Faculty of Science /science/ York Science is a hub of research and teaching excellence. Wed, 17 Dec 2025 16:16:25 +0000 en-US hourly 1 https://wordpress.org/?v=6.7.1 Celebrating our Faculty and Staff at York Science’s Annual Service Recognition Event /science/2025/12/17/celebrating-our-faculty-and-staff-at-york-sciences-annual-service-recognition-event/ Wed, 17 Dec 2025 16:16:22 +0000 /science/?p=41079 The Faculty of Science came together on December 16  to celebrate the end of the year with its annual Holiday Potluck and Service Recognition event. The gathering brought together faculty, staff, and students to reflect on another successful year and to recognize colleagues who have reached significant career milestones within the York Science community.   Each year, the Service […]

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service recognition event

The Faculty of Science came together on December 16  to celebrate the end of the year with its annual Holiday Potluck and Service Recognition event. The gathering brought together faculty, staff, and students to reflect on another successful year and to recognize colleagues who have reached significant career milestones within the York Science community. 
 

Each year, the Service Recognition Awards give us a chance to pause and say thank you to colleagues who exemplify what it means to build a career in service to our students, our programs, and one another. 

This year, the Faculty of Science is proud to celebrate the following 2025 Service Recognition Award recipients: 

5 Years of Service

Baodong Wu, Greenhouse Technician, Biology   
Henrietta Erabhahiemen, Administrative Assistant, Biology   
Ryan K. Schott, Assistant Professor, Biology   
Mandy Ramnaraine, Graduate Program Assistant, Chemistry   
Christine Le, Associate Professor, Chemistry   
Carly Rozins, Assistant Professor, Teaching, Science, Technology & Society (STS)   
Pavlos Motakis, Associate Professor, Mathematics & Statistics   
Mostofa Siraj Mohiuddin, Science Academic Advisor, SAS   
Melissa Hughes, Senior Advisor, Strategic Engagement & Policy, Dean’s Office   

10 Years of Service

Preet Gill, Lab Technician, Chemistry   
Jacquie Adubofuor, Undergraduate Program Assistant, Chemistry   
Jin Min Mao, Research and Finance Administrator, Dean’s Office   

20 Years of Service 

Wendy Booth, Senior Financial Officer, Dean’s Office   
Ming Jiang, Operations Manager, Biology   
Vera Pavri, Professor, Teaching Stream, STS   
Daniela Monaldi, Assistant Professor, Teaching, STS   
Howard Hunter, NMR Specialist (retired), Chemistry   
Gino Lavoie, Professor, Chemistry   

25 Years of Service

Mike Zabrocki, Professor, Mathematics & Statistics   
Paul Jan Szeptycki, Professor, Mathematics & Statistics   
Dong Liang, Professor, Mathematics & Statistics   
Anantharaman Kumarakrishnan, Professor, Physics & Astronomy   
Shakira Bacchus, Undergraduate Program Assistant, Chemistry   
Arthur J. Hilliker, Professor, Biology   
Sergey N. Krylov, Professor, Chemistry   
Logan Donaldson, Professor, Biology   
Maria Mazzurco, Senior Lab Technician, Biology   
Philip Johnson, Professor, Chemistry   

30 Years of Service  

Chun Peng, Professor, Biology   
Cody H. Storry, Associate Professor, Physics & Astronomy   
J. Dirk Verdoold, Scientific Glassblower, Technical Services   

35 Years of Service  

Dawn R. A. Bazely, Professor, Biology   
Cristalina Carmela Del Biondo, Administrative Assistant, Physics & Astronomy   
Jianhong Wu, Professor, Mathematics & Statistics   
Yuehua Wu, Professor, Mathematics & Statistics   

40 Years of Service

Paula Wilson, Professor, Teaching Stream, Biology   
Marko M. Horbatsch, Professor, Physics & Astronomy   

To all our honourees — congratulations and thank you for your dedication, leadership, and commitment to the Faculty of Science. Your contributions continue to strengthen our community and inspire the next generation of scientists and scholars at 첥Ƶ. 

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Leadership Appointments Announced in the Faculty of Science /science/2025/07/02/leadership-appointments-announced-in-the-faculty-of-science/ Wed, 02 Jul 2025 14:06:07 +0000 /science/?p=38842 Faculty of Science interim dean Dr. Robert Tsushima this morning announced the following leadership appointments in the Dean’s Office, effective immediately: Dr. Tamara Kelly will take on the role of Interim Chair, Department of Biology, for a term of six months. Dr. Seyed Moghadas has been appointed Associate Dean, Research and Graduate Education. And, Dr. […]

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Faculty of Science interim dean Dr. Robert Tsushima this morning announced the following leadership appointments in the Dean’s Office, effective immediately:

Dr. Tamara Kelly will take on the role of Interim Chair, Department of Biology, for a term of six months. Dr. Seyed Moghadas has been appointed Associate Dean, Research and Graduate Education. And, Dr. Andrew Skelton will step into the portfolio of Associate Dean, Faculty. The latter two appointments are in effect for a term of three years.

We welcome these distinguished colleagues to their respective roles and look forward to their continued leadership and service to the Faculty.

Tamara Kelly
Tamara Kelly

Dr. Tamara Kelly – Interim Chair, Department of Biology

Dr. Tamara Kelly is a Professor, Teaching Stream, in the Department of Biology and served as the inaugural Pedagogical Innovation Chair in Science Education for the Faculty of Science. In this position, she championed evidence-based inclusive teaching strategies and led initiatives to improve student learning experiences.

Since joining FSc in 2008, Dr. Kelly’s commitment to teaching excellence has been recognized with numerous awards, including the OCUFA Teaching Award, the President's University-Wide Teaching Award, and the Faculty of Science Excellence in Teaching Awards. She has played a key role in curriculum redesign and faculty development within the department. She is institutional lead for the Canadian Consortium of Science Equity Scholars (CCSES) and current president of the Open Consortium of Undergraduate Biology Educators (oCUBE). Dr. Kelly holds a PhD from McGill University and completed postdoctoral training at the University of British Columbia.

Dr. Seyed Moghadas – Associate Dean, Research and Graduate Education

Seyed Moghadas

Dr. Seyed Moghadas is a Professor in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics and a leading expert in computational epidemiology and vaccine science.

He is the founding director of the Agent-Based Modelling Laboratory at 첥Ƶ, where his research focuses on advanced mathematical and computational modeling of infectious disease dynamics, public health interventions, and health economics. Dr. Moghadas has received several prestigious honors, including the 2022 President’s Research Impact Award and recognition as a York Research Leader. He holds a PhD in Computational and Applied Mathematics from Sharif University of Technology and has led international research efforts in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. His work bridges theory, policy, and practice to support evidence-based decision-making in public health.

Dr. Andrew Skelton – Associate Dean, Faculty

Andrew Skelton

Dr. Andrew Skelton is an Associate Professor, Teaching Stream, in the Department of Mathematics and Statistics, with a primary focus on mathematics education and pedagogy. He won the 2021 Faculty of Science Excellence in Teaching Award and has served as the Academic Coordinator in Bethune College, the Coordinator of the Mathematics for Education major and was the inaugural Director of the Data Science major.

Dr. Skelton is deeply involved in research aimed at supporting first-year students in their transition to university. He holds a PhD in Applied Mathematics from the University of Guelph and has extensive experience in both secondary and postsecondary education. Dr. Skelton is committed to enhancing the student experience and supporting academic success through innovative teaching and curriculum development. 

We would also like to thank outgoing Associate Dean, Research and Graduate Education, Vivian Saridakis, and Associate Dean, Faculty, Gerald Audette, for their dedication and service to the Faculty of Science.

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Celebrating Five Years of Transformative Leadership in the Faculty of Science /science/2025/06/27/celebrating-five-years-of-transformative-leadership-in-the-faculty-of-science/ Fri, 27 Jun 2025 17:24:15 +0000 /science/?p=38777 As Chair of the Dean’s Special Advisory Board, I would like to take a moment to highlight the remarkable achievements of the Faculty of Science under the leadership of Dean Rui Wang over the past five years, as he wraps up his term on June 30, 2025. This has been a period marked by unprecedented growth, […]

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As Chair of the Dean’s Special Advisory Board, I would like to take a moment to highlight the remarkable achievements of the Faculty of Science under the leadership of Dean Rui Wang over the past five years, as he wraps up his term on June 30, 2025. This has been a period marked by unprecedented growth, innovation, and resilience.Under Dean Wang’s leadership, the Faculty inaugurated its Dean’s Special Advisory Board and created its five-year Strategic Plan (2021-2025), along with its 10-year master plan and fundraising plan.

Mark-Lievonen Gairdner Profile Photo
Mark Lievonen

Between 2020-2025, despite challenges from the global pandemic, the Faculty of Science achieved historic highs in total student enrolment, reflecting the growing reputation and appeal of its programs. For 2024-2025 the Faculty of Science enrolled 5,137 undergraduate and graduate students by headcount, a 12% increase over 2019-20. It welcomed more than 25 outstanding new faculty members, including three distinguished Black scholars, strengthening the Faculty’s commitment to academic excellence and equity.

Under Dean Wang’s leadership, the Faculty established its first International office, spearheading global engagement and partnerships, securing 36 active MOUs with universities and institutions in more than a dozen countries, including 12 dynamic collaborations in mainland China alone. These connections fostered global exchange and created invaluable pathways for international student recruitment and research collaborations.

The Faculty’s research funding during Dean Wang’s term reached unprecedented heights, surpassing $20 million three years in a row between 2022-25. During this time, the Faculty recruited talented researchers, celebrated new and renewed Chair positions, pioneered strong research clusters, and established new industrial partnerships.

Dean Wang has been deeply committed to ensuring that curriculum and pedagogy remain at the forefront of academic excellence. During the last five years, the Faculty of Science developed a range of innovative academic programs including its BA / BSc in Data Science and its Master of Biotechnology Management at Markham Campus.

Dean Wang also led the creation of non-traditional academic programing in the Faculty of Science, creating significant new revenue streams and attractive offerings for prospective students. These include the Visiting International Fee-Paying Students Program and the Faculty’s first microcredentials in Vaccine Production and Quality Control, NMR Spectroscopy for Industry, and Visual Analytics & Modelling. These microcredentials offer in-demand, industry-skills-focussed programming.

Rui Wang

And, recognizing the need to enhance employability for its students, the Faculty improved co-op offerings to help graduates gain real-world career experience, expanding co-op to nearly all Science programs, with a 32% improvement in placement rates.

Fundraising and philanthropy were a key focus of Dean Wang’s mandate, with more than $14 million raised over five years in support of our students and researchers. This includes a $1.6 million gift secured by Dean Wang for the new 3,843-square-foot Taihua Wang Science Student Success Centre, opened in Spring 2025.

During his tenure, Dean Wang also focussed on strategic communications, hiring staff to coordinate the Faculty’s communications, website, and social media presence in support of its strategic objectives. As a result, the Faculty’s communications capabilities and brand have been enhanced, with significant growth in social platforms, a revamped website, and improved communications to our key audiences.

Furthering its community outreach and commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion, the Faculty’s Science Engagement Programs now reach more than 3,000 youth annually, with 43% from marginalized communities, through fully subsidized initiatives and partnerships supporting Black youth in STEM, girls, and gender-diverse students.

And, last but not least, Dean Wang fostered an inclusive, supportive community within the Faculty of Science—most notably through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic—demonstrating adaptability and care for students, faculty, and staff. He launched the Community 2022 initiative, helping community members reconnect in person, supporting the return to a more robust on-campus presence, and addressing key challenges together.

These achievements are a testament to Dean Wang’s inspiring leadership in partnership with dedicated faculty and staff, and the support of the entire Faculty of Science community. As we look to the future, the Faculty of Science at 첥Ƶ is poised for even greater innovation, global engagement, and impact.

With gratitude and pride,

Dr. Mark Lievonen
Chair, Dean’s Special Advisory Board
Faculty of Science

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Advisory Board Offers Strategic Guidance to Faculty of Science at 2025 Markham Campus Meeting /science/2025/06/23/advisory-board-offers-strategic-guidance-to-faculty-of-science-at-2025-markham-campus-meeting/ Mon, 23 Jun 2025 18:58:51 +0000 /science/?p=38690 The Faculty of Science held its 4th annual Dean’s Special Advisory Board meeting on Thursday, June 19, at 첥Ƶ’s Markham Campus.   Board members—drawn from industry, academia, government, and healthcare—offered strategic advice on key issues, including responding to industry demand for science programs, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, and enhancing partnerships with local companies.  Dean Rui […]

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From left to right: Samer Bishay; Charles Hantho; Barbara Bellissimo; Catherine Zahn, Dean Rui Wang; Peter Pekos; Mark Lievonen (Chair); Shehzad Iqbal; Robert Tsushima (Incoming Interim Dean); Dion Neame.

The Faculty of Science held its 4th annual Dean’s Special Advisory Board meeting on Thursday, June 19, at 첥Ƶ’s Markham Campus.  

Board members—drawn from industry, academia, government, and healthcare—offered strategic advice on key issues, including responding to industry demand for science programs, fostering innovation and entrepreneurship, and enhancing partnerships with local companies. 

Dean Rui Wang provided an annual progress report, highlighting the achievements of the Faculty of Science in the strategic areas of teaching, research, and service, including a total of $14.2M in philanthropic donations raised over the last five years.  The Board further brainstormed and advised on opportunities and challenges for the Faculty of Science in the coming years.  
 
The meeting also marked Dr. Mark Lievonen’s appointment as Board Chair, recognizing his leadership in the science and biotech sectors, having served as President of Sanofi Pasteur Limited, Co-Chair of Canada’s COVID-19 Vaccine Task Force, and within numerous high profile industry boards and organizations.  

The Faculty of Science thanks all members for their valuable insights and looks forward to another year of collaboration and progress. 

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Two faculty members earn honorific professorships during Spring Convocation /science/2025/06/18/two-faculty-members-earn-honorific-professorships-during-spring-convocation/ Wed, 18 Jun 2025 13:57:13 +0000 /science/?p=38608 첥Ƶ’s 2025 Spring Convocation will honour two faculty members with Distinguished Research Professor and University Professor recognitions. The Distinguished Research Professor title is awarded to a faculty member whose research has had a significant and lasting impact, both at 첥Ƶ and beyond. It is a recognition of scholarly excellence and leadership that has […]

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첥Ƶ’s 2025 Spring Convocation will honour two faculty members with Distinguished Research Professor and University Professor recognitions.

The Distinguished Research Professor title is awarded to a faculty member whose research has had a significant and lasting impact, both at 첥Ƶ and beyond. It is a recognition of scholarly excellence and leadership that has shaped fields of study and contributed meaningfully to the academic reputation of the University.

The University Professor honour is reserved for those who have demonstrated exceptional commitment to teaching and research, alongside exemplary service to the University community. Recipients are recognized for their broad and sustained influence across all areas of academic life.

University Professorship

Paula WilsonFaculty of Science

Wilson, a long-serving faculty member in the Department of Biology, has been recognized for her significant contributions to 첥Ƶ’s academic mission, governance and community life.

Paula Wilson accepting her University Professorship, next to President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton, at a June 12 Spring Convocation ceremony.

Since joining York in 1998, she has held a range of senior administrative roles, including associate dean of student affairs, acting dean of the Faculty of Science, acting associate vice-president international, interim Chair of biology and, most recently, head of Bethune College.

She played a central role in developing undergraduate programs such as the biomedical science stream and the international bachelor of science, both of which have broadened access to science education. As a member of the Markham Campus Planning Group, she also supported the development of new professional graduate programs.

As head of Bethune College, she revitalized its role as an academic and social hub, launched new communications platforms, strengthened ties with the  and reimagined Academic Orientation Day to build student belonging.

A passionate educator and mentor, Wilson is a staunch advocate for removing barriers to learning. Her current scholarship, supported by a York Academic Innovation Fund grant, focuses on improving accessibility in undergraduate labs. Her pedagogical expertise and deep commitment to student success have had a lasting impact on the student experience at York.

While Wilson has received other teaching awards – including the Faculty of Science Excellence in Teaching Award and the President’s University-Wide Teaching Award – the University Professorship, she says, stands out.

"Receiving the University Professor recognition is the highest honour I could receive from York, so it means a lot to me and I’m deeply grateful for it. It has special meaning for me too, as a member of the teaching stream, as this honour rarely goes to teaching stream faculty," says Wilson. "I’m especially thankful for my colleagues who prepared the nomination and support letters, as these things take a substantial amount of time and energy – I feel like I am sharing this honour with them.

"Having the privilege to work with so many outstanding colleagues, students and staff members at York has made it both fun and a pleasure to come to work each day and to be honest, anything I have accomplished has been in collaboration with and because of them."

Courtesy of Yfile

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Open Air Astro Fair fosters learning, local support for 첥Ƶ observatory  /science/2025/06/18/open-air-astro-fair-fosters-learning-local-support-for-york-u-observatory/ Wed, 18 Jun 2025 13:50:44 +0000 /science/?p=38606 A collective passion for the cosmos is driving a fundraising initiative that aims to support the Allan I. Carswell Observatory at 첥Ƶ while fostering community involvement in scientific exploration.   The Open Air Astro Fair – which takes place from 5 to 11 p.m. on the first clear day between June 24 and July 4 at York’s […]

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A collective passion for the cosmos is driving a fundraising initiative that aims to support the Allan I. Carswell Observatory at 첥Ƶ while fostering community involvement in scientific exploration.  

The Open Air Astro Fair – which takes place from 5 to 11 p.m. on the first clear day between June 24 and July 4 at York’s Keele Campus – offers a unique opportunity for the York and extended community to celebrate the wonders of astronomy while contributing to the observatory's ongoing operations.  

Community members of all ages will have an opportunity to engage with astronomy at the Open Air Astro Fair.

The one-day fundraiser, which is expected to attract more than 500 attendees, will feature interactive displays and educational activities designed to spark curiosity about the cosmos. Attendees will have the chance to experience solar observation during the day and lunar viewing at night, with some participating vendors showcasing their products aimed at promoting science and astronomy awareness. 

첥Ƶ will be transformed into a vibrant hub of scientific inquiry where participants can see demonstrations showcasing solar observation, interactive games and hands-on activities suitable for all ages. The fair will feature opportunities for visitors to learn about sunspots, solar conventions and even construct their own astronomical fortune tellers. Activities will span across two locations of the Keele Campus – the Observatory Atrium atop the Arboretum Parking Garage and Allan I. Carswell Observatory Domes. 

Elaina Hyde
Elaina Hyde

“The fair's focus on collaborative learning aims to encourage a sense of community through shared experiences in science and education,” says Elaina Hyde, director of the Allan I. Carswell Observatory. 

Ticket purchases will facilitate repairs and essential maintenance for the observatory over the summer months. Each $30 ticket will fund Astronomy in Action’s planetarium shows, cover event costs and contribute to the observatory’s fundraising goals. 

Hyde notes that several local and national partners are collaborating for this inaugural event, including three Canadian companies exhibiting at the fair.  

If skies remain cloudy, a “no-go” notice will be published on the event website and sent to ticket holders by 9 a.m. daily, ensuring timely communication. If the event needs to be rescheduled due to inclement weather, tickets will automatically transfer to the following day's conditions, allowing for flexibility for those intending to visit. 

“By drawing people in through the allure of the cosmos, the Open Air Astro Fair demonstrates York’s commitment to engaging communities in science and discovery,” says Hyde. 

Tickets for the Open Air Astro Fair are .

Courtesy of Yfile

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'Walk forward with purpose,' Chief Kelly LaRocca tells grads /science/2025/06/13/walk-forward-with-purpose-chief-kelly-larocca-tells-grads/ Fri, 13 Jun 2025 13:46:27 +0000 /science/?p=38602 Graduands and guests of 첥Ƶ’s second Spring Convocation ceremony for Faculty of Environmental & Urban Change (EUC) and the Faculty of Science were among those to hear from Kelly LaRocca, chief of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, on the life-changing power of education.  Introduced by EUC Dean Alice Hovorka, LaRocca was recognized as an honorary doctorate recipient […]

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Graduands and guests of 첥Ƶ’s second Spring Convocation ceremony for  (EUC) and the Faculty of Science were among those to hear from Kelly LaRocca, chief of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation, on the life-changing power of education. 

Introduced by EUC Dean Alice Hovorka, LaRocca was recognized as an honorary doctorate recipient by York and was commended for her community leadership that focuses on Indigenous cultures, histories and perspectives as well as her passion for education, youth empowerment and economic development. 

Kelly LaRocca clapping
Chief Kelly LaRocca

“Throughout her distinguished career, Chief LaRocca has exemplified exceptional leadership, unwavering dedication to her community and steadfast commitment to advancing Indigenous rights and reconciliation,” said Hovorka. “Her leadership will inspire meaningful dialogue, action and advocacy ... for generations to come.” 

LaRocca holds an honours degree in philosophy from the University of Western Ontario and a bachelor of laws from the University of Windsor. After obtaining her law degree and practicing civil litigation in Toronto, she returned to her community in 2008. Since her election as chief in 2013, she has played a vital role in negotiating significant treaty settlements and advocating for clean drinking water for her community. 

During her convocation address, she spoke with conviction about her journey, drawing from personal experiences to inspire the graduating class of 2025. Emphasizing the transformative power of education and the importance of embracing unexpected pathways to success, her address resonated with themes of resilience, authenticity and the significance of lived experiences. 

“Whatever you do, remember that the process of getting here has conditioned you for the peaks and valleys of life,” she said, sharing her experience of moving from a city environment to a tight-knit Indigenous community at age 16, and the first-hand experience of how colonialism had shaped the world around her. 

After high school, she left “determined to never look back” and was working toward her “misguided beliefs” that financial success would prove she belonged in “worlds that otherwise felt foreign and quite out of reach.”  

Reflecting on this path and belief system, LaRocca shared that over time, she came to realize that success is more a measure of the ability to embrace one’s identity and values. 

“Success came when I was unapologetic about who I was and where I was from,” she said. “Success came from honouring my roots, living by my values and listening with empathy for others.” 

Along with the measure of personal success, she asserted that cultivating empathy is a key skill that will serve graduating students throughout their lives and careers in building relationships and understanding diverse perspectives. 

She recounted for listeners her own struggles with imposter syndrome during her education, noting that these challenges ultimately contributed to her personal and professional growth. 

“Success is not always loud. Sometimes it's quiet, and it can be found through the tough personal choices you make; it can be found in living your values and in standing firm to who you are.” 

After practicing law for some time, she found her way back to her Indigenous community, where she relocated to care for her mother. Later, after the loss of her mother, she experienced first-hand the power of community and understood she needed to shift her focus to honour her Indigenous community. 

“It was time to honour my mother and give back to my First Nation,” she said. This is what led her to leadership as an elected council member, and later, as chief. 

LaRocca urged graduates to take a moment to appreciate the significance of their accomplishments and to acknowledge the support from their loved ones during the journey they took to reach this milestone. 

In a closing message, LaRocca shared the advice she received from Monty Marsden, a respected elder and residential school survivor: “Never apologize for where you come from and never give up.” She encouraged graduands to move forward with purpose, authenticity and to live by their values. 

“Walk forward with purpose and remember that living authentically will guide you to your next success,” she said. 

Courtesy of Yfile

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첥Ƶ joins elite international astronomy team to research secrets of the universe  /science/2025/06/11/york-u-joins-elite-international-astronomy-team-to-research-secrets-of-the-universe/ Wed, 11 Jun 2025 14:03:51 +0000 /science/?p=38613 첥Ƶ will play a leading role in a new national program supporting Canada’s first-ever Square Kilometre Array (SKA) Scientists – a program that funds early-career astronomers contributing to an international radio astronomy research initiative.  Announced by the National Research Council Canada (NRC), the Canadian SKA Scientist Program supports future leaders in conducting cutting-edge research […]

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첥Ƶ will play a leading role in a new national program supporting Canada’s first-ever Square Kilometre Array (SKA) Scientists – a program that funds early-career astronomers contributing to an international radio astronomy research initiative. 

Announced by the National Research Council Canada (NRC), the Canadian SKA Scientist Program supports future leaders in conducting cutting-edge research to explore some of the universe’s biggest mysteries. 

Fengqiu (Adam) Dong will conduct advanced research on radio pulsars in 첥Ƶ’s Department of Physics and Astronomy, Faculty of Science, as part of the Canadian SKA Scientist Program. 

Paul Scholz
Paul Scholz
Adam Dong
Adam Dong

Dong, currently a National Radio Astronomy Observatory Jansky Fellow at the U.S.-based Green Bank Observatory, completed his PhD at the University of British Columbia. 

Dong’s research focuses on pulsars – dense, rotating remnants of massive stars that emit rhythmic bursts of radiation. At York, he will work with mentor Paul Scholz, assistant professor in the Department of Physic and Astronomy, whose work explores pulsars, magnetars and fast radio bursts – brief, powerful flashes of radio waves from beyond our galaxy. 

Together, they will contribute to the global Square Kilometre Array (SKA) initiative over a term of three to five years. 

"I'm honoured and excited to play a role in bringing Canada to the forefront of this once-in-a-lifetime instrument,” says Dong. “SKA is the future of radio astronomy for the next decade. It will revolutionize our understanding of the universe, much like the Hubble and James Webb Space Telescopes have done for optical and infrared astronomy." 

The SKA is an international effort to build the world’s largest radio telescope arrays, with facilities in South Africa and Australia. Once operational, the SKA Observatory (SKAO) is expected to transform understanding of the universe. Canada is one of the project’s member countries, represented by the NRC and supported through national partnerships with universities and researchers. 

“The Canadian SKA Scientists will be the future leaders in the revolutionary science that will come out of the SKA,” says Scholz. “In his role, Adam will enhance and broaden the radio astronomy expertise at York and significantly bolster our involvement in the SKA.” 

Canadian SKA Scientist participants receive mentorship from both a university-based expert and the NRC, with the goal of building a national network of researchers contributing to the SKA.  

According to NRC program lead Michael Rupen, the initiative is designed to support early-career scientists while ensuring Canadian researchers have equitable access to SKA science. Dong joins Alice Curtin, a PhD candidate at McGill University, as the first two researchers selected for the program. 

A second call for applications is expected in fall 2025, with subsequent rounds to follow annually. 

Courtesy of Yfile

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$1.6M gift funds new space to enhance science student success /science/2025/05/28/1-6m-gift-funds-new-space-to-enhance-science-student-success/ Wed, 28 May 2025 13:08:28 +0000 /science/?p=38325 A new hub for 첥Ƶ’s Faculty of Science students will offer critical supports for student success by strengthening advising services and offering additional study spaces. The new Taihua Wang Science Student Success Centre, which officially opened on May 26, is located on the main floor of the Life Sciences Building at the Keele Campus […]

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A new hub for 첥Ƶ’s Faculty of Science students will offer critical supports for student success by strengthening advising services and offering additional study spaces.

The new Taihua Wang Science Student Success Centre, which officially opened on May 26, is located on the main floor of the Life Sciences Building at the Keele Campus and offers an improved space for academic and social enhancement.

Funded by a $1.6-million gift by Taihua Wang, founder and CEO of Cell Biotechnology Co. Ltd., students can access the 3,843-square-foot space that features a more functional hub for student advising and support, along with new and revamped study and social spaces. These new features include new seating, a lounge area and bookable study pods that students can reserve online.

Faculty of Science student Amna Imran, Taihua Wang, President and Vice-Chancellor Rhonda Lenton and Faculty of Science Dean Rui Wang at the opening ceremony of the new student success centre.

“This incredible gift by Dr. Wang, a Chinese Canadian business leader and stem cell scientist, will benefit all Faculty of Science students,” said Rui Wang, dean of the Faculty of Science. “It will help strengthen our advising and counselling supports and add much-needed study and social space for students to flourish academically and personally. In doing so, it will help accelerate our mission of educating our students to become active members of our global scientific community.”

The welcoming space will allow students to study individually or in groups and takes advantage of the expansive light from wrap-around windows in the Life Sciences Building. At the opening ceremony, Amna Imran, a third-year student double majoring in biology and psychology, spoke about what impact the centre would have. "It’s not just a physical space, it’s a supportive environment designed to help students grow, ask questions, and connect," she said. "Having a centralized hub where we can study, seek guidance, and build relationships with our peers will make an enormous difference in how we experience our time at York."

Considered to be a pioneer of the clinical application of stem cells in China, Taihua Wang says York is a “great university” and that “this initiative aims to provide enhanced student services, nurturing them to become future global leaders.”

첥Ƶ President and Vice-chancellor Rhonda Lenton says the Taihua Wang Science Student Success Centre allows York to support students pursing education in the sciences.

“첥Ƶ is proud to mark the opening of the Taihua Wang Science Student Success Centre, a space that reflects our core commitments to access, excellence and positive impact,” says Lenton. “This centre, made possible by Dr. Wang’s transformative gift, will strengthen York's ability to empower students and help them reach their full potential in science and beyond.”

The May 26 opening ceremony was attended by the donor and his family, science students, faculty members and staff. 

Courtesy of Yfile

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Two Science alumni on York’s Top 30 Alumni Under 30 list /science/2025/05/26/two-science-alumni-on-yorks-top-30-alumni-under-30-list/ Mon, 26 May 2025 15:07:38 +0000 /science/?p=38258 Congratulations to our alumni Jaskaran Grewal (BSc ’17), and Pankaj Puar (BSc ’18, MSc ’21) for being named among 첥Ƶ’s Top 30 Alumni Under 30 for 2025. Launched in 2021, York’s Top 30 Alumni Under 30 program seeks to highlight the success and diversity of the University’s young alumni community, while inspiring the next generation of young alumni leaders to make […]

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Congratulations to our alumni Jaskaran Grewal (BSc ’17), and Pankaj Puar (BSc ’18, MSc ’21) for being named among 첥Ƶ’s Top 30 Alumni Under 30 for 2025.

Launched in 2021, York’s Top 30 Alumni Under 30 program seeks to highlight the success and diversity of the University’s young alumni community, while inspiring the next generation of young alumni leaders to make a positive difference locally and globally.

“The 첥Ƶ Top 30 Alumni Under 30 program showcases the remarkable work that York’s young alumni have done to create positive change at home and abroad,” said Julie Lafford, assistant vice-president, alumni engagement, in an  in YFile. “The 2025 cohort is an accomplished group featuring creative artists, innovators in science, business leaders and champions for social justice.

Jaskaran Grewal

Jaskaran is a corporate lawyer at a global law firm where he advises clients on mergers and acquisitions, securities transactions and corporate governance matters. With strong foundations in business, law and technology, Jaskaran is also passionate about the venture ecosystem and regularly provides strategic, forward-thinking counsel to emerging companies as they navigate the complexities of digital innovation, growth and regulatory challenges. Jaskaran is committed to giving back through community service. He actively volunteers with various organizations and has provided advisory support to prominent non-profits, helping them strengthen their operations and enhance effectiveness. 

Pankaj Puar

Pankaj is a senior MD student at the University of British Columbia (UBC) with a passion for advancing medical knowledge. He is a concurrent PhD candidate at the University of Toronto and a leader on the executive steering committee of large global multinational randomized clinical trials. Alongside one of his most influential mentors Dr. Subodh Verma, an internationally renowned surgeon-scientist at the University of Toronto, Pankaj has worked to investigate novel treatments aimed at improving patient outcomes and has presented his work in cities across Europe and North America. As a senior last author on multiple research endeavors, he has mentored students and resident physicians in different areas of clinical research. Recently, he was named the Chief Scientific Officer for an innovative start-up aiming to develop, introduce and integrate artificial intelligence technologies into the medical field. With a passion for education, Pankaj has assisted with the UBC medical school accreditation process aiming to improve the educational experience for future medical students. He is also the co-founder of Phulkari Designs, a fashion and social media brand that embraces his cultural heritage and showcases traditional South Asian clothing as modeled by people of colour. 

To view the full list of 2025 recipients, visit the Top 30 Alumni Under 30 web page.

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