Western University. (File Photo by Victoria Sartor, BlackburnNews.com)Western University. (File Photo by Victoria Sartor, BlackburnNews.com)
London

Western gets $23M for research

Researchers at Western University are getting a multi-million dollar shot in the arm from the federal government.

London West MP Kate Young and London North Centre MP Peter Fragiskatos were at the university on Thursday to announce $23 million in federal funding for research projects. The money is part of the more than $558 million announced earlier this week by Science and Sport Minister Kirsty Duncan.

“Canada supports science and our talented researchers. Today, we are delivering on our historic investment in research and in the next generation of scientists," said Duncan. "The remarkable researchers and students we are celebrating are working to make the world a better place and to secure a brighter future for all Canadians.”

This list of projects at Western receiving funding is long, according to Young. She said more than 90 Discovery Grant recipients will divide the $23 million.

"It [the area of research] ranges from chemistry to physics to mechanical engineering and computer engineering, so it really runs the gamut," said Young. "There was one researcher there this morning who is working on the solar system and has discovered a new star."

Young said, while the money has been earmarked for research at Western, the funding will benefit the entire community.

"The really important discoveries come out of fundamental research. The really important innovations come out of fundamental research. You don't have innovation until you have investments in research. It really impacts everyone and that's why it's important," she said.

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