Information Box Group
Mills Library graduate study space available for booking
September 21, 2020
Construction begins on McMaster’s 10 Bay Graduate Residence
May 13, 2021
Application deadline extended for Open Educational Resources Grant Program
May 5, 2021
In conversation with McMaster’s graduate studies librarian, Leeanne Romane
April 12, 2021
Engineering grad student wins first-ever GradFlix at McMaster
March 31, 2021
McMaster graduate research coming to a small screen near you
March 23, 2021
"I have met with some incredible mentors"
March 17, 2021
Introducing McMaster’s new vision statement: A letter from the president
February 18, 2021
Call for Zine Submissions: Disability, Accessibility & Teaching and Learning @Mac
February 8, 2021
GradFlix brings grad research to the little screen!
February 3, 2021
New graduate program prepares public policy professionals for the digital age
February 2, 2021
McMaster working to resolve some technical issues
January 20, 2021
Engineering launches Fellowships with partnering universities to increase diversity in engineering, technology
January 19, 2021
Remote teaching: Q & A sessions and training available for TAs
January 4, 2021
COVID-19 update as the Winter term begins
January 4, 2021
Honing your skills through The Research Shop
December 14, 2020
Calling all graduate student artists! Submissions open for Gallery of Graduate Arts
November 26, 2020
International grad students needed for advisory group
November 12, 2020
McMaster looks at ways to improve university-student interaction
November 12, 2020
Nominations open for annual Graduate Student Recognition Awards
October 22, 2020
Join us in congratulating our November graduates!
October 19, 2020
New MacDATA fellows ready to tease new insights out of complex data
September 21, 2020
Winter term will be online: Provost’s letter
September 14, 2020
New online hub a one-stop-shop for Library’s suite of remote resources
August 18, 2020
University, student unions reducing fees
August 18, 2020
Beginning a new life in changing times
May 25, 2020
830,000 print books from Library’s collection now digitally available to faculty, students
May 5, 2020
Graduate student choice of non-numeric grades or withdrawal for 2020 Winter Term courses
April 20, 2020
A message from the Dean of Graduate Studies
April 14, 2020
Homeless with COVID-19: How a global health grad is helping
April 12, 2020
Tackling infectious diseases requires a global co-ordinated effort: global health grad
March 24, 2020
A Message to our International Graduate Students
March 24, 2020
March 13, 2020
Information for students: COVID-19 (Coronavirus)
March 11, 2020
Student elections to the Board of Governors, University Planning Committee, and Senate
March 10, 2020
Finding your tax slips: A quick "slip list" for grad students
February 28, 2020
Call open for MacDATA graduate fellowship
February 11, 2020
Applications open for Wilson Leadership Scholars
February 11, 2020
Take the U21/PwC Innovation Challenge
January 14, 2020
Tell your research story in the 2020 Three Minute Thesis Competition
January 14, 2020
McMaster graduate students are serving up important conversations
December 19, 2019
Undergrad researchers share their summer projects at USRA poster session
October 31, 2019
Undergraduate scholars will share their summer research experiences Ð and discoveries Ð at the 2019 Undergraduate Student Research Awards (USRA) Poster Session on November 5.More than 60 USRA winners from across five Faculties and the Arts and Science program, will present their findings.Learn about a variety of topics, such asscience fiction and the politics of climate changehow our driving behaviour changes across our lifetimesocioeconomic status and resources for families who have a child with Autism Spectrum Disorderan examination of quality of life for adults with schizophreniaEveryone is welcome to attend the USRA Poster Session, happening in CIBC Hall (third floor of MUSC) from 2 to 4 p.m.
Disability-related issues are the topic at McMaster's Employee Accessibility Network
October 1, 2019
Disability-related issues are the topic at McMaster's Employee Accessibility Network
October 1, 2019
McMaster employees with disabilities or who have medical accommodations are welcome to join the Employee Accessibility Network Ð a space for faculty, instructors, teaching and research assistants, and staff to connect and discuss disability-related issues.The network holds regular meetings, where topics range from barriers to accessible teaching and learning environments, to supports for TAs and sessional instructors with disabilities in the classroom, to career advancement.Most meetings have a mix of peer support, group goal-setting, consultation and advocacy. They take place on McMaster's main campus, but network members who are off-site can teleconference or access meetings through a webinar.As well, the network functions as a consultative group to the McMaster Accessibility Council.So if you are a TA or RA whoexperiences disability, disablement, chronic illness, or a health, mental health or addiction concern;has questions or concerns about accessibility in teaching and learning environments; oris interested in meeting in a confidential setting to share information, resources and offer suggestions for enhancing accessibility at McMasteryou are invited to join the network.To join the network's mailing list, attend an upcoming meeting, or ask related questions, send aconfidential emailto Kate Brown, AccessMac Program, Equity and Inclusion Office:access@mcmaster.caMeetings are hosted by the Equity and Inclusion Office, in response to provincial accessibility legislation.
Life and death of the stars: Researchers investigate extreme galaxy environments
September 23, 2019
MIRA awards Mac researchers more than $500,000 for work in mobility and aging
September 23, 2019
MIRA awards Mac researchers more than $500,000 for work in mobility and aging
September 23, 2019
Thirteen McMaster research projects, from every faculty and a wide range of disciplines, have received funding totalling more than $500,000 from the McMaster Institute for Research on Aging (MIRA) and its affiliate Labarge Centre for Mobility in Aging.MIRA has awarded Labarge Catalyst grants totalling $240,000 to six interdisciplinary research proposals, each with team members from a minimum of three different faculties and the goal of improving mobility for older adults. Principle investigators areMichel Grignon, Faculty of Social Sciences, department of health, aging & society project: How can we improve mobility through alternative transportation modes for seniors? Measuring what works and what does not work in road safety improvements for pedestrians and cyclistsBenson Honig, Degroote School of Business, department of human resources management project: Older adults, ageism and entrepreneurship Ð Learning from failure and success and the interplay of national culture and institutional policiesVictor Kuperman, Faculty of Humanities, department of languages and linguistics project: Writing of age Ð Linguistic markers of cognitive, emotional and social well-being among older adultsRavi Selvaganapathy, Faculty of Engineering, department of mechanical engineering project: Bioprinted 3D in-vitro models to determine mechanisms of cognitive benefits of exercise in the elderlyLaurel Trainor, Faculty of Science, department of psychology, neuroscience & behaviour project: Movement sonification for testing mobility in the context of interacting with complex environmentsJanie Wilson, Faculty of Health Sciences, department of surgery project: A multidisciplinary approach to addressing mobility limitations after orthopaedic joint replacement surgeryMIRA has awarded three interdisciplinary postdoctoral fellows in the field of aging research a total of $195,000 for projects that aim to generate evidence that will contribute to the well-being of older adults. They areSophie Hogeveens, Faculty of Health Sciences, department of health research methods, Evidence and Impact Project: Promoting optimal aging through equitable access to specialized geriatric services in OntarioLea Ravensbergen, Faculty of Science, school of geography and earth sciences project: Understanding Older adults' active travelTatiane Ribeiro, Faculty of Health Sciences, department of biochemistry and biomedical science project: Accelerating the aging trajectory through prenatal adversityMylinh Duongfrom the department of medicine at the Faculty of Health Sciences is leading a team that will receive $100,000 to develop the first phase of wearable sensing technologies aimed at promoting early mobility in older patients hospitalized. Two Master's students who are doing work in aging and mobility are receiving a total of $30,000 in Labarge Graduate Scholarships. They areGiulia Coletta, Faculty Science, kinesiologyErynne Rowe, school of biomedical engineeringMIRA and AGE-WELL, a federally funded Centre of Excellence, will co-fundRasmi Kokashfrom the Degroote School of Business, human resources management. Kokash will receive $25,000 for his project, which focuses on the extent technological expertise impacts entrepreneurship, economic mobility and wellbeing in older adults. Finally, MIRA is awarding two of its trainees,Ruheena Sangrarfrom the Faculty of Health Sciences' school of rehabilitation science andEmily Dunfordfrom the Faculty of Science's kinesiology program, a $2,000 grant to plan a forum for other trainees to collaborate, develop and share their research methods.MIRA's mandate is to support innovative research approaches that build upon McMaster's culture of interdisciplinary collaboration, and, where appropriate, to engage older adults and other key stakeholders throughout the conceptualization, evaluation and implementation of interventions and technologies. Funding listed above is supported in part by the Labarge Centre for Mobility in Aging, which was created by a $15-million gift from McMaster's former Chancellor Suzanne Labarge in 2016.MIRA's next funding cycle will launch in early 2020. Visit MIRA's funding opportunities for more information.
Nominations for Fall Valedictorian close September 26
September 9, 2019
Congratulations to our first graduate Wilson Scholars
August 7, 2019
$20,000 scholarships available for grad students living with a disability
June 25, 2019
Volunteer as a research associate at McMaster’s Research Shop
April 23, 2019
Excellence in graduate community a focus for annual awards
May 17, 2017
Nominations for the 2017 Graduate Student Recognition Awardsclose on Tuesday, August 15, at 4 p.m.The annual awards celebrate the contributions of the graduate student community at McMaster."The awards are an opportunity to acknowledge the important work done by students, supervisors and staff here at McMaster" says Doug Welch, Vice-Provost and Dean of Graduate Studies."Their efforts in the lecture halls, labs, on campus and in the broader Hamilton community, have a positive impact on so many aspects of life on campus and beyond.”This year a new award has been created to acknowledge contributions to the international graduate student community."International students have challenges and needs that are unique. Over the years, we have seen so many outstanding grad students create opportunity and advocate for their international peers. This award is a more official recognition of such contributions" Welch says.The Dean's Award for Outstanding Leadership and Contributions to the International Graduate Student Community recognizes the significant impact of an individual graduate student on the experiences of international graduate students at McMaster. These contributions may be to the spirit, morale, cohesion, quality of life, or positive outcomes for graduate students. Up to three awards in this category will be given.The McMaster Graduate Students Association partners with Graduate Studies to deliver the awards.Nomination packages are now available for:President's Award for Excellence in Graduate SupervisionDean's Award for Excellence in Communicating Graduate Research is given to the top five Three Minute Thesis finalists from the 2017 competition in FebruaryGSA Keith Leppmann Teaching Assistant Excellence AwardGSA Award for Contributions by Non-Academic StaffTherese Quigley Award of Excellence for Graduate Student Leadership in Athletics (GSA)Mary Keyes Award for Outstanding Leadership and Service to McMaster (GSA)GSA Millennium Award for Community ServiceTo learn more about GSA-sponsored awards, visit the GSA website.For more about the Graduate Studies awards, visit the Graduate Studies website.Winners receive certificates and a cash prize, which varies depending on the award. Recipients will be honoured at the Graduate Student Recognition Awards Reception in October.Nominations for the 2017 awards must be received no later than August 15, 4 p.m. Nomination packages should be emailed (details available on the nomination form) or may be delivered to the School of Graduate Studies, Gilmour Hall, Room 212.
Apply now for IUSRS: invaluable experience for students, supervisors
February 9, 2017
Applications are now open for the the Indigenous Undergraduate Summer Research Scholarship (IUSRS) program.The IUSRS is heading into its third year, providing an opportunity for students Ð and McMaster faculty members Ð to be immersed in a unique research experience. In 2017, approximately 15 Indigenous undergraduate students will be accepted into the program.For more information about the program and to apply,visit the IUSRS online.Chelsea Gabel, Acting Director of McMaster's Indigenous Research Institute and assistant professor in the Faculty of Social Sciences, supervised five visiting Indigenous Summer Scholars during the two-year pilot program, beginning in 2015.Invaluable experience for students"As an Indigenous scholar, I felt that it was very important to mentor, train, and better prepare Indigenous undergraduate students" she says. "The IUSRS is an opportunity to get them excited and interested in graduate school.â?Gabel describes her IUSRS supervisory experience as transformative, a description she hopes is shared by her former IUS Scholars."This is a program that facilitates mentorship and training. It enables students to make more informed choices as they prepare for graduate school.â?Applications are now open for McMaster faculty researchers who are interested in supervising an Indigenous undergraduate student this summer. Please visit the School of Graduate Studies< > for more information and to complete an online application.Invaluable experience for faculty supervisorsAs a supervisor, Gabel says she was forced to think about issues in ways she hadn't previously, thanks to the expertise and knowledge brought by the IUS Scholars. The provocative and insightful questions often changed how she thought about a particular issue.Gabel says a program like the IUSRS would have been a benefit to her during her undergraduate degree."Having a relationship and being mentored by faculty would have been so beneficial for me. Mentorship often isn't present in an undergraduate environment" Gabel says."Research often involves group work, more in-depth interactions with colleagues, and improved communication skills. This program provides opportunities for students to learn to work as a member of a research team.â?She adds that it also provides an opportunity to improve writing, communication and presentation skills Ð all necessary tools for success at the graduate level.The 2017 IUSRS program runs from May 23 to July 21.Please visit the School of Graduate Studies for more information and to apply.
Volunteer as a research associate at McMaster's Research Shop
June 27, 2016
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Join a team of McMaster graduate student research associates. Volunteer at the McMaster Research Shop!
The McMaster Research Shop works with public, non-profit, and community organizations in and beyond Hamilton to provide plain-language answers to their research questions. Research teams work with organizations to refine their research questions, then prepare rapid research reviews. The reviews are short plain-language reports Ð 10 to 20 pages.
Why volunteer?
Enhance the transferability of your academic research skills by responding to a community-identified question or need.
Explore possibilities for employment inside and outside the university.
Make connections with Hamilton community organizations.
Build your CV and portfolio by co-authoring a research report with teammates and a community partner.
Learn and practice research methodologies from other academic disciplines.
Work with graduate students from other departments.
Earn a Certificate or Statement of Professional Learning upon project completion.
What will you do?
Work independently and as a member of a small team to produce research products according to set deadlines.
Attend team meetings every 2 weeks and schedule and lead meetings with community organizations, as appropriate.
Expected commitment: an average of 5 hours/week for 8-10 weeks.
Summer projects begin in July. Fall projects begin in September. Approximately 15 student volunteers are needed as Research Associates.
Summer and Fall project topics include:
Evaluating the impact of a Hamilton arts magazine (involves ethics review, survey design and analysis, literature review, policy analysis)
Assessing the feasibility of implementing a specific poverty reduction strategy (involves an environmental scan and possible interviews)
Best practices for engaging parents of children in grades 6-8 regarding post-secondary education possibilities for their kids (involves literature review, ethics review, focus groups)
Evaluating the impact of partnerships between Neighbourhood Hubs and post-secondary institutions
Determining donation patterns of young adults and how to attract young adult donors to social services (involves literature review, possible focus group)
A history of firsts for former Longboat scholar and McMaster PhD
March 8, 2016
Sandra Muse Isaacs has been living in a whirlwind.
It began last July with the thesis submission. After so many years dedicated to this one climactic act, handing over her final official paper as a McMaster graduate student brought unexpected emotion Ð a little sadness, some anxiety, a few tears. But lingering on that moment was impossible.
The English and Cultural Studies PhD candidate needed to get home and help her husband pack up their things Ð the movers would be knocking on the door in 48 hours. Next stop: Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Muse Isaacs would be back, of course; she successfully defended her thesis in early September. And that timing couldn't have been better, for just two days later she became the first Indigenous faculty member Ð Muse Isaacs is of Tsalagi (Cherokee) and Gaelic descent Ð at Saint Mary's University, teaching her first undergraduate class as an assistant professor.
So much change, so fast would drive some people to take a pause and step back. Not so for Muse Isaacs. She's faced many forks in the road, taken those timeouts to think on the future. Now is the time to jump in, no second thoughts, no regrets.
As the first recipient of the Harvey E. Longboat Graduate Scholarship for First Nations, Inuit and Métis Students back in 2010, her life as a student couldn't have ended in any other way.
The journey to now
Back in the late '80s, with a college diploma in hand, Muse Isaacs spent the next few years working as a journalist in radio, print and television. She also spent time as an adjunct professor in the Journalism for Native Peoples program at the University of Western Ontario. As the journalism profession began to change and jobs became scarce, Muse Isaacs decided to head back to the university scene, only this time she enrolled as an undergraduate in Honours English.
A few years later, she completed a Master's in English and Creative Writing at the University of Windsor, where she had the opportunity to study under renowned Canadian author Alistair MacLeod.
Finally, her path brought her to McMaster where she completed her doctoral degree, her research focused on the Eastern Cherokee oral tradition and its role in representing an alternative history that contributes to continued sovereignty of the Cherokee culture.
As a mature Indigenous student with family responsibilities, working in the field during her PhD wasn't easy. In 2010, the research took Muse Isaacs and her family to North Carolina and the community of her grandmother. For three years, they lived almost a thousand miles from their home on Six Nations of the Grand River Territory. The experience was something they won't forget.
"In three year's time, we felt that we were part of the community. We attended spiritual ceremonies, history events, and I enjoyed a full year of learning the Cherokee language at Western Carolina University."
Muse Isaacs says the Longboat Scholarship was integral to helping defray the costs of living and completing her research in the U.S. Ð she received the annual scholarship four times during her seven years at McMaster, but the award meant so much more. It provided validation for her work as an Indigenous scholar.
"Receiving the Longboat Scholarship was such a tremendous honour, and I feel very humbled when I hear the stories about what a fantastic human being (Harvey Longboat) was, what a good Native scholar he was, what a fine educator he was. I'm eternally grateful to him, his legacy and his family," she says.
Muse Isaacs is also thankful for the support she received from her graduate supervisor Daniel Coleman, McMaster's School of Graduate Studies and the Indigenous Studies program. She said that as a graduate student, she sometimes felt isolated on campus. Once she made the move for her fieldwork, the isolation became even more of a challenge.
"I wouldn't be where I am right now if not for all that support from McMaster. They believed in what I'm doing. When you're living far away from the home you know, it makes a difference knowing that people believe in you."
Muse Isaacs is settling into a new life, but she's not settling for status quo. Already, she's developing new courses. Coming soon is a course on Mi'kmaq literature Ð a first for Saint Mary's and a fitting choice as the university is located in traditional Mi'kmaq territory and attracts Mi'kmaq students. From time to time a bout of homesickness hits, but she believes this journey to Halifax is a destiny of sorts.
"This is where I'm supposed to be. This is where I can make a difference."
Celebrating excellence at the Graduate Student Recognition Awards
September 16, 2015
McMaster teaching assistant Madeleine Mant believes it's important to engage students in the classroom. That's why she aims to make every class just as exciting as the last.
It's a fitting aspiration for Mant, who is one of six winners of this year's Keith Leppmann Teaching Assistant Excellence Award.
She was joined by close to 150 students, supervisors and staff to celebrate the contributions of the graduate community at the 19th-annual Graduate Student Recognition Awards.
"I think it's very important that students are engaged in the material, but it's more than that. I want to inspire them to appreciate a subject even if it's not the area that they are most interested in" says the anthropology PhD candidate.
When she was called to the podium to accept her certificate, Mant was thrilled — and a little choked up.
"It's an incredible honour that felt a bit like winning a People's Choice Award. It sounds silly, but the idea that a student was moved enough by my instruction, and the style of instruction particularly, was very heartening.”
The GSA Keith Leppmann Teaching Assistant Excellence Award honours the contributions of teaching assistants (TA) to undergraduate education at McMaster.
Nominated by undergraduate students, the TA's are evaluated in numerous areas, from their enthusiasm for the subject to their communication skills.
Joining Mant for their important contributions as TA's are Khaled Al-Kassimi, Saranya Amirthamanoharan, Hadi Eslami, Nick Randazzo and Natashya Wall.
2015 Graduate Student Recognition Award recipients:
President's Award for Excellence in Graduate Supervision
Thomas Adams, Chemical Engineering
Mirna Carranza, School of Social Work
Rick Hackett, Management of Organizational Behaviour and Human Resources
Karin Humphreys, Department of Psychology, Neuroscience & Behaviour
Peter Rosenbaum, Rehabilitation Science
Lorraine York, English and Cultural Studies
The Dean's Award for Graduate Student Knowledge Mobilization and Innovation
Melissa Tanti
GSA Award for Contributions by Non-Academic Staff
Elaine Whiskin
Therese Quigley Award of Excellence for Graduate Student Leadership in Athletics
Aaron Bailey
Mary Keyes Award for Outstanding Leadership and Service to McMaster
Elyse Rosa
GSA Millennium Award for Community Service
Pei Yu
A-Rum Choi
The annual awards are coordinated by the McMaster Graduate Students Association (GSA) and the School of Graduate Studies.
How's my driving? Mac PhD finishes second in national automotive research competition
December 22, 2014
McMaster student Kinga Eliasz has finished second in the 2014 AUTO21 TestDRIVE competition.
She was recognized for her work to help develop an in-car recording system that uses GPS-technology to capture driving patterns and HD cameras to capture actual behaviour behind the wheel.
Eliasz, a PhD candidate in kinesiology, said this is the first study in the world that objectively quantifies driving behaviour in a comprehensive way to understand the older driver — a rapidly growing demographic.
"Kinga and I share a passion for enabling older adults to stay healthy and mobile for as long as possible" said Brenda Vrkljan, an associate professor in rehabilitation science and Eliasz's project supervisor.
Her research team develops evidence-based methods to keep older drivers safe behind the wheel for as long as possible.
"We were fortunate that Kinga came on board to assist with our project" said Vrkljan. "She has wonderful presentation and people skills, which helped her convey the importance of our research and its translation to tangible product.”
Read more about the team's work in The Hamilton Spectator: "McMaster pair keep seniors safe behind the wheel”
Harvey Longboat Graduate Scholarship will honour Indigenous scholars
May 26, 2010
McMaster students teach youth about science, salmon and sustainability
May 26, 2009
More than 100 students gathered at Burlington's Lowville Park to release salmon into Bronte Creek.
Earlier this month, volunteers from McMaster's Let's Talk Science Partnership Program (LTSPP) helped local students release over 200 Atlantic salmon into Bronte Creek as part of an effort to both increase salmon populations in Hamilton waters and get young people involved in science.
The release took place at Burlington's Lowville Park on May 15, with over 100 students from three different schools in attendance. Volunteers from LTSPP had been visiting the schools since February to teach youth about salmon, sustainability and the environment. With the help of undergraduate and graduate volunteers from McMaster, teachers and students learned how to raise the fish from eggs.
Although the reintroduction project contributes to the rehabilitation of the local environment, ultimately it exists just as much for the students as for the salmon.
"We have a chance to involve kids in science in a real hands-on and meaningful way," says Allison Sills, associate dean of science at McMaster. "Far too often science in elementary school can be stripped down to the memorization of inconsequential facts and that's not what science is all about."
Every year the McMaster group works with youth throughout Hamilton on a number of projects with the goal of inspiring Canada's next generation of scientists.
Coordinators say the project was a great success as an additional 30 youth were involved this year over last, thanks to a Promo Science grant awarded by the National Science and Engineering Council of Canada. Next year, LTSPP hopes that award funds will allow them to reach 60 more youth than this year.
For more information on the LTSPP, please visittheir website.
McMaster students receive prestigious Vanier scholarships
May 1, 2009
(Pictured left to right) Nikol Piskuric, Allison Sekuler, associate vice-president and dean of graduate studies at McMaster University, Vladimir Miskovic and Derek K. Chu.
Eight students from McMaster University have received the prestigious Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships, a new program introduced by the federal government to attract and retain world-class doctoral students and make this country a global leader in higher education research.
Gary Goodyear, Minister of State for Science and Technology made the announcement in Ottawa yesterday.
"The Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships Program demonstrates the federal government's ongoing commitment to attract and support the world's leading researchers,' says Peter George, president of McMaster University. "Not only does a program like this recognize the important role graduate work plays in shaping our society, but also provides a valuable tool to train our next generation of researchers."
"The fact that eight Vanier awards are coming to McMaster speaks to the incredible strength of graduate programs across our campus, and highlights the fact that we are attracting the best and the brightest into those programs," says Allison Sekuler, associate vice-president and dean of graduate studies at McMaster University. "These students have a real passion for their work, and it shows in everything they do."
A total of 166 scholarships, valued at $50,000 each, are to be awarded annually for up to three years. Canada's three federal granting agencies, Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) and Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) will administer the program.
Below is a list of winners from McMaster University:
CIHR Winning Recipients:
ï Beata Batorowicz, Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences
ï Derek K. Chu, Department of Pathology & Molecular Medicine, Faculty of Health Sciences
ï Suzanne E. Osborne, Department of Biochemistry & Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Health Sciences
ï Nghi Phan, Department of Medical Physics & Applied Radiation Sciences, Faculty of Science
NSERC Winning Recipients:
ï Vladimir Miskovic, McMaster Integrative Neuroscience & Discovery Graduate Program, Faculties of Science and Health Sciences
ï Nikol Piskuric, Department of Biology, Faculty of Science
SSHRC Winning Recipients:
ï Sandra Josephine Bortolin, Department of Sociology, Faculty of Social Sciences
ï Kate M. Mulligan, Department of Geography & Earth Sciences, Faculties of Science, and Social Sciences
Grad student recognized for work on groundwater remediation
March 27, 2009
Kevin Mumford, a PhD candidate in civil engineering, was recently recognized for his work in groundwater remediation. Photo courtesy of engineering.
It seems so bountiful that many take it for granted. Not Kevin Mumford. He understands that water is a precious resource that needs to be nurtured in order to sustain life and the societies we've developed around it.
Mumford, who will graduate this spring with a PhD in civil engineering, was recently recognized by his peers and colleagues with a series of awards for his work in groundwater remediation.
It began with a win at the 2008 southern Ontario graduate student presentation competition organized by the Canadian Geotechnical Society. Mumford then moved on to the national competition, which he won. Capping it off, Mumford was invited to present his doctoral research to the hydrology section of the American Geophysical Union fall meeting in San Francisco, where he was presented with an outstanding student paper award.
"It's nice to have engineers winning communications awards," said Mumford. "It's important that engineers are able to communicate highly technical work."
Mumford's research is focused on identifying contaminants polluting groundwater and finding ways to address problems encountered. Specifically, he studies remediation of non-aqueous phase liquids, such as gasoline, PCBs, creosote, and chlorinated solvents such as degreasers and dry cleaning fluid.
"It's about understanding the chemistry and physics of how contaminants behave," said Mumford. "You can't see the problem since the water is underground so you're trying to find out what is there, how it moves and how to address it."
Mumford credits several people at McMaster for assisting him with his research, in particular his PhD co-advisors Sarah Dickson, assistant professor of civil engineering, and Jim Smith, associate professor in the School of Geography and Earth Sciences.
"Sarah and Jim are internationally known, I was familiar with their work, and they came highly recommended," explained Mumford on his decision to pursue PhD studies at McMaster.
Prior to enrolling for the PhD program, Mumford was working for an environmental engineering consulting firm on projects throughout North America. He earned his B.A.Sc. in Environmental Engineering-Chemical Branch and Master's of Civil Engineering from the University of Waterloo. He is currently working on an NSERC post-doctoral fellowship at the University of Western Ontario, commuting from Hamilton.
"Kevin is exceptionally talented in his communication, academic and interpersonal skills," said Dickson. "This is a very rare combination, and both Jim and I feel very lucky to have had the opportunity to supervise him."
Mumford has his sights set on an academic career in order to combine teaching and research. While studying at McMaster, he was awarded the Graduate Student Association Teaching Assistant Excellence Award in 2005 in recognition of his contributions to undergraduate education.
McMaster partners with Maastricht University to produce health leaders of tomorrow
March 18, 2009
Andrea Baumann, associate vice-president, International Health, McMaster University. File photo.
International bodies such as the United Nations, the World Economic Forum and the G-8 have made the improvement of global health a priority. Dr. Jong-wook Lee, former director-general of the World Health Organization, has said that "in the face of today's global challenges of poverty, inequities, disease and epidemics, there is an increasing demand for dynamic health leaders with sound technical skills."
To meet these global needs effectively, McMaster University and Maastricht University in the Netherlands - internationally respected in health sciences, social sciences and business - are partnering in the development of an innovative Masters in Global Health degree program. Graduates of the program are expected to become the much-needed health leaders of tomorrow.
The 12-month program officially begins this September (upon Ontario Council on Graduate Studies approval) with a maximum of 25 students admitted each year at McMaster and another 50 at Maastricht. Student exchanges between the two universities will take place during the winter term.
"The foundation courses will be delivered simultaneously at McMaster and Maastricht. At both institutions, graduate students will have the opportunity to learn from guest lecturers who are well-known experts in global health and to study in small groups as both McMaster and Maastricht are highly regarded internationally for their focus on small group, problem-based learning," said Andrea Baumann, associate vice-president, International Health, McMaster University.
At McMaster, the program includes globalization and development, global health management and global diseases. Maastricht will offer a program on implementing innovations on a global scale and an epidemiology/field methodology program. The program is designed to provide students with a solid foundation in global health issues.
Students will take their first term (September - December) at their "home" institution. During the winter/spring term (January - April) students have the option of travelling to their sister institution or staying "home." At the end of the winter term, all students from McMaster and Maastricht join in a three-to-four week learning symposium and field orientation in Hamilton or Maastricht or on site in a developing or underdeveloped country. Students return to their "home" institutions to complete their final research reports.
For more information about the program, please visit: http://fhs.mcmaster.ca/global_health_masters/.
Trades establish $1-million heavy-construction chair at McMaster
March 11, 2009
(Front Row, L to R) Joe Mancinelli, Laborers' International Union of North America, Local 837; Wendy Fountain, John Deere Foundation Canada; Jon Brown, Hamilton and District Heavy Construction Association; Paul Shewfelt, Mechanical Contractors Association - Hamilton; Mike Gallagher, International Union of Operating Engineers; Gerry Mulhern, Ontario Concrete Pipe Association; (Back Row, L to R) David Wilkinson, dean of the Faculty of Engineering; President Peter George. Photo courtesy of the Faculty of Engineering.
Twelve organizations in the heavy construction industry have pledged $1,127,500 over five years to establish an endowed chair at McMaster University. It is believed to be the first such chair in Canada.
Among the key duties of the chair will be to provide leadership in advancing innovation in the heavy-construction sector, attracting and developing talent, and contributing to the advancement of a modern and durable infrastructure in Ontario.
"This chair is a vital step in ensuring strong growth and a progressive future of our industry," said Jon Brown, president of the Hamilton and District Heavy Construction Association. Brown, along with Leo Laviolette who was general manager of the Association at the time, initiated the endeavour.
The organizations involved include: Hamilton and District Heavy Construction Association, Ontario Road Builders' Association, Ontario Sewer and Watermain Construction Association, John Deere Foundation of Canada, Ministry of Transportation Ontario, Laborers International Union of North America - Ontario Provincial District Council, Mechanical Contractors Association - Hamilton, International Union of Operating Engineers Local 793, Ontario Concrete Pipe Association, Greater Toronto Sewer and Watermain Contractors Association, Battlefield Equipment Rentals The Cat Rental Store, and the Heavy Construction Association of Toronto.
"We need to develop more intelligent infrastructure," said Ghani Razaqpur, chair, Department of Civil Engineering at McMaster. "That means more efficient, safer, and greener construction methods. It means longer lasting, sustainable infrastructure that needs less maintenance. But we need to attract and develop a pool of highly qualified engineers and engineering technicians who can provide the leadership and management skills to make it happen."
The chair in heavy construction will have an academic appointment in the Department of Civil Engineering at McMaster with instruction responsibilities at the undergraduate and graduate levels, as well as in the McMaster-Mohawk Bachelor of Technology civil engineering technology program.
Heavy construction includes the development of transportation networks such as roads, bridges, and harbor facilities; municipal infrastructure such as water supply and sewer systems; and the sustainable supply of power such as hydro-electric facilities.
Province commits to graduate expansion
March 2, 2009
Allison Sekuler, associate vice-president and dean of Graduate Studies. File Photo.
More than 330 new graduate student spaces are being created at McMaster as part of the province of Ontario's new investment in graduate expansion.
John Milloy, minister of Training, Colleges and Universities announced the province is committing $52-million to create nearly 3,300 new spaces over the next three years at Ontario's universities.
At McMaster, a total of 338 new graduate spots will be created in both Master's and PhD programs, representing an investment of about $5.25-million to McMaster's graduate programs.
"Graduate expansion is of critical importance to McMaster and is one of our strategic goals in Refining Directions," says president Peter George. "With this investment, we will be able to meet anticipated student demand while supporting research and innovation that will fuel our economic recovery."
In announcing the expansion, Milloy said there will be a strong return on the investment. The government estimates that seven out of 10 new jobs created in Ontario over the next decade will require post-secondary education or training.
"Ontario's highly skilled work force is our province's greatest asset," he said. "By helping more Ontarians pursue higher education we can strengthen our economy and attract the kind of jobs and investment that will build prosperity for all Ontario families."
Allison Sekuler, McMaster's associate vice-president and dean of Graduate Studies says the provincial investment will have an significant impact on campus and highlights McMaster's contribution to cultural, social, and economic prosperity.
"We've seen increased interest in graduate studies across the entire University compared to this time last year, with increases in application rates as high as 30 per cent in areas such as Engineering and our MBA program," she says. "The allocation of 338 new graduate spaces enables McMaster to meet this rising demand by developing and growing new programs, and continuing to build our traditional areas of excellence in research and graduate training."
Combined with previously allocated spots for graduate expansion, McMaster plans to increase graduate enrollment by more than 530 students over the next three years, resulting in overall growth to graduate programs of nearly 70 per cent since the expansion program began in 2002.
McMaster alumna named emerging explorer
February 18, 2009
McMaster alumna Beverly Goodman has been named an Emerging Explorer by National Geographic.
What does it take to be recognized by one of today's best-known geographic magazines? Being at the forefront of your research career, being adventurous with your research and studying uncharted territory are all required - and receiving your PhD from McMaster University certainly helps.
Beverly Goodman, who earned her PhD from the School of Geography and Earth Sciences, has been named an Emerging Explorer byNational Geographicmagazine. The program recognizes and supports uniquely gifted and inspiring adventurers, scientists, photographers and storytellers who are making a significant contribution to world knowledge through exploration, while still early in their careers. Each Emerging Explorer receives an award of $10,000 to assist with their research and to aid further exploration.
Goodman was recognized for her work exploring the complex ways nature and humans interact on coastlines, more specifically, the causes and frequency of tsunami events. Her fieldwork centred in Caesarea, Israel where her team discovered evidence that proves a tsunami struck the ancient harbour sometime in the first or second century A.D., which may have caused its destruction. Up until this point, the lack of physical evidence contradicted what was written in historical texts - showing that relying on texts alone can be unreliable.
Goodman studied at McMaster from 2001 to 2006 under the primary supervision of professors Eduard Reinhardt and Henry Schwarcz in the School of Geography and Earth Sciences. She credits her supervisors with being the biggest part of her experience at McMaster.
"Overall, it was a great place to do my PhD because of the equipment and support available there," stated Goodman. "Also, the quality of life for graduate students was much better than what I have seen and experienced at many American universities."
At the moment, Goodman is in the middle of the Red Sea as a researcher for the Interuniversity for Marine Sciences. For the future, Goodman is considering different options for tenure track academic positions, and plans to continue to work on coastal environment questions that are relevant in both archaeological and modern contexts.
"Working with Beverly, I knew she would go on to great things," says Reinhardt. "Everyone in the School is proud of the research she is doing and excited to see where it will take her next."
Harvey Longboat Graduate Scholarship will honour Indigenous scholars
January 1, 2009
McMaster's School of Graduate Studies has announced a new scholarship to encourage Indigenous undergraduate students to study at the graduate level. Students from First Nation, Inuit and Métis communities will be eligible for the $15,000 scholarship, named after Six Nation's educator and Cayuga chief Harvey Longboat. The first award will be made for the 2010-2011 academic year.
TA Day helps students become better instructors
September 2, 2008
Twenty-eight years ago, a survey of McMaster undergraduate students indicated a need for improved instruction by teaching assistants. In response, the Centre for Leadership in Learning (CLL) created TA Day, a one-day series of workshops addressing the challenges teaching assistants face when interacting with undergraduate students.
In the years since, TA Day has proven to be a highly valued component of a teaching assistant's learning experience, and evidence of McMaster's continued commitment to excellence in education. This year, TA Day will take place in the Burke Science Building on Wednesday, Sept. 3.
"In 2008, we are focusing even more than ever on topics that teaching assistants have identified as being the most important areas of concern," says TA Day coordinator Paul Szego.
The workshops will cover topics such as Stimulating Discussions, Making Effective Presentations, The First Tutorial and Teaching in a Different Culture. Each workshop is led by members of the McMaster T.A. Network, comprised of graduate students who have been identified as leaders in teaching and instruction.
"The great advantage of having T.A. Network members run the workshop is that these individuals embody the qualities aspired to by most instructors," says Szego. "They are some of the most enthusiastic and dedicated teaching assistants at McMaster, but they also remember that they were once new and nervous TA's -- just like many of our attendees, who want to learn how to become great instructors."
In addition to these instructional workshops, professors from across the University will also be discussing the topic, What Do TAs Actually Do? This workshop consists of a frank round-table discussion about expectations and responsibilities from the professors' point-of-view.
"TA Day is important because it gives us an opportunity to welcome the new teaching assistants to the University, while providing them with the information and the skills that they will need to contribute to the high-quality education we offer to our undergraduate students. It also allows returning TAs to hone those skills," says Peter Smith, associate vice-president (academic).
This year, TA Day will be a more intimate event, focusing on pedagogy as a student-instructor with smaller group sizes for increased interaction between audience and speakers.
Free workshops take place in the morning, with many departments hosting specific events in the afternoon. The day's activities end with a party at the Phoenix Restaurant and Bar. Anyone interested in attending the free workshops can find more information, including registration, atwww.mcmaster.ca/cll. Please note that registration is online only.
Anthropologist leaves gift, legacy to students days before her death
July 2, 2008
Shelly Saunders made a donation to establish the Shelly Saunders Scholarship in Anthropology before her death in May 2008. File photo.
The legacy of internationally renowned anthropology professor Shelley Saunders, who spent her career teaching students how to solve the mysteries of the past, will be carried on thanks to a $547,250 gift to build the best anthropology program in the country.
Saunders died of cancer in May of this year, but days before her death, made the donation to establish the Shelley Saunders Scholarships in Anthropology, a lasting legacy for graduate students to give them the tools and resources they need to be the great thinkers and scientific detectives of our time.
"Shelley loved her students," says her husband, Victor Koloshuk. "She particularly loved mentoring them and working very closely with them. She believed McMaster's success as an international institution in anthropology meant attracting young, bright students and this gift would help them greatly."
The formal announcement of Saunders' gift will be made Thursday, November 6 at 5 p.m. before a room full of her friends and colleagues, in the West Ballroom at the Sheraton Hotel in Hamilton. Earlier in the day, the Annual Meeting for the Canadian Association for Physical Anthropology, which is being held at the same venue, will pay tribute to her life's work in a special symposium.
"Shelley was a leader in the field of skeletal biology and physical anthropology, and certainly a leader at McMaster," says Peter George, president of the University. "She was admired for her innovative teaching methods and research skills, and her clear-eyed approach to her work. She distinguished herself academically: as the first biological anthropologist to be elected to the prestigious Royal Society of Canada, and to receive a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair. This donation is a bittersweet one for us; we are truly grateful for such a generous gift, and deeply saddened that we cannot share this occasion with Shelley in person."
Saunders was instrumental in the development of research at McMaster University. She initiated the Children and Childhood in Human Societies research network, founded and established the McMaster Ancient DNA Centre, and directed the expansion of the McMaster Anthropology Hard Tissue and Light Microscopy Laboratory.
Saunders was also frequently called upon by local police to lend her expertise and help solve difficult forensic cases. Under her tutelage, Saunders' students also flourished. Some of them worked on high profile investigations, including the Robert Pickton investigation in British Columbia.
"Shelley's life was anthropology and delving into the past," says Koloshuk. "It is my hope that this gift might be something the students will rally around, that it will help get them really involved and bring them together for a common cause. Hopefully this is just the beginning."
Szeman honoured for excellence in graduate supervision
March 25, 2008
Imre Szeman, associate professor in the Department of English & Cultural Studies.
When Imre Szeman meets with his graduate students, he learns as much from them as they do from him.
"Working with graduate students keeps my own ideas fresh," said Szeman, associate professor in the Department of English & Cultural Studies. "Grad students are always on top of the latest ideas and developments in the scholarly world."
Szeman received the President's Award of Excellence for Graduate Supervision at the Graduate Students Recognition Day on March 18.
"I feel extremely honoured to receive the award, especially since my students nominated me for it," said Szeman. "I take my role as graduate supervisor extremely seriously and try to do what I can to make sure that my students have an interesting and rewarding time while they are in graduate school at McMaster."
He added that he enjoys helping graduate students build their confidence as writers and researchers.
"It can be daunting to begin work in areas of scholarly research in which, inevitably, a great deal has already been written. I like helping my students come to a realization that they have something unique and original to contribute, and that through their hard work they can become part of the community of scholars that have preceded them."
Graduate Students Recognition Day celebrates excellence
March 13, 2008
The McMaster University community is invited to attend the 12th Annual Graduate Students Recognition Day on Tuesday, March 18 in Convocation Hall. The reception starts at 5:30 p.m. followed by the Awards Ceremony at 6:30 p.m.
The event represents a collaborative effort between the Graduate Students Association (GSA) and the School of Graduate Studies to celebrate the contributions of graduate students to innovation and discovery at McMaster.
Graduate students help McMaster achieve its academic mission. The award categories honour graduate student excellence in research communication, teaching assistance, and leadership in athletics and community service.
The contributions of graduate faculty and non-academic staff are acknowledged with the President's Awards for Excellence in Graduate Supervision and the GSA Award for Contributions by Non-Academic Staff.
Kinesiology doctoral student wins research award
February 4, 2008
As an elite cyclist, Naomi Cermak is aware of the latest trends in sports nutrition. To help distinguish fact from fiction, the doctoral student in kinesiology can rely on her own award-winning research.
Last weekend, Cermak won the Graduate Student Award at the Ontario Exercise Physiology meeting in Barrie for her project,Protein-carbohydrate ingestion does not alter selected markers of skeletal muscle metabolism during exercise in trained cyclists.
The study addressed a controversial topic in athletic circles, namely, whether adding protein to a typical carbohydrate sports drink improves performance. Some sports nutrition companies have heavily marketed protein-laced sports drinks as the next magic bullet, but Cermak's research disputes such claims.
Cermak explained that her work was interesting from both an applied and basic science perspective.
"While this study has practical relevance for endurance athletes, our laboratory is fundamentally interested in the regulation of substrate metabolism, or the way in which the body converts fuels into energy," she said.
It is the second year in a row that one of associate professor Martin Gibala's students returned home with the top prize. The Department of Kinesiology was particularly well represented at this year's meeting. Michael DeLisio, a doctoral student supervised by Gibala's colleague Gianni Parise, was also a finalist for the 2008 award.
"We are fortunate to work with a group of very talented students," said Gibala, "and it is rewarding to see their efforts recognized in a provincial competition."