Dr. Mumtaz Cheema, AVP Research & Graduation Studies

Our committed team at the Office of Research and Graduate Studies is thrilled to share exciting news about 2023 research projects and accomplishments.

This annual research report presents examples of the excellent work of our researchers from Grenfell Campus's schools and our colleagues at Western Regional School of Nursing.

All academic research is essential in addressing real-world challenges, both theoretical and practical. Some of the larger projects often tackle pressing global, regional and national issues, such as climate change, renewable energy, food security or public health, with extensive resources. In contrast, smaller studies may focus on niche topics or experimental ideas, uncovering insights that drive innovation and technology. Together, they contribute to a balanced pursuit of knowledge, solving immediate problems and deepening our understanding of complex, interconnected systems. We are proud to profile all levels of projects in this report showcasing the impact of Grenfell Campus research and engagement activities locally, provincially, nationally, and internationally.

I encourage you to read all the stories in this report to learn more about what your colleagues have been up to. As you read the stories and information contained in this report, you will gain a sense of the strides we, at Grenfell Campus, were able to make in strengthening our record of research excellence in collaboration with industry stakeholders, communities and international partners.

Without graduate students, many of the research projects being undertaken at Grenfell Campus would not be possible. Grenfell Campus graduate students are vital to the work being conducted by Grenfell faculty and post-doctoral fellows. They are connecting with communities, provincial and federal research organizations, businesses, and industry transforming how these entities function and engage within their communities.

In addition, the work of our graduate students and postdoctoral fellow supports our strategic research areas:

Our research funding profile has experienced remarkable growth, increasing from thousands to millions of dollars over the past six years. This progress is largely thanks to the steadfast support and advocacy of our municipal, provincial, and federal governments, whose contributions are essential to our success as a research institution.

Equally, this achievement would not be possible without the dedication and accomplishments of our faculty. I commend their hard work and commitment, from preparing grant applications to fostering collaborations, supervising students, and engaging in scholarly activities—all of which form the foundation of our success.

As I look forward, I am proud of the continued success of all researchers and look to the emerging opportunities in wind energy and green hydrogen for Canada and Western Newfoundland. There will be more to learn as the research opportunities include resource assessment, energy storage, system integration, and environmental and socio-economic impacts. By exploring these fields, researchers can drive innovation, support sustainable energy transitions, and position the region as a leader in global energy solutions. There are already projects being led by researchers at Grenfell Campus and I am excited to see the continued leadership of our campus in this area.

Grenfell's expanding research and graduate studies portfolios are strengthened by the dedicated efforts of the Research Committee, the Graduate Studies Working Group, and the Research Ethics Board. I extend my gratitude to the faculty for their significant contributions and invaluable work on these committees.

Additionally, the team in the Office of Research and Graduate Studies has worked diligently over the past year to support both faculty and graduate students. I sincerely thank them for their ongoing efforts and steadfast support.

Please do not hesitate to contact the office with your ideas or feedback. And congratulations and thanks to all of our faculty, staff, postdoctoral fellow and students who have enabled us to share their, and in turn our, collective successes.

Dr. Mumtaz Cheema
AVP (Grenfell Campus) Research and Graduate Studies