Complex communities of bacteria, fungi, and invertebrates are known to be involved in the preservation and enhancement of soil fertility, nutrient cycling, crop productivity, and carbon sequestration, but the details have been lacking. This knowledge gap can now be addressed through new methods, such as DNA metabarcoding, which make it possible to monitor the diversity […]

COVID-19 outbreak has changed the world and forced majority of the population to lockdown and isolation. With the lockdowns easing, and things returning to the new normal, it is important to follow the isolation protocols such as social distancing and wearing of masks for containing the outbreak. While there is no denying the efficacy of […]

Fresh produce remains the leading cause of foodborne illness and highlighted for carrying pesticide residues. Moreover, fruit and vegetables have been highlighted as one of the leading sources of food waste, in addition to a major user of water. Currently, post-harvest washing is used as a step to remove field acquired contamination. However, both microbes […]

Mothers can influence the behaviour and physiology of their young even before hatch. In birds that occurs through the deposition of hormones and nutrients into the egg. Mother-hens can be housed in various systems that offer different challenges to the bird. Our project will investigate how housing a mother-hen can affect the resilience of their […]

This research project aims to review, analyze and build upon the current body of knowledge concerning the therapeutic potential of landscape design. It will review the health outcomes of natural settings at healthcare facilities and examine the design processes behind these. Project partner Virginia Burt Designs is a leading practitioner in this aspect of the […]

The consequences of the COVID-19 pandemic are far-reaching and extend beyond the spread of the disease and efforts to quarantine it. With emergency management efforts underway, opportunities exist to develop more effective and efficient response measures to increase the resiliency of our communities amidst this and future public health crises. Developing impactful resilience strategies requires […]

The project will focus on setting out the enabling conditions for nature-based climate solutions. Within this objective, the team will develop a portfolio of opportunities for — and a discussion of the implications of — (i) new policy tools and modifications to existing laws and regulations and (ii) market-based approaches, all to enable and accelerate […]

Envision SQ Inc. (EnvisionSQ), in a joint effort with the University of Guelph, is currently working on applications of their NanoCleanSQ disinfectant-sanitizer to help slow down the spread of the SARS-CoV-2 virus (the virus that causes COVID-19). NanoCleanSQ is a clear coating material and acts as a photocatalytic disinfectant that can be easily applied to […]

Indoor air quality of buildings is becoming even more important today, with the persistence of COVID-19 pandemic. A new type of air filter, based on bead-on-string polyacrylonitrile, offers high ultrafine particles removal (above 99%) as well as low pressure drop. Environmental and Power Solutions and Canada Water Technology eXchange are joining forces to undertake research […]

Pollination services provided by honey bees is imperative to crop production in Canada. Unfortunately, honey bee health is compromised by pests and diseases leading to the decline and/or death of hives and decreased pollination. In this project we will implement the usage of a special inspenser to bring in materials that will protect the honey […]

My doctoral research investigates mental health challenges of Canadian farmers, to more effectively address them. My research includes a nationwide epidemiological survey examining the prevalence and factors associated with depression, anxiety, stress, resilience, and burnout. Additionally, I conducted 75 one-on-one qualitative interviews with farmers and others in the agricultural industry to provide an in-depth understanding […]

Despite its growing prevalence of chronic musculoskeletal disease in society, its cause is still poorly understood. Emerging research suggests that degenerative spine disease may be an important facilitator to the development of chronic inflammatory musculoskeletal disease. We aim to investigate the effect of degenerative spine disease on muscle inflammation, pain and dysfunction by using an […]