PREMIER HONOURS INNOVATION AND SCIENCE FUND RECIPIENTS

Innovation and Science Fund (ISF) recipients were recognized and honoured at the first annual Premier's Celebration of Innovation and Science. The evening reception brought together members of the research and science communities to celebrate the projects that received nearly $10 million in 2004-05 through the Innovation and Science Fund.

"The grants that are provided by the province through the fund are a demonstration of the government's commitment for encouraging research and strengthening the capacity of Saskatchewan's research community," Premier Lorne Calvert said. "It is not an overstatement to say that the province's research and development sector touches the lives of all Saskatchewan people. The impressive list of initiatives that receive Innovation and Science funding is a testament to this and the significant contributions these researchers make to the economic and social well-being of Saskatchewan."

"This investment in our outstanding Canada Research Chairs and in our talented young researchers just starting their careers will have a huge impact on the province's future, while greatly enriching the learning experience for our students," University of Saskatchewan Vice-President of Research Steven Franklin said. "We applaud the government's on-going commitment to strengthening research capacity, helping the University of Saskatchewan become one of the leading research-intensive universities in Canada."

"ISF funding has been integral to the research success at the University of Regina. It has supported the infrastructure and equipment needs of new researchers who are establishing their agendas at the U of R, and provided needed support to our Canada Research Chairs in establishing their research teams and research programs," University of Regina Vice-President (Research & International) Dr. Allan R. Cahoon said.

The Innovation and Science Fund supports research at Saskatchewan's universities, colleges and research institutes on projects receiving approval and funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation, the Canada Research Chairs program and the Canadian Institutes for Health Research.

Since 2000, when the fund was introduced, the province has contributed nearly $52 million in Innovation and Science Fund grants.

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For More Information, Contact:

Jacquie McLean Learning Regina Phone: (306) 787-5609