QSA's Week in Higher Ed (#10, 2025)
Canada optimizes researcher support; New funding in key tech sectors; Education initiatives across Commonwealth; CIHR appoints new director; Major investment in Canada Research Chairs.

Good morning! Welcome back to Queen Street Analytics' weekly digest of regulatory developments, legislative discussions, political announcements and other government-related news concerning colleges, universities, campuses, research initiatives and funding, and the tri-council (CIHR, NSERC, SSHRC) agencies.
Every Monday, we break down the most important updates in this space in under five minutes.
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Start Date: 2025-03-09
End Date: 2025-03-15
Top Headlines
Main Stories
Canada Optimizes Support for Next Generation Researchers
On March 11, 2025, the Government of Canada announced the Canada Research Training Awards Suite to consolidate 11 scholarship and fellowship programs, streamlining support for graduate students and postdoctoral researchers. The initiative, backed by $825 million over five years, aims to increase both the number and value of awards, reducing administrative burdens and enhancing international research coordination. The new digital platform will replace outdated systems, aligning with Canada's strategy to modernize federal research support.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
Canada Invests in Research and Innovation
The Government of Canada announced a $308 million investment on March 13, 2025, to advance research and innovation. The funding includes $142 million for the New Frontiers in Research Fund’s Transformation stream, supporting large-scale interdisciplinary projects. Additionally, $153 million will support 179 Canada Research Chairs, advancing research in areas such as AI and biogeochemistry. The investment aims to enhance global competitiveness and deliver tangible benefits, including projects on Indigenous brain health and smart wear technology.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
New Funding for Education Initiatives Across Commonwealth
Canada has committed $7.8 million to the Commonwealth of Learning to enhance education across the Commonwealth. Announced by Parliamentary Secretary Robert Oliphant during his visit to the UK, the funding supports distance and technology-based learning approaches, expanding educational access and capacity building. This initiative aligns with Canada's broader goals of fostering inclusive economic and social development within Commonwealth nations.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
CIHR Appoints New Scientific Director
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) announced Dr. Patricia Conrod as the new Scientific Director of the Institute of Neurosciences, Mental Health and Addiction. Dr. Conrod, known for her work on substance use and mental health, will begin her four-year term in July 2025. Her research on adolescent brain development has informed safety policies in Canada and internationally. This appointment is part of CIHR's strategy to enhance health research priorities and investment strategies.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
Canada Invests in Five Networks for Emerging Technology Sectors
On March 13, 2025, Canada announced additional funding for five Strategic Innovation Fund (SIF) networks, targeting sectors like cleantech and life sciences. The Canadian Food Innovation Network and the Clean Resource Innovation Network are among those receiving support to drive R&D and job creation. These investments aim to attract large-scale investments, strengthen ecosystems, and support SMEs, with over 750 projects and 1,200 jobs created since SIF's inception.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
Important Updates
Secondary Stories
Canada's Investment in Regional Agri-Food Industry
FedNor is investing $386,174 to support Collège Boréal in Sudbury, strengthening the agri-food sector by fostering sustainability and innovation.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
Funding for Innovative Technology and Education Projects
Canada commits $7.8 million to the Commonwealth of Learning, enhancing distance and technology-based education.
Sources: Announcements: www.canada.ca
Provincial Announcements
AI Project on Sustainable Development in Montreal
Palais des congrès de Montréal collaborates with Polytechnique Montréal on AI-driven waste management system, enhancing sustainable practices.
Sources: Provincial Announcement: www.quebec.ca
Public Officials' Social Media
MP Leah Gazan Celebrates PIE Interns
MP Leah Gazan highlights the work of Emily, a PIE intern, part of a program bridging environment and policy.
Sources: Social Media: x.com
Senator Tony Loffreda Engages with University of Ottawa
Senator Tony Loffreda participates in a civic engagement event at the University of Ottawa, emphasizing informed citizenship.
Sources: Social Media: x.com
What We're Reading This Week
- LAMY Discusses The Smart Education Market Entering a Golden Era of Growth: Analysis on the rising potential of smart education technologies.
- Some universities are freezing hiring and laying off staff as Trump cuts federal funding: Impact of federal funding cuts on U.S. universities.
- Regeneron Science Talent Search 2025 Awards More Than $1.8 Million: High school seniors receive awards for innovative science projects.
- More than 50 universities face federal investigations as part of Trump’s anti-DEI campaign: Universities under scrutiny in the U.S. for diversity initiatives.
- Class Over Expands AI Learning with Creative Interaction Course: An update on AI learning expansion efforts.