For Immediate Release                                                           

November 25, 2005

McGUINTY GOVERNMENT ANNOUNCES FUNDING FOR

EARLY RESEARCH AWARD PROGRAM

KINGSTON–Two professors from Queen’s University will each receive $100,000 in research funding announced today by Kingston and The Islands MPP John Gerretsen announced on behalf of the Premier Dalton McGuinty, the Minister of Research and Innovation. 

“Our government created a ministry dedicated to research and innovation, because we believe in the creative potential of all Ontarians,” said Gerretsen.  “This funding will attract some of the brightest and best minds to the Kingston community to make leading-edge research discoveries that will help create prosperity for all.”

Dr. Andrew D. Lewis received a $100,000 grant for his project entitled Mathematical Control theory for Difficult to Control Mechanical Systems and Dr. Martin Pare also received $100,000 for his research on Neural Basis of Visual Behaviour.

Premier and Minister of Research and Innovation Dalton McGuinty today announced that the government is investing $6.4 million to support 64 innovative research projects at 13 Ontario research institutions through the newly created Early Researcher Award program.  In total, the government is investing $30 million over three years.

“To ensure that Ontario can compete in the marketplace of ideas, the Ministry of Research and Innovation is working to give our innovators the tools they need,” said Premier McGuinty.  “I chose to lead this ministry because I believe that unlocking that potential is essential to our province’s future — we’re creating a culture of innovation that will provide jobs and prosperity for Ontarians well into the future.”

Recipients, chosen through a competition, receive a maximum of up to $100,000 that must be matched by $50,000 from their research institution.

The Ministry of Research and Innovation was created in June 2005, signalling the importance the government places on strengthening Ontario as a leading, innovation-based economy and society.  The government has committed $1.8 billion over four years to support research and commercialization.

“Places that invent, build and market innovations successfully are the economies that win the best jobs and attract investment in leading-edge industries,” said Premier McGuinty.  “By supporting early research, we’re retaining top talent today and strengthening Ontario’s economic advantage for years to come.” 

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