Minister of Industry Announces $62 Million in Scholarship and Fellowship Funding

Meets with award winners at the University of Saskatchewan

(Saskatoon, Saskatchewan) - The Honourable Brian Tobin, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) announced today that 1,924 young university researchers - 1,689 at the postgraduate level and 235 at the postdoctoral level - will be receiving $62 million to pursue their studies in the natural sciences and engineering fields. Winners are distributed among more than 50 Canadian universities (full list).

The Minister was on hand to congratulate successful applicants from the University of Saskatchewan. "You are part of an outstanding group of people from across the country which has been recognized as the future of the Research and Development field," said Minister Tobin. "Your energy and creativity will help make Canada one of the most innovative countries in the world." Minister Tobin also praised the University of Saskatchewan for its role in successfully launching Canada's newest and most ambitious science project in years: the Canadian Light Source.

In the Speech from the Throne, the government set a goal for Canada to become one of the top five countries for R&D performance by 2010.

The Honourable Dr. Gilbert Normand, Secretary of State (Science, Research and Development), also extended his congratulations to the winners: "These are the young people whose talent and hard work, whatever their fields of research, will further enrich the intellectual and material wealth of Canada."

NSERC President Tom Brzustowski, who met with the Saskatoon winners, confirmed that the University of Saskatchewan again this year enjoyed success in the NSERC competition, with new scholarships and fellowships worth $900,000 offered to 22 applicants.

"Science and engineering are among the most rewarding careers available to young people," said Brzustowski. "Studies show that graduates who receive NSERC scholarships will enjoy above- average employability and income, and will contribute to R&D for many years after completing their studies."

In reminding his audience that today is International Women's Day, Brzustowski said that the number of successful women applicants for NSERC Scholarships has risen steadily from 31 per cent to 43 per cent since 1992.

"This is a very satisfying national trend indeed and reflects a significant improvement in women's participation in the fields of science and engineering," said Mr. Brzustowski.

NSERC is the primary federal agency investing in people, discovery and innovation. The Council supports both basic university research through research grants, and project research through partnerships among universities, governments and the private sector, as well as the advanced training of highly qualified people.

The full list of NSERC scholarships and fellowships award winners.

Press Contact:

Arnet Sheppard
NSERC Newsbureau
(613) 995-5997
axs@nserc.ca