Algoma University researchers have received funding from the Ontario Research Fund – Research Infrastructure (ORF-RI) for its June 2023 cohort, supporting groundbreaking research led by Dr. Isabel Molina and Dr. Bill Dew. This funding, which matches previously awarded grants from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI), highlights the critical role of investment in cutting-edge research and state-of-the-art equipment to drive innovation in crucial fields.

Dr. Molina, Professor of Biology and Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Plant Lipid Metabolism, has been awarded $93,806 in ORF-RI funding to further her research on plant lipid metabolism. Dr. Molina’s work examines how plants create protective lipid barriers, such as cuticles on leaves and flowers, as well as cork tissue in tree bark, roots, and potato skin.

With this funding, the Molina Lab has acquired a gas chromatograph with a mass spectrometer detector (GC-MS), a unique instrument designed to analyze lipids. This tool enables research that addresses drought tolerance, seed longevity, and renewable biopolymers, which contribute to agriculture and industrial applications.

Dr. Bill Dew, Associate Professor of Environmental Science at Algoma University, has received $30,677 in ORF-RI funding to support his research on the olfactory physiology, behaviour, and ecotoxicology of aquatic animals. His work examines how fish and other aquatic organisms utilize their sense of smell to interact with their environment, the impact of contaminants on this sensory function, and the broader ecological consequences of olfactory impairment over multiple generations. Dr. Dew’s research integrates sensory biology and environmental toxicology to understand and mitigate the effects of pollution on aquatic ecosystems.

This funding further enhances Algoma University’s research capacity and solidifies its reputation as a hub for impactful, globally relevant research. By prioritizing research excellence and community impact and with the support of partners like the Ontario Research Fund—Research Infrastructure and the Canada Foundation for Innovation, the University is advancing innovation that benefits both local and global communities.

To learn more about Algoma University’s Faculty of Science and cutting-edge research, visit algomau.ca/academics/faculty-of-science/. To see images of the equipment, click here.

Quotes

“The new GC-MS instrument allows us to pinpoint the molecular building blocks of plant lipid barriers, helping us unlock strategies to improve drought tolerance and explore renewable materials for industrial uses. By integrating functional genomics, molecular genetics, biochemistry, and analytical chemistry, we seek to enhance plant resilience and explore the potential of biopolymers for industrial innovation.”

Dr. Isabel Molina, Professor of Biology and Tier 2 Canada Research Chair 

“This funding will allow us to purchase advanced electrophysiology equipment and a state-of-the-art animal husbandry system, which will allow us to start our own fish colony to support our research. Not only will this equipment help us understand how aquatic animals use their sensory systems in ecologically critical ways and how these systems are affected by pollution, but it will enable us to train our students on state-of-the-art equipment to ensure they are well prepared after graduation. By understanding these impacts, we can develop strategies to protect aquatic ecosystems and ensure their resilience for future generations.”

Dr. Bill Dew, Associate Professor of Environmental Science at Algoma University

“When we invest in research, we invest in our province’s future. These critical investments will ensure Ontario’s researchers can continue making discoveries that drive key sectors, create good-paying jobs, and improve the lives of all Ontarians.”

Hon. Nolan Quinn, Minister of Colleges and Universities

Share Article