Education

2 WINNIPEG FREE PRESS - THURSDAY, AUGUST 3, 2017 UWINNIPEG STUDENTS CAN BE PART OF RESEARCH WITH IMPACT At the University of Winnipeg, bright minds solve mysteries, test theories, and discover new ways to address real-world issues — from climate change and brain malfunction, to workplace bullying and urban homelessness. And UWinnipeg students get an up-close view of — sometimes even a chance to take part in — fascinating research that has the potential to profoundly benefit society. "The opportunity to participate in meaningful research at an undergraduate level, while working closely with our exceptional faculty members, is a defining trait of the UWinnipeg student experience," says Dr. Annette Trimbee, President and Vice-chancellor. "When students choose the University of Winnipeg, they are setting themselves on a path to making an impact in their areas of passion and interest. If they have the interest and drive, the opportunities are here." This summer, UWinnipeg's Dr. Richard Westwood and students from the environmental studies & sciences and biology programs are engaged in a research project with the City of Winnipeg's Urban Forestry Branch. The researchers will identify and prioritize the early removal of brood trees — a technique that could significantly aid the city's battle against Dutch Elm disease, slowing the loss of Winnipeg's much-loved elm trees. The new Indigenous Summer Scholars Program launched in June, providing an opportunity for outstanding Indigenous students to spend eight weeks researching projects ranging from clean water on First Nations to using art and digital media to create new dialogues in Canada. Each student is paired with a faculty member involved in Indigenous research and has a paid position to assist while learning new academic skills. The program strengthens pathways for Indigenous students to move into advanced study and, ultimately, into leadership in the academy and in all sectors of society. Eight students are taking part in the pilot — including Francine Laurin, who is assisting Dr. Ian Mauro, investigating opportunities to engage Indigenous communities and contribute to the Prairie Climate Atlas. At the recent Canadian Chemistry Conference and Exhibition in Toronto, a contingent of UWinnipeg chemistry students was recognized for presentations on a range of topics —an outcome related to their hands-on research experience. "Our undergraduate students play an integral role in various chemistry research programs," said Dr. Athar Ata. "The chemistry professors train them in the lab and encourage them to take the lead on their assigned research projects. These efforts result in award-winning presentations by students at prestigious conferences such as CSC." Meanwhile, UWinnipeg has, to date, launched 53 experiential learning projects across a range of departments. Experiential learning — an engaged and interactive method of discovery — is a key component of academic excellence and a strong priority at UWinnipeg. These impactful initiatives focus on areas such as ethnobotany, food history, environmental studies, and outdoor recreation. Learn more at uwinnipeg.ca. ❚ Cory Aronec Photography '' When students choose the University of Winnipeg, they are setting themselves on a path to making an impact in their areas of passion and interest. If they have the interest and drive, the opportunities are here." THE UNIVERSITY OF WINNIPEG

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