The University of Toronto has joined Canadian Nuclear Laboratories’ Academic Partnership Program, becoming the tenth institution to participate in the nuclear workforce and research initiative.
Representatives from the university, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories and Atomic Energy of Canada Limited formalized the partnership during a signing ceremony at the Schwartz Reisman Innovation Campus.
The program is designed to develop Canada’s nuclear talent pipeline, support collaborative research and provide academic institutions with access to national laboratory infrastructure, technology and expertise.
Potential areas of cooperation include clean energy, health, environmental remediation and national security.
The partnership follows the release of Canada’s federal nuclear energy strategy, which calls for new large and small reactors, expanded CANDU exports, nuclear research investments and additional workforce capacity.
The University of Toronto plans to expand its nuclear courses and training programs.
Potential activities include student research placements at Chalk River Laboratories, conferences, workshops, industry research projects and guest lectures from Canadian Nuclear Laboratories and Atomic Energy of Canada Limited experts.
The organizations may also develop joint micro-credential programs for graduate students and nuclear industry professionals.
Now in its fourth year, the Academic Partnership Program has reached more than 7,000 Canadian students and includes mentorship programs, research presentations, conferences, lectures and design projects.
KEY QUOTES:
“Partnering with leading universities such as the University of Toronto will help ensure we can realize this future by cultivating the next generation of researchers, scientists and technical experts.”
Amy Gottschling, Vice President of Science, Technology and Commercial Oversight at Atomic Energy of Canada Limited
“We look forward to working in partnership with the University of Toronto” “to advance nuclear science and technology for the benefit of Canadians.”
Monica Regalbuto, Vice President of Science and Technology at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories
“Their combination of world-class facilities, such as Chalk River Laboratories, and technical expertise creates an exceptional environment for advancing research, accelerating innovation and training the next generation of talent.”
Nazir Kherani, Professor at the University of Toronto
