UNIVERSITY OF SASKATCHEWAN RECEIVES INNOVATION AND SCIENCE FUNDS

As part of the Government of Saskatchewan's commitment to expand commercial and medical research surrounding the University of Saskatchewan's (U of S) synchrotron and the expansion of the Innovation and Science Fund, U of S researchers today were awarded more than $800,000. This funding comes from the Saskatchewan Government's Innovation and Science Fund, and matches grants provided through the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI).

"The diversity of research at the U of S is integral to the Government of Saskatchewa's Action Plan to strengthen our economy," Advanced Education and Employment Minister Pat Atkinson said.

"Today's funding is a strategic investment that will help us in our goal to lead the country in research and teaching in key areas," U of S vice-president Research Steven Franklin said. "This investment will enhance our research strengths in human and animal health, as well as yielding knowledge to help us be better stewards of the environment and natural resources."

The Innovation and Science Fund supports research at Saskatchewan's universities, colleges and research institutes on projects receiving approval and funding from the CFI, the Canada Research Chairs Program and the Canadian Institutes for Health Research. The provincial government has contributed nearly $62 million toward research and related infrastructure since the fund was created in 2000, and increased fiscal support to the Saskatchewan Innovation and Science Fund by 24 per cent since 2003.

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For More Information, Contact:

Dianne Shannon Advanced Education and Employment Regina Phone: (306) 787-0926

Michael Robin University of Saskatchewan Research Communications Saskatoon Phone: (306) 966-2427