Higher Ed

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 The new digital platform will replace outdated systems, aligning with Canada's strategy to modernize federal research support.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.