussion aims to provide participants with a deeper understanding of the intersectionality between geodiplomacy, scientific approaches, and collaborative solutions in supporting vulnerable populations affected by war. Through a comprehensive exploration of the CRC’s initiatives in Ukraine, attendees will gain insights into the practical application of evidence-based strategies to mitigate the impact of conflict on health systems and promote resilience among affected communities.
Dr. Faiza RabHealth professional, Canadian Red CrossSee Bio×Dr. Faiza RabFaiza Rab is a health professional with over 20 years of international experience in clinical medicine, health research, and leadership. Trained as a physician in Pakistan, Faiza has worked in diverse healthcare settings in Egypt, Sudan, and Canada. She holds a Master of Bioethics from the University of Toronto and a Master of Science in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from the University of Western Ontario. Faiza completed her PhD with a focus on the fragility of health systems. For over six years, she has been with the Canadian Red Cross, where she helped establish the health research team and now leads a group of health advisors providing technical support to international health programs. With a strong commitment to addressing the needs of vulnerable populations, Faiza’s research expertise spans both quantitative and qualitative methodologies, underpinned by ethical frameworks. Her experience in health management and team leadership has contributed to designing and implementing evidence-based research, particularly in fragile and conflict-affected areas, while building strategic partnerships for sustainable health programming.Dr. Oleh BerezyukHead of psychological and psychosocial rehabilitation, Unbroken, First Medical Union of Lviv, UkraineSee Bio×Dr. Oleh Berezyuk
Dr. Oleh Berezyuk is a medical doctor, psychiatrist, and psychotherapist. He serves as the Head of psychological and psychosocial rehabilitation at Unbroken, First Medical Union of Lviv, Ukraine, and is also an Assistant Professor at Lviv National Medical University. With prior experience at the Lviv City Council, he has held roles as Head of the Mayor Administration Department (2007-2012), Director of the Department of Humanitarian Politics, and acting Deputy Mayor for Humanitarian Issues (from September 2012). He was a Member of the Ukrainian Parliament from 2014 to 2019.
Dr. Sabina VoronetskaPhysician, Red Cross Movement, German Red Cross, Health Coordinator, Canadian Red CrossSee Bio×Dr. Sabina Voronetska
Dr. Sabina Voronetska is a Ukrainian physician who joined the Red Cross Movement in 2022 with the German Red Cross. In 2023, she joined the Canadian Red Cross as a Health Coordinator based in Kyiv. Sabina has a medical background and holds a Master of Science in Health Economics, Policy, and Law.
Celine McGarveySenior Regional Manager, Europe, Canadian Red Cross See Bio×Celine McGarvey
Celine McGarvey is a humanitarian professional with over seven years’ experience at the Canadian Red Cross in emergency operations, international partnerships and risk management. She is currently Senior Regional Manager, Europe where she focuses on supporting partnerships and programming across the region, including in Ukraine, Lithuania, Türkiye, Poland, Moldova, Bulgaria and Hungary.

Celine previously held roles with the Canadian Red Cross in international emergency response, partnerships in the Americas and Africa, and risk and incident management. Celine holds an MSc in International Relations from University College London and an Honours Bachelor of Arts in International Relations and Latin American Studies from the University of Toronto. She has mission experience in Nicaragua, Honduras, Mozambique, Panama, Jamaica, Haiti, Senegal, Mauritania and the Dominican Republic. Celine has also worked as an IFRC Operations Manager Delegate and Community Engagement & Accountability (CEA) Delegate. Celine is trilingual in English, French and Spanish and loves travelling, hiking, and spending time with her husband, dogs and two cats.
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Strengthening Science Diplomacy in French – A Strategic Asset for Canada
2025-04-14 11:30 - 13:00 | Zoom
Watch video*Please note that this panel will be held in French only.
Organized by CSPC with the support of Cercle Francophone
In a rapidly evolving global landscape, science diplomacy in French is a key tool for Canada and Québec to build international partnerships, drive innovation, and promote multilingual research collaboration. This panel will explore the role of Francophone scientific networks, international collaborations, and Canada’s bilingual advantage in strengthening its diplomatic ties. Panelists will discuss the role of research institutions, funding agencies and international cooperation contribute to amplifying Canada’s global influence through scientific diplomacy conducted in French.

Moderated by: Sophie MontreuilExecutive Director, Acfas See Bio×Sophie Montreuil
Sophie Montreuil est détentrice d’une maîtrise de l’Université de Montréal et d’un doctorat et postdoctorat de l’Université McGill. Elle est directrice générale de l’Acfas depuis décembre 2019, après avoir été directrice de la recherche, puis cadre supérieure à Bibliothèque et Archives nationales du Québec. Elle a été ou est toujours membre de plusieurs conseils d’administration et a présidé celui du Cégep du Vieux-Montréal pendant six ans. Elle a codirigé des collectifs, dont Faire connaissance : 100 ans de sciences en français, paru 2023 aux Éditions Cardinal pour les 100 ans de l’Acfas. Elle a été décorée, en 2023, du grade de Chevalier dans l’Ordre des Palmes académiques françaises et, en 2024, est devenue mentore pour la Fondation Trudeau. En 2025, elle a été nommée membre de l’Office québécois pour la langue française et présidente de son Comité de suivi de la situation linguistique.
Rémi QuirionChief Scientist of Québec, President of INGSASee Bio×Rémi Quirion
Le professeur Rémi Quirion est le Scientifique en chef du Québec depuis juillet 2011 et a été élu Président de l’International Network for Governmental Science Advice (INGSA) en 2021. Professeur titulaire en psychiatrie à l’Université McGill, il a occupé le poste de directeur scientifique au Centre de recherche de l’Institut Douglas (1996-2011). En avril 2009, il a accepté la fonction du poste de Vice-doyen (sciences de la vie et initiatives stratégiques), Faculté de médecine, et celui de Conseiller principal de l’Université (recherche en sciences de la santé) à l’Université McGill en plus de la fonction de Directeur exécutif de la Stratégie internationale de recherche concertée sur la maladie d’Alzheimer des IRSC, postes desquels il a démissionné lors de sa nomination de Scientifique en chef en 2011. Il est le président-directeur général du Fonds de recherche du Québec (Santé – Nature et technologies – Société et culture).
Rémi Quirion a reçu de nombreuses distinctions dont celle d’officier de l’Ordre du Canada en 2007. Il est membre de la Société royale du Canada, membre de l’Académie canadienne des sciences de la santé et Chevalier de l’Ordre national du Québec et Chevalier de l’Ordre de la Pléiade. Membre du Temple de la Renommée Médicale du Canada, de l’Académie Nationale de Médecine de France et du Conseil International des Sciences.
Delphine NakacheFull Professor, University of Ottawa, Chair on Migrant Protection and International Law See Bio×Delphine Nakache
Delphine Nakache est Professeure Titulaire à la Faculté de droit de l’Université d’Ottawa et avocate au Barreau de l’Ontario. Titulaire de la Chaire de Recherche Universitaire sur la Protection des Personnes Migrantes et le Droit International, elle enseigne le droit international public, constitutionnel et le droit de l’immigration et des réfugiés. Ses recherches empiriques et collaboratives se concentrent sur les migrants à statut précaire et les immigrants marginalisés, ainsi que sur le concept de « migrant vulnérable » dans les instruments juridiques nationaux et internationaux. Elle conseille régulièrement les gouvernements et organisations intergouvernementales, et participe activement aux dialogues avec la société civile sur ces enjeux.
Frédéric BouchardDean, Faculty of Arts and Sciences, University of Montreal See Bio×Frédéric Bouchard
Professeur titulaire au Département de philosophie de l’Université de Montréal, Frédéric Bouchard est depuis juin 2017, le doyen de la Faculté des arts et des sciences.
Il est actuellement président des conseils d’administration de la plateforme Érudit, de BAnQ et de l’Institut de recherche en biologie végétale (IRBV), et membre du CA du MILA.
En septembre 2021, il a été nommé membre de la Société royale du Canada (SRC).
À l’automne 2022, il a présidé le comité consultatif sur le système fédéral de soutien à la recherche qui a rendu, en mars 2023, un rapport avec des recommandations clés pour l’avenir du soutien fédéral à la recherche.
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Innovating for a Digital Future: Navigating Economic Shifts and Global Challenges
2025-04-25 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
Watch videoThe Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC) is a neutral, not-for-profit national centre of expertise with the mission of strengthening Canada’s digital advantage in the global economy. For over 30 years, and with a team of 100 experts, we have delivered forward-looking research, practical policy advice, and capacity building solutions for individuals and businesses. Our goal is to ensure that technology is utilized to drive economic growth and innovation and that Canada’s workforce remains competitive on a global scale.
Abstract:
The global economy is at a crossroads, shaped by profound shifts in economic structures, evolving geopolitical dynamics, and the relentless advancement of digital technologies. From artificial intelligence and quantum computing to Digital IDs, blockchain and cybersecurity, these innovations are redefining industries, altering labour markets, and transforming the way nations compete and collaborate. This virtual panel will bring together industry leaders and key policymakers from Canada and Europe to explore the challenges and opportunities presented by this changing landscape and discuss issues including:

How can governments and businesses adapt to the acceleration of digital transformation while ensuring economic stability, security, and a shared digital future?
What policies and frameworks are needed to foster innovation, enhance global trade, and build resilient economies in the face of uncertainty?

Through an insightful discussion, this session will examine strategies to harness digital advancements for sustainable growth, strengthen transnational cooperation, and ensure that the evolving global paradigm works for all. Join us as we shape the future of the digital economy and define pathways for shared prosperity in an interconnected world.
Moderated by: Namir AnaniPresident and CEO, ICTCSee Bio×Namir Anani
President and CEO, ICTC
Namir Anani is the President and CEO of the Information and Communications Technology Council (ictc-ctic.ca). He is the chief strategist and driving force in bringing ICTC’s world-class centre of expertise and services to industry, education and government, shaping Canada’s digital advantage in a global economy.
Before joining ICTC, Namir previously led Policy Development & Research at the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).
Namir has held several executive leadership roles in both the private and public sectors, including the Department of Canadian Heritage (Director General & CEO), CGI consulting, Nortel, and Novartis (Switzerland). Mr. Anani’s experience extends to strategic policy development and implementation, learning and capacity building, business transformation, national/international strategic alliances, economic and market research, and technology innovation.
He has also held numerous board positions and is a frequent keynote speaker at national and international conferences on the digital economy. Namir holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Electrical Engineering from the University of Salford (UK) and a Professional Engineer designation in Ontario (P. Eng.).
•LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/namir-anani-p-eng-b3a4a953/
•Twitter (X): https://x.com/NamirAnani_ICTC
Ivette Vera PerezCEO, Organization of Canadian Nuclear IndustriesSee Bio×Ivette Vera Perez
CEO, Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries
Ivette Vera-Perez is an accomplished leader with over 20 years of experience in the energy, cleantech, and sustainability sectors. Her expertise spans strategic planning, business development, and advancing low-carbon solutions through multi-stakeholder collaboration. She holds a Master of Applied Science from the University of British Columbia and an MBA from McGill University.
Before joining the Organization of Canadian Nuclear Industries (OCNI), Ms. Vera-Perez led the Canadian Hydrogen Association (CHA) as President and CEO. During her tenure, she spearheaded the association’s rebranding and expanded its national presence, doubling its membership in two years. She worked closely with the Government of Canada to advance the Hydrogen Strategy for Canada and advocated for industry priorities to position Canada as a global hydrogen leader.
Prior to CHA, she served as the National Team Lead for Mitacs’ industry business development group, leading a high-performing national team to drive industry-academia partnerships for cleantech and advanced manufacturing. She also managed over $275 million in program funding as Manager for Greenhouse Gas Reduction programs at the Ontario Centres of Innovation.
Ms. Vera-Perez is an active advocate for clean energy and technology and has served on the board of the Canada Cleantech Alliance, the Ontario Clean Technologies Industry Association (OCTIA) and the Atlantic Hydrogen Alliance (AHA).
Soumen RoyExecutive Director and Country Head – Canada, Tata Consultancy Services See Bio×Soumen Roy
Executive Director and Country Head – Canada, Tata Consultancy Services
As Executive Director and Country Head, Soumen manages the Canadian business for Tata Consultancy Services (TCS), leading a team of 9,700+ dedicated individuals who work tirelessly to develop innovative IT solutions to make business and society adaptive and future-ready.
For nearly three decades at TCS, Soumen has orchestrated the acquisition of significant new business and built many successful and lasting client partnerships. A passionate advocate for education and skills development, Soumen serves on the board of the Information and Communications Technology Council of Canada (ICTC-CTIC) and is an active member of the Business Council of Canada (BCC) and a CEO Advisor for the Canada India Business Council (C-IBC). He is excited to continue leveraging TCS’ extensive network of ecosystems to guide TCS’ clients through their successful digital transformations.
A champion of health and wellness for both people and the planet, Soumen enthusiastically engages with employees and the community through the TCS Toronto Waterfront Marathon, which is on its way to becoming the most sustainable race in Canada.
Anne-Marie ThompsonVice-President of Research Grants & Scholarships, NSERCSee Bio×Anne-Marie Thompson
Vice-President of Research Grants & Scholarships, NSERC
Anne-Marie Thompson is the Acting Vice-President of Research Grants and Scholarships at the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council, where she champions the power of discovery research, nurtures the next generation of talent, and brings science to the forefront of society. A passionate advocate for innovation and knowledge, she is dedicated to fostering a research ecosystem that empowers scientists and engineers to push boundaries and make meaningful contributions to Canada and the world.
With over 23 years of public sector leadership, Anne-Marie has designed and delivered impactful research and innovation programming. She has led national and international research initiatives and held roles at Environment and Climate Change Canada, Natural Resources Canada, and the Department of National Defence. Previously, she was Chief Programs and Policy Officer at Mitacs and Associate Vice-President at NSERC.
As recognized collaborator, Anne-Marie has represented Canada in international forums, including the London Convention and the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change. Anne-Marie holds a bachelor’s and master’s degree in environmental engineering from Carleton University.
John WeigeltNational Technology Officer, Microsoft CanadaSee Bio×John Weigelt
National Technology Officer, Microsoft Canada
John Weigelt leads Microsoft Canada’s strategic policy and technology efforts. He helps individuals and organizations across Canada innovate with technology while avoiding the unintended consequences that might arise.
John has contributed to many technological efforts that established the foundation for the electronic services we take for granted today and he continues to lead efforts to evolve technology standards and policy. His extensive experience in technology, business and policy provides him with a unique perspective of our technology enabled economy.
When he’s not thinking about what’s next in technology, you’ll either find John tending his bees, boiling maple syrup or brewing cider at his home or travelling the globe in search of his next culinary adventure.

Screen Time and the Developing Brain: Research, Benefits, Risks, and Policy
2025-05-07 11:30 - 13:00 | Zoom
Watch videoDescription / Abstract:
The goal of this panel is to discuss the impacts of digital technology, or screen time, on children and youth and the policy opportunities to address these impacts. More specifically, the panel will explore the following questions:

What does research tell us about the effects of screen time on the developing brain?
What are the benefits and what are the risks?
How can we preserve the benefits and minimize the risks?
Have we reached a threshold of understanding of this topic to inform policy?

Panelists will address these questions at different levels: neuroscience, psychology, technology, policy, and lived experience (youth).
Moderated by: Dr. Franco VaccarinoBoard Director, Brain Canada FoundationSee Bio×Dr. Franco Vaccarino
Board Director, Brain Canada Foundation
Dr. Vaccarino is Professor Emeritus at the University of Guelph and former President and Vice Chancellor. He’s held senior leadership roles at the University of Toronto and CAMH. Widely recognized for his contributions to mental health, brain health, education, and policy, he is a strong advocate for student mental well-being and community-centred research.
Dr. Patricia ConrodProfessor, Psychiatry and Canada Research Chair, Preventative Mental Health and Addiction; Research Chair in Social and Community Pediatrics, Université de Montréal / CHU Sainte-JustineSee Bio×Dr. Patricia Conrod
Professor, Psychiatry and Canada Research Chair, Preventative Mental Health and Addiction; Research Chair in Social and Community Pediatrics, Université de Montréal / CHU Sainte-Justine
Dr. Conrod is a Clinical Psychologist whose work explores cognitive, personality, and biological risk factors in the development of substance use and co-occurring mental disorders. She co-directs Centre IMAGINE and co-leads a Brain Canada-funded initiative on disrupted brain development. She is also the incoming Scientific Director of CIHR’s Institute of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Addiction.
Dr. Munmun De ChoudhuryAssociate Professor, School of Interactive Computing, Georgia Institute of TechnologySee Bio×Dr. Munmun De Choudhury
Associate Professor, School of Interactive Computing, Georgia Institute of Technology
Dr. De Choudhury is a pioneer in computational social science and digital mental health. Her research uses social media data to enable early detection and intervention strategies for mental health concerns. She’s been recognized with the SIGCHI Societal Impact Award and regularly advises institutions like the U.S. Surgeon General, White House OSTP, and the WHO.
Dr. Sara GrimesProfessor, Wolfe Chair in Scientific and Technological Literacy, Department of Art History and Communication Studies, McGill UniversitySee Bio×Dr. Sara Grimes
Professor, Wolfe Chair in Scientific and Technological Literacy, Department of Art History and Communication Studies, McGill University
Dr. Grimes focuses on children’s digital media cultures and rights, especially around games and play. She founded a research lab focused on the technologization of childhood, and her award-winning book Digital Playgrounds explores politics and ethics in children’s online environments. Her work aims to create safer, more equitable digital spaces for youth.
Dr. Emma DuerdenAssociate Professor and Canada Research Chair, Neuroscience and Learning Disorders – Applied Psychology, Western UniversitySee Bio×Dr. Emma Duerden
Associate Professor and Canada Research Chair, Neuroscience and Learning Disorders – Applied Psychology, Western University
Dr. Duerden studies how early life stress—including excessive screen use—affects child brain development and learning. Using neuroimaging, her research identifies risk factors and resilience pathways in children. She leads a Brain Canada-funded platform that’s advancing non-invasive brain monitoring tools.
Dr. Michelle PontiPaediatrician, Child and Parent Resource Institute, London ONSee Bio×Dr. Michelle Ponti
Paediatrician, Child and Parent Resource Institute, London ON
Dr. Ponti works with children who have complex developmental and behavioural needs. She chairs the Canadian Paediatric Society’s Digital Health Task Force and contributed to national screen time guidelines for children 0–5. Her research looks at the health effects of digital and social media on school-aged children and teens.
Vidhi DesaiStudent, University of CalgarySee Bio×Vidhi Desai
Student, University of Calgary
Vidhi is a mental health advocate and undergraduate student soon pursuing a Master’s in epidemiology at McGill. She’s also an illustrator for mental health awareness projects and serves as EDI Director in her faculty. Her work toward SDG 3 (good health and well-being) has been recognized by the Alberta Council for Global Cooperation.
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Navigating Geopolitical Shifts: Canada’s Innovation Strategy for Agriculture and Agrifood Sector
2025-05-21 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
Watch videoExecutive Summary
This panel discussion highlighted significant hurdles to innovation within the agri-food sector, alongside strategic opportunities for Canada. A primary concern was the complex and unpredictable regulatory environment, which deters investment and slows progress. Panelists also pinpointed a critical innovation infrastructure gap, particularly between pilot-scale development and commercialization, often leading to drain of intellectual property and companies to other countries. Access to late-stage capital for scaling innovations was identified as another major challenge, despite the availability of early-stage funding. Finally, fragmentation in collaboration across the agri-food value chain was seen as hindering effective innovation.
In response, panelists urged the government to streamline regulations, making them more predictable and transparent. They also called for coordinated industry requests to ensure a unified voice in advocating for necessary changes. Targeted investment in R&D infrastructure was recommended to bridge the pilot-to-commercial gap. To enhance private sector R&D, suggestions included revamping tax incentives like the SR&ED program to better support small businesses and strengthening industry-academic partnerships. Initiatives to create accessible capital pools were also proposed to address funding shortages.
Looking ahead, Canada has a strong opportunity to emerge as a trusted global supplier, leveraging its sustainable agriculture practices and commitment to food security amidst shifting geopolitical landscapes. Embracing technological advancements like AI and robotics in agriculture and strategically prioritizing the agri-food sector for investment were also emphasized as key to future success.
Summaries from the panel (4–6 bullets per question — anonymized, ordered by emphasis)
Q — What are the top three challenges currently hindering innovation in your sector?

Regulatory Burden and Uncertainty: Panelists frequently emphasized that Canada’s regulatory framework is not predictable, transparent, or science-based, hindering innovation and investment. Examples include Canada’s low ranking in OECD countries for regulatory performance and significant delays in approvals for new products (e.g., PMRA Category A products). This uncertainty often drives companies to seek approval and commercialization in other countries.
Lack of Scale-Up Infrastructure and Access to Late-Stage Capital: There is a critical gap between pilot processing and commercial scale, with facilities for “toll processing” often located in the United States. This forces Canadian innovators to commercialize their intellectual property elsewhere. Additionally, while early-stage innovation receives some support, there is insufficient late-stage capital for significant investments like “brick and steel in the ground,” leading companies to leave Canada.
Industry Fragmentation and Lack of Coordinated Collaboration: The agri-food sector is highly fragmented, making it difficult for the industry to present a unified voice and clear priorities to the government. This siloed approach to innovation across the value chain, from genetics to farm gate to finished food processing, limits overall effectiveness and competitive standing.
Geopolitical Uncertainty and Tariffs: Shifting geopolitical dynamics and the threat of tariffs (such as the “Trump tariffs”) create “chaos” and unpredictability. This significantly disrupts small businesses and farmers, leading to frozen investment and venture capital as organizations become hesitant to deploy funds without clear “rules of engagement.”
Limited Government Understanding of the Agri-Food Sector: Some panelists noted that federal and provincial governments often perceive the sector narrowly as “agriculture” (farming) rather than a comprehensive “food system.” This limited understanding hinders the development of holistic policies, investment strategies, and regulatory frameworks that recognize and support the entire supply chain and its full economic contribution.

Q — How should government and industry respond to enable long-term innovation and competitiveness?

Regulatory Reform and Mindset Shift: Panelists emphasized the need for a predictable, transparent, and science-based regulatory framework. This includes updating regulations to keep pace with new advances in products and processes. Panelists highlighted that regulatory agencies, while prioritizing safety, should also consider economic impact and operate with a “safety first in the mission of delivering food security” approach. A Panelist added that addressing the underlying “sentiment of distrust” towards industry within government and fostering a less risk-averse culture is crucial.
Enhanced Collaboration and Integrated Systems Approach: Innovation was repeatedly described as a “team sport.” Panelists called for reimagining collaboration across the entire agri-food value chain—from genetics to farm gate to processing—rather than operating in fragmented silos. A Panelist suggested a “what’s in it for us” mindset, fostering partnerships between academia, government, and industry (e.g., the yellow peas consortium or Gifts bridging role) to drive innovation and close the $44 billion food export gap. A Panelist stressed the importance of the industry coordinating its “ask” to government more effectively.
Strategic Investment and Capital Flow: There is a critical need for government and industry to ensure access to late-stage capital for commercialization and “brick and steel in the ground” investments, as current facilities for scale-up are often in the United States. A Panelist pointed out the disproportionately low funding for the agri-food sector compared to others (e.g., a $200 million fund for food processing versus $2 billion for the auto industry). A Panelist advocated for revamping tax credit programs, such as “shred tax,” to better support small to medium-sized businesses that are key innovators.
Clear Government Direction and Long-Term Execution: Panelists urged the government to establish clear, high-level “North Stars” or strategic priorities for the sector, which would guide policy, regulatory frameworks, and funding decisions. Panelists noted that while reports (like the Barton report) have identified opportunities, there’s a consistent lack of sustained commitment to implementation and execution. A Panelist added that the system needs to “unlock the power of our smart people” and get out of their way, supporting young entrepreneurs and innovators with an ecosystem approach, rather than through slow, cumbersome government processes.

Q — Key recommendations / next steps to boost private-sector R&D investment in Canada

Create a Supportive Regulatory and IP Environment: To encourage R&D, Canada’s regulatory systems must keep pace with new advances in products, processes, and equipment, providing a clear and accepting framework. Furthermore, improving the intellectual property (IP) environment and educating the entire ecosystem (academia, government, industry) on the “path to impact” for research findings is crucial for commercialization.
Enhance Access to Strategic Capital and Tax Credits: Beyond early-stage funding, there is a critical need for late-stage capital to support commercialization and “brick and steel in the ground” investments for R&D scale-up, as current facilities are often outside Canada. Revamping programs like SR&ED tax credits to better suit small to medium-sized businesses, which are key innovators, is also essential, as current large grants like SIF are inaccessible to most food manufacturers.
Foster Cross-Sectoral and Industry-Academia Collaboration: Encouraging “team sport” innovation by fostering partnerships between academia, government, and industry is vital for translating R&D into market-impacting innovations. This includes supporting models like the Fraunhofer Institutes for applied science and scale-up, and building an ecosystem that connects young entrepreneurs (even from non-agricultural backgrounds) with farmers and resources.
Leverage Canada’s Global Advantages for R&D Attraction: Canada can capitalize on its reputation as a stable, climate-friendly, and sustainable food producer to attract R&D investment. Proactively accelerating bilateral regulatory harmonization with other international markets can signal Canada as a science-based regulatory environment, making it an attractive destination for global intellectual capacity and labs.
Establish Clear, Executable “North Stars” for the Sector: Government needs to provide clear strategic priorities or “North Stars” that align all policy, regulatory frameworks, and funding programs towards enhancing R&D and innovation. A consistent commitment to execution, learning from past reports like Barton, is necessary to translate vision into sustained R&D growth and competitive advantage.

Q — What new opportunities / comparative advantages can Canada exploit?

Exploiting Canada’s “Trusted Supplier” Status and Sustainable Production: Panelists highlighted Canada’s stability, climate-friendly agriculture, and sustainable practices as significant advantages in a globally uncertain landscape. This positions Canada as a preferred and reliable source, attracting renewed international interest for its products and ingredients.
Harnessing Emerging Technologies and Nurturing Tech Talent: There is a substantial opportunity to leverage cutting-edge technologies like artificial intelligence, robotics, data analytics, and the Internet of Things. This requires building an ecosystem that supports young, innovative entrepreneurs—including those from non-agricultural backgrounds—by providing capital, R&D support, and direct connections to farmers.
Increasing Domestic Value-Adding and Processing: To mitigate vulnerability to geopolitical shifts and tariffs (e.g., “Trump tariffs” or China’s actions), Canada should focus on increasing domestic processing and adding value to raw commodities. By selling finished goods rather than bulk products, the sector can create more intellectual property and retain greater economic benefit within Canada.
Strategic International Regulatory Alignment: Given potential future instability in traditional trading relationships (e.g., with the US), Canada has an opportunity to proactively accelerate bilateral regulatory harmonization with other international markets. This would streamline market access and signal Canada as a stable, science-based regulatory environment, attracting global intellectual capacity and investment.
Adopting an Integrated “Team Sport” Approach and Executing a Clear Plan: The agri-food sector must overcome its historical fragmentation and adopt a more unified, collaborative approach across the entire value chain (from genetics to processing). This internal alignment, combined with a clear, long-term strategic plan (like the Barton report’s vision) and a strong commitment to its execution, is essential for Canada to regain and enhance its global competitive standing.

This summary has been generated with the assistance of AI tools.
Moderated by: Senator Mary RobinsonPrince Edward Islander, SenatorSee Bio×Senator Mary Robinson
A proud Prince Edward Islander, Senator Mary Robinson was appointed to the Senate in January 2024. Coming from a 6th generation family farm operation, she has been a strong voice for industry at the provincial, national, and global levels. She was the first female Chair of the Canadian Agricultural Human Resources Council, the first female President of the Canadian Federation of Agriculture, and vice president of the World Farmers’ Organisation. In 2021, she was named one of the Top 25 Most Powerful Women in Atlantic Canada by the Atlantic Business Magazine.
Joe DalesCofounder and Partner of RHA Ventures Inc.See Bio×Joe Dales
Joe Dales has gained 35+ years of agriculture industry experience beginning his career in sales, marketing and management, working with leading companies such as Pfizer, Cyanamid Crop Protection (BASF) and NK Syngenta Seeds (Ciba Seeds).
In 1997, he co-founded with his wife Sandra, www.AgCareers.com, one of the first ag business websites on the internet and in 1998, he co-founded Farms.com, where he helped grow the business for 20 years. In 2019, he co-founded RHA Ventures Inc. and leads their value adding investments in the agriculture and food innovation and start-up sector. RHA (www.RHA.Ventures) has made more than 35 investments and continues to support entrepreneurs with hands on, experienced business mentoring.
Joe has been involved in successfully launching over 40 agri tech innovations ranging from crop protection products (Pursuit, Odyssey), seed varieties, herbicide tolerant canola, biologicals (HiStick), start up companies like Farms.com and AgCareers.com and a range of innovative products and services. He is passionate about bringing innovation to agriculture and helping farmers improve productivity.
Joe has gained extensive corporate governance board experience with several companies such as Canterra Seeds, Vive Crop Protection, Haggerty AgRobotics and as the Chair of the Board of Governors for the Western Fair Association. He has been a supporter of CAMA his whole career. Joe has an Honours BSc in Chemistry from Western University and a Masters in Business Administration from Wilfrid Laurier University.
You can follow him on Twitter @Joe_Dales and LinkedIn
Ian AffleckVice-President, Plant BiotechnologySee Bio×Ian Affleck
Ian Affleck is the vice-president of plant biotechnology for CropLife Canada. In this role, Ian works with domestic and international agricultural stakeholders and governments on the development of policies, regulations, and science related to plant biotechnology. Prior to joining CropLife Canada, Ian worked at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency for 10 years, where his work focused on the regulation of novel plants and new varieties. He holds a bachelor of science in agriculture from the Nova Scotia Agricultural College, concentrating on agronomy and pest management. He also holds a master’s degree in agriculture from the University of Guelph, specializing in horticulture and plant breeding and has been involved in agriculture from an early age, having grown up on a potato farm in Bedeque, Prince Edward Island.
Kathleen SullivanVice President, Government and Industry Relations, Maple Leaf FoodsSee Bio×Kathleen Sullivan
She brings to the role 30 years of government, advocacy, trade, and food sector experience. This includes senior leadership positions at several industry organizations, including Food and Beverage Canada, the Canadian Agri-Food Trade Alliance, the Animal Nutrition Association of Canada, and Restaurants Canada. She also spent three years as a senior policy advisor in the Ontario government, including to the Minister of Education and in the Cabinet Office.
Ms. Sullivan has a deep understanding of how business is affected by policy and regulatory frameworks and has been a key industry advisor on domestic food laws and on agri-food trade policy. She has also served as a senior industry lobbyist in major Canadian trade negotiations and trade missions.
Rodney BierhuizenPresident, Sunrise Greenhouses Ltd.See Bio×Rodney Bierhuizen
Rodney Bierhuizen is the owner and General Manager of Sunrise Greenhouses in Vineland, Ontario. Founded by his parents in 1982, a few years after immigrating from the Netherlands, Sunrise Greenhouses is a second-generation farm that has grown to operate four locations across Niagara, with over 1 million square feet of production. The company specializes in potted plants for retail markets and young plants for other producers across Canada and the U.S.
A key differentiator for Sunrise Greenhouses is its exclusive product lines, with in-house breeding and development of unique plant genetics that are licensed worldwide. Sunrise also has an inhouse automation firm- BOLD Robotics that supplies automation solutions to the agricultural sector.
Rodney is actively involved in the horticulture industry and agricultural advocacy. He currently serves as:

President of Flower Canada Ontario
Director on the Canadian Ornamental Horticulture Association, Niagara Greenhouse Growers, and Greenhouse Growers Alliance of Lincoln
Member of the Niagara Region Agricultural Action Committee and Vineland Research and Innovation Stakeholder Advisory Council

Dr. Steven R. WebbCEO, Global Institute for Food SecuritySee Bio×Dr. Steven R. Webb
Steven joined the Global Institute for Food Security (GIFS) as Chief Executive Officer in 2019, following a 23-year career with Corteva Agriscience (formerly Dow AgroSciences) in Indiana, United States. At GIFS,
he has led the transformation of the institute to an agri-food connector and innovation catalyst,
delivering valuable programs, technologies and services to scale up and accelerate R&D, deliver greater
impact for Canada’s agri-food sector and enhance its global competitiveness.
His most recent role at Corteva was Research and Development Director of External Technology, where
he led many research collaborations with private sector companies, research institutes and universities
around the world.
Tiffany StephensonCMO, Protein Industries CanadaSee Bio×Tiffany Stephenson
As CMO, Tiffany is responsible for member engagement, brand management and strategic communications to support Protein Industries Canada in their goals of growing the value-added processing sector in Western Canada, with a focus on creating plant-protein based products and co-products. With more than 15 years marketing, communication and stakeholder engagement experience in Canada’s agriculture and food industry, Tiffany is a proud advocate for the sector.
Chuck BaresichPresident and Founder of Haggerty AgRobotics and Haggerty CreekSee Bio×Chuck Baresich
Joe Dales has gained 35+ years of agriculture industry experience beginning his career in sales, marketing and management, working with leading companies such as Pfizer, Cyanamid Crop Protection (BASF) and NK Syngenta Seeds (Ciba Seeds).
In 1997, he co-founded with his wife Sandra, www.AgCareers.com, one of the first ag business websites on the internet and in 1998, he co-founded Farms.com, where he helped grow the business for 20 years. In 2019, he co-founded RHA Ventures Inc. and leads their value adding investments in the agriculture and food innovation and start-up sector. RHA (www.RHA.Ventures) has made more than 35 investments and continues to support entrepreneurs with hands on, experienced business mentoring.
Joe has been involved in successfully launching over 40 agri tech innovations ranging from crop protection products (Pursuit, Odyssey), seed varieties, herbicide tolerant canola, biologicals (HiStick), start up companies like Farms.com and AgCareers.com and a range of innovative products and services. He is passionate about bringing innovation to agriculture and helping farmers improve productivity.
Joe has gained extensive corporate governance board experience with several companies such as Canterra Seeds, Vive Crop Protection, Haggerty AgRobotics and as the Chair of the Board of Governors for the Western Fair Association. He has been a supporter of CAMA his whole career. Joe has an Honours BSc in Chemistry from Western University and a Masters in Business Administration from Wilfrid Laurier University.
You can follow him on Twitter @Joe_Dales and LinkedIn

Nature-based Solutions in Canada - policies, frameworks and multi-sector cooperation to reach Canada's 2030 climate and biodiversity goals
2025-08-19 11:30 - 13:00 | Zoom
Nature-based Solutions (NbS) are actions to protect, manage and restore ecosystems for the benefit of people and nature. NbS are a promising avenue to meet Canada’s commitments to protect at least 30% of land and oceans by 2030 (30×30) under the Kunming-Montreal Global Biodiversity Framework, and to address up to 35% of Canada’s 2030 carbon reduction commitment. But few frameworks exist to adequately monitor NbS implementation. To achieve sustained impact NbS must be co-created by multiple interest holders and align with social well-being, including priorities of Indigenous Peoples and local communities. This panel will dive into the topic with the questions below. Join us for a wide-ranging and fascinating discussion on the future of Nature-based Solutions in Canada.
The panelists will address the following questions:

What exactly do we mean by Nature-based solutions (NbS) and how to incentivize multiple sectors (academia, government, financial, civil) to move forward on solutions that are equitable for all?
What is Canada doing to achieve its 30×30 targets, and why is that important in the lead-up to the next UN Climate Conference in November (COP30) ?
What are some examples in practice of sustainable finance investments for biodiversity or climate action?
What are the economic pathways that can support equitable, Indigenous-led, and scalable NBS across Canada?

Register HereModerated by: Damon MatthewsProfessor, Geography, Planning and Environment, Concordia University
Interim Executive Director, Future Earth Canada Hub and Sustainability in the Digital AgeSee Bio×Damon Matthews
Damon Matthews is a Professor in the Department of Geography, Planning and Environment at Concordia University. Damon holds a PhD in climate science from the University of Victoria from 2004, and is a member of the College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists of the Royal Society of Canada. He has published more than 130 research papers on topics ranging from quantifying the remaining carbon budget to assessing equitable approaches to allocate emission allowances to individual countries and the effectiveness of nature-based climate solutions. He is internationally recognized for his work in policy-relevant climate science, as well as for initiatives such as the Climate Clock that use digital visualization and web-based technologies to motivate and accelerate climate action. Damon is the Scientific co-Director of Sustainability in the Digital Age, Interim Director of the Future Earth Canada Hub, and directs the NSERC CREATE in Leadership in Environmental and Digital Innovation for Sustainability (LEADS) program, which aims to train graduate student researchers at the intersection of sustainability science and digital innovation.
Émilie Le BeuzeSenior Advisor, Engagement for Sustainable Finance & Biodiversity, Finance MontréalSee Bio×Émilie Le Beuze
Convinced of the key role of capital in the sustainable transition, I work with the sustainable finance team to promote and advance the integration of biodiversity into economic and financial decision-making.
Jason TaylorCo-Founder and CEO, Climate Finance AdvisorsSee Bio×Jason Taylor
Jason Taylor is a capital markets professional with over 20 years of experience. He is the founder of Climate Finance Advisors, a boutique sustainable investing and environmental finance firm. In recent years, he led the development of the sustainable finance team for two Canadian banks, working in close collaboration with groups across bank and capital markets to design sustainable finance solutions for investors, corporates, and governments.
A frequent panelist and public speaker covering topics including climate finance, taxonomies, and reporting, Jason has also participated in a number of industry standard-setting workstreams to accelerate the mainstreaming of sustainable finance in Canada. He is an advocate for using the power of capital to influence systemic change and contribute to building just, fair, and resilient communities. Experienced in ESG integration, thematic investing, and impact investing, his work focuses on crowding-in capital to shrink the funding gap in a financially efficient manner.
Stephanie PoirierSenior Policy Analyst, Climate Change and Sustainability, Standards Council of CanadaSee Bio×Stephanie Poirier
Stephanie Poirier is a Senior Policy Analyst in the Standards to Support the Resilience in Infrastructure Program at the Standards Council of Canada. Prior to joining SCC in 2022, she spent over 10 years working in government relations and advocacy in the natural resources industry, focusing on international standards for wood packaging. As a Senior Policy Analyst, Stephanie focuses on coastal management and nature-based solutions. She has a B.A. in International Studies and Modern Languages from the University of Ottawa and a M.A. in International Development Studies from Saint Mary’s University, where she specialized in the environment and Latin America.
Zahra JandaghianResearch Officer – Nature-based Solutions Lead, National Research Council of CanadaSee Bio×Zahra Jandaghian
Zahra Jandaghian is a Research Officer and the lead of Nature-Based Solutions (NBS) projects at the Construction Research Centre, National Research Council Canada. She holds a Ph.D. in Building Engineering from Concordia University and serves as an adjunct professor at Toronto Metropolitan University. Zahra collaborates closely with other Canadian government bodies—including Housing, Infrastructure and Communities Canada (HICC), the Standards Council of Canada (SCC), the Canadian Standards Association (CSA), and Health Canada—as well as with partners from academia, industry, and professional associations to maximize the reach and impact of her work. Through these partnerships, she actively contributes to the development of updated guidelines and practical strategies for climate change adaptation and mitigation. She also co-chairs an international Task Group on “Nature-Based Solutions for Climate-Resilient Buildings and Communities”. In addition, she collaborates with municipalities and has led multiple research projects focused on reducing the impacts of climate change, urban overheating and flooding, in Canadian built environments.
Kirsten ZickfeldDistinguished SFU Professor of Climate Science, Simon Fraser UniversitySee Bio×Kirsten Zickfeld
Dr. Kirsten Zickfeld is a Distinguished SFU Professor of Climate Science at Simon Fraser University in Vancouver. She holds a PhD in physics from Potsdam University in Germany. Her primary research interests lie in the long-term effects of human activities on climate. She is internationally recognized for her research on the reversibility of human-induced climate change, carbon budgets consistent with climate targets and Earth system response to carbon dioxide removal. She served as a Lead Author of the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change (IPCC) Special Report of on Global Warming of 1.5 degrees and the IPCC Sixth Assessment Report. She is a member of the Scientific Steering Committee of the Global Carbon Project.
Michael TwiggDirector, Nature Economies, Smart Prosperity InstituteSee Bio×Michael Twigg
Michael Twigg leads SPI’s work on sustainable agriculture and nature-based solutions. His work focuses on reframing economic systems to ensure they grow alongside—and not at the expense of—nature. Drawing on expertise in development economics, ecosystem service valuation and participatory policy design, Michael’s work brings together governments, Indigenous Nations, industry leaders and civil society to better integrate natural assets into decision-making and unlock new models of economic prosperity that integrate the diverse values of Canada’s natural assets. He holds a Master’s in Environmental Policy from l’Institut d’études politiques de Paris.

Navigating Geopolitical Shifts: Canada’s Innovation Strategy for the Life Sciences Sector
2025-09-11 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
Watch videoExecutive Summary
The virtual panel brought together sector experts to identify obstacles and propose actionable policy and industry responses. Panelists highlighted three primary challenges: volatile global capital flows and intensified international competition that reduce investment predictability; a persistent shortage of sustained late-stage and institutional capital that often sends value abroad; and regulatory and infrastructure constraints — slow approvals, limited regulatory capacity, fragmented clinical-trial systems, and shortages of lab space and experienced scaling talent.
Recommended responses focused on coordinated, long-term public-private action. Panelists urged the development of a durable national industrial strategy aligning R&D, procurement, trade, talent policies; catalytic public capital and structured mechanisms to mobilize pension funds and institutional investors; and expanded non-dilutive translational funding to bridge the “valley of death.” They also recommended protecting and modernizing regulatory review capacity with faster review tracks and regulatory incentives, reforming fiscal tools such as SR&ED and clinical-trial tax credits, and removing interprovincial frictions for trials and health data.
Industry steps include investing in differentiated platforms, adopting AI across discovery and development, and accelerating trial operations. Panelists identified Canada’s comparative advantages — world-class AI research and an ethical AI reputation, under-connected but valuable health data, strengths in biologics and medtech, and geopolitical neutrality that can attract firms.
The discussion concluded with a call for next steps: create a cross-jurisdictional task force, pilot catalytic co-investment funds, and set measurable targets to anchor innovation, IP, and economic returns in Canada. Priority timeline: pilots within 12 months, and formal strategy within 24 months, with clear metrics.
Summaries from the panel (4–6 bullets per question — anonymized, ordered by emphasis)
Q — What are the top three challenges currently hindering innovation in your sector?

A global “whiplash” in investment and intense international competition: panelists repeatedly described rapid geopolitical shifts that have made capital flows uncertain and created a scramble among jurisdictions to attract life-sciences investment. This reduces predictability for Canadian firms.
Insufficient, uneven access to capital (especially late-stage): speakers emphasized a gap in sustained venture and growth capital in Canada; large deals and exit value are often driven by international investors so much of the economic return leaves the country. Pension funds and institutional investors were flagged as under-allocated to domestic life-sciences.
Regulatory performance and slow approvals: delays and capacity constraints in regulatory review were named as a persistent barrier to launching innovations and attracting investment; panelists urged protecting/augmenting regulatory capacity to reduce delays from 3 years to a months when the approval has already been given in one of the ICH countries.
Talent and infrastructure bottlenecks (lab space, experienced executives): early-stage companies often struggle to find ready-to-move-into lab space and “been-there-done-that” executive talent to scale companies.
Lack of a cohesive long-term industrial strategy / low R&D intensity: several panelists pointed out Canada’s low R&D as % of GDP and the absence of a multi-decade industrial strategy, which undermines consistent signals to investors and talent.

Q — How should the government and industry respond to enable long-term innovation and competitiveness?

Signal quickly and decisively — champion life sciences as a national priority: panelists urged governments to send unequivocal signals (strategy + budget) so Canada is seen as “open for business” for life sciences investment. Short-term gestures won’t suffice — they want a durable commitment.
Create and fund a cohesive industrial strategy that ties R&D, trade, talent and procurement together: recommendations included a 10–20 year plan, clear sector targets, and aligning procurement to industrial objectives so government becomes an early adopter and market-maker. Examples were given of other small countries that adopt this model.
Mobilize patient capital (pension funds / co-investment) and expand non-dilutive tools: panelists proposed mechanisms to bring Canadian pension funds and institutional investors in (co-syndication, dedicated funds, carve-outs) plus strengthen non-dilutive programs (IRAP, grants) to improve funding across stages.
Streamline and protect regulatory capacity; use regulatory incentives: protect Health Canada’s review capacity, introduce or modernize incentive regimes (e.g., orphan-drug-style incentives, fee waivers, faster review tracks) to make Canada a faster launch market.
Industry should build platforms, adopt AI, and speed trials: private sector actions include investing in differentiated platforms (human-cell/organoid models, data-generating platforms), adopting AI for drug discovery, and accelerating clinical trial operations (citing examples of fast local trial timelines).

Q — Key recommendations and next steps for enhancing private-sector R&D investment in Canada

Attract and retain late-stage capital (create Canadian vehicles / incentives for pension funds): propose dedicated Canadian science/innovation funds or a percentage-pledge from large pension pools, to keep returns and reinvestment domestic. Incentive to VC will be required to support this requirement to increase ROI of pension funds. Panelists stressed leverage effects — public catalytic capital attracts larger private co-investments.
Modernize fiscal tools — SR&ED, clinical-trial credits, patent incentives: update SR&ED, introduce targeted tax credits (clinical trials), and consider patent-box or other IP incentives so finance levers better reward R&D and scale-ups.
Expand non-dilutive translational funding and carve-outs: increase and tailor grants/programs for the translational “valley of death” (bench→clinic), and consider specific carve-outs in VC programs to seed life-sciences growth.
Make Canada an easier place to run complex clinical studies and commercialize: reduce administrative friction across provinces (data portability/interprovincial barriers), speed trial start-up timelines, and promote domestic clinical trials tied to Canadian IP (panelists noted only a small share of trials originate from Canadian innovation).
Targeted infrastructure and platform investments: invest in next-gen lab/platform infrastructure (organoids, organ-on-a-chip, human-derived models, data platforms, new equipment generating new types of data) that generate novel data as a competitive differentiator.

Q — What new opportunities or comparative advantages can Canada exploit?

Ethical AI leadership and AI-accelerated drug discovery: Canada’s strong AI research base and reputation for ethical AI can be leveraged to accelerate drug discovery and data analytics — panelists urged faster private-sector adoption and rapid investment to capture first-mover advantages.
Health-system data and a coordinated national clinical-study environment: panelists pointed to Canada’s rich (but siloed) health data as a potential competitive asset if provinces reduce barriers and Canada builds an easy, unified environment for complex trials.
Biodefense / dual-use tech as national-security rationale for funding: framing life sciences investment as part of health and national security (biodefense, pandemic preparedness) opens additional funding and policy channels. Examples were given of companies that pivoted to pandemic response via existing government partnerships.
Niche platform leadership (precision biologics, medtech, smart implants): Canada can double down where it’s already strong — biologics, precision medicine, certain medtech — and act as an early adopter (procurement) to scale those wins (example: data-rich smart implant case cited).

A window to attract companies and talent amid global shifts: with geopolitical uncertainty elsewhere, Canada’s neutral reputation and high-education talent pool create a timely opportunity to attract companies, Canadian ex-pat entrepreneurs to bring or run their (next) company in Canada and create anchor jobs — but speed and clear policy signals are essential.
This summary has been generated with the assistance of AI tools.
Moderated by: Dr. Jason FieldPresident & CEO Life Sciences OntarioSee Bio×Dr. Jason Fields
Dr. Jason Field is President and CEO of Life Sciences Ontario (LSO), an organization that works collaboratively with government, academia, industry, and life sciences partners across Canada to support the sector’s commercial success and growth.
He holds a PhD in Chemistry from the University of Massachusetts and a B.Sc. from the University of Waterloo. Jason’s career spans both the pharmaceutical industry and the Ontario government. He joined LSO as Executive Director in October 2011 and was appointed President and CEO in April 2014.
Jason serves on several boards and advisory committees, including the University of Toronto’s Translational Research Program, ReMAP, BioTalent Canada, and Research Canada. He also co-chairs the Resilient Healthcare Coalition.
He is a recipient of the University of Waterloo’s 2018 Distinguished Alumni Award, served as Chair of Ontario’s Life Sciences Council (2023–2024), and was awarded the King Charles III Coronation Medal.
Karimah Es SabarFormer CEO & General PartnerSee Bio×Karimah Es Sabar
Karimah Es Sabar is a highly-recognized Canadian life sciences leader with global experience and a successful career spanning multi-national pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, startups, not-for-profit organizations, innovation ecosystems and venture investment firms.
Ms. Es Sabar is the former founding CEO & General Partner at Quark Venture LP, a global venture capital firm, and Director of the Global Health Sciences [GHS] Fund focused on bioscience investment in therapeutics, vaccines, medical devices, digital health, AI and convergent disruptive technology companies.
Ms. Es Sabar was CEO & President of the Centre for Drug Research and Development (CDRD]; CEO & President of LifeSciences BC; and she has held several executive and senior management positions in the biopharmaceutical industry, most notably at Sanofi Pasteur. She also co-founded and enabled several health science companies.
Ms. Es Sabar has received multiple awards and recognitions for her leadership and pioneering work, including the Order of British Columbia and Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Award. She holds an Executive Certificate in Management and Leadership from the MIT Sloan School of Management; a MSc degree in Neurochemistry from the Institute of Psychiatry, University of London, England; and a BSc Joint Honours degree in Biochemistry/Chemistry from the University of Salford in Manchester, England.
Ms. Es Sabar has served on numerous boards; currently she is Board Chair of TRIUMF Innovations, and serves on boards of HSO, Variantyx, Canary Medical, Qualisure Diagnostics and Capricor. She was Chair of the Health/Biosciences Economic Strategy Table (Government of Canada) and Member of the Industry Strategy Council (Government of Canada).
Wendy ZatylnyPresident & CEO, BIOTECanadaSee Bio×Wendy Zatylny
Wendy Zatylny is a seasoned executive who brings 30 years’ experience spearheading issues on the federal and provincial-territorial landscapes—including policy development and roll-out, reputation stewardship, issues management, and advocacy to advance member interests.
Wendy has represented Canadian issues on the world stage, and led national stakeholder engagement and government relations programs developed in concert with effective media and advertising strategies. Born in Quebec and charged with Canada-wide program initiatives, Wendy brings a bilingual and truly national perspective to her work.
Wendy brings extensive leadership experience across key sectors of the Canadian economy, including life sciences, logistics, telecommunications, and marine transportation. Before joining BIOTECanada, Wendy was Canadian Country Manager for a global telecommunications infrastructure provider, during which time she led a $7.5 million project to upgrade the company’s passive infrastructure. Prior to that, she spent nine years as President at the Association of Canadian Port Authorities (ACPA), advocating on behalf of the marine transportation system. On the life sciences front, she spent eight years at Rx&D, the national association representing Canada’s research-based pharmaceutical companies where she held several senior positions in public affairs and government relations.
Outside of the office, Wendy is a proud mom to her 28 year old son, as well as an accomplished competitive ballroom dancer. Active in her community, she is a recipient of the Governor General’s Commemorative Medal for the 125th Anniversary of the Confederation of Canada, and was recognized by the Supply Chain Management Association as one of 100 Influential Women in Canadian Supply Chain in 2019.
Stephanie MichaudPresident & CEO, BioCanRxSee Bio×Stephanie Michaud
Stéphanie Michaud is the President and CEO of BioCanRx, Canada’s Immunotherapy Network. BioCanRx invests in the development of immunotherapies for the clinic in order to increase the number of clinical trials in Canada based on novel approaches to treating cancer. She brings over 20+ years of experience from the public, government, private and not-for-profit experience in research, science, technology and innovation (STI) policy and program delivery. Dr Michaud holds a PhD in organic chemistry from McGill University and has worked as a synthetic organic chemist in industry. In addition to contributing to numerous committees and working groups within the science policy and cancer research landscape, she currently serves as Director on the Board of Exactis Innovation and Research Canada, the advisory board of the Canadian Cancer Research Alliance and is a past Board member of the StemCell network. She is a past alumna of both the Governor General Leadership Conference and inaugural Centre for Drug Development Executive Institute. She lives in the province of Québec with her husband and daughter.
Alexandre Le BouthillierFounding Partner & CEO, LinearisSee Bio×Alexandre Le Bouthillier
After 20 years of experience in IT for hospitals, space agencies, and city-wide storage infrastructure, Alexandre Le Bouthillier transformed his understanding of large systems to tackle the inefficiencies in healthcare. Now, Alexandre works with world renowned AI experts and physicians to revolutionize the speed, accuracy, and ultimately clinical outcomes of patients. He is a Board Member of Mila (honorific since 2023), IVADO, MEDTEQ+, envisAGE, Health Innovation District & Montreal InVivo. With a Ph.D. in Parallel Computing and Optimization from the Université de Montréal, Le Bouthillier is co-founder and general partner at Linearis, an AI health fund to foster a collaborative, accessible, equitable and sustainable end-to-end health continuum.
Bethany MoirVP Partnerships, AdMareSee Bio×Bethany Moir
Bethany Moir is Senior Director, Public Affairs at adMare BioInnovations, a pan-Canadian organization that provides scientific and commercial expertise, specialized R&D infrastructure and seed capital to help build Canada’s life science industry from sea to sea.
Prior to joining adMare, Bethany held a variety of roles covering research and insights, stakeholder relations, strategic projects and client services at Toronto Global, the foreign direct investment attraction agency for the Toronto Region. Since joining at the organization’s inception in 2017, she was proud to have contributed to many of Toronto Global’s key projects, including as core researcher and author of the Toronto Region response to Amazon’s HQ2 request for proposals, securing more than $15 million in government funding, designing and implementing a new governance structure, authoring influential white papers, and initiating the Ontario Wet Lab Coalition that has helped raise awareness and secure government funding for multi-tenant lab space that supports graduation-stage life science companies.
Bethany has previously held roles with municipal and provincial (Ontario) governments and started her career as a marketer with experience working in multi-national organizations as well as start-up and scaling Canadian tech companies. Her professional experience is complemented with an MBA, International Business and an M.Sc. Local Economic Development from the London School of Economics along with a global mind-set resulting from living in Canada, Australia, Italy, the UK, and China.
Wendy HurlburtPresident & CEO, BC Life SciencesSee Bio×Wendy Hurlburt
President & CEO of Life Sciences BC, Wendy Hurlburt, holds a critical leadership role in B.C.’s dynamic life sciences ecosystem. She takes a collaborative approach to building relationships between local SMEs, global partners, educational institutions, and government to support the thriving sector and is a highly regarded spokesperson in key international markets. Regarded as a promoter and advocate for the sector, Wendy attracts new business and investment opportunities to the province.
Wendy is passionate about volunteerism and seeks out tangible ways to give back. She is a member of the Economic Development & Fiscal Committee for the Greater Vancouver Board of Trade; the Clinical Trials BC Advisory Council, Michael Smith Health Research BC; a committee member for the Canadian Chamber of Commerce Life Sciences Strategy Council, a member of the Public Policy Forum (PPF) Life Sciences Council and Co-Chair of the PPF Life Sciences working group. She is also a member of the Management Board of Invest Vancouver, Board member and Chair of Finance & Audit Committee for Nimbus Synergies, and Vice Chair of the Board and Board member of Science World.
Anne StevensVP of Business Development, AbCelleraSee Bio×Anne Stevens
Anne is the Vice President of Business Development at AbCellera where she has led strategic partnerships in antibody therapeutics and oversees government initiatives aimed at fostering innovation and expanding capabilities. Previously, Anne was a Co-Founder and Senior Partner of Northview Lifesciences, a firm which invests in and provides strategic advisory services to a number of life sciences companies. Anne also served as the Chief Operating Officer for Aequus Pharmaceuticals, a publicly listed Canadian specialty pharmaceutical company. Anne’s earlier experience includes roles of increasing responsibility in business and corporate development, including at Cardiome Pharma Corp. and Bayer HealthCare, where she was responsible for strategic planning and value analysis of internal R&D as well as the commercial success and business development of a portfolio of products within several key therapeutic areas. Anne serves as the Chair of Life Sciences BC and is on the Board of Aequus Pharmaceuticals. She is a past winner of Business in Vancouver’s “Top 40 Under 40”. Anne holds a Bachelor of Science degree and Master of Health Administration degree from the University of British Columbia.

Beyond the $100 Billion Promise: Reimagining Climate Finance Ahead of COP30
2025-09-17 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
Overview: Climate finance remains a defining challenge in the global response to climate change. With COP30 approaching, this panel aims to provide critical insights into the post-COP29 financing landscape, highlight Canada’s role, and unpack the evolving discussions around the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG). We invite you to join an engaging virtual panel of thought leaders across sectors to explore solutions that make climate finance more equitable, effective, and aligned with climate justice.
Abstract:
As the world looks toward COP30 in Belém, Brazil, climate finance remains at the heart of global negotiations. Despite previous pledges, including the $100 billion annual target set in Copenhagen and reaffirmed in Paris, the shortfall in delivery and rising climate-related costs have led to growing mistrust and urgency. The upcoming COP will be critical in operationalizing the New Collective Quantified Goal (NCQG) and realigning climate finance commitments with the actual needs of developing countries, now estimated to exceed $5.9 trillion by 2030.
This virtual panel will convene leading voices from finance, government, and academia to explore the future of climate finance. It will delve into Canada’s evolving role, innovative financing mechanisms, the integration of justice and equity in funding frameworks, and the implementation challenges facing public and private actors. As COP30 offers an opportunity to reset the agenda, this conversation will provide timely insights into how climate finance can be more ambitious, equitable, and accountable.
Register HereModerated by: Fatima SyedClimate and policy reporter, The NarwhalSee Bio×Fatima SyedFatima Syed is a Mississauga-based journalist. She was the founding host of The Backbench podcast. She has worked for The Walrus, the Toronto Star, The Logic and National Observer, where she established the outlet’s Queen’s Park bureau, with an emphasis on coverage of environmental and energy policy. She is a National Magazine Award nominee, a Digital Publishing Award winner, and has contributed chapters to two anthologies published by Coach House Books—Subdivided: City-Building in an Age of Hyper-Diversity and House Divided. She is also the vice-president of the Canadian Association of Journalists. She was the winner of the 2022 World Press Freedom Canada Award.Olaf WeberCIBC Chair in Sustainable Finance, Schulich School of Business, York UniversitySee Bio×Olaf Weber
Olaf Weber is a Professor at the Schulich School of Business and a CIBC Chair in Sustainable Finance. His research and teaching interests address the connection between financial sector players, such as banks, and sustainable development, as well as the link between sustainability and the financial performance of enterprises. His research focuses on the impacts of the financial industry on sustainable development, the role of voluntary and regulatory mechanisms for the financial sector to become more sustainable, social banking and impact investing, the materiality of sustainability risks and opportunities for investors, and artificial intelligence as a tool to analyze environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance.
Mahlet MelkieSenior Associate, Climate Finance Access Network (CFAN)See Bio×Mahlet Melkie
Mahlet is a senior associate with the Climate Finance Access Network. She contributes to CFAN’s thought leadership work by performing research and analysis on the challenges and opportunities faced by Small Island States and Least Developed countries in accessing finance. Mahlet supports CFAN leadership in the development and execution of monitoring and evaluation frameworks and supports stakeholder engagement and management.
Mahlet has more than 10 years of experience in environment and development and climate change. She has mostly worked on national climate change adaptation and mitigation policy planning in Ethiopia and has worked on the United Nations Convention on Climate Change negotiations with a special focus on climate finance. She has been supporting least developed countries in forming positions in the climate negotiations. Additionally, Mahlet served as an adviser to least developed country board members to the Green Climate Fund from 2014–2021. Her experience includes policy analysis, research, and training.
Education
MA, Climate and Society, Columbia University
MA, Environment and Development, Addis Ababa University
BA, Sociology and Social Administration, Addis Ababa University
Michael BonserAssociate Assistant Deputy Minister of International Affairs for Environment and Climate Change Canada’s Strategic Policy and International Affairs Branch (ECCC)See Bio×Michael Bonser
Associate Assistant Deputy Minister, Strategic Policy and International Affairs Branch- Environment and Climate Change Canada
Michael Bonser currently serves as the Associate Assistant Deputy Minister of the Strategic Policy and International Affairs Branch at Environment and Climate Change Canada (ECCC). Prior to this role, he served for one year as Director General, Multilateral Affairs and Chief Climate Negotiator, a position he held since September 2023.
Michael brings 24 years of experience from Global Affairs Canada, where he held numerous senior roles. His leadership positions included Director General, European Affairs (2022-2023), Executive Director of the G7/G20 Summits Team (2018-2022), Minister Counsellor and Political Coordinator at Canada’s Permanent Mission to the United Nations in New York (2013-2018), and Director of Humanitarian Affairs and Disaster Response (2010-2013). Notably, he was part of the interdepartmental team recognized with the Public Service Award of Excellence in 2010 for Canada’s response to the January 12, 2010, Haiti earthquake.
Since 1999, Michael has held a variety of policy and management positions within Global Affairs Canada’s International Security Branch, where he developed a strong background in humanitarian affairs and international security policy.
Before joining Global Affairs, Michael served as a Legislative Assistant in the Parliament of Canada and worked in the non-profit sector, focusing on human rights advocacy and protection. Michael holds a Master’s degree in International Relations from Acadia University and an Honours B.A. in History and Political Studies from Queen’s University. He has published several articles on humanitarian intervention and peacebuilding.
Jason TaylorFounder and CEO, Climate Finance AdvisorsSee Bio×Jason Taylor
Founder & Managing Partner – Climate Finance Advisors
Jason Taylor, a capital markets professional with over 20 years of experience, founded Climate Finance Advisors, a global consulting firm. The firm collaborates with financial institutions, asset owners and managers, and universities. In recent years, Jason led the sustainable finance teams and strategy for two Canadian banks. He worked closely with various groups within the bank and capital markets to design multi-billion-dollar sustainable investment vehicles and solutions for investors, corporates, and governments.
Jason is an instructor in the Goodman Institute’s MBA-CFA investment management program, where he teaches sustainable investing. Students learn topics such as ESG integration, sustainable finance, environmental finance, social finance, and impact investing. In 2022, he co-designed the first environmental finance certificate in Canada for John Molson’s Education Centre, covering the finance of the natural elements (earth, water, air, nature). Jason advocates for using the power of capital to influence systemic change and contribute to building just, fair, and resilient communities.
Jason completed an MBA focused in sustainability, collaboration, and innovation management at McGill/HEC Montreal. He was named to the Poets & Quants 2019 100 Best & Brightest list. He is a CFA and CAIA charter holder, and is a board and investment committee member of the Foundation of Greater Montreal, an asset owner with a net-zero 2050 and impact investing objective.
Susan McGeachieFounding Partner & CEO, Global Climate Finance Accelerator (GCFA)See Bio×Susan McGeachie
Susan McGeachie is CEO of the Global Climate Finance Accelerator, which convenes partnerships across business, finance, government and academia on strategies, policies, procedures, and tools to finance the deployment of technically viable climate solutions. With over 20 years of experience in sustainable finance, Susan has held leadership positions in banking, management consulting, and engineering firms, as the Head of the BMO Climate Institute, Global Director of Climate Change and Sustainability at Hatch, and the Central Market Leader for EY’s Climate Change and Sustainability Services practice. Prior to consulting, Susan was a Director with Innovest Strategic Value Advisors (since acquired by MSCI) where she supported the firm’s asset owner clients on the integration of environmental, social, and governance factors into stock valuation and selection decisions. Susan started her sustainability career with WWF Canada in 2000 supporting the integration of biodiversity conservation in resource development.
Susan is an Executive-in-Residence and a member of the ESG Designation program faculty at the Rotman School of Management, and an adjunct professor at the University of Toronto, teaching a graduate course in environmental finance and sustainable investing. She is also a member of the Climate Governance Experts panel and a former board member of the Canadian Responsible Investment Association. Susan was named to the Canadian delegation of COP 26 and 27. She was awarded one of twenty-six Canadian Climate Champions by the Canada Climate Law Initiative and the British High Commission ahead of COP 26. In 2014, she was named to the Clean50 and Clean 16 lists of practitioners, which recognize leadership in advancing the clean economy. Also in 2014, Susan received the University of Toronto Arbor Award in recognition of her work on the University of Toronto’s Environmental Finance Advisory Committee from 2006 to 2018.
Sébastien PosticResearcher, Public finance, Development & Climate action, Institute for Climate Economics (I4CE)See Bio×Sébastien Postic
Research Fellow – Public Finance, Development
Sébastien is a senior researcher at I4CE, where his research interests mainly focus on how public finance management tools can adapt to climate constraints and support climate action, embedding long-term climate commitments into budget management, taxation, and overall national financing plans, especially in emerging and developing economies. He joined I4CE after a Franco-Chilean PhD on modelling tools for energy planning in South America, and how climate impacts and climate action could reshape the future on the energy mix in the region, and on the contribution of Smart Grids and Smart Buildings to Europe’s climate and energy policy.
Sébastien is a graduate engineer from France’s École Polytechnique and holds a joint PhD from MINES ParisTech / University of Chile.

Navigating Geopolitical Shifts: Canada’s Innovation Strategy for the Advanced Manufacturing Sector
2025-09-25 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
Watch videoExecutive Summary
This virtual panel convened sector experts to diagnose barriers to innovation and recommend policy and industry actions to strengthen Canada’s competitiveness. Panelists identified three dominant, interlocking challenges: volatile global capital flows and heightened international competition that reduce investment predictability; an acute shortage of sustained late-stage and institutional capital that forces value and exits offshore; and regulatory and infrastructure constraints—slow approvals, fragmented clinical-trial and data systems, limited lab and scale-up capacity, and shortages of experienced executives. Participants also highlighted workforce ageing and skills gaps that undermine scale-up.
To address these, the panel recommended a coordinated, durable industrial strategy that aligns R&D, procurement, trade, talent, fiscal tools. Specific proposals included catalytic public co-investment vehicles to attract pension and institutional capital; expanded non-dilutive translational funding to bridge the “valley of death”; and modernization of fiscal supports (e.g., SR&ED and clinical-trial incentives). Panelists urged protecting and streamlining regulatory review capacity through faster review tracks and regulatory incentives, and using procurement as a market-maker to anchor domestic demand.
Industry actions identified included investing in differentiated platforms, accelerating AI adoption discovery and development, and speeding clinical-trial operations. Opportunities for Canada emphasized by the panel were leveraging world-class AI and ethical AI reputation, unlocking province-spanning health data for trials, doubling down on niche strengths in biologics and medtech, and using defence and sovereignty projects as demand anchors. The discussion closed with a call for near-term pilots (catalytic funds and procurement trials) and a two-year roadmap with measurable targets to retain IP, jobs, and economic returns in Canada.
Summaries from the panel (4–6 bullets per question — anonymized, ordered by emphasis)
Q — What are the top three challenges currently hindering innovation in your sector?

Trade & geopolitical shocks creating extreme unpredictability — panelists described heavy reliance on the U.S. market (example: one speaker noted ~94% of a sub-sector’s exports to the U.S.), which makes firms vulnerable to sudden tariff or trade changes.
Insufficient and uneven investment (esp. long-term / scale capital) — participants flagged under-investment per worker versus peer countries and difficulties attracting late-stage/pension/institutional capital to keep industrial returns and IP anchored domestically.
Regulatory uncertainty and red-tape burden — speakers emphasised that unpredictable regulation (trade, carbon, other rules) and lengthy regulatory processes deter long-lived capital spending (example: investments like furnaces have 60–70 year horizons).
Workforce and skills shortages plus an ageing labour pool — the sector skews older, with imminent retirements and large hiring/training needs; panelists stressed employer-led training and stronger ties with colleges/unions to close gaps.
Low digital / automation adoption and infrastructure gaps — Canada lags in robot adoption and automation (low robot-to-worker ratios), limiting competitiveness versus low-cost rivals; also noted: constrained lab/production capacity in some segments.

Q — How should government and industry respond to enable long-term innovation and competitiveness?

Create clear, fast industrial policy and durable signals for investment — panelists asked for decisive, time-bound policy direction (not multi-year uncertainty) so firms can commit capital (industries want “speed of need” similar to pandemic responses).
Share risk via targeted public-private mechanisms — speakers recommended catalytic public capital, co-investment models, and programs that share downside risk so firms will invest in advanced manufacturing and scale-up.
Invest in workforce (training + immigration) and worker-centred automation — suggestions included more STEM and trade modernization, employer-led upskilling, union partnerships, and immigration routes for mid-career talent to fill immediate technical roles.
Modernize fiscal & program levers (SR&ED, SIF, procurement) — expand and sharpen commercialization-focused supports (examples mentioned: Strategic Innovation Fund, SR&ED) and use procurement/sovereignty projects as demand signals.
Reduce regulatory friction and improve predictability — call for revisiting how regulation is made (better cost-benefit and economic mandates) so long-lived capital decisions aren’t undermined by shifting rules.

Q — Key recommendations / next steps to boost private-sector R&D investment in Canada

Focus supports on scaling & commercialization, not just discovery — expand programs that help firms move from prototype to production and secure first commercial revenues (panelists cited gaps where incubator/accelerator innovations fail to reach market).
Use catalytic public capital to attract private co-investment — create co-investment vehicles or carve-outs to bring pension funds and institutional capital into domestic industrial R&D and scale-ups.
Prioritize predictability for long-horizon assets — clarify carbon, trade and sector mandates (example: EV glide-path clarity requested) so firms will commit to CAPEX and R&D with multi-decade payback profiles.
Strengthen industry-academia-government partnerships and regional incubator learning — embed R&D into production environments, learn from successful incubators/accelerators, and scale employer-led commercialization supports.
Invest in targeted infrastructure & platforms (automation, robotics, additive manufacturing) — deploy strategic funding for automation, co-bots, AMRs, 3D printing and centres of excellence that raise productivity and export competitiveness.

Q — What new opportunities / comparative advantages can Canada exploit?

Leverage a strong manufacturing + space / aerospace base — Canada already has deep strengths (space heritage, manufacturing competence) that can be doubled down on through targeted investment and procurement.
Use nation-building / defence projects as anchors — speakers noted defence, sovereignty and critical-minerals projects (and NATO commitments) create near-term demand signals to scale domestic industrial R&D.
Capitalize on a “safer, sustainable” brand to attract investment — Canada’s political stability, labor/environment standards and education system make it attractive as a base for firms seeking resilient, ethical supply chains.
Win by accelerating automation and advanced-manufacturing niches — focus on robotics/AI-enabled manufacturing, precision manufacturing (e.g., advanced vehicles, satellite components) and centres of excellence to create exportable know-how.

Exploit supply-chain reconfiguration (reshoring / north-America focus) — as firms rethink north-south supply chains, Canada can position to capture more domestic sourcing and North American integrated production—if policy/skills/investment align quickly.
This summary has been generated with the assistance of AI tools.
Tara CraigenManufacturing Engineering Director, General Motors CanadaSee Bio×Tara Craigen
Tara Craigen – Manufacturing Engineering Director, General Motors Canada
Tara began her career at General Motors twenty-five years ago, navigating various leadership positions in Quality Engineering and Manufacturing Operations across the Oshawa Car and Truck plants. In 2016, Tara’s career took a significant turn as she stepped into the role of Operational Excellence Leader. Her tenure in this position was distinguished by several successful cross-functional projects that not only enhanced processes but also led to multi-million dollar savings for GM.
In 2018, Tara transitioned to the Canadian Technical Center in Markham as an Engineering Manager. Here, she put her passion for innovation and technology at the forefront, leading dynamic teams of software and controls engineers dedicated to the development of cutting-edge technologies in active safety, electric vehicles (EV), and autonomous systems. Tara led the Lateral & Vehicle Path Controls team working on Super Cruise and other features, as well as the Advanced Vehicle Prognostics team focused on predicting potential failures before they occur.
In 2024, Tara returned to the Oshawa Assembly Plant as the Manufacturing Engineering Director, where she provides technical leadership and strategic direction to the plant’s engineering, facilities and maintenance teams.
Tara has a Master’s degree in Metallurgical Engineering from McGill University and has two patented inventions. Outside of her professional commitments, Tara enjoys a fulfilling personal life, celebrating over 20 years of marriage and raising three children. In her free time, she enjoys gardening, small home improvement projects, furniture restoration and reading the latest book about dragons.
François DesmaraisVice President – Trade and Canadian Steel Producers, Association (CSPA)See Bio×François Desmarais
François Desmarais has joined the Canadian Steel Producers Association (CSPA) in 2024 as their Director for Trade and Industry Affairs and has been since promoted as Vice President. He has extensive private sector experience, having previously worked for large international consortiums in the defense and the transportation sectors. François honed his public policy skills having also worked a decade in various governmental organizations, from the Office of the Minister of Industry, the Senate of Canada, and the National Assembly of Québec, as well as abroad for the European Commission, Canadian missions to the OSCE and to the EU. He holds a Bachelor degree in Political Science and a Certificate in German Studies from the Université de Montréal, and a Master degree in Political Science from Université Laval. François is fluent in French, English, and German.
Amy MacLeodVice President, Corporate Communications, MDA Space See Bio×Amy MacLeod
A seasoned business leader with 25 years experience as a senior communications executive and spokesperson, Amy MacLeod was named Vice President of Corporate Communications at MDA Space in 2021, pivoting her career into the rapidly expanding space industry. An expert in shaping complex business, financial, and technical developments into strategic communications programs, Amy believes that good communication comes from connecting people with information that conveys passion and purpose, and that truth simply told is the best path to leadership, influence and personal and corporate credibility.
Prior to joining MDA Space, Amy held a series of executive communications positions in the technology and defence sectors, most recently serving as Vice President, Corporate Affairs and External Communications at Seaspan Shipyards where she helped to establish the company’s brand as a modern industry leading shipbuilder. Prior to Seaspan, Amy served as Vice President, Corporate Communications at Mitel where she had global responsibility for all communications. In 2018 she was appointed as Mitel’s first Corporate Diversity Officer with a mandate to drive strategic business and cultural change for the company globally. Earlier in her career, Amy worked in progressively senior communications roles at General Dynamics Canada, Alcatel-Lucent, and Newbridge Networks Corporation. She began her career as a political staffer on Parliament Hill.
Amy obtained a Bachelor of Political Science from the University of Waterloo. She has also completed a Certification in Diversity and Inclusion, at Cornell University; and the Executive Development Marketing Program, at Queen’s University.
Amy has served as Chair of Board for the Kanata North Business Association, home to Canada’s largest technology park, and is currently a member of the Board of Directors for CADSI, the Canadian Association of Defence and Security Industries, and for the Queensway Carleton Hospital Foundation. A frequent speaker and moderator, Amy has been invited to share her expertise at many speaking engagements and conferences, including TEDx Kanata. She was a finalist for the 2019 Ottawa Business Women of the Year award, which recognizes the accomplishments of outstanding leaders in the National Capital Region.
A fiercely proud Canadian, Amy grew up in a mining town in Northern Ontario with five older brothers and sisters. She lives in Ottawa with her unflappable husband Greg and inspiring daughter Arwen.
Ryan GreerSenior Vice President, Public Affairs and National Policy at Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME)See Bio×Ryan Greer
Ryan Greer is Senior Vice President, Public Affairs and National Policy at Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters (CME), where he drives national policy development, communications and advocacy efforts for Canada’s manufacturing sector.
With 20 years in senior public policy roles in Ottawa, Ryan has deep expertise in federal policy frameworks and the political dynamics that shape them. He previously served a Senior Director at Hill & Knowlton Strategies, advising public, private and non-profit organizations on corporate communications, thought leadership, and public affairs. Earlier, as a Senior Director at the Canadian Chamber of Commerce, he led national businesses advocacy across a range of issues including transportation, infrastructure, supply chains, procurement, regulatory burden, and interprovincial trade.
Ryan began his career in the federal government, working in the Prime Minister’s Office and later as a Senior Advisor to the Ministers of Public Works and Government Services, Human Resources and Skills Development, and Small Business and Tourism.
Jay JudkowitzDirector, Product and Engineering, Rockwell Automation’s Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) groupSee Bio×Jay Judkowitz
Jay Judkowitz is the head of Product and Engineering for Rockwell Automation’s Autonomous Mobile Robot (AMR) group, coming in through the Clearpath Robotics acquisition. Jay’s team is responsible for Rockwell’s AMR roadmap, design, development, testing, and handoff to manufacturing of AMR hardware and software. Before Jay’s 6 years in the AMR space, he had a long tenure in information technology and cloud products including long stints with industry leaders including Intel, VMware, and Google Cloud. Jay worked 21 years in Silicon Valley before immigrating to Canada in early 2017.
Rhonda BarnetSenior Advisor, AVIT ManufacturingSee Bio×Rhonda Barnet
Rhonda Barnet is Senior Advisor to AVIT Manufacturing, a family-owned automation and engineering company she helped grow into a global supplier for leading multinationals including GE, Toyota, Honda, and Siemens. Previously serving as President & COO, she led the company through expansion, international growth, and digital transformation.
Barnet also served as CEO of Palette Skills, where she launched Upskill Canada, a landmark national workforce development initiative backed by a $250M federal investment. She scaled Palette Skills from a small startup into a national organization delivering programs that have connected thousands of Canadians with high-demand jobs.
A recognized governance leader and advocate for Canadian manufacturing, Barnet was the first woman Chair of Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters, a member of the federal Industry Strategy Council, and has held board roles with Next Generation Manufacturing Canada and the Electrical Safety Authority. She is a sought-after voice on innovation, skills, diversity, and the future of work.

Fostering Trainee Well-Being through Accountability and Collaboration
2025-10-01 13:00 - 14:30 | Zoom
Canadian universities and research institutions are increasingly recognizing that systemic barriers within the research ecosystem deeply affect the well-being and success of trainees. These barriers are often embedded in disciplinary norms, lab cultures, and institutional practices, which reinforce exclusionary behaviours and disproportionately impact the participation, opportunities, and experiences of trainees from equity-deserving groups. Addressing these barriers requires identifying them and committing to intentional, structural change. All players in the research ecosystem have a role to play in dismantling these barriers and fostering inclusive, supportive research environments.
This panel will bring together representatives from a federal granting agency, a university, a national not-for-profit research network, and a trainee to discuss formal policies, strategies, and initiatives that prioritize and safeguard trainee well-being. Initiatives like the Government of Canada’s Dimensions program and ArcticNet’s EDI Strategy demonstrate how ecosystem players can display accountability and lead structural change. Panelists will reflect on how these initiatives use clear measurement frameworks, data collection, and iterative evaluation to produce meaningful and sustained progress towards change in research environments.
– Organized by BioCanRx
Register HereSpeaker information coming soon!Gillian CarletonPhD student, University of VictoriaSee Bio×Gillian Carleton
Gillian Carleton (they/them) is a PhD student at the University of Victoria. Working in the laboratory of Dr. Julian Lum at BC Cancer’s Deeley Research Centre, Gillian is interested in the complex mechanisms by which tumour cells metabolically constrain T cell function within the solid tumour environment. Their research centres on rewiring metabolic networks in T cells to overcome immunosuppressive signaling mediated by metabolic dysfunction or competition. In particular, they are currently developing novel gene-editing strategies to metabolically and functionally enhance CAR-T cell efficacy for treatment of ovarian cancer.
Melody LynchKnowledge Mobilization Manager, ArcticNetSee Bio×Melody Lynch
Melody Lynch, PhD (she/her) is the Knowledge Mobilization Manager at ArcticNet. Her role is to catalyze a variety of applications of diverse knowledges about the North to support capacity building, policymaking, and social innovation. Melody is passionate about collaborative practices of knowledge production and exchange, and is responsible for tracking equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) within the ArcticNet organization. Melody was trained at McGill University as a human-environment geographer and interdisciplinary researcher. Her research has taken her from equatorial to polar regions and has focused on diverse impacts of social and ecological processes for human well-being. She has travelled aboard the research icebreaker CCGS Amundsen and visited each of Nunavik’s communities for the Qanuilirpitaa? [How are we now?] Regional Inuit Health Survey.
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Melody Lynch, PhD (elle) est gestionnaire de la mobilisation des connaissances à ArcticNet. Son rôle est de catalyser une variété d’applications de diverses connaissances sur le Nord pour soutenir le renforcement des capacités, l’élaboration de politiques et l’innovation sociale. Melody est passionnée par les pratiques collaboratives de production et d’échange de connaissances, et est responsable du suivi de l’équité, de la diversité et de l’inclusion (EDI) au sein de l’organisation ArcticNet. Melody a été formée à l’Université McGill en tant que géographe de l’environnement humain et chercheuse interdisciplinaire. Ses recherches l’ont menée des régions équatoriales aux régions polaires et se sont concentrées sur les divers impacts des processus sociaux et écologiques sur le bien-être humain. Elle a voyagé à bord du brise-glace de recherche CCGS Amundsen et a visité chacune des communautés du Nunavik pour le projet régional Qanuilirpitaa ? (Comment allons-nous maintenant ?), l’enquête régionale sur la santé des Inuits.
Nathalie PodeszfinskiManager, NSERCSee Bio×Nathalie Podeszfinski
Nathalie Podeszfinski est gestionnaire au sein de la direction des subventions de recherche et bourses au Conseil de recherches en sciences naturelles et en génie du Canada. Au courant des cinq dernières années, elle était gestionnaire de projet pour l’implantation du programme Dimensions : équité, diversité et inclusion Canada. Elle était précédemment gestionnaire de projets pour le Gender Summit 11 d’Amérique du Nord. Auparavant, Mme Podeszfinski a travaillé pendant 13 ans en politique fédérale dans divers cabinets ministériels. Elle possède une vaste expérience de la prestation de conseils stratégiques à des dirigeants de haut niveau, l’élaboration de politiques ainsi que le développement de stratégies de communication. De plus, Mme Podeszfinski possède de l’expérience dans la gestion et la mise en œuvre de nombreux projets complexes tels que le 400e anniversaire de la Ville de Québec en 2008, plusieurs Sommets de la Francophonie et la place du français aux Jeux olympiques de Vancouver de 2010. Mme Podeszfinski est titulaire d’une maîtrise en gestion de projet ainsi que d’un baccalauréat en administration des affaires de l’Université du Québec en Outaouais.
Nathalie Podeszfinski is a Manager, focusing on equity, diversity and inclusions files in the Discovery grants and recognition division at the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada. She previously was the Project Manager for the implementation of Dimensions: equity, diversity and inclusion Canada and was the Project Manager of the Gender Summit 2017 North America. Previously, Ms. Podeszfinski worked for 13 years in federal politics in different ministerial offices. She has extensive experience in providing strategic advice to senior officials, the development of policies, and writing communications strategies. Ms. Podeszfinski also has experience in the development and implementation of numerous complex projects, such as the Quebec 400th Celebrations in 2008, many Francophonie Summits, and the place of French during the Vancouver Olympic Games in 2010. Ms. Podeszfinski has an MA in project management as well as a BA in business administration from the Université du Québec en Outaouais.
Dr. Melinda SmithAssociate Vice President (Research-EDI), Professor, University of CalgarySee Bio×Dr. Melinda Smith
Dr. Malinda S. Smith is an Associate Vice President (Research-EDI) and a full professor of political science at the University of Calgary. She serves as Co-Chair of the President’s Task Force on Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Accessibility, Chair of the Dimensions EDI Team, and Lead of the One Child Every Child Equitable Pathways Accelerator and Equitable Pathways Council.
Dr. Smith holds a PhD in political science from the University of Alberta, an MA, MDA, and a BA magna cum laude in political science and criminal justice from Western Michigan University. She is the coauthor of The Equity Myth: Racialization and Indigeneity at Canadian Universities (2017), and editor or co-editor of seven books including the Nuances of Blackness in the Canadian Academy (2022) and Critical Concepts: An Introduction to Politics (2023).
Nationally, Dr. Smith serves on SSHRC Council and Executive, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) External EDI Advisory Board, Statistics Canada’s Immigration and Ethnocultural Statistics Advisory Committee. She is a Senior Fellow, Massey College, and serves as vice chair of the Steering Committee of the Scarborough Charter on Anti-Black Racism and Black Inclusion.
Dr. Smith is the recipient of numerous awards and fellowships, including a Lifetime Achievement Award, from the Calgary Black Chamber (2023), a Doctor of Laws, honoris causa, from Simon Fraser University (2021), 100 Accomplished Black Women Honouree (2020), a Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation Fellowship (2018), and an ISA-Canada Distinguished Scholar Award (2018-19).

Panel 1: Advancing European Union-Canada Research and Innovation: Focus on Horizon Europe
2025-10-03 08:45 - 09:45 | The Faculty Club, University of Toronto, 41 Willcocks Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G3, Canada
Moderated by: Steven LissVice-President, Research and Innovation, Toronto Metropolitan UniversitySee Bio×Steven Liss
Steven N. Liss is Toronto Metropolitan University’s Vice-President, Research and Innovation, and a professor of Chemistry and Biology in the Faculty of Science. Steven returned to Toronto Metropolitan University in April 2017, following a decade of distinguished service at the University of Guelph and at Queen’s University, where he served as Vice-Principal (Research) and a professor of Environmental Studies and Chemical Engineering. He is an internationally recognized researcher in environmental biotechnology and engineering, wastewater and water management, having made important contributions and insights on microbial structures and processes in natural and engineered environmental systems.
For his contributions to Canada’s research and innovation ecosystem, Steven was awarded the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2012. Steven has held positions on a number of boards and councils and continues to play an important leadership role in building digital infrastructure nationally.
Steven has been instrumental in advancing Toronto Metropolitan University’s significant research growth and the development of partnerships and collaborations in support of scaling and accelerating scholarly, creative and research activities across the University. He leads a bold strategic research plan, including the advancement of global partnerships and collaborations, and has overseen the creation of the Rogers Cybersecure Catalyst, the establishment of the Future Skills Centre, and the attraction of two Canada Excellence Research Chairs and a Canada First Research Excellence Fund award to TMU. He also played a critical role in advancing Toronto Metropolitan University’s as a leader in health and wellbeing, including chairing the planning process that led to the approval to establish TMU’s new medical school in Brampton.
Gabrielle BerardDirector of Public Affairs, Novo Nordisk CanadaSee Bio×Gabrielle Berard
Gabrielle Berard is a public affairs and advocacy professional specializing in health care policy. She is passionate about helping organizations understand how government works to support the alignment of business objectives with political priorities.
Gabrielle is the Head of Public Affairs at Novo Nordisk Canada, a global health care company based in Denmark dedicated to the development of innovative treatments for patients living with serious chronic diseases. In her current role, she leads policy, patient relations, and sustainability initiatives, as well as the development of community partnerships to support the company’s commitment to chronic disease prevention.
Prior to joining Novo Nordisk, Gabrielle spent over a decade working in the fields of government and health policy, including as a senior staffer to three Finance ministers. Since leaving politics, Gabrielle has built a career in health policy and advocacy, advising and representing professional associations, not-for-profit organizations and commercial industries to achieve their government affairs and public policy objectives.
Gabrielle lives in Ottawa with her husband and two daughters, where she also serves on the Board of Governors of Algonquin College.
Carole-Mancel BlanchardHead of Unit International Cooperation Europe and Americas, European CommissionSee Bio×Carole-Mancel BlanchardTed HewittPresident, Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC)See Bio×Ted Hewitt
Ted Hewitt was appointed president of SSHRC in March 2015. He served as the inaugural chair of the Canada Research Coordinating Committee from 2017 to 2019. Ted was vice-president, research and international relations, at Western University in London, Ontario, from 2004 to 2011, where he had been a professor of sociology since 1989. He was also a public policy scholar at the Brazil Institute of the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington, D.C. A leading authority on Brazil, Ted has published in monographs, edited works and a range of academic journals. In 2018, Brazil’s Ministry of Foreign Relations named him Grand Officer of the Order of Rio Branco—one of the highest levels of merit—for the many years he has fostered bilateral business and research partnerships between Brazil and Canada.
Ted’s current research focuses on national and international innovation systems, with emphasis on the roles of universities, industry and government in promoting economic prosperity in Latin America and beyond. He is co-chair of the Canada-Brazil Joint Committee for Cooperation on Science, Technology and Innovation, and a member of the board of the Brazil-Canada Chamber of Commerce.
Ted holds a PhD in sociology from McMaster University.

Panel 2: Building Global Scientific Leadership: Youth Engagement through Horizon Europe
2025-10-03 10:00 - 11:00 | The Faculty Club, University of Toronto, 41 Willcocks Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G3, Canada
Moderated by: Costas KapsouropoulosDigital and Science Counsellor, Delegation of the European Union to CanadaSee Bio×Costas KapsouropoulosMaria PawlowskaVisnea Inc. Expert in research management and science policy with a focus on EU – Canada collaboration and open scienceSee Bio×Maria Pawloska
Dr Maria Pawlowska is an expert in research management and science policy with a focus on EU – Canada collaboration and open science. She brings to her work over a decade of direct experience with EU funding, including work in Brussels committees. She is also involved in supporting the international move towards open science.
Since 2012, Maria has been assisting with EU projects at all levels, including developing guidelines in Brussels, evaluation, and assistance with submissions (including multiple ERC Advanced grants and large consortia grants). She has collaborated with European governments and non-governmental organizations, as well as Fortune200 companies. Working with EU and national funders Maria has helped establish over a dozen new centers of excellence (in collaboration with institutions such as Oxford University and CNRS), and was also a member of the Science Europe working group that authored the “Practical Guide to the International Alignment of Research Data Management”. Maria has shared her expertise at meetings organized by the United Nations, the European Commission and the EU Delegation to Canada, among others and is a member of a number of international advisory committees.
Since 2021 Maria has been living in Nova Scotia, Canada.
Claudia GordijoDirector of Research Partnerships, Structural Genomics Consortium (SGC)/ University of TorontoSee Bio×Claudia Gordijo
Claudia Gordijo is Director of Research Partnerships at the Structural Genomics Consortium (SGC), a global public–private partnership that pioneers open science in drug discovery, and Associate Director of Strategic Initiatives and Partnerships at the Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto. She is a research strategist with over a decade of experience leading global collaborations that bridge academia, industry, government, and foundations.
At SGC, Claudia has played a leadership role in Target 2035, an international partnership that brings together scientists, governments, and industry to open new frontiers in drug discovery by creating shared tools and data for every human protein. She has also supported the development of a major international consortium under Horizon Europe’s Innovative Health Initiative (IHI) as part of Target 2035’s efforts, and is currently building a new training umbrella under Target 2035 in partnership with Mitacs Canada to expand opportunities for students and trainees through cross-sector, international collaboration. In addition, she has contributed to the creation of major open-science initiatives including CACHE Challenges and Conscience, funded by Canada’s Strategic Innovation Fund.
Claudia holds a PhD in Chemistry from the University of São Paulo and completed postdoctoral training in Pharmaceutical Sciences at the University of Toronto. She has published more than 20 scientific articles, including recent roadmaps for Target 2035 and CACHE in Nature Reviews Chemistry.
Paul KushnerProfessor and Chair, Department of Physics, University of TorontoSee Bio×Paul Kushner
Paul Kushner is a Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Toronto, where he serves as Department Chair. He is one of Canada’s leading climate and atmospheric scientists, whose research focuses on simulation and analysis of the globgal climate system. He has made important contributions to our understanding of the physics of the atmosphere’s circulation, Earth-System models for simulation of climate, analysis of cold-climate processes, and the impacts of climate change, including climate extremes. He has recently returned from leading a 10-week program in 2025 at the University of California, Santa Barbara’s Kavli Institue for Theoretical Physics, entitled the Physics of Changing Polar Climates. He also directs a national project called The Collaborative Platform for CanESM, which brings together university investigators to study climate using Environment and Climate Change Canada’s flagship climate model, CanESM. For today’s event he is representing Canda’s contribution to the European Horizon Project EXPECT, which deals with the causes and consequences of heat and precipitation extremes resulting from climate change.

Panel 3: The Future of Scientific Collaboration between the European Union and Canada
2025-10-03 11:15 - 12:15 | The Faculty Club, University of Toronto, 41 Willcocks Street, Toronto, ON, M5S 3G3, Canada
Nipun VatsAssistant Deputy Minister, Innovation, Science and Economic Development CanadaSee Bio×Nipun Vats
Nipun Vats is the Assistant Deputy Minister, Science and Research Sector, at the Department of Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada. In this role, he is responsible for leading the development of federal policy and investments in post-secondary research.
Dr. Vats has held a variety of positions within the Canadian federal government, including in the Privy Council Office and the Department of Finance, and as Secretary to a National Advisory Panel on Sustainable Energy Science and Technology. Dr. Vats also served as the lead federal official in the successful negotiation of the Canadian Free Trade Agreement.
Dr. Vats holds a Ph.D. in Theoretical Physics from the University of Toronto, a B.Sc. in Physics from Dalhousie University, and a Master’s of Public Affairs from the School of Public and International Affairs, Princeton University, with a specialization in Science, Technology and Environmental Policy.
Geneviève TutsEU Ambassador to CanadaSee Bio×Geneviève Tuts
Genevieve Tuts began her tenure at the helm of the Delegation of the European Union to Canada in September 2024. She has extensive experience gained in several EU institutions, the Belgian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, and the legal profession. She served as the Head of Cabinet for European Commissioner for Justice between December 2019 and August 2024. The portfolio included Justice, Rule of law, data protection, and consumer law. Ambassador Tuts started her career as a lawyer specializing in EU law before becoming a magistrate with the Belgian Ministry of Justice. In 2002, she transitioned to the cabinet of the Belgian Minister for Foreign Affairs, where she held key roles focused on
European and external policies. As Belgium’s Representative in COREPER I in the EU Council of Ministers, she addressed a wide range of EU policies, including energy, environment, climate, and digital. She also served 13 years as Director in the Council of Ministers, leading the work of 3 Directorates: Transport, Telecom, Energy- inter institutional affairs and Legal service’s Directorate Quality of legislation. The Ambassador holds a Master’s in European Law and a Law degree. She has been an assistant at Liege University at the law faculty and Master of Conference at ENA. She speaks French, English, and Dutch. She has practised improvisational acting and has a deep appreciation for diverse music genres, playing both piano and guitar. Passionate by cinema she is also an outdoor enthusiast, she enjoys running along rivers, lakes, and coastlines.
As the EU Ambassador to Canada, Geneviève Tuts leads the EU Delegation in its work to strengthen ties between the European Union and Canada, drawing on her extensive expertise in European policy and international relations.
Robert AsselinCEO, U15 CanadaSee Bio×Robert Asselin
Robert Asselin is a recognized expert on innovation, economic growth, and industrial strategy with extensive experience in senior roles within government as well as in academia.
He is currently CEO of U15 Canada, an association of fifteen research universities across Canada, dedicated to advancing research and innovation, and developing highly-qualified leaders for the benefit of Canadians. Prior to this role, he served as Senior Vice President, Policy at the Business Council of Canada where he led the Council’s work on economic and fiscal policy.
Asselin brings over a decade of experience advising at the highest levels of government, having served as Policy and Budget Director to Canada’s Minister of Finance and as a senior advisor to two Prime Ministers. In addition, he spent nearly a decade in academia, notably as Associate Director of the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs at the University of Ottawa and as Visiting Public Policy Scholar at the Woodrow Wilson International Center for Scholars in Washington, D.C. He currently serves on the advisory board of the U.S. Information Technology and Innovation Foundation.
Janet RossantPresident and Scientific Director, The Gairdner Foundation See Bio×Janet Rossant
Janet Rossant, CC, PhD, FRS, FRSC is President of the Gairdner Foundation and Senior Scientist Emeritus at the Hospital for Sick Children in Toronto and editor-in-chief of Stem Cell Reports. She is an internationally recognized developmental and stem cell biologist, exploring the biology of the early embryo and its stem cells and their applications to understanding and treating human disease. She has also been actively involved in ethics and public policy discussions around stem cell research and genetic modifications. She is a member of Royal Societies of London and Canada and the US National Academy of Sciences.

Co-Creating Canada’s Future: Youth Perspectives On Canada’s Seven Federal Missions
2025-10-07 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
Canada has set seven bold federal “missions” – from building affordable housing and modern infrastructure to strengthening digital sovereignty and global competitiveness. Yet the voices most affected by today’s choices – young Canadians – seldom have a seat at the policy table. This webinar is the first national forum designed by and for youth to share concrete ideas with decision-makers and the broader public. If you care about where Canada is headed, this is your chance to hear the next generation’s vision – and to add your own.
-Organized by Research Money
Register HereElla WigginsBusiness Development Specialist for Communications Technology at Invest OttawaSee Bio×Ella Wiggins
Ella Wiggins is a Business Development Specialist for Communications Technology at Invest Ottawa, supporting growth in Ottawa’s telecom sector and advancing innovation in semiconductors, optics, and photonics. They collaborate with companies, government, and academia to foster partnerships that strengthen Canada’s innovation economy.
Ella has moderated youth-focused panels at Photonics North, co-organized TEDxMechanicsville 2024 celebrating Ottawa’s heritage and innovation, and contributed to advocacy initiatives such as Slay Stigma, promoting HIV/AIDS destigmatization. Their career also spans roles with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency, Elections Canada, and the Canadian Centre for Gender & Sexual Diversity.
A graduate of the University of New Brunswick, Ella is passionate about democracy, public service, and empowering youth voices to help shape Canada’s future.
Drayton Mulindabigwi JaboRwandan-Canadian entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of the Novas GroupSee Bio×Drayton Mulindabigwi Jabo
Drayton Mulindabigwi Jabo is a Rwandan-Canadian entrepreneur and the founder and CEO of the Novas Group, an Ottawa-based innovation firm he founded in 2021 (rebranded in 2023). Leading a diverse team of approximately 25, including many youth innovators, he drives interdisciplinary, socially impactful projects such as mental health QR sticker campaigns and AI-powered market insight tools for entrepreneurs. His leadership has earned him the RBC’s Spirit of the Capital Youth Award (2022) and Ottawa’s Youth Immigrant Entrepreneurship Award (2023). Driven by a passion for innovation and possibility, Drayton is helping shape Canada’s mission-driven future.
Dana CramerCanada’s leading young Internet leaderSee Bio×Dana Cramer
Dana Cramer is Canada’s leading young Internet leader. She is the founder, president, and CEO of the Young Digital Leaders of Canada, which is recognized by the United Nations Internet Governance Forum (IGF) as Canada’s national Youth IGF coordinator. She also founded and coordinated the World Summit on the Information Society Youth Caucus, which is advocating for youth recognition in future global technology governance agreements at the UN. Dana is completing her PhD at Toronto Metropolitan and York Universities, where she studies geopolitics in Internet governance.
Anthony ValentiChairman and CEO of SVHL and is the Founder of The Valenti CorporationSee Bio×Anthony Valenti
Anthony is a pragmatic leader whose career is defined by dedication, passion, and a people-first philosophy. With extensive experience advising C-suite executives, entrepreneurs, community leaders, and political candidates, he brings expertise in brand strategy, strategic communications, risk management, and stakeholder engagement. Anthony currently serves as Chairman and CEO of SVHL and is the Founder of The Valenti Corporation, while also contributing to several Boards of Directors, including as Chairperson of Centrepointe Childcare Services. A mentor and motivator, he is committed to fostering growth and driving impactful strategies
Moderator: Alexander ZelenskiInnovation Analyst for ICI CanadaSee Bio×Alexander Zelenski
Alexander Zelenski is a policy professional with roots in both the Canadian and international innovation ecosystems. As an Innovation Analyst for ICI Canada, he champions mission-driven innovation in areas such as local ecosystems, economic resilience, and risk adaptation. Holding a BA in Economics and an MA in Sustainable Energy Policy, and having served as Program Coordinator at Carleton University’s Innovation Hub, Alexander brings a nuanced understanding of the challenges and opportunities shaping Canada’s innovation landscape. His experience at the intersection of policy and practice positions him to guide impactful conversations on how Canada can strengthen its role in a rapidly evolving global context.

Navigating Geopolitical Shifts: Canada’s Innovation Strategy for Natural Resources Sector
2025-10-09 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
Watch videoExecutive Summary
This virtual panel convened sector experts to diagnose barriers to innovation and propose practical responses to strengthen Canada’s competitiveness. Panelists identified three interlocking challenges: geopolitical and trade volatility that undermines export markets and investment predictability; a persistent scaling gap where early-stage research fails to reach commercialization due to insufficient late-stage and institutional capital; and regulatory and infrastructure friction—slow, fragmented approvals and constrained scale-up capacity. Workforce ageing, cultural adoption barriers, and climate-related infrastructure risks were also noted.
Recommended public responses emphasize a durable, coordinated industrial strategy and targeted de-risking instruments: sustained co-investment vehicles to attract pension and institutional funds; rebalanced public funding toward later-stage commercialization and cluster scale-up; modernization of fiscal supports and tax incentives; and use of procurement as a market-making tool. Strengthening regulatory capacity, clarifying timelines, and creating faster review tracks were highlighted.
Industry steps include investing in differentiated platforms, accelerating adoption of AI and automation where appropriate, and using living labs and public testbeds to validate technologies. Panelists urged stronger industry-academia partnerships and employer-led training to address skills gaps.
Opportunities for Canada noted by the panel include exporting sustainably produced energy and critical minerals, scaling a bioeconomy (mass timber, biomass), developing offshore and community-scale marine renewables, and leveraging Canada’s reputation for trustworthy governance. The discussion closed with calls for near-term pilots for co-investment and procurement and a two-year roadmap with measurable targets to retain IP, jobs, and economic value domestically. Plus clear accountability and timelines for delivery. Panelists recommended pilots within twelve months and formal strategy.
Q — What are the top three challenges currently hindering innovation in your sector?

Geopolitical and trade volatility that undermines investment decisions. Panelists described acute tariff shocks and shifting trade priorities (e.g., recent U.S. anti-dumping/countervailing duties and a Section 232 action on lumber) that create uncertainty about export markets and slow firms’ willingness to invest.
A persistent “scaling gap”: strong early-stage research but weak commercialization and scale-up finance. Several speakers said Canada funds a lot of research but spends far less on commercialization, causing many innovations to “die on the shelf.” Public-private co-investment was portrayed as critical to close that gap.
Regulatory uncertainty and friction (need for predictable, integrated rules). Large, multi-billion projects (e.g., carbon capture in oil sands, or major offshore wind) require regulatory and policy certainty; fragmented or slow approval processes deter investment.
Cultural and adoption bottlenecks — slow industry uptake of available tech. The transcript flagged a “culture problem” where abundant existing tech isn’t adopted quickly enough; SMEs do most innovation but face integration barriers into incumbent operations.
Sector-specific constraints (infrastructure, workforce, climate risks). Examples: offshore renewables need transmission and clear offtake arrangements; forestry must contend with wildfire-driven biomass challenges; mining faces ageing workforce and legacy production platforms.

Q — How should government and industry respond to enable long-term innovation and competitiveness?

Provide clear, durable policy and regulatory signals for large projects. Panelists called for predictable rules and timelines so investors will commit to long-horizon CAPEX (ten-digit projects such as major emissions-reduction builds).
Use public-private risk-sharing (co-investment, longer funding horizons). Speakers recommended scaled co-investment, cluster funding, and sustained multi-year programs (not short 1-year grants) so industry retains “skin in the game” while risk is de-risked.
Create integrated, cross-departmental coordination for complex sectors. Example: an “Office/Secretariat for the Blue Economy” to coordinate Transport, Environment, Fisheries, etc., to reduce friction for ocean tech deployment.
Speed commercialization by enabling living labs, testbeds and clearer market signals. Faster access to real-world pilots, procurement commitments (Buy-Canada style signals) and streamlined approvals will let firms validate and scale technologies domestically.
Invest in workforce and place-based partnerships (including Indigenous equity partnerships). Recommendations included employer-led training, targeted immigration for mid-career talent, and true Indigenous equity partnerships in energy/community projects to support local deployment and skills development.

Q — Key recommendations & next steps to boost private-sector R&D investment in Canada

Shift funding emphasis toward later-stage commercialization and scale. Multiple panellists urged rebalancing public funding from discovery research toward 3–5-year commercialization support so prototypes actually reach market.
Expand and rationalize public programs that de-risk first commercial projects. Examples: more sustained cluster funding, expanded Strategic Innovation-style programs, and pragmatic co-funding for techno-economic assessments to screen early-stage vendors.
Create clearer, aggregated funding pathways for community-scale pilots. For remote/Indigenous communities (e.g., tidal/wave pilots), panellists recommended resource assessments and consolidated capital programs so projects aren’t left cobbling many small grants.
Leverage procurement and government demand as market-making tools. Using procurement (or contracts for difference for electricity) to guarantee offtake was offered as a practical way to make projects bankable and attract private R&D capital.
Target tax and incentive fixes for sectoral opportunities (e.g., biomass inclusion). The forestry sector suggested including biomass in existing clean-tech manufacturing / electricity tax credits to unlock bioeconomy investments and reduce wildfire risk.

Q — What new opportunities or comparative advantages can Canada exploit?

International reputation and trust as a soft power advantage for market entry. Panelists said Canadian firms and experts are welcomed globally — that goodwill can be leveraged to export tech and secure partnerships.
Position Canada as a sustainable, low-risk supplier (energy and resources). Canada’s emphasis on regulatory standards, human rights and environmental stewardship was presented as a selling point for sustainably produced hydrocarbons and minerals.
Mass-timber, bioenergy and the bioeconomy — link to housing and wildfire mitigation. Forestry can help address affordable housing (mass timber/modular construction) and convert low-grade biomass into heat/energy, if incentives and markets align.
Offshore and community-scale marine renewables as place-based opportunities. Atlantic offshore wind and tidal/wave for remote communities were highlighted — but only realizable with transmission, clear buyers and streamlined project packaging.

Critical minerals, advanced manufacturing and cleantech finance—a moment to capture global capital. With global industrial policy elsewhere, Canada can leverage critical-minerals supply, advanced manufacturing capacity, and a strong cleantech ecosystem to attract investment—if it moves quickly.
This summary has been generated with the assistance of AI tools.
Moderator: Shannon QuinnSecretary General – National Research Council CanadaSee Bio×Shannon Quinn
Dr. Shannon Quinn was appointed Secretary General in September 2021. In this role, she supports NRC senior executives in advancing the Government of Canada’s science, research and innovation agenda. Her responsibilities include: international relations, communications, policy, strategy and performance. Her team also provides governance support to the NRC Council. Shannon is an experienced executive, with a background in science and technology, both in the private and the public sectors. Prior to joining the NRC, Shannon was Vice-President, Science, Technology and Commercial Oversight at Atomic Energy of Canada Limited (AECL), where she was responsible for the science and technology mission, as well as internal and external communications and Indigenous engagement. While at Natural Resources Canada (NRCan), Shannon was part of the leadership team that restructured AECL, including the sale of its commercial division, and the implementation of the current government-owned, contractor-operated model. She was also responsible for medical isotope policy and programming. Before joining NRCan, she held various technical and leadership positions in the steel industry, and was an adjunct professor at McMaster University. She holds a B.Sc. and B.A.Sc., from the University of Ottawa in Biochemistry and Chemical Engineering, respectively; a PhD. in Chemical Engineering from Queen’s University; and an MBA from the University of Ottawa.
Wes JicklingVice President of Technology Development and COSIA at Pathways AllianceSee Bio×Wes Jickling
As Vice President, Technology Development and COSIA, Wes Jickling is responsible for leading Pathways’ innovation and research to improve the oil sands industry’s environmental performance. Wes oversees innovation strategies in Pathways’ environmental priority areas – Land, GHG, Water, Tailings, Monitoring and Innovation +.
Wes earned a Bachelor’s Degree from the University of Calgary and a Master’s in International Relations and Development from Aalborg University in Denmark. Wes joined COSIA as Chief Executive in 2019, before COSIA became part of Pathways Alliance. Prior to COSIA, he was the Chief Executive Officer of Innovation Saskatchewan and Deputy Minister of Intergovernmental Affairs for the Government of Saskatchewan. Wes has held senior roles in corporate, government, and international development organizations, including United Nations postings in Brazil, Eswatini, Ukraine and Sudan.
Wes has held numerous board positions in technology and innovation organizations, including the Canadian Light Source, the Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation, and the Centre for the Study of Science and Innovation Policy.
Jonathan RobinsonSenior Policy Advisor – Marine Renewables CanadaSee Bio×Jonathan Robinson
Jonathan is the Senior Policy Advisor for Marine Renewables Canada, responsible for leading policy discussions with members and external parties, identifying opportunities for advocacy on policy and regulatory issues, developing policy input, and supporting Marine Renewables Canada’s outreach efforts. Jonathan joined Marine Renewables Canada this year following over nine years of experience in the federal government including senior roles at Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Employment and Social Development Canada. His work in government and politics has focused on advancing Canada’s clean energy transition through strategic policy development, stakeholder engagement, and legislative leadership. Originally from British Columbia, Jonathan worked closely with the Government of British Columbia and local Indigenous communities on wild Pacific salmon policy and marine conservation.
Jonathan holds a BA in Political Studies from Queen’s University and also serves in the Canadian Army Reserves as a Captain with the Cameron Highlanders of Ottawa.
Kendra MacDonaldChief Executive Officer  – Canada’s Ocean SuperclusterSee Bio×Kendra MacDonald - Bio
Kendra MacDonald is the CEO of Canada’s Ocean Supercluster, responsible for the accelerated development and commercialization of innovation that will solve some of the world’s biggest challenges in ocean.  Kendra is leading the change in the culture of doing business in ocean from coast-to-coast-to-coast, increasing collaboration across ocean sectors and growing Canada’s ocean economy in a digital, sustainable, and inclusive way. In recognition of her leadership in building the Ocean Supercluster from the ground up, Kendra has named one of Atlantic Canada’s Top 50 CEOs by Atlantic Business Magazine for the last five years and one of Canada’s Top Sustainability Leaders by Clean50 in 2022.
Prior to leading Canada’s Ocean Supercluster, Kendra was a Partner in Deloitte’s Risk Advisory practice and the Chief Audit Executive of Deloitte Global.
Douglas MorrisonPresident and CEO – CEMI MICA Mining AdvisorSee Bio×Douglas Morrison
Douglas has 14 years of operating experience in the deep nickel mines of the Sudbury Basin, where he became the Superintendent of Rock Mechanics and Mine Design at Inco (now Vale). He has since spent 15 years as a consultant at Golder Associates working on strategic mine design, productivity, and safety issues in mines around the world. He was based in Belo Horizonte Brazil, and from 2005-2010 he was Golder’s Global Mining Sector Leader in Toronto.
Throughout his career he maintained an advisory or Board role with Canadian research organizations such as CAMIRO and MIRARCO that are engaged in delivering innovation to the mining industry. Douglas has held key roles at CEMI since 2010 including Chair in Holistic Mining Practices and in 2012 he was appointed President and CEO. In January 2014 he became the Director of the Ultra-deep Mining Network, a $46M program developing solutions to the challenges of bulk mining below 2.5km. Douglas is focused on developing a comprehensive approach to innovation in mining that will improve mine productivity, reduce mining costs, minimize future environmental impact, and contribute towards developing a globally sustainable society.
Mahima SharmaVice-president, Innovation, Environment, and Climate Policy – Forest Products Association of Canada (FPAC)See Bio×Mahima Sharma
Mahima Sharma is the vice-president, innovation, environment, and climate policy at Forest Products Association of Canada. She oversees the development of industry’s position on key mill-focused environmental topics including climate-change, water, air, and chemicals, as well as advancing the role of forest-sector innovation plays in a low-carbon economy. This work is central to supporting industry investment and the sector’s competitiveness in Canada, to support decarbonization objectives, and advancing a forest-based bioeconomy. Mahima holds Masters Degrees in Chemical Engineering and Health Administration, and has completed her undergraduate degrees in Chemical Engineer and Biochemistry from the University of Ottawa.

Navigating Geopolitical Shifts: Canada’s Innovation Strategy for the Digital and High Tech Sector
2025-10-23 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
Watch videoThis panel aims to explore how Canada’s digital and high tech sector can navigate the evolving geopolitical and economic landscape to foster sustained innovation and competitiveness. Panelists will discuss the key challenges that are currently limiting innovation. The conversation will delve into how both government and industry can respond strategically, with a focus on improving policy alignment, fostering cross-sector collaboration, and enhancing private sector R&D investment. The panel will also identify emerging global and domestic opportunities that Canada is uniquely positioned to leverage in this period of transformation.
Executive Summary
The panel discussion explored the barriers and opportunities shaping Canada’s innovation landscape across key technology and industrial sectors. Panellists identified persistent structural challenges: slow and risk-averse public procurement that limits early market validation for domestic firms; a lack of patient capital for deep-tech ventures; and a research culture that prioritizes discovery over commercialization. These challenges are compounded by regulatory and procedural hurdles, a small domestic market, and growing concerns about data sovereignty and vendor lock-in.
To strengthen long-term innovation and competitiveness, panelists emphasized the need for government to act as a first adopter and catalyst for emerging technologies—through faster, mission-driven procurement and clear spending mandates that favour Canadian innovators. They recommended reforming funding models to provide larger, patient, and non-loan-based investments, and expanding collaborative cluster programs that bring buyers, researchers, and SMEs together under performance-driven outcomes. Strengthening industry–academia linkages and aligning incentives for commercialization were also viewed as essential.
Panelists agreed that private-sector R&D investment can be accelerated through targeted partnerships with incumbents, outcome-focused cluster programs, and competition or tax measures that reward commercialization. Canada’s comparative advantages lie in mission-driven innovation—particularly in Arctic, defence, and climate resilience technologies—coupled with its trusted governance, scientific excellence, and ethical brand.
Ultimately, the discussion underscored that unlocking Canada’s innovation potential requires aligning public demand, patient investment, and regulatory agility to build globally competitive companies capable of delivering value both domestically and internationally.
Summaries from the panel (4–6 bullets per question — anonymized, ordered by emphasis)
What are the top three challenges currently hindering innovation in your sector?

Slow / misaligned public procurement and lack of “first-customer” adoption — panelists said government contracting timelines and rules don’t fit startup realities so early market validation is missed; this was flagged as especially acute for nascent deep-tech firms
Insufficient patient capital for deep tech — the VC market was described as risk-averse (avoids hardware, dual-use, long timelines), so many deep-tech firms depend on public funding that is often fragmented, small, or loan-based. This drives early exits or relocation.
Overemphasis on research outputs vs. value creation/commercialization — multiple speakers argued Canada often prizes publications and research process over market outcomes, leaving utility and industry formation under-prioritised.
Cultural and regulatory friction that slows adoption — a tendency to confuse process with outcome, plus heavy regulation and procedural hurdles, choke small companies’ ability to bring products to market and for adopters to try them.
Small domestic market and weak local demand signals — the panel emphasized Canada’s ~40M market limits “test and scale” opportunities compared with larger markets, making it harder to build reference customers and raise growth capital.
Data/technology sovereignty and vendor lock-in concerns — worries about where compute and data reside, vendor lock-in, and the monetization of user data were raised as strategic challenges to domestic control of innovation.

How should government and industry respond to enable long-term innovation and competitiveness?

Government as active first adopter & faster procurement (SBIR-style approaches) — panelists urged government to buy domestic solutions, use targeted programs where funds must be spent (example: SBIR-like 2% budget idea) and shorten adoption timelines so Canadian firms can scale.
Incentivize local demand and procurement of Canadian solutions — intentionally prefer/try Canadian adopters first so companies acquire reference customers at home before exporting; clusters and consortia were presented as mechanisms to do this.
Create mission-driven public R&D/defence purchases to pull industry forward — tie applied R&D to clear national missions (e.g., Arctic, NORAD modernization) to align researchers, startups, and defence/public procurement. This was singled out for quantum.
Reform public funding to be more patient, bigger, and less fragmented — replace many small/loan programs with larger, mission-oriented, non-loan investments suitable for pre-revenue deep tech.
Use cluster/collaborative models to accelerate adoption — regional cluster programs that place buyers and builders together (with rapid project turnover and competitive pipelines) were cited as delivering strong ROI and faster commercialization.
Industry–academia translation incentives — change incentives so academic outputs are also rewarded for commercial uptake (not just publications), and support spin-offs to shift from lab culture to business models.

Key recommendations / next steps to enhance private-sector R&D investment in Canada

Mobilize patient capital and adapt funding instruments for deep tech — establish or scale funds that accept longer timelines, and reduce loan-heavy supports for pre-revenue firms so they can scale without early sell-offs.
Make procurement a lever (mandates + incentives) — introduce spending or procurement goals that direct a meaningful share of government buying to domestic innovators (and penalize slow uptake); use rapid pilot/scale pathways so adopters move from meeting to deployment faster.
Encourage strategic partnerships between incumbents and startups — incentivize large firms to co-fund pilots and adopt solutions (large firms get R&D exposure; startups get customers and scale references).
Scale cluster models and outcome-focused programs — expand cluster/collaborative programs that connect buyers, researchers, and SMEs with performance-based funding (panel cited cluster ROI and product counts as evidence).
Target under-investing incumbents with competition / adoption signals — address sectors that under-invest in R&D (e.g., telecom, airlines, energy) through competition policy, tax incentives tied to commercialization, or public-private demo programmes.
Promote national narratives & celebrate scale-ups — build a culture that celebrates grown-and-scaled companies (not only startups) to create urgency and pride that fuels private R&D and risk-taking.

What new opportunities or comparative advantages can Canada exploit?

Mission-driven leadership in niche/high-impact areas (e.g., Arctic, quantum) — panelists argued Canada can be world-leading by aligning national missions (Arctic security, NORAD modernization, climate resilience) with applied quantum and other deep tech.
Leverage strong research + trusted governance as a brand — Canada’s rule-of-law, human-rights focus and research excellence can attract partners and customers seeking ethical, stable tech partners (compare to “look east / diversify beyond the US”).
Healthcare and education as big domestic testbeds — examples: rapid deployment of an AI “telewound” solution during COVID and clinical AI tools (skin-cancer triage) show Canada can scale patient-led and system-level solutions—if adopters in Canada buy them.
Resource & mining tech (e.g., Earth X-ray) — Canadian research adapted into the world’s first “Earth X-ray” now used by major miners; this shows a clear exportable strength in resource-sector instrumentation and analytics.
Turn constraints into advantages via alliances — being a smaller market forces creative international partnerships (co-development with friendly countries) and specialization; panelists recommended optimizing partnerships rather than trying to compete head-on with very large players.

This summary has been generated with the assistance of AI tools.
Andrew MaxwellBergeron Chair in Technology Entrepreneurship, York UniversitySee Bio×Andrew Maxwell
Andrew combines practical experience, award winning research and over thirty years of experience in Innovation Management and Technology Venture Creation, working with diverse enterprises (Fortune 500 companies, and local enterprises). He regularly runs workshops and consults in the fields of: design thinking, transforming innovation cultures, and venture creation, where he is able to linking his technical knowledge, expertise and experience.
His research earned the Academy of Managements Heizer Award, while his teaching at York resulted in being awarded the President’s University Wide Teaching Award in 2022. He has developed numerous new programs in this space, for Professional Development and Graduate Education, as well as pioneering the launch of a number of related online courses (VentureStart, Innovation & Creativity and InnoGate). His early academic career included a B.Sc.(Eng) in Electrical Engineering from Imperial College, London and an MBA from London Business School, following which he held senior management roles in two global technology multinationals, before co-founding four technology companies.
His experience with start-ups stimulated his interest in supporting and fostering technology entrepreneurship, and facilitating the commercialization of university research, leading to a position at Innovations Foundation (University of Toronto), where he created the university’s first technology accelerator, while teaching courses in technology entrepreneurship, innovation management and technology commercialization.
Julien BillotCEO of Scale AISee Bio×Julien Billot
Mr. Billot is CEO of Scale Ai, Canada’s artificial intelligence Supercluster dedicated to building the next generation supply chain and boosting industry performance by leveraging Ai technologies. He is also an adjunct professor of HEC Montreal and the Montreal lead for two transformational programs aiming to launch and grow startups in Artificial Intelligence leveraging Montreal tech and business ecosystem, NextAI and the CreativeDestructionLab (CDL).
He also serves as a director in various companies and non-profit organizations. He has extensive experience in the marketing, media and mobile industries, with a track record of successfully executing print to digital business transformations.
Until recently, Julien Billot has been President and Chief Executive Officer of Yellow Pages Group Corporation in Montreal, Quebec. Previously, he was Executive Vice President, Head of Media and Member of the Executive Committee of Solocal Group (formerly PagesJaunes Groupe), the publicly traded and incumbent local search business in France. Earlier experience includes serving as CEO of the digital and new business group of Lagardère Active, a multimedia branch of Lagardère Group and 13 years in senior management positions at France Telecom, notably as Chief Marketing Officer for Orange, the company’s mobile subsidiary.
Mr. Billot is serving today as a Board Member at the Canadian Partnership Against Cancer, is Chairman of a Montreal based company Jogogo Media and a Board member for DistrictM and a French media group, Groupe Paris Turf. Mr. Billot is a graduate of École Polytechnique (Paris) and from Telecom Paris Tech. He holds a postgraduate diploma (DEA) in Industrial Economics from the University of Paris-Dauphine.
Sue PaishCEO of DIGITALSee Bio×Sue Paish
As CEO of DIGITAL, Sue leads a portfolio of digital innovation and capacity-building initiatives that since its inception in 2018, has accelerated the production of over 570 Canadian IP assets, garnered over $1.2 billion in follow-on investment in Canadian companies, facilitated over 11,000 learning and development placements, and driven $4.2 billion in five-year incremental revenue for Canadian companies. By accelerating digital transformation in the health, natural resources, and skilling sectors through the development and adoption of Canadian-made digital technologies, DIGITAL is supporting the creation of world-leading solutions that advance human health, improve environmental health, and create a skilled workforce for the digital world.
Prior to leading DIGITAL, Sue held leadership roles in major Canadian organizations, including as CEO of LifeLabs, Canada’s largest diagnostic lab, where she led significant growth and technological advancements across Canada’s diagnostic sector. As CEO of Pharmasave, Sue oversaw the delivery of some of the first online access tools for medication management and as the first woman Managing Partner of Fasken Vancouver, Sue spearheaded the merger of three leading Canadian law firms into a leading pan-Canadian firm.
Sue serves on the boards of Canadian Tire, TELUS Digital, NEXUS Water Group, Northland Group (Advisory Board) and Own the Podium. She has previously chaired the boards of the Business Council of British Columbia, the Vancouver Board of Trade and CORIX Utilities and others. Sue has been recognized for her community contributions, receiving the Order of British Columbia, King’s Counsel, an Honorary Doctorate of Technology, the Influential Women in Business Lifetime Achievement Award, the YWCA Women of Distinction Award, and the Peter Lougheed Award for Public Policy. Sue’s greatest joy is spending time in Canada’s wilderness with her husband, daughters, and granddaughters.
Cameron SchulerChief Commercialization Officer and Vice President, Industry InnovationSee Bio×Cameron Schuler
Cameron Schuler is the Chief Commercialization Officer & Vice President, Industry Innovation at the Vector Institute. He is the former Executive Director of Amii, where, for 8 years, he led one of the top-ranked Machine Learning and AI groups in the world. Cameron’s multifaceted career has covered finance, business & product development, consumer products, IT and general management from start-ups to mature companies. His industry experience includes Alternative Energy, Banking, Consumer Products, Information Technology (Consumer and Enterprise), Investment Sales and Trading, Life Sciences, Manufacturing, Medical Devices, Oil & Gas, and Oil & Gas Services. Roles have included COO, CFO, President and CEO, and he was COO & CFO of a food manufacturer whose products lead to sales of over 250 million units.
He has founded numerous start-up companies (including medical devices as well as computer software & hardware). Cameron is Chair & Co-founder of PFM Scheduling Services, was Managing Director & Co-Founder of Schuler Law Group, a boutique tax planning law firm and spent 8 years in investment sales & trading. He attained an MBA from Queen’s University and completed numerous investment management programs.
Alexandra DaoudVice-Chair, Quantum Industry Canada, Strategic Advisor & Fractional Chief IP Officer, Daoud IPSee Bio×Alexandra Daoud
Alexandra Daoud is a strategic leader with more than two decades of experience at the intersection of technology, innovation, and intellectual property. She has a proven track record in guiding IP strategies, shaping innovation roadmaps, and advising in cutting-edge fields such as quantum technologies and artificial intelligence.
Alexandra is the Vice-Chair of Quantum Industry Canada (QIC) and principal at Daoud IP, where she serves as a strategic advisor and fractional Chief IP Officer. She was formerly the Vice President of IP and Regulatory Affairs at Anyon Systems, a Canadian leader in superconducting quantum computing.
Recognized for sharp analytical thinking and deep understanding of disruptive technologies, her expertise is underpinned by a B.Eng. in Electrical Engineering from McGill University and credentials as a registered patent agent with both the U.S. Patent and Trademark Office and the Canadian Intellectual Property Office.
Cait DrouillardSenior Director, Public Policy – TECHNATIONSee Bio×Cait Drouillard
Cait is a bilingual public affairs professional with over a decade of experience in government relations, ICT procurement, and advancing public policy strategies across multiple sectors. Cait has worked with stakeholders across the tech ecosystem, from start-ups to global enterprises, industry associations, and think tanks. She brings expertise in policy development, advocacy, and managing high-impact initiatives, including ICT procurement modernization.
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AI-Driven Misinformation Across Sectors: Addressing a Cross-Societal Challenge
2025-11-11 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
Watch videoArtificial Intelligence is reshaping how information is created, consumed, and trusted. While offering transformative potential in sectors like healthcare, education, finance, and public discourse, AI systems also introduce new vulnerabilities—particularly in the spread of misinformation and disinformation. From fabricated medical advice and AI-generated “deepfake” political content to financial scams and distorted educational tools, AI misinformation poses a growing threat to public trust and safety.
This panel brings together cross-sectoral experts to examine how AI-driven misinformation manifests in their respective domains, its consequences, and how policy, regulation, and technical interventions can help mitigate harm. The discussion will explore practical pathways for action, such as digital literacy, risk audits, content verification technologies, platform responsibility, and regulatory frameworks. Attendees will leave with a nuanced understanding of both the risks and the resilience strategies being explored in Canada and globally.
Dr. Plinio MoritaAssociate Professor / Director, Ubiquitous Health Technology Lab, University of WaterlooSee Bio×Dr. Plinio Morita
Dr. Plinio Morita is an Associate Professor at the School of Public Health Sciences and the Director of the Network for Aging Research at the University of Waterloo. He is an affiliated scientist at the Centre for Digital Therapeutics, a Research Scientist at the Research Institute for Aging, and a Chercheur Associé at BioMécanique et BioIngénierie at UTC, France.
Dr. Morita is a leading researcher in the use of AI and IoT for public health, climate change, global health, and technology for supporting healthy aging. His research team (UbiLab) developed large-scale data collection ecosystems for supporting initiatives in Canada and low and middle income countries (LMIC) in their efforts to better understand the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on health
behaviours, the impact of extreme air pollution on child and maternal health in LMICs (with UNICEF Mongolia), the impact of heatwaves on seniors, and IoT-based systems for supporting independent living.
Dr. Nadia NaffiUniversité Laval — Associate Professor of Educational Technology and expert on building human agency against AI-augmented disinformation and deepfakes.See Bio×Dr. Nadia Naffi
Dr. Nadia Naffi is an Associate Professor of Educational Technology at Université Laval. Her work focuses on empowerment and strengthening human agency to counter AI-augmented disinformation and the unethical use of deepfakes, through critical and equitable approaches to lifelong learning. She previously held the Chair in Educational Leadership on Innovative Pedagogical Practices in Digital Contexts – National Bank (2019–2025) and co-led the Education and Empowerment axis at the International Observatory on the Societal Impacts of AI and Digital Technologies (OBVIA) (2021–2025).
Dr. Jutta TreviranusDirector, Inclusive Design Research Centre, OCAD U, Expert on AI misinformation in the Education sector and schools.See Bio×Dr. Jutta Treviranus
Jutta Treviranus is the Director of the Inclusive Design Research Centre (IDRC) and professor in the faculty of Design at OCAD University (http://idrc.ocadu.ca ). Jutta established the IDRC in 1993 as the nexus of a growing global community that proactively works to ensure that our digitally transformed and globally connected society is designed inclusively. She also founded an innovative graduate program in inclusive design. Jutta has coordinated many research networks with and by people with disabilities. Jutta was recognized for her work in AI by Women in AI and Women in AI Ethics. She is the chair of the Accessible and Equitable Artificial Intelligence standards committee for Accessibility Standards Canada and the Accessible Canada Act.
Michael GeistCanada Research Chair in Internet & E-commerce Law, University of Ottawa
Moderator See Bio×Michael Geist
Dr. Michael Geist is a law professor at the University of Ottawa where he holds the Canada Research Chair in Internet and E-commerce Law and is a member of the Centre for Law, Technology and Society. He has obtained a Bachelor of Laws (LL.B.) degree from Osgoode Hall Law School in Toronto, Master of Laws (LL.M.) degrees from Cambridge University in the UK and Columbia Law School in New York, and a Doctorate in Law (J.S.D.) from Columbia Law School. Dr. Geist has been a regular columnist on digital policy with leading publications such as the Globe and Mail and Toronto Star and is the creator and host of Law Bytes, one of Canada’s top technology podcasts. He is the editor of several copyright books including The Copyright Pentalogy: How the Supreme Court of Canada Shook the Foundations of Canadian Copyright Law (2013, University of Ottawa Press), From “Radical Extremism” to “Balanced Copyright”: Canadian Copyright and the Digital Agenda (2010, Irwin Law) and In the Public Interest: The Future of Canadian Copyright Law (2005, Irwin Law), the editor of several monthly technology law publications, and the author of a popular blog on Internet and intellectual property law issues.
Dr. Geist serves on many boards, including Internet Archive Canada board and the Electronic Frontier Foundation Advisory Board. He has received numerous awards for his work including the Privacy and Access Council of Canada Fellowship Award in 2023, the Canadian Journalists for Freedom of Expression Vox Libera Award in 2018, the Kroeger Award for Policy Leadership and the Public Knowledge IP3 Award in 2010, the Les Fowlie Award for Intellectual Freedom from the Ontario Library Association in 2009, the Electronic Frontier Foundation’s Pioneer Award in 2008, Canarie’s IWAY Public Leadership Award for his contribution to the development of the Internet in Canada and he was named one of Canada’s Top 40 Under 40 in 2003. In 2010, Managing Intellectual Property named him one of the 50 most influential people on intellectual property in the world and Canadian Lawyer named him one of the 25 most influential lawyers in Canada in 2011, 2012 and 2013. Dr. Geist was appointed to the Order of Ontario in 2018.
Dr. Fenwick McKelveyConcordia University — Expert in political bots, information flows, and Canadian tech governanceSee Bio×Dr. Fenwick McKelvey
Fenwick McKelvey is an Associate Professor in Information and Communication Technology Policy in the Department of Communication Studies at Concordia University.
He is co-director of the Applied AI Institute and manages the Machine Agencies working group at Speculative Life at the Milieux Institute for Arts, Culture and Technology. He is also a member of the Educational Review Committee of the Walrus Magazine, Director of the Algorithmic Media Observatory, a member of the Center for the Study of Democratic Citizenship, the Groupe de recherche en communication politique, the Canadian Disinformation Network, and the Montréal Society and Artificial Intelligence Collective (MoSAIC).
He is the author of Internet Daemons: Digital Communications Possessed (University of Minnesota Press, 2018), winner of the 2019 Gertrude J. Robinson Book Award. He is co-author of The Permanent Campaign: New Media, New Politics (Peter Lang, 2012) with Greg Elmer and Ganaele Langlois. He has co-edited special issues on the Alt-Rights in Canada for the Canadian Journal of Communication and on Optimization for the Review of Communication. He holds a PhD in the joint program of Communication and Culture between York University and Ryerson University.
Amidst discussion of the Internet of Things, Fenwick McKelvey studies the Internet as Things. Investigating the machines, bots, artificial intelligence, algorithms, and daemons that make up the digital world around us.
His research takes him from debates at the CRTC to data centres, from Donna Haraway to Harold Guetzkow. He is currently studying the shaping of artificial intelligence and its legitimacy as a solution to media problems building on his past studies of Network Neutrality and the discoverability of online content. He continues to study political communication, exploring social media and politics, computational management in political campaigns, political bots, and the influence of memes in Canadian politics.
To understand the influences, controls, nudges, and optimizations of the Internet as things, he draws on a range of scholarly work in communication studies, media studies, science and technology studies, and political economy. His resulting research has been published in journals including New Media and Society, the International Journal of Communication, the Internet Histories, and the Canadian Journal of Communication.
Whenever possible, McKelvey participates in public debates and issue-driven discussions related to the Internet as things, frequently serving as a commentator for a variety of media organizations, including CBC’s Power and Politics and The National, The Guardian, and Wired Magazine, among others.
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Towards a (New) Science Culture Framework in Canada
2026-02-03 13:00 - 14:30 | Zoom
Register HereWatch Video RecordingA strong science culture is a key contributor to health, innovation, economic growth and both individual and societal well-being. But what is science culture, exactly? How is Canada doing? And what kind of framework do we need to guide improvements?
While attitudes, norms and patterns of behaviour that value science are important elements of science culture, we also need to consider representation and diversity, Indigenous Ways of Knowing, new economic contexts, and the relationship between science and society. Moreover, even as science culture has evolved to include concerns about structures, institutions, and interconnecting systems, broader changes in the economy, society, the global geopolitical environment, and developments in science and technology themselves demand new thinking.
Building on the valuable framework presented in the Council of Canadian Academies’ landmark 2014 report Science Culture: Where Canada Stands, this panel will explore ways to extend our thinking about Canada’s science culture, including policies and strategies for measuring and improving. Specifically, we will ask and discuss:

What is the state of the relationship between science and society and how has it changed in recent years? What are the opportunities and challenges for building a stronger relationship between science and society?
How is Canada doing in terms of fostering the skills, knowledge, attitudes and behaviours that comprise a strong science culture? Where are the gaps?
To what extent do the structures, institutions and interconnecting systems that make up Canada’s science ecosystem support or hinder the emergence of a strong, informed, engaged and inclusive science culture?
How should we (re)frame and (re)imagine science culture in Canada with a view to enabling global leadership in science and innovation that contributes to societal and individual well-being?

Join us as we unpack these issues and work together to develop practical recommendations to refresh our understanding of Canada’s science culture.
Register HereTracy Ross Vice President, Network Membership, Actua – ModeratorSee Bio×Tracy Ross
Tracy Ross is the Vice President, Network Membership at Actua, leading the network member services team, which provides services and support for Actua’s network members, including program leadership, partnership, training, funding, recognition, communication, and day-to-day support. She has a BSc. in Environmental Chemistry (Queen’s University) and an MA in the History and Philosophy of Science and Technology (University of Toronto) and is working towards her Canadian Association Executive designation.
Dr. Marianne MaderExecutive Director, Canadian Association of Science CentresSee Bio×Dr. Marianne Mader
Dr. Marianne Mader is the CEO of the Canadian Association of Science Centres, a member-based organization representing over 90 organizations that collectively engage more than 10 million citizens each year in STEM topics. This network of trusted organizations represents a critical component of Canada’s science, technology, and innovation landscape. CASC builds connections between Canada’s science ecosystem and society, provides enriching professional development opportunities for STEM educators and STEM engagement professionals, and develops and manages public national campaigns focused on STEM literacy, digital literacy, and health literacy, such as Together Against Misinformation Week, National Kids & Vaccines Day, and Science Literacy Week.
Dr. Mader is a Fellow of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society College, an alumnus of the Governor General’s Canadian Leadership, a recipient of a US Antarctic Service Medal, and an awardee of a King Charles III Coronation Medal for her work in fostering science culture in Canada.
Desirée SylvestreDirector, Inclusive Design Research Centre, OCAD U, Expert on AI misinformation in the Education sector and schools.See Bio×Desirée Sylvestre
Desirée Sylvestre is the Director of Education at Visions of Science, where she leads national and local initiatives focused on advancing STEM equity across schools, community organizations, and the broader science ecosystem. Her work centres on supporting educators, institutions, and partners to move beyond one-size-fits-all approaches to STEM learning and toward more inclusive, culturally responsive, and justice-oriented practices.
Desirée is also a PhD candidate at OISE, University of Toronto, where her research explores how Black preservice teachers think about and practice justice in their science teaching, including how relationships and systems shape their work in classrooms.
Dr. Dan MunroDirector, Research and Innovation, ActuaSee Bio×Dr. Dan Munro
Dr. Daniel Munro is Director of Research & Innovation at Actua, Canada’s leading youth STEM outreach organization. He is also Co-Director of Shift Insights, a research shop that examines the social, technological and economic challenges and opportunities facing Canada, and Senior Fellow in the Innovation Policy Lab at the Munk School of Global Affairs & Public Policy. He has taught political science, philosophy and innovation studies at the University of Toronto, Western University, the University of Ottawa, and Queen’s University, was co-host of the Ethics Lab radio show on NewsTalk1310, and Maclean’s Magazine’s Ethics Lab columnist. Dan’s research interests span science and innovation policy, skills and education, and applied ethics, including space ethics. He holds degrees from the University of Toronto (BA), Western University (MA) and M.I.T. (PhD).
Suzi LoneyResearch Director, Council of Canadian AcademiesSee Bio×Suzi Loney
Suzi Loney is the Research Director at the CCA. She oversees the CCA’s research practices, developing policies, processes, and staff skills to ensure research excellence across the organization. Suzi also leads and supports the development of new assessment projects, working with interested groups outside of the CCA to understand their needs and design corresponding expert engagement processes. Suzi continues to support expert panels with project management, research, and writing.
Prior to joining CCA in 2012, Suzi held several policy-related positions within the Government of Canada at the National Round Table on the Environment and the Economy, the Treasury Board Secretariat, and Environment Canada. Suzi has a Bachelor of Arts, Economics from McGill University and a Master of Arts, Economics from the University of Ottawa, where she focussed her studies on environmental economics. During her time at CCA, Suzi has contributed as a researcher and writer to many assessments including incentivizing antimicrobial availability, disaster resilience in a changing climate, and the state of Canada’s science culture.

Future Leaders in Canadian Brain Research: Building Canadian Research Capacity in a Shifting Global Landscape
2026-03-19 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
Register HereWatch Video RecordingAs global geopolitical dynamics and trade relationships continue to evolve, Canada must strengthen its self‑reliance in research and innovation. Building a robust pipeline of next‑generation scientific leaders is essential to ensuring the country’s long‑term competitiveness and societal resilience. This panel examines how Canada can strengthen its domestic research ecosystem at a time when cross‑border collaboration, resources, and IP protections are increasingly uncertain.
Speakers will explore the barriers facing early‑career researchers, the value of national high‑risk, high‑reward funding programs, the importance of mentorship and support systems, and the strategies that help trainees successfully transition to independent research careers, all within the broader context of building a more resilient, self‑sustaining Canadian research landscape.
Register HereFiona SandersonSenior Program Manager, Brain Canada See Bio×Fiona Sanderson
Fiona Sanderson holds a doctorate degree from the University of Toronto and The Hospital for Sick Children, where she investigated the parallels between brain development and the initiation and progression of malignant brain tumours. For over a decade, Fiona has been managing research funding in various roles, building expertise the Canadian academic, healthcare, and non-profit sectors. Fiona manages Brain Canada's Future Leaders in Canadian Brain Research program, advocating for funding for early-career researchers in Canada.
Aaron PhillipsAssociate Dean (Innovation and Commercialization), Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary See Bio×Aaron Phillips
Aaron Phillips was trained in experimental medicine, mathematics, and biosciences. He studies the interactions between the nervous and cardiovascular systems, and how these interactions are disrupted in clinical conditions. His research has driven the development of enhanced monitoring and therapeutics for neurological and hemodynamic conditions. After obtaining the Banting Fellowship at the University of British Columbia (UBC), he established his laboratory at the University of Calgary in 2017. He is now a Professor within the departments of Clinical Neurosciences, Biomedical Engineering, Physiology & Pharmacology, and Cardiac Sciences. Within the Foothills Medical Centre, he is Director of RESTORE.network, which is a multi-million dollar platform comprised of 30 investigators dedicated to developing translational technology for neurological injury. He has received awards such as the Science and PINS Prize in Neuromodulation from Science | AAS, Libin Researcher of the Year, the Brain Canada Leader, the Arthur Guyton Award of Excellence in Integrative Medicine, the Beverley Bishop Award for Neuroscience, and the Top 40 Under 40 from Avenue Magazine. His lab publishes in top journals such as Nature (n=2), Nature Medicine, and Circulation Research. He has nearly 20 patents, many licensed to industry, and also founded and leads a graduate-level course on commercializing medical neuro-technologies.
Cindy BarhaAssistant Professor, Faculty of Kinesiology, University of Calgary See Bio×Cindy Barha
Dr. Cindy Barha, PhD, is an Assistant Professor and a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Neuroscience, Brain Health and Exercise in the Faculty of Kinesiology at the University of Calgary. She is the inaugural Women's Brain Health Initiative Future Leader in Canadian Brain Research. Dr. Barha is a multidisciplinary researcher with training in neuroscience, epidemiology, clinical trial methodology, and neuroendocrinology. Her translational research program focuses on identifying biological factors driving sex differences in dementia risk and cognitive decline, and understanding how physical activity interventions can promote healthy aging.
Grant BrunoAssistant Professor, Department of Paediatrics, University of Alberta See Bio×Grant Bruno
Dr. Grant Bruno is nêhiyaw (Plains Cree), a registered member of Samson Cree Nation located on Treaty 6 Territory, and an Assistant Professor in the Department of Pediatrics at the University of Alberta. As both a researcher and a parent to neurodivergent children, his research seeks to create culturally responsive models of wellbeing that reflect the strengths and challenges of families, particularly in the areas of neurodivergence and child and youth health. Drawing on nêhiyaw understandings of health and wellness, he weaves together Indigenous knowledge systems and Western frameworks to foster inclusive and decolonized approaches to support children and youth with neurodevelopmental differences through community-centred research.
Dr. Bruno is also the current Program Director for Indigenous Child and Youth Health for the Department of Pediatrics and the Academic Lead for Indigenous Child Health Research at the Women and Children's Health Research Institute (WCHRI). He is the lead for the Ispimihk Awâsisak (Sky Children Program) and the Indigenous Caregiving Collective, both of which centre the voices of families and caregivers in shaping programs and research focussed on supporting neurodivergent children and youth. He is currently the co-chair of the Indigenous Advisory Council for Canada's National Autism strategy and also serves as the Scientific Advisor, Indigenous Initiatives for the Kids Brain Health Network, where he continues to advocate for community-driven solutions that strengthen neurodivergent Indigenous child and youth health.
Allison SekulerPresident and Chief Scientist, Centre for Aging + Brain Health Innovation See Bio×Allison Sekuler
Dr. Allison Sekuler (FSEP, FPsyS, FAPS) is the President and Chief Scientist at the Centre for Aging + Brain Health Innovation (CABHI). A graduate of Pomona College (BA, Mathematics and Psychology) and the University of California, Berkeley (PhD, Psychology), Dr. Sekuler is also the President and Chief Scientist and the Sandra A. Rotman Chair in Cognitive Neuroscience at the Baycrest Academy for Research and Education, Professor at the University of Toronto, and Professor Emerita at McMaster University. Dr. Sekuler has a notable record of scientific achievements in aging, vision science, cognitive neuroscience, and neurotechnology; and her translational research aims to develop methods to prevent, detect, and treat age-related sensory and cognitive decline.
She has won numerous research and innovation leadership awards, including being the first Canada Research Chair in Cognitive Neuroscience (2001-2011) and one of WXN’s Top 100 Most Powerful Women in Canada (2019). Dr. Sekuler has a long record of executive leadership, and currently chairs the Natural Science and Engineering Research Council’s Public Impact Value Proposition committee; serves on the Board of Governors for Hamilton Health Sciences and BrainsCAN; is a founding Steering Committee member of the Canadian Brain Research Strategy; is a Scientific Mentor in CDL’s Neuro stream; and is an advisor for SXSW Pitch. In her spare time, she proves that you’re never too old to learn: Dr. Sekuler picked up her first set of drumsticks a few years ago, and recently earned her Professional Drums Certificate from the Berklee College of Music.
Veronique DugasPresident and Chief Executive Officer, Quebec Consortium for Drug Discovery (CQDM) See Bio×Veronique Dugas
Véronique Dugas has been President and Chief Executive Officer of CQDM since April 1, 2025. A member of the organization since 2018, she has held several strategic positions and played a key role in many of its major achievements. Notably, she contributed to the management of the Fonds d'accélération des collaborations en santé (FACS) and to mobilizing the life sciences ecosystem around the Quebec's RNA hub (AReNA).
Before joining CQDM, Véronique worked in the field of research funding and the development of public-private collaborations at Mitacs.
She holds a PhD in Microbiology and Immunology from the Faculty of Medicine at Université de Montréal. She later earned an MBA from ESG-UQAM and completed a graduate-level program in program, project, and service evaluation. More recently, Véronique was selected to join the inaugural cohort of the Excellence in Governance Program for Canadian Boards, offered by McGill University in partnership with Women in Bio.
Mira PuriScientific Director, Health, Science and Research (HSR), Azrieli Foundation, See Bio×Mira Puri
Mira Puri, PhD, is the Scientific Director, Health, Science and Research (HSR) at the
Azrieli Foundation, where she provides the scientific vision and leadership that guide
the Foundation’s funding in neuroscience, neurodevelopment and health research. As
the Foundation’s chief scientific representative, she shapes portfolio strategy, leads
major principallevel research initiatives and serves as a trusted voice in senior scientific,
academic, policy and public forums across Canada and Israel.
Before stepping into this role, Mira spent eight years as Manager, Science Initiatives, at
the Azrieli Foundation, helping to build and strengthen the Foundation’s growing
healthcare and research portfolio. She previously held an academic appointment in the
Department of Medical Biophysics at the University of Toronto and served in research
roles at the LunenfeldTanenbaum Research Institute, Sunnybrook Health Sciences
Centre and the Centre for Commercialization of Regenerative Medicine.
Across her career, Mira has worked at the intersection of basic, translational and clinical
science, advancing research excellence and building partnerships that accelerate
impact. She holds a PhD in Molecular Genetics from the University of Toronto.

Comment le Canada peut tirer parti de son bilinguisme pour renforcer sa collaboration scientifique et technologique à l’échelle mondiale
2026-03-24 13:00 - 14:00 | Zoom
Register HereWatch Video RecordingCSPC célèbre la Francophonie avec un panel intitulé « Comment le Canada peut tirer parti de son bilinguisme pour renforcer sa collaboration scientifique et technologique à l’échelle mondiale ». Cet événement réunira des leaders du milieu de la recherche et de l’innovation afin d’explorer comment l’identité bilingue du Canada peut devenir un atout stratégique pour développer et approfondir les partenariats scientifiques et technologiques internationaux.
La discussion abordera notamment le rôle du bilinguisme dans la facilitation des collaborations scientifiques internationales, les possibilités pour le Canada de renforcer ses liens avec des partenaires francophones et non francophones, ainsi que la contribution des organismes nationaux de recherche et des universités à l’avancement de l’engagement international.
Jean-Pierre PerreaultRecteur, Université de Sherbrooke See Bio×Jean-Pierre Perreault
Titulaire d’un doctorat en biochimie de l’Université de Montréal, le professeur Jean-Pierre Perreault a poursuivi une formation postdoctorale à l’Université de Yale avant d’intégrer la Faculté de médecine et des sciences de la santé de l’Université de Sherbrooke en 1993, à titre de professeur en biochimie. Entre 2004 et 2017, il a été successivement directeur du Département de biochimie, doyen associé au développement de la Faculté et vice-doyen à la recherche et aux études supérieures. Vice-recteur à la recherche et aux études supérieures de 2017 à 2025, il a notamment contribué à ce que l’UdeS se hisse à la 10e place au Canada pour les revenus de recherche.
Le professeur Perreault a été partie prenante de la concrétisation de plusieurs projets majeurs, dont la création d’un programme de bourses nominatives aux études supérieures soutenu par un fonds capitalisé de plus de 25 millions de dollars, l’implication dans la Stratégie nationale quantique ou encore le financement du Pavillon de santé de précision et de recherche translationnelle et de la Bibliothèque du Campus de la santé de l’UdeS.
À titre de chercheur en biochimie de l’ARN, il a produit près de 900 communications scientifiques. Il a détenu la Chaire de recherche du Canada en génomique et ARN catalytique de 2005 à 2012 et il est titulaire de la Chaire de recherche de l’UdeS en structure et génomique de l’ARN. Il a piloté le développement de nouvelles applications en inactivation génique à partir des découvertes fondamentales de son laboratoire. Jean-Pierre Perreault a été le directeur fondateur du Centre d’excellence de recherche de la biologie de l’ARN (1999-2009) et l’un des cofondateurs du RiboClub, un regroupement canadien de chercheuses et chercheurs ayant un intérêt pour l’étude de l’ARN.
Il a représenté l’UdeS sur de nombreuses tribunes et auprès d’organismes québécois, canadiens et internationaux. Il a notamment été président fondateur de la Société canadienne pour les biosciences moléculaires (2010-2011), président de l’Acfas (2021-2024), et membre des conseils d’administration du Conseil de recherches en sciences naturelles et en génie du Canada (CRSNG), de l’Accélérateur de création d’entreprises technologiques (ACET), du Centre d’expertise en santé de Sherbrooke (CESS), du Fonds de recherche du Québec (FRQ) et de l’Observatoire international sur les impacts sociétaux de l’IA et du numérique (OBVIA).
Frédéric BouchardProfesseur titulaire, Département de philosophie, Université de Montréal See Bio×Frédéric Bouchard
Professeur titulaire au Département de philosophie de l’Université de Montréal, Frédéric Bouchard est depuis juin 2017, le doyen de la Faculté des arts et des sciences.
Il est actuellement président des conseils d’administration de la plateforme Érudit, de BAnQ et de l’Institut de recherche en biologie végétale (IRBV), et membre du CA du MILA.
En septembre 2021, il a été nommé membre de la Société royale du Canada (SRC).
À l’automne 2022, il a présidé le comité consultatif sur le système fédéral de soutien à la recherche qui a rendu, en mars 2023, un rapport avec des recommandations clés pour l’avenir du soutien fédéral à la recherche.
Martine LagacéVice-rectrice associée, promotion et développement de la recherche, Professeure titulaire, Université d’Ottawa See Bio×Martine Lagacé
Martine Lagacé is currently Associate Vice-President, Research Promotion & Development, within the Office of the Vice-President, Research and Innovation. She is a full professor in the Department of Communication and is affiliated with the School of Psychology. Professor Lagacé was Vice-Dean, Governance, of the Faculty of Arts from 2014 to 2018, and Director of the Department of Communication from 2011 to 2012. In addition to her administrative experience, she has extensive expertise in journalism, having worked at Radio-Canada for more than 10 years.
Professor Lagacé’s research focuses on older adults and wellbeing. Her work greatly contributes to the advancement of knowledge on the psychosocial aspects of aging, particularly as they relate to discrimination based on age. She has led several field surveys in Canada and abroad, with workers as well as older adults, to better understand the impact of age-based discrimination. In the francophone community, her academic work on ageism has been groundbreaking. She has edited two books on the topic and regularly publishes articles in academic journals, in both official languages.
Professor Lagacé has also contributed to several organizations, including the National Seniors Council, the Institut du savoir Montfort, the LIFE Research Institute and the Institut universitaire de gériatrie de Montréal. She has forged several international research collaborations, particularly in France and Italy.
Janice BaileyVice‑présidente à la recherche et directrice scientifique, Fonds de recherche du Québec – secteur Nature et technologies See Bio×Janice Bailey
Janice L. Bailey est une dirigeante canadienne de la recherche et une administratrice scientifique dont la carrière est consacrée à l’avancement de la recherche interdisciplinaire et de l’excellence scientifique. Elle est actuellement vice‑présidente à la recherche et directrice scientifique du Fonds de recherche du Québec – secteur Nature et technologies, où elle dirige la stratégie scientifique et l’orientation de la recherche dans les domaines des sciences, des technologies, du génie et des mathématiques. À ce titre, elle soutient des recherches qui répondent aux grands enjeux de société, favorisent la collaboration et encouragent la diversité et l’innovation au sein de la communauté scientifique.
Avant de se joindre au FRQ, Janice était professeure en sciences animales et a occupé le poste de vice‑doyenne à la recherche à la Faculté des sciences de l’agriculture et de l’alimentation de l’Université Laval, tout en détenant un statut de professeure associée à la Faculté de médecine. Elle est membre fondatrice du Centre de recherche en reproduction, développement et santé intergénérationnelle et a assumé des rôles de gouvernance au sein d’organisations scientifiques nationales et internationales, notamment comme présidente de la Society for the Study of Reproduction. Janice est membre de l’International Women’s Forum, Distinguished Fellow de la Society for the Study of Reproduction, membre de l’Académie canadienne des sciences de la santé, et a été nommée Chevalière dans l’Ordre des Palmes académiques par le gouvernement français.
Forte de plus de 25 ans d’expérience comme chercheuse active, Janice a dirigé des travaux portant sur l’influence des facteurs environnementaux — notamment l’exposition à des substances toxiques, les conditions nutritionnelles et les stress liés au climat — sur la capacité reproductive et la santé à travers les générations. Ses recherches couvrent plusieurs espèces, allant des poissons et des abeilles aux mammifères d’intérêt agricole, modèles de laboratoire et études humaines, reflétant une approche large et intégrée de la biologie environnementale et de la science de la reproduction.
Janice a obtenu un doctorat (Ph. D.) en reproduction animale à l’Université de Guelph, suivi d’un stage postdoctoral en biologie de la reproduction à la Perelman School of Medicine de l’Université de Pennsylvanie. Son leadership dépasse la recherche grâce à ses rôles consultatifs, sa participation à des comités d’experts et ses efforts visant à rendre la science plus accessible à l’ensemble de la société.
Alexane Thibodeau Scientifique en résidence soutenue par le Fonds de recherche du Québec, Délégation du Québec à RomeSee Bio×Alexane Thibodeau
Alexane Thibodeau a réalisé ses études à l’Université Laval, la toute première université francophone fondée en Amérique. Elle y a obtenu, en 2025, un doctorat en biologie cellulaire et moléculaire. Ses travaux de recherche, menés au sein du centre de recherche en organogénèse expérimentale de l’Université Laval (LOEX), portaient sur le développement de stratégies innovantes en génie tissulaire visant la réparation et la régénération d’organes, notamment dans le domaine de la reconstruction des nerfs périphériques. Elle a par la suite réalisé un stage postdoctoral portant sur la santé urinaire des femmes, avec un intérêt particulier pour les approches de génie tissulaire appliquées aux bandelettes urinaires utilisées dans le traitement de l’incontinence.

Auteure principale de trois publications scientifiques, elle a également été invitée à présenter ses travaux lors de conférences internationales en tant qu’experte en régénération des nerfs périphériques. L’une des recherches auxquelles elle a contribué a par ailleurs été mise en lumière parmi les 10 découvertes scientifiques de l’année 2022 par le magazine Québec Science. Ses travaux contribuent à l’avancement de nouvelles approches thérapeutiques pour la réparation des lésions nerveuses.
Parallèlement à ses activités de recherche, Alexane s’intéresse au rôle de la science comme levier de coopération internationale et au développement de la diplomatie scientifique. Elle occupe actuellement le poste de scientifique en résidence à la Délégation du Québec à Rome, dans le cadre d’un programme soutenu par le Fonds de recherche du Québec visant à favoriser les collaborations internationales en recherche et innovation. Dans ce rôle, elle agit comme interface entre les milieux scientifiques, institutionnels et diplomatiques afin de soutenir le développement de collaborations entre le Québec et l’Italie.

Decentralizing Data for Climate‑Smart Research: Policy, Infrastructure, and Trust
2026-04-08 14:00 - 15:30 | Zoom
Register HereWatch Video RecordingCanada’s climate, agriculture, health, and biodiversity challenges demand research data that are findable, responsibly shareable, and resilient. Yet centralized repositories, siloed governance, and cross‑border dependencies limit trust, flexibility, and sovereignty—especially for Indigenous and other sensitive data. This panel examines decentralized approaches—federated collaboration tools, interoperable metadata standards, and decentralized identity/credentials—that let institutions and communities retain control while enabling discovery and secure access at national scale. What does “decentralized” look like in practice for human and non‑human data? Where can Canada align policy, standards, and funding to unlock value for researchers, conservation groups, startups, and infrastructure providers? Speakers with contrasting viewpoints—from cautious industry users to open data champions and sensitive‑data stewards—will debate tradeoffs in security, sovereignty, implementation, and incentives, and surface near‑term policy/implementation steps (e.g., national discovery metadata, DIDs/VCs pilots, and capacity‑building pathways).
David McInnesFounder & Senior Fellow, Centre for Agri-Food Benchmarking & Principal, DMci Strategies See Bio×Dr. David McInnis
As Principal of DMci Strategies, David McInnes initiated and led a novel coalition of over 160 agri-food partners from 2020 to 2024 to create Canada’s first agri-food sustainability index: the National Index on Agri-Food Performance. This unprecedented private-public collaboration worked by consensus.
He also founded the Centre for Agri-Food Benchmarking, a not-for-profit organization, dedicated to evolving the Index and managing the coalition. David is a Senior Fellow and Steering Committee member of the Centre.
David is a board member with the National Circle on Indigenous Agriculture and Food and with a provincial government agency, Agricultural Research and Innovation Ontario. He is a steering member of the Agricultural Genomics in Action Centre and Growing Tomorrow, an agri-food sustainability initiative, at the University of Guelph; he is also affiliated with McGill University’s Institute for Global Food Security.
Previously, David was President and CEO of the Canadian Agri-Food Policy Institute and held executive positions with MDS Nordion, a Canadian life sciences company and a global supplier of medical isotopes. He also worked in government and public affairs for the country’s banking sector at the Canadian Bankers Association and the Bank of Nova Scotia. He started his career working for the federal government at a Royal Commission on the economy.
David is a past Chair of WaterAid Canada and a Trustee of London-based WaterAid International, an NGO dedicated to clean water and improved sanitation in the global south.
He is a graduate of the London School of Economics (MSc.) and Dalhousie University (B.A.).
Dr. Zsuzsanna HollanderDirector, Data Science, Genome British Columbia See Bio×Dr. Zsuzsanna Hollander
Dr. Zsuzsanna Hollander is a strategic leader at the intersection of genomics, data sovereignty, and research infrastructure. As the Director of Data Science at Genome BC, she oversees initiatives that leverage high-dimensional biological data to drive innovation across health and environmental sectors. She currently represents Canada on the ISO/TC 215/SC1 Genomics Informatics committee, where she contributes to the development of international standards for data interoperability and security.
With a Ph.D. in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and an M.Sc. in Computer Science from the University of British Columbia, Dr. Hollander brings a unique multidisciplinary perspective to the challenges of data decentralization. Her experience as a Co-founder and Chief Informatics Officer at Pawsperity Biotechnologies further informs her pragmatic approach to balancing open data advocacy with the technical and policy requirements of sensitive data stewardship.

Dr. Michael SchullCEO, Digital Research Alliance of Canada See Bio×Dr. Michael Schull
Michael Schull is a nationally recognized leader with a track record of driving digital transformation. As CEO of the Digital Research Alliance of Canada, Michael leverages his extensive experience in building national and international research and data partnerships, and organizational growth and sustainability to support the organization’s work to advance the establishment of a researcher focused, accountable, agile, strategic and sustainable digital research infrastructure (DRI) ecosystem in Canada.
Michael’s experience and deep knowledge of the research and health ecosystems have been shaped by his12 years as CEO and Senior Scientist at ICES, Canada’s leading health services research and data analytics institute, as a Professor in the Department of Medicine at the University of Toronto and as a Senior Scientist at Sunnybrook Research Institute. He is also founding member of Health Data Research Network Canada (HDRN), a pan-Canadian network of health data and research centres seeking to facilitate and enable pan-Canadian research, and past co-director of the International Population Data Linkage network.
Throughout his career, Michael has led major initiatives to expand researcher access to new data types, create a virtual data platform for linked datasets, and launch a health AI data and analytics platform. He has also engaged the public and communities to ensure alignment with public values and strengthened relationships with Indigenous partners. His own research has focused on strengthening Ontario’s and Canada’s health research infrastructure for the analysis of large, routinely collected datasets, and on developing innovative data access models for research and health system evaluation.
Fluent in English and French, Michael was born in Montreal and raised in Québec before relocating to Ontario, where he earned a BA and MD from Queen’s University. He later completed an MSc in Epidemiology and Biostatistics at McGill University and a Harkness Fellowship with The Commonwealth Fund in the United States. He is a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians of Canada and is currently based in Toronto.
Math’ieya AlatiniGrand Chief, Council of Yukon First Nations & AFN Yukon Regional Chief See Bio×Math’ieya Alatini
Math’ieya Alatini is a force of action and integrity, deeply connected to her Southern Tutchone roots and the Kluane First Nation. Her journey, marked by a blend of traditional and contemporary wisdom, has been shaped by a Bachelor of Commerce from the University of Victoria and a varied career spanning Tourism, Mining, Finance, and Non-Profit sectors. She is grounded by her traditional upbringing on the land.
Her strategic acumen, honed as Chief of Kluane First Nation and through her work with INAC in British Columbia, has been pivotal in advancing green energy projects and Intergovernmental Relations and advocacy for Yukon First Nation Final and Self Government Agreements. These experiences, coupled with her role as Chief Strategist at GSD Strategies Inc, underscore her capacity to steer complex initiatives to successful fruition.
Now, as the Board Chair of One Yukon Coalition, Math’ieya’s leadership is instrumental in pioneering initiatives like the Wastewater Monitoring Program and Community Based Testing. Her dedication is central to promoting emergency readiness and health awareness, driving transformative strategies that nurture the well-being and sustainability of Yukon communities.
Dr. Steven R. WebbSee Bio×Steven R. Webb, PhD
Steven joined the Global Institute for Food Security as the Chief Executive Officer in 2019, following a 23-year career with Corteva Agriscience (formerly Dow AgroSciences) in Indianapolis, Indiana, United States. As Research and Development Director of External Technology at Corteva, Steven led many research collaborations with private sector companies, research institutes and universities around the globe. He also led the successful design and build of the company’s Omega-9 Health Canola business and has developed and deployed Corteva’s external innovation partnership process for driving new products and technologies to accelerate innovation across the seed, crop protection and digital platforms.
Steven joined Dow AgroSciences Canada, Inc. in Saskatoon as a Research Scientist in Field Research and Development in 1996, then accepted the role of Product Development Manager in the Nexera™ canola breeding program in 1997—responsible for the registration of the first Omega-9 canola varieties. Relocating to Indianapolis, Indiana in 2000, he became Project Success Leader for Animal Health and Nutrition, leading efforts to demonstrate the technical feasibility of plant-made vaccines, ARC™ biologics and food safety antibodies. He assumed leadership of the Cell Biology Group in 2007, responsible for the implementation of BIO-ETS. In 2009, he led Advanced Technology Discovery, including the effort to develop and deploy the EXZACT™ Precision Platform Technologies in corn, soybeans, canola and wheat. A few years later in 2013, Steven joined the Research & Development Leadership team and the Seeds Global Business team when he became responsible for External Technology, Intellectual Property Development and Early Stage Commercial Assessment activities for Dow AgroSciences. He was also actively engaged in the regulatory and approval process for the Dow:DuPont merger and subsequent establishment of Corteva Agriscience.
A visionary and strategic research leader, Steven has over two decades of expertise in developing and managing multidisciplinary enterprises and new business opportunities. He is a University of Guelph, Ontario alumnus, earning a PhD in immunochemistry (1998), a Master’s degree in biochemistry (1992) and a Bachelor of Science degree in microbiology (1990) from the institution.
Dr. Claude RobertProfessor, Animal Sciences Department, Université Laval, Principal investigator CS-DCC, Director of GenovaliaSee Bio×Dr. Claude Robert
Dr. Claude Robert is a Professor in the Faculty of Agricultural and Food Sciences at Université Laval, and a Principal Investigator for CS-DCC. He holds a Bachelor’s degree in Biochemistry from Université de Sherbrooke, and Master’s and Doctoral degrees in Animal Sciences from Université Laval. He also completed a post-doctoral internship at the University of Guelph under the supervision of Dr. Allan King.
Dr. Robert has long been interested in how assisted reproduction technologies can affect early embryonic development. Currently, his research projects include studying ovarian physiology – namely, the intercellular connectivity between cumulus cells and the oocyte – using bovine and mouse models. He also leads and collaborates on projects in genetics and genomics in animal models such as cattle, pigs, caribou/reindeer, and honeybees.
Dr. Robert is the Director of Genovalia, a newly established data hub for non-human genomics at Université Laval. He is also the Co-Director of the Centre for Research in Reproduction, Development and Intergenerational Health, a research centre focused on reproductive biology as well as the responsible and ethical use of reproductive technologies. He is the former Director of the Réseau Québécois en Reproduction, a network composed over 100 research teams invested in research on the topic of reproductive biology.

Canada, South Africa, Astronomy, and the SKAO: A Strategic Research Partnership
2026-04-16 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
Register HereWatch Video RecordingGlobal megascience facilities are at the cutting edge of discovery in many fields. In this context, the Square Kilometre Array Observatory (SKAO) – a 16-country partnership including Canada that is building massive radio telescopes in South Africa and Australia – is a major new addition to Canada’s science, technology and innovation (STI) ecosystem. Canadians are world leaders and valuable international partners in astronomy by many metrics, and Canada’s SKAO membership will build on this reputation by providing telescope access that Canadian astronomers will leverage to discover the universe.
Enhancing the research partnership between Canada and South Africa is particularly promising in the context of the SKAO: astronomy is a leading field in both nations and an area of extant collaboration, South Africa is a major SKAO member and one of only two SKAO telescope host countries, and the main Canadian technical SKAO contribution will be installed on the telescope in South Africa. But with this opportunity comes challenges: a complex Canadian science policy landscape for treaty organisations, systemic inequities in research access and capacity between the two countries, and the fragmentation that arises from the geographic distance between Canada and South Africa. With the first scientific data from the SKAO coming soon, now is an opportune time to consider Canada, South Africa, and the SKAO in the Canadian science policy context.
This panel will bring together Canadian experts in STI, science policy and government for a forward-looking exchange about how innovation in science policy can catalyse a strategic research partnership in astronomy with South Africa that is anchored by our mutual SKAO participation. The panel’s goal is to connect research interests and national priorities with innovations in science policy between Canada and South Africa, focussing on opportunities, barriers, and actions to overcome them.
Sarah GallagherProfessor, Physics and Astronomy & Director, Institute for Earth and Space Exploration, Western University See Bio×Sarah Gallagher
Dr. Sarah Gallagher is a Professor of Physics and Astronomy and the Director of the Institute for Earth and Space Exploration at Western University. Her astrophysics research focuses on studying growing supermassive black holes at the centres of distant galaxies and the interactions between galaxies in crowded environments. She has over 120 refereed papers that include data from 10 different space observatories, and her research has been recognized with a Canadian Association of Physicists Fellowship and an Ontario Early Career Researcher Award. From 2018-2022, she served as the first Science Advisor to the President of the Canadian Space Agency. In this role, she advised the CSA Executive Committee on space science investments and capacity development and sat on the Departmental Science Advisor Network. She is active in science policy and an advocate for creating a diverse and inclusive space science community. She regularly talks to the public about astronomy and space, and is currently serving as the Past President of the Canadian Astronomical Society.
Paul DufourPrincipal, PaulicyWorks & Senior Fellow, Institute for Science, Society and Policy, University of Ottawa See Bio×Paul Dufour
Paul Dufour is Principal of PaulicyWorks and Senior Fellow with the Institute for Science, Society and Policy, University of Ottawa.
Mr Dufour served as Interim Executive Director of the Office of the National Science Adviser to the Government of Canada. Mr Dufour was a member of the Royal Canadian Geographical Society gold medal award-winning Canadian National Committee for the International Polar Year.
With over four decades of experience in policy advice, he was the lead of the Research on Knowledge Systems project with the International Development Research Centre; managed the science and technology attaché network at Foreign Affairs Canada; headed the international partnerships group at Natural Resources Canada, and advisor to several of Canada’s Ministers for Science, Research and Development. He was an Investment Committee Member of Grand Challenges Canada for global health for eight years.
Mr. Dufour was educated at McGill, the Université de Montréal and Concordia University in the history of science and science policy.
In 2019, Mr Dufour was the first recipient of the Canadian Science Policy Centre Award for Exceptional Achievement in Science Policy.

Lerato Baidoo (Sebokolodi)Research Associate, Dunlap Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics, University of Toronto See Bio×Lerato Baidoo (Sebokolodi)
Dr. Lerato Baidoo is a Research Associate at the Dunlap Institute for Astronomy and Astrophysics at the University of Toronto and a former Postdoctoral Fellow. She is a radio astronomer specializing in radio galaxies, active galactic nuclei, cosmic magnetism, galaxy clusters, and the intergalactic medium.
Her work sits at the intersection of astrophysics and large-scale computational pipelines for radio astronomy. She writes, debugs, and optimizes software pipelines for high-volume survey data, with an emphasis on validation, reproducibility, and science-ready public releases. Her contributions support major survey efforts such as POSSUM and VLASS, helping deliver reliable data products for research and broader community use.
Dr. Baidoo previously worked as a Scientific Researcher at IBM and earlier developed automated processing and data reduction pipelines for radio astronomy in South Africa, including work supporting MeerKAT-era initiatives. She holds a PhD in Physics from Rhodes University and brings a Canada-South Africa perspective relevant to SKAO-era collaboration and science.
Kristine SpekkensProfessor, Department of Physics, Engineering Physics and Astronomy, Queen’s University See Bio×Kristine Spekkens
Dr. Kristine Spekkens is a professor in the Department of Physics, Engineering Physics and Astronomy at Queen’s University, where she is a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Gas-Rich Galaxy Structure. She leads a research group that focusses on understanding the structure and evolution of nearby galaxies, and she is particularly interested in using their atomic gas reservoirs to probe the interplay between the galaxy evolution and that of the universe itself. Dr. Spekkens leads a variety of initiatives to survey atomic gas in galaxies using the biggest radio telescopes in the world, including facilities in Canada, Australia, the US and South Africa.
In addition to her scientific research, Dr. Spekkens is deeply involved in the international partnership to build the Square Kilometre Array (SKA) telescope. Nationally, she is the Canadian SKA Science Director who coordinates between stakeholders in universities, government and industry. Internationally, she is the Chair of the SKA Observatory’s Science and Engineering Advisory Committee, which brings together experts from around the world to provide independent technical advice to the project.
Luc SimardDirector-General, National Research Council’s Herzberg Astronomy and Astrophysics Research CentreSee Bio×Luc Simard
Luc Simard is the Director-General of the National Research Council’s Herzberg Astronomy and Astrophysics Research Centre, which represents Canada in the governance of the SKA Observatory (SKAO) and works with domestic and international partners to deliver key observatory systems. He has held leading governance roles in that context, including the Canadian voting member on the SKAO Council. Dr. Simard also has oversight of other major Canadian STI investments in astronomy, such as the Thirty Meter Telescope and the Canadian Astronomy Data Centre.
Dr. Simard obtained his B.Sc. from Queen’s University in 1990 and his Ph.D. from the University of Victoria in 1996. From 1996 to 2002, he held postdoctoral fellowships at the University of California – Santa Cruz and the University of Arizona.
Dr. Simard joined the NRC in 2002 where he was the Canada-France-Hawaii Telescope archive scientist at the Canadian Astronomy Data Centre from 2002 to 2005. He worked on the Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) from 2005 to 2017, and was the TMT Science Instruments Group Leader from 2009 to 2017, and was appointed Director General of the Herzberg Astronomy and Astrophysics Research Centre in November 2018.
Dr. Simard’s research interests include galaxy formation and evolution, image processing and astronomical instrumentation.

AI, Democracy & Digital Rights Forum
2026-04-16 12:00 - 17:00 | Université de l’Ontario français, 9 Lower Jarvis St, Toronto, ON, M5E 0C3, Canada
AI, Democracy & Digital Rights Forum,
an EU Hub Ontario Initiative
The AI, Democracy & Digital Rights Forum is a half-day event convened under the European Union Hub in Ontario initiative and organized by the Canadian Science Policy Centre (CSPC), in partnership with The Dais, OCAD University, and others.
Taking place on April 16, 2026, at the Université de l’Ontario français in Toronto, the Forum will bring together policymakers, researchers, industry leaders, civil-society organizations, and international partners to explore the intersection of artificial intelligence, democracy, and digital rights.
The event marks an exciting new chapter in the EU’s presence in Ontario. It offers a unique platform for exchanging Canadian and European perspectives in the context of the EU–Canada Digital Partnership Council. Together, participants will explore ways to strengthen democratic institutions, promote civic participation, and advance trusted digital innovation in bilateral cooperation. Discussions will foster cross-sector dialogue between European and Canadian stakeholders on how to advance collaboration in artificial intelligence and digital technologies while safeguarding ethical, legal, and human-rights standards.
Topics, among others, will include:

Ethical, social, and legal dimensions of digital governance
EU–Canada approaches to AI regulation and innovation
Digital rights, data governance, and public trust
The role of industry, civil society, and youth in shaping the digital future
Responsible AI adoption across the economy and society

The Forum will feature panel discussions, policy dialogue, and networking opportunities as part of the broader DemocracyXChange 2026 Summit in Toronto.
For more information or questions related to this event, please email: info@sciencepolicy.ca
Last chance to register!
We are reaching maximum attendance capacity for the forum:
Register HereSpeaker information coming soon!Dr. Tesh W DagneAssociate Professor and Ontario Research Chair in Governing AISee Bio×Dr. Tesh W Dagne
Professor Dagne is an associate professor and holds the Ontario Research Chair position at York University in Canada. He teaches at the School of Public Policy and Administration and Osgoode Hall Law School. Professor Dagne’s current research examines the instrumentality of intellectual property, privacy and data governance rules and norms in influencing societal outcomes, either perpetuating or mitigating inequalities in AI deployment.

Marium Hamid
Manager of Partnerships, the Dais See Bio×Marium Hamid
Marium Hamid (she/her) is the Manager of Partnerships at the Dais where she brings her skills in creating impactful relationships across industries and communities. She is deeply committed to understanding the intersections of economics, technology, and culture. At the Dais, she is the lead on Canadian Democracy @ Work, a non-partisan learning initiative to build civic skills for the digital age. In collaboration with employers and unions nation-wide, the project aims to elevate digital media literacy, AI skills, and civic engagement – one workplace at a time.
Before joining the Dais, Marium led workforce development at LinkedIn Canada, enabling the public sector to leverage technology to create economic opportunities for Canadians. She advised libraries, healthcare, and workforce development organizations on strategies to better engage the communities around them. Previously, she was at the Business+Higher Education Round Table delivering large-scale work-integrated learning opportunities to students.
Bruce SchneierInternationally renowned security technologist & Author See Bio×Bruce Schneier
Bruce Schneier is an internationally renowned security technologist, called a “security guru” by The Economist. He is the author of over one dozen books—including his latest, Rewiring Democracy—as well as hundreds of articles and essays, and many more academic papers. His influential newsletter Crypto-Gram and his blog Schneier on Security are read by over 250,000 people. He has testified before Congress, is a frequent guest on television and radio, served on several government technical committees, and is regularly quoted in the press.
Samir ChhabraDirector General of Marketplace Framework Policy, Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED) See Bio×Samir Chhabra
Samir Chhabra is the Director General of Marketplace Framework Policy at Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada (ISED). In this role, Samir oversees the development of policy advice on the effective functioning of Canada’s marketplaces, including corporate and insolvency law, privacy and data protection, artificial intelligence, intellectual property, and competition law. More recently, he has been cross-appointed as the Deputy Executive Director of the Canadian Artificial Intelligence Safety Institute (CAISI) to lead the policy, coordination and international engagement functions of the CAISI. Samir has broad experience in public policy development and implementation, having worked at all three Canadian central agencies (Privy Council Office, Department of Finance, Treasury Board Secretariat) as well as with the Department of National Defence, amongst others. He also has significant private sector experience, including as a strategy consultant in London, UK, where he advised organizations including the UK Home Office and large NHS hospitals on service delivery improvement opportunities.
Costas KapsouropoulosDigital and Science Counsellor, Delegation of the European Union to Canada See Bio×Costas Kapsouropoulos
Konstantinos (Costas) Kapsouropoulos is the Digital and Science Counsellor at the EU Delegation to Canada since 1st July 2024.
He previously served as International Relations Officer at the European Commission’s Directorate General for Communications Networks, Content, and Technology (DG CONNECT). He was in charge of the Digital Partnerships of the European Union with Japan and the Republic of Korea since 2021. He was also the European Union Delegate at the OECD Digital Economic Policy Committee since 2023.
His areas of expertise are geopolitics of technology, digital and science diplomacy, EU public affairs and digital identities.
Konstantinos Kapsouropoulos holds a Masters’ Degree in Geopolitics and International Relations from the Sorbonne Paris North University and a Law Degree from the University of Athens, Greece.
Claudia KrywiakPresident and CEO, Ontario Centre of Innovation See Bio×Claudia Krywiak
Dr. Claudia Krywiak is the President and CEO at the Ontario Centre of Innovation (OCI), a not-for-profit organization that accelerates the development, commercialization, and adoption of new technologies.
A champion of innovation in Ontario and across Canada, Dr. Krywiak has been with OCI since 2011. She has consistently promoted innovation as a crucial driver of competitiveness, productivity, and economic growth. In her role, she leads the development and deployment of emerging technology initiatives that bring together start ups, government, post-secondary institutions, and multinational firms. Her leadership covers a broad range of initiatives, including those in artificial intelligence, autonomous and electric vehicles, 5G and next-generation networks, cybersecurity, medtech and clean technologies.
Previously, Dr. Krywiak was the Vice President of Business Development at Mitacs, a national research organization that funds research and training programs. Her career began at Bruker Corporation enabling scientists to make breakthrough discoveries. She holds a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Toronto.
Dr. Krywiak serves on the Boards of Directors for Signal49 Research, the Centre for Commercialization of Regenerative Medicine, and Waterloo’s Accelerator Centre.

Victoria Lennox, MSMCEO of the Women’s Enterprise Organizations of Canada (WEOC) See Bio×Victoria Lennox, MSM
Victoria Lennox, MSM, is an executive nonprofit leader and CEO of the Women’s Enterprise Organizations of Canada, Canada’s national centre of excellence for the women’s entrepreneurship ecosystem. She leads a coordinated national network and stewards a $30M+ developmental loan fund advancing women entrepreneurs toward economic parity. Founder of Startup Canada and co-founder of NACUE (UK), she has built enduring institutions strengthening entrepreneurship globally. An Oxford-trained strategist in Global Governance and Diplomacy, she advises senior governments on inclusive growth, Indigenous economic development, innovation, and governance. Victoria has represented Canada at APEC Summits and Governor General State Visits, and is a recipient of the Meritorious Service Medal, the Queen’s Award for Enterprise Promotion, and the APEC Women Icon Award.
Namir Anani, P.Eng.President & CEO, Information and Communications Technology Council (ICTC)See Bio×Namir Anani, P.Eng.
Namir Anani, President and CEO of the Information and Communications Technology Council (ictc-ctic.ca), is the chief strategist and driving force in bringing ICTC’s world-class centre of expertise and services to industry, education and government; enabling Canada’s advancement as a leader in innovation, productivity in the global economy. Before joining ICTC, Namir previously led Policy Development & Research at the Canadian Radio-television and Telecommunications Commission (CRTC).
He has also held several executive leadership roles in both the private and public sectors including the Department of Canadian Heritage (Director General & CEO), CGI consulting, Nortel, and Novartis (Switzerland). Mr. Anani’s experience extends to; strategic policy development and implementation, learning and capacity building, business transformation, national/international strategic alliances, economic and market research, and technology innovation.
Namir holds a Bachelor of Science (Honours) in Electrical Engineering from the University of Salford (UK) and holds Professional Engineer designation in Ontario (P. Eng.). He is also a board member of the Women in Communications and Technology.
Jutta TreviranusDirector & Professor, Inclusive Design Research Centre, OCAD UniversitySee Bio×Jutta Treviranus
Jutta Treviranus is the Director of the Inclusive Design Research Centre (IDRC) and professor in the faculty of Design at OCAD University in Toronto. Jutta established the IDRC in 1993 as the nexus of a growing global community that proactively works to ensure that our digitally transformed and globally connected society is designed inclusively. Dr. Treviranus also founded an innovative graduate program in inclusive design at OCAD University. Jutta is credited with developing a co-design methodology with her team that has been adopted by public and private sector organizations internationally. She has coordinated many research networks with and by people with disabilities. She is the chair of the Accessible and Equitable Artificial Intelligence standards committee for the Accessible Canada Act and recognized for her work in AI by Women in AI.
Lucilla SioliDirector of the EU AI Office, DG Connect, European CommissionSee Bio×Lucilla Sioli
Ms Lucilla Sioli is the Director of the “EU AI Office” within Directorate-General CONNECT at the European Commission. She is responsible for the coordination of the European AI strategy, including the implementation of the AI Act and international collaboration in trustworthy AI and AI for good. The EU AI Office is also responsible for R&D&I activities in AI and for the coordination of the AI Continent Action Plan and the Apply AI Strategy. Lucilla holds a PhD in economics from the University of Southampton (UK) and one from the Catholic University of Milan (Italy) and has been a civil servant with the European Commission since 1997.
Ashley Rose MehlenbacherProfessor and Canada Research Chair in Science, Health, and Technology Communication, University of WaterlooSee Bio×Ashley Rose Mehlenbacher
Ashley Rose Mehlenbacher is a Professor and Canada Research Chair in Science, Health, and Technology Communication at the University of Waterloo. Professor Mehlenbacher is a rhetorical scholar who investigates the rhetoric of science, technology, and medicine (RSTM). Professor Mehlenbacher is the author of On Expertise: Cultivating Character, Goodwill, and Practical Wisdom (Penn State University Press, 2022), Science Communication Online: Engaging Experts and Publics on the Internet (The Ohio State University Press, 2019). She is also co-author, with Christopher Thaiss, of Writing Science In the Twenty-First Century, Second Edition (Broadview Press, 2025), and co-editor, with Carolyn R. Miller, of Emerging Genres in New Media Environments (Palgrave, 2017).
Mehrdad HaririCEO & President, Canadian Science Policy Centre (CSPC)See Bio×Mehrdad Hariri
Mehrdad Hariri is the Founder, CEO, and President of the Canadian Science Policy Centre (CSPC), where he has built a leading platform for non-partisan, cross-sector dialogue on science, technology, and innovation policy. Since 2009, he has grown CSPC into a national and international hub, launching flagship initiatives such as the Canadian Science Policy Conference and Science Meets Parliament.
A recognized thought leader, Mehrdad contributes regularly to public discourse through outlets such as Nature, The Globe and Mail, and CBC. His work spans science diplomacy and innovation policy.
His contributions have been recognized with the King Charles III Coronation Medal (2024) and the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee Pin (2022). He is also a Senior Fellow at the University of Ottawa and an alumnus of the Governor General’s Canadian Leadership Conference.
Jake Hirsch-AllenDirector Partnerships and Advocacy, The Dais and Senior Fellow, Public AI NetworkSee Bio×Jake Hirsch-Allen
Jake Hirsch-Allen is the head of Partnerships at The Dais, Canada’s leading think tank. Current foci include “Kids and Tech”, “Renewing Democracy” and “AI and the Innovation Economy.” Jake previously built public-private partnerships in workforce development and higher education for LinkedIn.
Jake advises impact investors, public sector leaders and start-ups, including on edTech, responsible tech, ethical data and Public AI. He co-founded Lighthouse Labs and has acted as a director on many boards. A former intellectual property and international criminal lawyer, Jake was also chair of the Technology Committee of the Global Education Platform, taught Global Health at McMaster University and clerked at the Supreme Court of Israel.

Youth Perspectives on Science Policy
2026-04-22 13:00 - 14:30 | Zoom
Register HereWatch Video RecordingThis panel brings together youth and early-career voices to explore how Canada’s science, technology, and innovation ecosystem can better reflect the realities, aspirations, and lived experiences of the next generation. Grounded in key insights and learnings that emerged from the STEM Youth Summit & Expo 2026, this panel will center youth perspectives and will examine how existing structures may miss or overlook diverse voices. The discussion will explore gaps between training and opportunity, barriers to participation, and the role of youth in shaping more inclusive and forward-looking policies. By bringing youth voices directly into the conversation, this panel aims to reimagine a policy landscape where young people are key contributors to Canada’s innovation future.
Speaker information coming soon!Nyasha Gondora (Moderator)Director of Policy and Research, Society for Canadian Women in Science and Technology (SCWIST)See Bio×Nyasha Gondora
Nyasha Gondora was born and raised in Zimbabwe, where she developed an early passion for science after witnessing the transformative impact of medicine and science in her community. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from Trinity University in the United States, where she was the recipient of nearly $100,000 in academic scholarships, and there she discovered her passion for research. She proceeded to complete a PhD in Neuropharmacology at the University of Waterloo, becoming the first Black PhD graduate of her department in 2020. During her doctoral training, Nyasha received numerous competitive awards recognizing her excellence in research, research and science communications, and community impact.
Following postdoctoral fellowships at the University of Waterloo and the University of Toronto, Nyasha transitioned into science policy through the Mitacs Canadian Science Policy Fellowship. She also spent six years as an academic consultant, supporting more than 750 students across North America in their journeys to professional school (e.g., medical and pharmacy school) or research careers. Drawing on experience across academia, consulting, and government, Nyasha brings an intersectional perspective to advancing science, talent development, and inclusive innovation.
A passionate advocate for representation and empowerment, Nyasha has held leadership and board roles in national and international organizations. In recognition of her leadership and impact, she was named one of Canada’s Top 100 Black Women to Watch in 2024. Nyasha currently serves as Director of Policy and Research at the Society for Canadian Women in Science and Technology (SCWIST), where she is proud to be part of an amazing team advancing meaningful and lasting change for communities across Canada.
Grace LeeYouth Ambassador from British Columbia See Bio×Grace Lee
Grace Lee is a Grade 10 student from Vancouver and founder of MindwithGrace, her passion project dedicated to raising awareness of Alzheimer’s Disease by hosting talks at school, creating educational content to make research accessible to youth, and advocating for more empathy in dementia care on social media. She’s inspired by the resilience and wisdom of people living with dementia and their families, and believes youth have an important role in changing how society approaches these conversations. Grace volunteers in research labs, visiting retirement homes to test interventions with patients and families, and speaks at conferences about the significance of youth perspectives in brain health and the systems that shape how we understand Alzheimer’s. What brings her joy is connecting with people across generations.
Melvin AdekanyeYouth Ambassador from AlbertaSee Bio×Melvin Adekanye
Melvin Adekanye is an entrepreneur and builder focused on creating technology and experiences that help people connect, grow, and create meaningful impact.
Maria PitanYouth Ambassador from OntarioSee Bio×Maria Pitan
Bio coming soon!
Ridhima AroraYouth Ambassador from AlbertaSee Bio×Ridhima Arora
Bio coming soon!
Burhan HassanYouth Ambassador from AlbertaSee Bio×Burhan Hassan
Bio coming soon!

Unlocking the Promise of Cell and Gene Therapies in Canada Through Translational Research: Making Evidence Where It Matters
2026-04-28 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
Register HereWatch Video RecordingCanada stands at a critical juncture in the development and adoption of cell and gene therapies (CGTs), transformative treatments that hold potential for curing or significantly improving the course of life-threatening and chronic diseases. Innovation is progressing rapidly; however, Canada’s life sciences and healthcare ecosystem is not in a state of readiness to bring these advanced therapies to our patients.
Recent reports and discussions have focused on accelerated patient access to CGTs through system integration efforts such as aligning regulatory and reimbursement processes and bolstering healthcare infrastructure and coordination. This panel positions translational research as the lynchpin for converting scientific promise into clinical, regulatory, and payer confidence—providing the high-quality, decision-ready evidence needed to reduce uncertainty and move therapies from discovery into clinical development and, ultimately, patient care.
Unlike most sectors, advancing a technology in the life sciences requires repeated engagement with regulators across the full development continuum, from preclinical programs, to first-in-human studies, to pivotal trials, post-market evidence generation, and back again as new questions emerge. For CGTs in particular, this iterative pathway demands a laser focus on clinical translation: generating robust, credible evidence that satisfies regulators, payers, clinicians, and patients. Importantly, this focus represents a shared metric of success for both academia and industry.
Anchoring this translational work in Canada points to important questions about where evidence should be generated, how domestic clinical development shapes learning, and what advantages may emerge when regulators, researchers, and developers evolve together through ongoing evidence generation. Drawing on international experts from Europe and the United States alongside Canadian leadership, panelists with diverse experiences in the research, healthcare, industry, and regulatory sectors will explore:

What evidence unlocks translation of CGTs, and how does that differ for regulators, health technology assessment (HTA) bodies, clinicians, patients and investors?
How do regulators act as partners in CGT translation, not just gatekeepers?
How do we anchor translational research domestically and why does it matter?
What can Canada learn from other countries seeking to enable safe, timely, and equitable access to CGTs through product and policy innovation grounded in high-quality evidence?

Speaker information coming soon!Stéphanie Michaud, PhDPresident and CEO, BioCanRx See Bio×Dr. Stéphanie Michaud
Stéphanie Michaud, PhD is the President and CEO of BioCanRx, a not-for-profit in Canada that seeks to accelerate the delivery of innovative immunotherapies from the bench to the bedside. In this position, Dr. Michaud is responsible for running all facets of the organization. She brings more than 20 years of public, government and private sector experience in research and Science & Technology innovation policy. She strives to create partnerships between government, not-for-profits, academia and industry to maximize the impact of research funded by the BioCanRx network on the lives of those affected by cancer.
Prior to joining BioCanRx, Dr. Michaud was Deputy Director of the flagship Government of Canada Networks Centres of Excellence (NCE) program. In addition to responsibility for its performance, management and delivery, she led the implementation of high profile bilateral international initiatives and provided strategic advice to government and stakeholders. She is a strong contributor to S&T policy, most notably in intellectual property. Dr. Michaud earned a PhD in Organic Chemistry from McGill University. She is involved with a number of not-for-profit organizations and is a member of the Board of Directors of Research Canada and CQDM and also, the Advisory Board of the Canadian Cancer Research Alliance.
Peter Marks, MD, PhDSenior Vice President, Molecule Discovery & Head of Infectious Disease, Eli Lilly See Bio×Peter Marks, MD, PhD
Peter Marks, MD, PhD received his graduate degree in cell and molecular biology and his medical degree at New York University and completed Internal Medicine residency and Hematology/Medical Oncology training at Brigham and Women’s Hospital in Boston. He has worked in academic settings teaching and caring for patients and in industry on drug development. In 2012, he joined the Food and Drug Administration and served as Director of the Center for Biologics Evaluation and Research from 2016 to 2025. He is currently Senior Vice President for Molecule Development and Head of Infectious Disease at Eli Lilly and Company, has published extensively, and is a member of the National Academy of Medicine.
Natasha Kekre, MD, MPH, FRCPCHematologist, Transplantation and Cellular Therapy Program, The Ottawa Hospital See Bio×Dr. Natasha Kekre
Natasha Kekre, MD, MPH, FRCPC is a Transplant Physician/Hematologist within the Transplant and Cellular Therapy Program at The Ottawa Hospital (TOH), Scientist and Program Director of the Cancer Research Program within the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (OHRI), and Associate Professor of Medicine at the University of Ottawa. She holds the Research Chair in Advanced Stem Cell Therapy at TOH. She obtained her medical degree from the University of Ottawa, where she also trained in Internal Medicine and Hematology. She went on to do a fellowship in stem cell transplantation at Dana Farber Cancer Institute in Boston with a Masters in Public Health from Harvard University.
Dr. Kekre’s research focuses on translating home-grown therapeutic strategies into early phase clinical trials for patients with hematologic malignancies. She collaborated with scientists and physicians across Canada to build the internationally recognized Canadian-Led Immunotherapies Collaborative (CLIC) program and initiate the first clinical trial of a made-in-Canada CAR-T therapy. Building on these transformational achievements, she is now working to expand this platform to other made-in-Canada CAR-T products. Other research interests include clinical research focused on blood and marrow transplant and CAR-T therapy recipients, and projects with an epidemiologic focus.
Patrick Bedford, MBA, MBHL, BHScVice President, Regulatory & Strategic Operations, Morphocell Technologies See Bio×Patrick Bedford
Patrick Bedford, MBA, MBHL, BHSc is the Vice President of Regulatory & Strategic Operations at Morphocell Technologies, Inc and Founder of weCANreg Consulting Group, Inc. He brings deep expertise in translational, regulatory, and compliance strategies for emerging biotechnologies, having led policy development for biosimilars, transplant materials, and cell & gene therapies during his career at Health Canada, where he also represented Canada internationally on classification and harmonization committees. Since 2016, Patrick has been a prominent Canadian advocate in the global cell & gene therapy community, supporting dozens of early-stage programs and multiple commercial cell and gene therapy products. In addition to his industry leadership, he continues to shape regulatory policy in North America and actively contributes to Canada’s innovation ecosystem as a guest lecturer at universities and an advisor through accelerators such as Creative Destruction Labs and Lab2Market.

Carmen Sanges, PhDEU Initiatives Scientific & Strategic Project Lead, Cellular Immunotherapy Program, University Hospital Würzburg See Bio×Dr. Carmen Sanges
Carmen Sanges, PhD is a medical biotechnologist with a PhD in Molecular Biology and Medical Biotechnology and over seven years of industry experience in clinical operations and translational research. She is EU Initiatives Scientific & Strategic Project Lead at the Cellular Immunotherapy Program of the University Hospital Würzburg (UKW) and Executive Director of the T2EVOLVE Association. Carmen coordinates and contributes to multiple European initiatives in advanced therapies, with a strong focus on CAR-T and TCR cell therapies, regulatory science, manufacturing innovation, and patient access, and is committed to building sustainable, cross-stakeholder ecosystems across Europe.

Co-Developing the Future: Indigenous Partnerships and Culture Changes in Federal STEM
2026-05-14 13:30 - 15:00 | Zoom
Register HereOrganizer:
Health Canada for the federal Indigenous STEM (I-STEM) Cluster.
This panel builds on the multi-year arc of the federal Indigenous-Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (I-STEM) Cluster discussions at CSPC (2022-2024), which shifted conversations from “integrating” Indigenous Knowledge into existing systems toward engaging Indigenous and Western sciences as parallel, intact knowledge systems within ethical space. This reframing recognizes that meaningful partnership requires cultural, structural, and procedural transformations – including Indigenous governance of knowledge, distinctions-based partnership models, data sovereignty, and institutional conditions that uphold Indigenous rights and self-determination.
Extending the call made in Bridging Knowledge Systems in Regulatory Research – Creating the Conditions for Change – CSPC, this 2026 virtual panel highlights how federal departments are beginning to operationalize these shifts through co-developed approaches that share authority, re-design internal STEM practices, and reorient science towards relational accountability. Through examples from the Tri Council agencies’ co developed evaluation approaches, the Northern Contaminants Program’s community-led monitoring model, and the Wiiche’iwaymagon–Health Canada partnership advancing Indigenous food safety technologies, panelists will examine how concrete institutional changes—funding structures, timelines, governance processes, and ethics practices—enable ethical, trusted, and context responsive science.
By making visible the cultural and governance conditions required to support parallel knowledge systems, the panel will offer science-policy practitioners practical pathways for creating ethical space, strengthening co-governance, and advancing federal commitments to reconciliation and Indigenous rights. These lessons are intended to support federal organizations seeking to design science and regulatory practices that are more legitimate, transparent, and accountable to the communities they serve.
Expected Outcomes:

Participants will be able to identify new approaches and tools that can be adapted across sectors and disciplines to support inclusive and impactful change.
Science policy practitioners will demonstrate enhanced understanding about the innovative potential of Indigenous knowledges in addressing complex, real-world challenges, such as, including co-developed Indigenous research training, evaluation approaches, climate change impacts on human health, and food security.
Greater recognition of the importance of culture change within organizations, particularly in terms of fostering inclusivity and responsiveness to Indigenous needs and priorities and benefits for all Canadians.
Strengthened collaboration between Indigenous communities, government agencies, and other stakeholders in addressing shared challenges.

Key Areas of Focus:

Transforming the Research Ecosystem in Federal Research Funding (SSHRC, NSERC, and CIHR)
In 2019, the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council, and the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council published Setting New Directions to Support Indigenous Research and Research Training in Canada, a strategic plan co-developed with Indigenous partners in support of improving the research ecosystem for Indigenous researchers in Canada. On the eve of the sunsetting of this ambitious strategy, this presentation will share important examples of innovation in science policy, as well as exciting new approaches being co-developed with Indigenous partners to evaluate the impact of the Strategy that can help to support meaningful shifts in research policy and practice within Canada’s science policy space.
Northern Contaminants Program: Joint presentation from HC and CIRNAC. This presentation will highlight how the Northern Contaminants Program (NCP) supports community-led, culturally grounded research and monitoring of contaminants in traditionally harvested foods. It will showcase the vital role of Indigenous and northern partners in shaping and sharing knowledge to protect health and ecosystems, aligning with the panel’s focus on collaborative, cross-cultural approaches to science and policy.
Indigenous Food Safety Tool (HPFB, HC & The Wiiche’iwaymagon Alliance): Joint presentation from HC and The Wiiche’iwaymagon Alliance. Health Canada (HC), the National Research Council (NRC), and the Wiiche’iwaymagon Alliance are partnering on the development of “lab-on-a-chip” technology to enable on-site wild game testing. These deployable devices aims to replace traditional large-scale laboratories, allowing harvesters to detect viral and bacterial contaminants linked to climate change and resource development. This presentation will highlight how the team is braiding knowledge systems to create a more comprehensive and understanding approach to western science.

Key Takeaways for Science Policy Practitioners:

Bridging Indigenous Knowledge: The value of respecting and incorporating Indigenous knowledge into policy-making and program design through meaningful collaboration with Indigenous rights holders and Knowledge Keepers.
Cultural Shifts in Organizations: How internal cultural changes in organizations (e.g., HC/HP) can lead to more inclusive, effective policies and practices.
Practical Tools for Change: How actionable tools like the Indigenous Food Security Tool can guide policy and drive positive outcomes in Indigenous communities.
Collaborative Approaches: The importance of building partnerships across sectors and involving Indigenous communities in the co-design of solutions to address challenges like food security and air quality.

By showcasing these successful practices, we aim to foster greater understanding and collaboration, while also sharing promising practices that can be applied across government programs and beyond.
Speaker information coming soon!Moderators:
Christina MulvenaDeputy Director, I-STEM, Agriculture and Agri-Food CanadaSee Bio×Christina Mulvena
Christina Mulvena is the Deputy Director of the interdepartmental Indigenous STEM (ISTEM) Cluster hosted by Agriculture and AgriFood Canada, where she works to advance Indigenous led approaches to federal STEM systems. She is Red River Michif and holds a Master’s degree in Society, Culture, and Politics in Education from the University of British Columbia, specializing in Ts^kel (Indigenous research methodology).
Christina brings over 16 years of experience in federal impact assessment and treaty negotiations. Across her academic and professional career, she has focused on advancing Indigenous self-determination through policy, governance, and cross disciplinary collaboration.
She was born and raised on the unceded traditional territories of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam), Sḵwx̱wú7mesh (Squamish), and səlilwətaɬ (Tsleil-Waututh) Nations, where she continues to reside with her family.
Dr. Tammy Stuart ChesterA/Director, Departmental Science and Ethics Policy Bureau, HECSB, Health CanadaSee Bio×Dr. Tammy Stuart Chester
Tammy Stuart Chester is the Acting Director of Health Canada’s Departmental Science and Ethics Policy Bureau (DSEPB) within the Healthy Environments and Consumer Safety Branch. In this role, she helps provide leadership on key files including departmental inclusive science initiatives, contributions to the I‑STEM Cluster partnership, the annual Health Canada Science Forum, Science Integrity Policy, and the HC–PHAC Research Ethics Board Secretariat.
On secondment from the Public Health Agency of Canada, she brings 16+ years of applied public health experience in surveillance and epidemiology, including work in Northern Manitoba and with Indigenous Services Canada. She holds a PhD in Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases and is a graduate of the Canadian Field Epidemiology Program (CFEP). An experienced facilitator of training and collaborative discussions, she is happy to be co-moderating this workshop on Indigenous Partnerships and Culture Changes in Federal STEM.
Presenters:
Cheryl KhourySection Head, Population Studies Division, Health Canada See Bio×Cheryl Khoury
Cheryl Khoury has worked at Health Canada for over 20 years. She has experience in the risk assessment of chemicals and air pollutants, as well as human biomonitoring. Currently, she manages a team of scientists within the Environmental Health Science and Research Bureau, who are interested in the exposure and health effects of environmental chemicals in people living in Canada who may be disproportionately exposed to these chemicals.
She is also a member of the Northern Contaminants Committee’s Management Team and provides support and leadership to the program’s Human Health Review Team.
Dr. Karine DuhamelDirector, Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC)See Bio×Dr. Karine Duhamel
Dr. Karine Duhamel (she/her) is Anishinaabe of mixed settler descent, and a member of Opwaaganasiniing (Red Rock Indian Band) in northwestern Ontario. She holds a Bachelor of Arts and a Bachelor of Education, as well as a master’s degree and PhD in history. She served as Director of Research for the National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls (NIMMIWG) from 2018 to the end of its mandate in 2019.
In 2021, she chaired the data working group for the MMIWG2S+ National Action Plan. In 2022, she joined the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada as Director of Indigenous Strategy, working to implement the Tri-Agency strategic plan to better support Indigenous research and research training in Canada.
In addition to her role as a public servant, she is an official Speaker for the Treaty Relations Commission of Manitoba, an Indigenous fellow at Simon Fraser University, and a Research Affiliate of the Centre for Human Rights Research at the University of Manitoba.
Simon SmithActing Manager, Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada’s (CIRNAC) Northern Contaminants ProgramSee Bio×Simon Smith
Simon lives in Chelsea, Quebec, and is currently the Acting Manager of Crown Indigenous Relations and Northern Affairs Canada’s (CIRNAC) Northern Contaminants Program. The program works to reduce and, wherever possible, eliminate contaminants in traditionally harvested foods, while providing information that assists informed decision making by individuals and communities in their food use.
Over his career, Simon has worked at the several summer camps in Ontario, the Kativik Schoolboard, Makivik
Corporation, Inuit Tapiriit Kanatami, Indigenous Services Canada, and CIRNAC. When he isn’t at his desk, he’s likely planning a family canoe trip, or heading out on the trails with the family goldendoodle, Penny.
Nathalie CorneauMolecular Biologist,
Bureau of Microbial Hazards,
Health Canada See Bio×Nathalie Corneau
Nathalie Corneau is a molecular biologist with Health Canada’s Bureau of Microbial Hazards. Nathalie leads the Emerging Technologies Laboratory in developing novel, rapid methods to detect foodborne pathogens using “lab-on-a-chip” systems and other molecular tools in as little as 8–30 hours. Her research involves multi-departmental collaboration, notably with the National Research Council of Canada, to integrate microbial science and micro/nano-fabrication technologies for automated sample preparation, detection, isolation and identification of pathogens. These deployable, cost-effective systems allow decentralized food safety testing, making them especially valuable for remote communities.
Ms. Corneau is a leader in both scientific innovation and community engagement, and entered into a working partnership with the Wiiche’iwaymagon Alliance, a growing network of First Nations communities across Canada, who have acknowledged her for respectfully involving Indigenous Elders and communities in the development of diagnostic tools for country food safety.
Her work supports not only Indigenous communities and their traditional foods in food safety testing, an underserved area, but also empowers community-led, whole-of-society testing and decision making that strengthens local self-determination, public-health responsiveness, and adaptive capacity.
Randy JenkinsPresident, Wiiche’iwaymagon Buying AllianceSee Bio×Randy Jenkins
Randy Jenkins has over 25 years experience in the Federal Government, working largely on Indigenous rights files and Indigenous programming as well as transfer of powers to Territorial Governments. Having joined the Nutrition North Program in 2019, Randy has been responsible for program transformation, introducing a number of measures beyond the traditional subsidy offering while moving the entire program toward a food security and reconciliation focus, recognizing and leveraging Treaty and inherent Indigenous rights.
In 2023, Randy brought the major food banks together with First Nation Tribal Councils and First Nation organizations to form the Wiiche’iwaymagon Alliance and to sign a Treaty to end hunger for babies and elders.
In 2024, Randy retired from Northern Affairs to take up a position as President of the Wiiche’iwaymagon Buying Alliance, a not-for-profit supplying food and equipment to remote communities in partnership with the national food bank network and the private sector.

Security, Sovereignty, and Prosperity: Industry Perspectives on Canada’s New Defence Industrial Strategy
2026-05-20 12:00 - 13:30 | Zoom
Register HereWatch Video RecordingCanada’s recently released Defence Industrial Strategy (DIS) represents a paradigm shift in the intersection of national security and industrial policy. Central to this strategy is the “Joint Innovation” model – a call for deep, sustained collaboration between the federal government and the private sector to build sovereign capabilities. This high-level panel brings together leaders from Canada’s mining, advanced manufacturing, and technology sectors to discuss the strategic and practical implications of the DIS.
Panellists will explore how the strategy’s goals align with the unique challenges of their respective industries, from critical mineral supply chains to dual-use technology development in AI and Quantum. The discussion will focus on how the DIS can serve as a catalyst for industrial growth, the hurdles to achieving seamless “Joint Innovation,” and the long-term impact of this strategy on Canada’s broader innovation ecosystem and global competitiveness.
Speaker information coming soon!Charlotte Duval-Lantoine – ModeratorVice-President, Ottawa Operations & Fellow, Canadian Global Affairs InstituteSee Bio×Charlotte Duval-Lantoine
Charlotte is the Vice President, Ottawa Operations and a Fellow at the Canadian Global Affairs Institute, as well as a PhD Candidate at Deakin University, researching Canadian army culture during the 1990s and its influence on operations.
She is the author of The Ones We Let Down, a book examining gender integration and toxic leadership in the military that was named among The Hill Times’ Best Books of 2022. She does research on military leadership, culture change, and personnel policy, topics on which she regularly comments in the media and writes in her Substack, DND/CAF 101. She participates in consultation organized by the Department of National Defence and has given talks to West Point and RMC cadets, to the National Strategic Program at the Canadian Forces College, and to the Australian War College.
Charlotte has had the honour of being awarded a King Charles III Coronation Medal and the CDA Institute’s 2024 Captain Nichola Goddard Award for her work as a
researcher. She was also listed as one of the 2022 Women in Defence and Security Emerging Leader and amongst the 20 in their 20s by Women in Defence and Security in 2025.
Charlotte was born in France and grew up in Marseille. She has called Canada her home since 2014.
Jayson MyersChief Executive Officer of Next Generation Manufacturing CanadaSee Bio×Jason Myers
Jayson Myers is the Chief Executive Officer of Next Generation Manufacturing Canada, the industry-led organization that is spearheading Canada’s Global Innovation Cluster for Advanced Manufacturing. NGen raises funds from public and private sources to invest in building world-leading advanced manufacturing solutions and ecosystem capabilities in Canada.
Jay is an award-winning business economist who specializes in industrial and technological change. Between 2007 and 2016, he served as President & CEO of Canadian Manufacturers & Exporters, Canada’s largest industry and trade association. In 2017 he was the Chief Policy Advisor to the Canadian Chamber of Commerce.
Jay has been widely recognized as one of the most influential economic policy advocates in Canada. He is an advisor to both private and public sector leaders, and has counselled Canadian prime ministers and premiers, as well as senior corporate executives and policymakers around the world.
A former research fellow at Nuffield College Oxford, Jay has held lectureships at both Oxford and the University of Warwick. He is a member of the Advisory Board of the World Manufacturing Forum and a leading advocate on the world stage on behalf of advanced manufacturing in Canada.
Photinie KoutsavlisVice President, Economic Affairs and Climate Change
Mining Association of Canada See Bio×Photinie Koutsavlis
Ms. Koutsavlis is dedicated to advancing the mining industry’s comprehension of critical economic matters, encompassing taxation, international trade, investment, infrastructure, and innovation. Additionally, she guides the Mining Association of Canada (MAC) and its members in supporting an orderly transition towards a more sustainable, low-carbon future. Her leadership positions MAC as a constructive partner in the fight against climate change.
Previously, Ms. Koutsavlis held the role of Director General, Policy and Economic Branch for the Lands and Minerals Sector at Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) within the Government of Canada. In this capacity, she led the integration of strategic policy, scientific insights, regulatory expertise, economics, and market analysis. Her work informed policy development and decisions related to domestic and international priorities concerning lands, minerals, and metals.
Ms. Koutsavlis played a key role in developing the Canadian Minerals and Metals Plan, which served as the foundation for Canada’s Critical Minerals Strategy and broader policy direction.
Daniel PerryDirector of Federal Affairs at the Council of Canadian InnovatorsSee Bio×Daniel Perry
Daniel Perry is the Director of Federal Affairs at the Council of Canadian Innovators, where he leads national advocacy and government engagement.
Previously, he worked in consulting, advising clients on public policy across sectors including fintech, agriculture, and higher education. He has also held roles with the Senate of Canada, Queen’s Park, and the Canadian Criminal Justice Association. An experienced campaigner, Daniel has contributed to leadership races and elections at all levels of government. He has been recognized as one of Ottawa’s Top Consultants by Faces Magazine and was recently named a Top Lobbyist by The Hill Times.
Daniel is a frequent media contributor and columnist for publications in Hamilton and Niagara. He holds a Master of Political Management from Carleton University, a Joint Honours Bachelor in Communication and Political Science from the University of Ottawa, and a Diploma in Business from Loyalist College.
Mike Mueller President and CEO, Aerospace Industries Association of Canada See Bio×Mike Mueller
Mike Mueller was appointed President and CEO of the Aerospace Industries Association in May of 2021, building on his six-year history with the association as Senior Vice- President where he was responsible for the operation of the organization and strategic direction on major aerospace projects and initiatives.
Mike is a forward-thinking team builder who brings a wealth of government experience to the position, having advised Ministers in the Federal Government on a wide variety of policies and programs. Prior to joining AIAC, Mike held senior positions within the Canadian government including at Employment and Social Development Canada, Public Safety Canada, Foreign Affairs and International Trade, and Canada’s Treasury Board.
Mike also serves as Vice-Chair & Financial Controller for the International Coordinating Council of Aerospace Industries Associations.
Dr. Rahim Rezaie Executive Director, Institute for Collaborative InnovationSee Bio×Dr. Rahim Rezaie
Dr. Rahim Rezaie is Executive Director of the Institute for Collaborative Innovation, which promotes citizen-centred innovation and the role of community-anchored social purpose organizations in defence and resilience. He holds an Adjunct Lecturer position at the University of Toronto and is an Independent Consultant in private practice. His work and expertise focus on science, technology, and innovation policy, the role of social sector organizations in defence and resilience, and science and technology for development, with a focus on health technology innovation.

What is research excellence? Measuring impact in a changing world
2026-05-28 11:00 - 12:30 | Zoom
Register HerePeer review underpins nearly all major academic assessments, from publications and funding to promotions and awards. Despite its centrality in the research ecosystem, peer review has a well-documented number of flaws that can lead to unfair assessment and disadvantage applicants, including: a lack of concordance between reviewers; over-reliance on quantitative scores with small numerical margins defining top candidates; variation in the weight given to different application components; recurrent patterns of cognitive biases such as familiarity; and biases that undervalue applications from new researchers, researchers at smaller institutions, women, and some groups of racialized people, regardless of the objective merits of the application, proposal, or nomination.
This panel will examine both the challenges and potential solutions to inequities in peer review, drawing on the National Killam Selection Committee’s 2021–2024 experience adjudicating some of Canada’s most prestigious national scholarly honours. The discussion will highlight data-informed strategies, including anonymization, categorical ranking, structured rubrics, and equalization processes that aim to mitigate bias while maintaining fairness and excellence.
Panelists are a diverse representation of the Canadian research landscape and hold significant experience in research assessment and a uniformed interest in incorporating evidence-informed principles of excellence and equity into adjudication. The panelists will explore how bias manifests, what evidence reveals about its effects, and what actions can be taken to uphold fair assessment.
Speaker information coming soon!Amélie Quesnel-ValléeInaugural Chair and Professor, Department of Equity, Ethics and Policy (Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences) Professor, Department of Sociology (Faculty of Arts)See Bio×Amélie Quesnel-Vallée
Amélie Quesnel-Vallée is Inaugural Chair and Professor in the Department of Equity, Ethics and Policy (Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences) and a Professor in the Department of Sociology (Faculty of Arts) at McGill University. From 2015 to 2025 she held the Canada Research Chair in Policies and Health Inequalities. Quesnel-Vallée’s research examines the contribution of policies to social inequalities in health over the life course and has been recognized through awards from professional associations including the American Sociological Association, the Population Association of America, and the American Public Health Association.
She is a two-time Fulbright Foundation awardee, most recently of a Distinguished Chair (2020), and she held the Canada Research Chair in Policies and Health inequalities at McGill University (2015-2025). She is a Past-President of the Canadian Population Society and of the International Sociological Association’s Research Committee on the Sociology of Health, and Chair-Elect of the American Sociological Association Medical Sociology Section.
She has demonstrated experience in providing strategic advice to several complex organizations, notably the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, where she served as a board member for six years, and held leadership roles such as the inaugural Chair of the Standing Committee on Science (2022-2024) and as a Member of the Executive Committee (2021-2024).
Maydianne AndradeDean & Professor, Faculty of Science, York UniversitySee Bio×Maydianne Andrade
Maydianne Andrade is former Canada Research Chair in Integrative Evolutionary Ecology who was a faculty member at the University of Toronto for 25 years and held the rank of University Professor. Now Dean of the Faculty of Science at York University, Professor Andrade is internationally recognized for her research on how ecology and evolution interact to shape behaviour, species diversity and invasiveness, using black widow spiders.
Dedicated to fostering more inclusive academic cultures, Professor Andrade is founder of the Toronto Initiative for Diversity and Excellence, and she is a co-founder and was inaugural President of the Canadian Black Scientists Network. She is an elected member of the American Academy of Arts and Sciences, a Fellow of the Animal Behavior Society and of the Royal Canadian Geographic Society, and has been awarded the Burpee medal for Science Leadership, Exemplar awards for career-long contributions to research, and a Trailblazer award from the Canadian Science Policy Centre.
Carl JamesJean Augustine Chair in Education, Community & Diaspora, Faculty of Education, York UniversitySee Bio×Carl James
Carl E. James holds the Jean Augustine Chair in Education, Community & Diaspora in the Faculty of Education; and also Distinguished Researcher Professor at York University, Toronto. For 16 years, he was Visiting Lecturer in education at Uppsala University, Sweden. His research interests include examination of the ways in which accessible and equitable opportunities in education – as informed by the regulations, policies, programs and practices of governments and institutions – structure the lived experiences, educational trajectories, health conditions, employment possibilities, and social outcomes of marginalized and racialized Canadians.
A Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada (FRSC) – Academy of Social Sciences, he has received Honorary Doctorates (Education) from McGill University, and Uppsala University, the 2022 Killam Prize for Social Sciences, and many other scholarly, teaching and community awards. Among the dozens of books, book chapters, and journal articles he has authored and coauthored are : “Colour Matters”: Essays on the Experiences, Education and Pursuits of Black Youth (UoT, 2021) and First-Generation Student Experiences in Higher Education: Counterstories. (Routledge, 2023).
Bilkis VissandjéeProfessor and Researcher, School of Nursing, Centre de recherche en santé publique (CReSP), Université de Montréal
Researcher, SHERPA University Institute and
Fellow, Canadian Academy of Health Sciences (CAHS)
Chair, Quebec Provincial Committee on Access to Health and Social Services for Ethnocultural Communities See Bio×Bilkis Vissandjée
Dr. Vissandjee has played a key role in developing community-based research infrastructures, notably contributing to the establishment of the SHERPA University Institute, which advances equity-oriented practices in multi-ethnic and multilingual contexts. Her research and leadership focus on health equity, migration, gender-based violence, and culturally responsive health systems.
Her work addresses the challenges of delivering high-quality care in diverse contexts, integrating intersectional and trauma-informed perspectives. A central component of her research advances human rights-based and trauma-informed approaches to health and policy.
Through collaborations with community-based organizations and NGOs, she develops and implements programs tailored to the realities of newly arrived populations, addressing linguistic, cultural, and structural barriers to care in Quebec, Canada, and internationally. Her work underscores the importance of inclusive, culturally responsive approaches to advancing health equity.
Bilkis serves on the Advisory Committee on Equity, Diversity and Inclusion of the Canada Research Chairs Program and, since 2022, has been Chair of the Quebec Provincial Committee at the Ministry of Health and Social Services, where she provides leadership on improving equitable access to care for ethnocultural communities.

William WhelanProfessor, Department of Physics, University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) and Professor, Department of Biomedical Sciences, Atlantic Veterinary CollegeSee Bio×William Whelan
Bill Whelan is a Professor in the Department of Physics at the University of Prince Edward Island (UPEI) and in the Department of Biomedical Sciences at the Atlantic Veterinary College. He was a Canada Research Chair in Biomedical Optics at UPEI and chair of the Department of Physics. His research has focused on the development of optical sensors, photoacoustic imaging and laser therapies for the detection and treatment of cancers.
Bill is co-chair of the PEI Education Minister’s Advisory Council on Lifelong Learning, and he is a former president of the Canadian Association of Physicists. He has served as president of the PEI Division of the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) and as a director on the national CCS board. He was co-chair of the PEI Education Governance Commission established to review and recommend improvements to the province’s education system.
Bill is also actively involved in science promotion, including as co-chair of the PEI Science Fair since 2008 and co-chair of the Canada-Wide Science Fair in 2012. He is a founding director of STEAM PEI, a non-profit organization delivering school-based and community programs for youth to explore STEM fields with the Arts.
