SMU-TRIUMF Research on Rare Isotope of Helium Challenges Traditional Rule of Nuclear Structure

L-R: Sebastien Roy-Garand (SMU Undergrad student), Preetinder Jassal (SMU Ph.D. student), Greg Hackman (TRIUMF Scientist), Dr. Rituparna Kanungo (IRIS project leader & SMU Professor), Matthias Holl (SMU-TRIUMF IRIS PDF), Conor Waterfield (SMU student). Photo credit: TRIUMF.

From the wood in your desk to the stars in the sky, atoms and their inner core – the nuclei – are building blocks of the matter we see around us. Yet the traditional knowledge of the structure inside an atomic nucleus might need rethinking, according to new findings from Saint Mary's University researchers.

“This new finding challenges our traditional knowledge of nuclear shells, the onion-like structure inside a nucleus that organizes the building blocks of visible matter in our universe,” says Dr. Rituparna Kanungo, principal investigator of the research, IRIS project leader and Professor at Saint Mary’s University.

A recent paper by Dr. Kanungo, IRIS post-doctoral research fellow Matthias Holl, and the IRIS collaboration team of national and international scientists combines high-precision and high-statistics experimental data gathered with the Saint Mary’s University-led IRIS facility, and theoretical calculations by TRIUMF’s Theory Department and international teams, to unveil an unexpected shape deformation in the heaviest helium isotope, Helium-8 (He8).  

"These results were only possible to obtain due to the unique capabilities of the IRIS station,” said Matthias Holl, IRIS post-doctoral research fellow. “They show that unexpected phenomena can occur even in the lightest neutron-rich nuclei."

Our understanding of the stability of the elements is founded in a model of how protons and neutrons in their nuclei combine to stay bound, the so-called “shell model” of nuclear structure.  As the elements in the universe are largely formed in the nuclear furnaces of stars, the modern shell model theory has extremely important predictions both for the relative abundance of elements in the universe, and for the stability of stars to evolve, collapse or even explode.  

This shell model properly predicts that the most abundant and strongly bound elements are those containing certain particular “magic” numbers of protons and/or neutrons. The current understanding of the shell model implies that nuclei with magic numbers of protons or neutrons have spherically shaped distributions of those neutrons or protons.  

This assumption underlies much modelling of how elements are created in stars. Isotopes made with a very high numbers of neutrons relative to protons are unstable, and must eventually decay down to become less neutron-rich, and thus more stable.   

But it remains unclear whether this traditional, relatively simple, shell model description can be applied for nuclei of all elements. For example, what if we consider elements that contain lots more neutrons than protons? The new investigation led by Holl and Kanungo considered Helium-8 which has three times as many neutrons as protons, nature's most neutron-rich nucleus known till date. A new magic number seemingly appears for this, with the lowest two conventional magic numbers being 2 and 8, and He8 having 2 protons and 6 neutrons. The result: the distribution of neutrons was not spherical as expected! Instead, the neutrons were distributed more like a rugby-ball.  This calls into question parts of the current theory of how elements might be created and destroyed in stars, since this theory relies on the shell model and its spherical magic-number nuclei. We don’t fully understand how we’ve come to see the distribution in abundance of all elements in the Universe, and so we know there’s more to be discovered – this new shape measurement of He8 may be giving a clue towards some of our missing understanding.

Matthias Holl, IRIS post doc. in Dr. Kanungo’s team and lead author said ,“These results were only possible to obtain due to the unique capabilities of the IRIS station. They show that unexpected phenomena can occur even in the lightest neutron-rich nuclei.”

"This intriguing result about the shape of such a light, yet extremely neutron-rich, isotope is providing a new and important contribution to our understanding of how all of the elements in the universe were created in just the relative amounts we observe” said Dr. Adam Sarty, Associate Vice-President Research at Saint Mary’s University. “Coming to a clearer understanding of why the universe contains just exactly the relative abundances that we observe will rest on improving our understanding of whether the simple shell model can be used when nuclei have extreme compositions – and, if not, understanding how to adjust that model.”

“The finding begs further questions on the nature of the new sub-shell closures in neutron-rich nuclei,” said Dr. Kanungo. “This has the potential to influence and inform new understanding on the properties of heavy neutron-rich nuclei that create nature's heavy elements.”

“Nuclear shells are imprinted in nature in the abundance pattern of elements. They govern how nature creates matter through nuclear reactions and decays. The nuclear burning of the heavy neutron-rich nuclei creates the majority of the heavy elements such as gold, silver, platinum, and uranium, that we find on Earth.”

“Our work with Helium-8 is at the international forefront of research in nuclear structure, with Saint Mary’s University as the lead institution,” says Dr. Kanungo. “TRIUMF and the IRIS facility gives a huge opportunity to Saint Mary’s students at all levels, from undergraduate to graduate, to be a part of world-leading research. I look forward with excitement in anticipation of what the future holds with the confluence of ARIEL, CANREB and IRIS at TRIUMF together with our international team.”

The research paper, titled Proton inelastic scattering reveals deformation in helium-8, was published in November 2021 in Physics Letters B. The team’s next steps will be further investigation on the Helium-8 with different reaction probes, as well as exploring the heavy neutron-rich terra incognita.

Looking for more on the Helium-8 findings of the IRIS group? Click here to read more from TRIUMF.

Pet Photos: A Key to Successful Online Dating for Men According to New Study

Dr. Maryanne Fisher

They say a picture is worth a thousand words and in the case of a new research study from Saint Mary’s University, the right picture may be worth a lifetime of love.  The research shows that women see men who care for pets and children as good potential long-term partners, says evolutionary psychologist Dr. Maryanne Fisher.  

The recent study, published in the journal Evolutionary Psychological Science by Saint Mary’s University's Mackenzie Zinck, Dr. Laura Weir, and Dr. Fisher, shows that men who care for dependents are perceived as high-quality mates, displaying the ability to invest in a long-term mate. This investment may be exhibited through financial and social status, and the ability to care for a mate and any resulting children. 

Online dating profiles were used to test the prediction, and as expected, men seeking long-term mates displayed dependents — primarily dogs and children— more than men seeking short-term mates, but both men and women seeking long-term mates displayed dependents similarly. Men, though, showed more dogs while women showed more children.  

“The inclusion of dependents represents a way for daters to advertise that they can, and are willing to, invest in a living being,” said Dr. Fisher.  “Men’s photos are really telling. Those interested in short-term relationships showed their body, their fancy trucks, the big fish they caught in the summer. Meanwhile, those seeking a relationship posted photos with their dogs and children. Whether or not women show the same difference remains to be seen. There weren’t many women dating online in the summer of 2020 openly advertising that they were seeking short-term relationships only.” 

Dr. Maryanne Fisher, a researcher and professor of Psychology at Saint Mary’s, is an expert on the evolutionary foundations of human interpersonal relationships. Her primary research areas include the evolutionary foundations of human interpersonal relationships and women's mating strategies and indicators of female physical attractiveness. 

Dr. Fisher recently discussed the study in an article she wrote for the Conversation.

The Circular Economy, Sustainability, and Transformation Focus of Third Annual Sobey School Responsible Leadership Day

Unprecedented demand for goods and services, supply chain strain, and actions related to climate change are all important factors that require transformation according to an emerging economic model. This model, called the Circular Economy, is the focus of the third annual Sobey School of Business’s Responsible Leadership event at Saint Mary’s University.

“The circular economy model is an emerging response to our most pressing challenges,” says David Runnalls, the event’s keynote speaker and a Distinguished Fellow with the International Institute for Sustainable Development (IISD). “It provides governments, businesses and consumers with an approach to maximize value and eliminate waste by improving, and in some cases transforming, how goods and services are designed, manufactured and used.”

 The Sobey School of Business’s Responsible Leadership event, Circular Economy: The Economy For the Future? takes place this Friday, Nov. 5, 2021, from 8:45 a.m. to 11: 45 a.m. AST. Registration is available to attend in-person or online at www.smu.ca/responsibleleadership. This event aligns with the United Nations’ Principles for Responsible Management Education (PRME), of which the Sobey School is a 2020-2022 PRME Champion.   

“The circular economy presents an enormous challenge for Canadian business since most of our exports are in resource and energy consumptive sectors,” adds Runnalls. “But it also offers numerous opportunities for enterprises, large and small. We will examine how companies and supportive government policies can take advantage of these opportunities.”  

In addition to the keynote, the event features a panel discussion with business and community members called The Circular Economy: Opportunities and challenges for Atlantic Canada, a sustainable development goals showcase, and student challenge called Rethink, React, Remodel, The Circular Economy Challenge.

 “The Sobey School of Business wants to be a driver of innovation, exemplified by this year’s focus on progressive, forward-thinking models such as the Circular Economy,” says Dr. Margaret McKee, Associate Dean with the Sobey School of Business. “This event brings top Canadian economists and policy analysts together with top researchers, business leaders and students to discuss the challenges of today and work towards a more prosperous and inclusive future.”

Celebrated Business Leader, Mental Health Advocate, and Philanthropist to Receive Honorary Degree from Saint Mary’s University

Michael H. McCain

Celebrated business leader, mental health advocate, and philanthropist Michael H. McCain will receive the highest honour Saint Mary's University can bestow, an honorary degree. 

"Home to the Sobey School of Business, the largest business school in Atlantic Canada, Saint Mary's University is a national leader in teaching and studying ethical and values-based business practices and community engagement. These themes are essential to a bright, inclusive and sustainable future," says Saint Mary's University President Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray. "It is our honour to recognize the accomplishments of a leading Canadian business leader who focuses on ethical and sustainable business practices and is known for his philanthropy and advocacy for enhancing food security and mental health services—Michael H. McCain." 

Michael H. McCain is President and Chief Executive Officer of Maple Leaf Foods, one of Canada’s flagship food companies, with sales of $4.3 billion and employing approximately 13,500 people in Canada and the United States. McCain has devoted his career to the food industry, starting at McCain Foods in the late 1970s, where he held a variety of roles, including president and chief executive officer of McCain Foods USA. He joined Maple Leaf Foods in 1995. Since then, he has been instrumental in establishing Maple Leaf as a strong and sustainable, values-based company with leading brands and market share across its businesses and a bold vision for the future.

“I am deeply honoured to receive this Doctor of Commerce from the Sobey School of Business.  It is particularly meaningful given that we share so many values in terms of business ethics, sustainability and food security,” says McCain. “As we move forward into a new decade changed by recent worldwide events, the next generation of business and community leaders will light our way forward. I am confident that we are in great hands.”

McCain and his team at Maple Leaf Foods are deeply committed to being the global leader in sustainable proteins, reflected in ambitious goals to improve nutrition, reduce antibiotic use in livestock, enhance animal care, advance environmental sustainability, and reduce food insecurity nationally and globally. McCain is a director of McCain Capital and Maple Leaf Foods. He is a member of the Richard Ivey School of Business Advisory Board, the Business Council of Canada, and the Centre for Addiction and Mental Health Foundation. He is also the honorary chairman of the Maple Leaf Centre for Action on Food Security.

McCain will receive his honorary Doctor of Commerce later this month at the university’s fall convocation ceremony.

Saint Mary’s University Launches Tuition Waiver for Former Youth in Care

Saint Mary’s University is joining the growing list of post-secondary institutions across Nova Scotia which are reducing barriers to education for students who have lived in the care of the provincial child welfare system and associated services.  

“Education is a driving force for change in the lives of every student who enters our doors,” says Saint Mary’s University President Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray. “Each year, we commit almost $9 million in scholarships and bursaries to support students, and we are continually looking for new ways to reduce barriers to scholarship. I am proud to be extending this new opportunity to youth formerly in the care of the province.”  

Students who are eligible for the Saint Mary’s University Post-Care Tuition Waiver Program will receive a bursary that covers up to 100 percent of their tuition and course fees. Applications will open later this fall and will be retroactive to the beginning of the Fall 2021 semester.    

“For people who grew up in care like me, access to post-secondary studies is a game changer,” said Jane Kovarikova, Founder of Child Welfare PAC Canada and PhD Candidate at Western. “I am so grateful to Saint Mary’s for joining the movement to ensure brighter futures for current and former foster kids.”  

The Saint Mary’s University Post-Care Tuition Waiver Program supports individuals who have lived in care for at least one year in the Nova Scotia child welfare system; Mi’kmaw Family and Children’s Services of Nova Scotia; and the Nova Scotia Home for Colored Children as defined by the Children and Family Services Act, 2017. It also supports those who have received services through the Department of Community Services, Youth Services Program. Additional criteria can be found here.  

Members of the Saint Mary’s University community who are interested in supporting this program through a philanthropic gift can contribute here.  

New SMU Scholarship Celebrates Diversity Excellence

The Diversity Excellence Award recipients with donors Scott McCain and Leslie McLean, Charimsa Grace Walker, Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, and Board Chair Larry Freeman

Saint Mary's University is proud to announce a new scholarship for Black and Indigenous students – the Scott McCain and Leslie McLean Diversity Excellence Award.

Made possible by a $500,000 gift from philanthropists Scott McCain and Leslie McLean, the awards are available to full-time undergraduate Indigenous or Black students with financial need. This generous investment was made to Saint Mary’s most ambitious campaign in history - A World Without Limits: The Campaign for Saint Mary’s University, bringing the total amount of funds devoted to diversity excellence scholarships and bursaries to over one million dollars.

"Saint Mary's University celebrates the importance and impact of diverse perspectives," says Saint Mary's University President Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray. "This new scholarship is about creating space for possibility and potential, and it does so through increasing access to post-secondary educations for Black and Indigenous communities. I want to thank Scott and Leslie for their generous gift that will support students from these communities in attending and thriving at Saint Mary's as we work together toward a World without limits."

"Leslie and I both recognize the importance a high-quality education can make in the lives of Canadians, and we want to help reduce barriers to post-secondary education," says Scott McCain.

Every year, eight students will receive the Scott McCain and Leslie McLean Diversity Excellence Award of $2,500 each, which is renewable up to and including the student's fourth year of study. Students can be enrolled in any faculty or program at Saint Mary's. Students must be Canadian citizens or permanent residents of Canada, with a preference for students who are from Atlantic Canada.

"Saint Mary's University has shown a commitment to ensuring access and support to post-secondary learning for Black and Indigenous students, and this award will help further that commitment by providing direct assistance to students," says Leslie McLean.

First-year psychology student Teannah McMullen is one of the recipients of this year’s award. "Without this support, I wouldn’t have been able to afford university or had the opportunity to attend Saint Mary’s," says Teannah. "Thank you, Scott and Leslie, for helping me make my dream of studying at Saint Mary’s come true."

Charisma Grace Walker, the African Nova Scotian/Black Student and Community Liaison at Saint Mary's University, is grateful for the new diversity awards, which will help increase access to education for Black and Indigenous students. "Receiving a diversity excellence award can truly change a student's life," says Walker. "Awards like this one can break down barriers to university and create a sense of community and support on campus. It can also alleviate financial worries for students, which enables them to focus on their studies and achieve their goals."

Scott McCain and Leslie McLean with award recipient Brooke Barker and her mother Sonya

Award recipient Paige Carvery, who gave brief remarks at the announcement event on September 1, with her family

Leslie McLean and award recipient Madison Bond

Scott McCain meeting award recipient Teannah McMullen and her mother Shawna

Scott chatting with SMUSA VP Advocacy Kyle Cook and SMUSA President and CEO Franklyn Southwell

The Honourable Margaret Norrie McCain, Scott’s mother, chatting with the Honourable Myra Freeman and Board Chair Larry Freeman

The Diversity Excellence Award recipients with donors Scott McCain and Leslie McLean, Charimsa Grace Walker, Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, and Board Chair Larry Freeman

News release: New SMU Scholarship Supports Aspiring Writers of African Nova Scotia Descent

Floyd Kane BA'92, on the set of the show he created, DIggstown.

Saint Mary's University is launching an innovative new scholarship to support aspiring writers of African descent upon graduation.  

"I know the challenges and barriers that face aspiring writers of African Nova Scotian descent because that’s my lived experience," says Floyd Kane BA'92, the person behind this generous philanthropic gift. "This award is named in honour of my mother and aunt—two women who supported my dreams from the beginning.  I am proud to have the opportunity to pass along that support to the next generation of African Nova Scotian writers via an award that bears their name." 

The Edna and Velma Thomas Kane Writers Award has three main goals. To mitigate the burden of financial debt and insecurity for undergraduate students of African Nova Scotian descent in the Faculty of Arts. To support them in pursuing further post-secondary studies or training such as internships, apprenticeships, self-directed projects. And lastly, to advance their aspirations for careers in writing. The award recipient will receive $30,000 in support of these goals.

"Saint Mary's recognizes the importance of diverse voices and perspectives in all fields of research and study, including the creative arts and industries," says Saint Mary's University President Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray. "Writing and storytelling are essential tools for sharing our province's unique histories and experiences. This award will help us support African Nova Scotian students by reducing financial barriers as they embark on their next steps toward careers in writing. We are committed to creating possibilities for our students at Saint Mary's, celebrating their creative talents, and working together toward a World without limits."   

A member of the Saint Mary's University Board of Governors, Kane is a successful writer, filmmaker and television producer with numerous projects shot internationally – and in Nova Scotia, such as the feature film Across the Line (2014) and current hit TV series Diggstown, airing nationally on CBC-TV and soon in the U.S. on the FOX network. Kane grew up in East Preston and currently resides in Toronto. He was inspired to establish the award as a result of seeing talented fellow African Nova Scotian writers face challenges in pursuing careers in the arts and culture sectors due to barriers such as limited access to financial support.

The Edna and Velma Thomas Kane Writers Award is available for applications this academic year. For details and the online award application form, see Faculty of Arts Awards and Funding.

Saint Mary’s University Appoints New Dean of the Faculty of Arts

Dr. Mary I. Ingraham

Saint Mary's University is pleased to announce the appointment of Dr. Mary I. Ingraham to the position of Dean, Faculty of Arts, Saint Mary's University, effective October 1, 2021.     

"I am honoured to announce the appointment of Dr. Mary I. Ingraham as the new Dean of the Faculty of Arts," says Saint Mary's University President Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray. "I look forward to Dr. Ingraham continuing to advance the position of Saint Mary's Faculty of Arts in our region as a preferred destination for students, faculty and staff engaged in high quality scholarship, teaching and research that explores and advances our World without limits.”   

Dr. Ingraham comes to Saint Mary's University by way of the University of Lethbridge, where she was the Dean of Fine Arts. Previously, Dr. Ingraham served as the Director of the Sound Studies Institute at the University of Alberta. While there, she also served as a Professor of Musicology for 16 years.    

"I am inspired by Saint Mary's commitment to equity and diversity as well as the Faculty of Arts' active participation in intercultural community engagement. The relationships and reciprocity students and faculty experience through interdisciplinary practices across SMU’s programs are invaluable in the development of strong global citizenship," says Dr. Ingraham. "I look forward to building upon the efforts of the university's faculty, students and staff to promote diversity, equity and inclusion and advance the importance and growth of Arts education for today's students and society."    

Born and raised in Nova Scotia, Dr. Ingraham's career began with a love of music, beginning with the piano at age three. From that early passion, a life and career dedicated to music and the arts began. While completing her Bachelor of Music in Piano Performance at Mount Allison University, Dr. Ingraham's focus shifted to German  literature and music history, earning a master's degree at the University of Victoria and a doctorate at the University of Nottingham in the United Kingdom. Her research is interdisciplinary in nature, emphasizing cultural studies and considering issues of ethnicity, race, gender and spirituality in identity studies.   

Dr. Ingraham and her husband David Owen, a professional oboist, are looking forward to returning to Nova Scotia after many years away from home. They will arrive in Halifax this fall, and she will assume her new role as dean this semester. 
 

Saint Mary’s University Enacts New COVID-19 Measures

With the full endorsement of the Board of Governors, and after broad consultation with students, faculty, and staff, Saint Mary’s University is taking action to ensure the safety of the university community ahead of the Fall 2021 semester.  The university is adopting COVID-19 mandatory vaccination requirements for residence students, varsity and club sport student-athletes and Department of Athletics and Recreation staff and coaches, together with heightened health and safety protocols.

“As we prepare to return to campus this fall, and as COVID-19 variants continue to emerge around the world and in Canada, we have an opportunity as a university community to make a difference for ourselves and the wider community,” says Saint Mary’s University President Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray. “After a year and a half of managing our collective response to COVID-19 with much effort and sacrifice on everyone’s part, it is time to resume more fully the unique, vibrant and engaging experience that is the hallmark of Saint Mary’s University.”   

The goal is to have everyone in the Saint Mary’s University community: faculty, staff and students, fully vaccinated by October 15, 2021. By achieving this goal, the university will keep the community safe, enjoy a vibrant on-campus experience and contribute to the health and safety of the greater community.  

Saint Mary’s University is taking the following measures to ensure that campus is prepared to return to in-person activities for the fall:  

• Varsity athletes, students in club sports, coaches, staff in the Department of Athletics and Recreation, and students living in residence must be fully vaccinated by October 15, 2021.

  • They will be required to provide proof of vaccination status before participating in varsity or club sport or accessing their residence room.

  • The university may extend these requirements to other groups in the future.

• Students, staff, and faculty not subject to the mandatory requirement for vaccinations are required to follow public health recommendations to be fully vaccinated.

  • On-campus, pop-up vaccination clinics will be provided and access to other centres for vaccination will be supported so that this objective can be achieved by October 15, 2021.

• Masks are required in all common areas and in shared indoor spaces on campus unless physical distancing of at least one metre can be maintained. This is a requirement for all when present on campus.

• Asymptomatic rapid testing will be available on campus for all students, faculty and staff. 

• Faculty, staff, students and visitors are required to use the daily check-in process upon arrival at campus. Effective September 1, there will be an added anonymous form for self-declaration of vaccination status.

The university recognizes that some individuals may have legitimate circumstances for seeking an exemption or accommodation and will provide an application process for accommodation.    

“Saint Mary’s University and Nova Scotia have fared well during these challenging times due to concerted and decisive action, and we can be proud of what we have achieved so far,” says President Summerby-Murray. “From the outset of this pandemic, I have said that the health and safety of our community come first. This new policy embodies that commitment.”   

For more information on the COVID-19 protocols in place at Saint Mary’s University, visit https://www.smu.ca/virtualuniversity/welcome.html.

Entrepreneur, Storyteller and Performance Artist: Introducing the new RBC Talent Hub Entrepreneur-In-Residence

HALIFAX, NS— Entrepreneur. Storyteller. Performance artist. Those are some of the terms used to describe the next RBC Talent Hub Entrepreneur-In-Residence at Saint Mary's University's Entrepreneurship Centre (SMUEC), SMU alumna Leah Skerry.

Leah Skerry BComm '09 is a performing artist, producer and entrepreneur. Her work depicts Skerry's fascination with technology, storytelling, and gamification. She is currently co-producing a hybrid aerial dance show pushing the boundaries of set design and function, funded by the Canada Council of Arts and Montreal's National Circus School.

"Moving back to the East Coast and the opportunity to give back to students and the community where I developed my entrepreneurial sea legs is a full-circle moment," says Skerry. "I hope my experience spanning education, technology, and arts will help others on their path to new ideas and inspire more to seek a multidisciplinary life-long education."

Prior to taking the leap into professional dance and circus, Leah co-founded Squiggle Park by Eyeread Inc. (acquired by Dreambox), an adaptive online reading game with over 3 million kids learning. In addition to studying at the Sobey School of Business, Leah studied design at the Nova Scotia College of Art and Design and contemporary circus arts in Chicago and Montreal.

"Leah is an experienced entrepreneur with a broad range of interests that will help her connect with our students whose business ideas can be very diverse and touch on many different sectors," says Michael Sanderson, Director, SMUEC. "We are ecstatic to have her join our team and share her knowledge with the next generation of great Canadian entrepreneurs."

As part of her role as an Entrepreneur-in-Residence, Skerry provides Master Class lectures, workshops, and one-on-one coaching at conferences held by the entrepreneurship centre and weekly office hours for student and community entrepreneurs to offer support, coaching, and advisory assistance.

"We are thrilled Leah will be the next entrepreneur-in-residence at the RBC Talent Hub," says Kellie Sauriol, RBC's Regional Vice President, Business Financial Services, Atlantic Canada. "Students will benefit greatly from her diverse professional background, leadership skills and proven entrepreneurial success."

As home to the RBC Talent Hub, the SMUEC hosts Entrepreneurs-In-Residence (EIR), giving students access to some of Canada's top entrepreneurs. They are selected based on their passion for entrepreneurship and their ability to provide a breadth of advice and information.   The RBC Talent Hub also includes an entrepreneurial mindset success certificate, multi-level skilled entrepreneurship training workshops, a student consultant team and a talent fund for co-operative education.  All of these initiatives are made possible through the RBC Foundation in support of RBC Future Launch.

News release: Canada-U.S. team looks to genomics to guide North Atlantic right whale conservation

Philip Hamilton and his team of scientists from the New England Aquarium photograph a social group of North Atlantic right whales. (Photo: New England Aquarium, Brian Skerry)

For immediate release

July 22, 2021- Halifax, N.S.

The number of critically endangered North Atlantic right whales continues to be buffeted by high mortality rates from vessel strikes, fishing gear entanglements, and by a low rate of reproduction. There is now estimated to be fewer than 400 individuals left, including less than 100 breeding females. With inbreeding suspected as a major factor in the species’ low birth rate, a Canadian-U.S. team of scientists is launching a research project to assess how genetic factors are hampering the right whale’s recovery.

Dr. Tim Frasier (centre), a specialist in genetic analyses and marine mammal behaviour from Saint Mary’s University, Halifax, N.S. is shown on the trail of North Atlantic right whales. At Saint Mary’s University he is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology. (Photo: Brenna Frasier)

Conservation Genomics of the Endangered North Atlantic Right Whale is a $6 million, four-year international collaboration with Genome Atlantic and Saint Mary’s University, in Halifax, N.S., and with the New England Aquarium in Boston, Mass. Other collaborators include Fisheries and Oceans Canada and the Canadian Whale Institute in Canada, along with the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Duke University, and the National Oceanographic and Atmospheric Administration, all in the United States.

This landmark project was one of eight announced today by the Honourable François-Philippe Champagne, Minister of Innovation, Science and Industry. The projects are the latest to attain funding through Genome Canada’s Large-Scale Applied Research Project (LSARP) Competition.

Managed by Genome Atlantic, the project is co-led by Dr. Timothy Frasier, Saint Mary’s University, who has been doing genetic analysis of the right whale for more than 20 years; and by Philip Hamilton, a leading expert on right whale biology and Senior Scientist at the Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, New England Aquarium in Boston.

The Genome Atlantic project will look at genetic factors that could explain why the reproductive rate of North Atlantic right whales is three times lower than their known potential. The team also plans to assess if, and to what degree, non-lethal encounters with vessels and fishing gear change the expression of genes in a manner that lowers the long-term health and reproduction of individuals, and to evaluate the ramifications for conservation of the species. The team will combine genomics– the study of genes and their functions–with long-term field data on North Atlantic right whales and their reproductive histories.

Recommendations, based on the project findings, will be made to the Department of Fisheries and Oceans in Canada and to the National Marine Fisheries Service (also known as NOAA Fisheries, an office of the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration) in the U.S. on right whale-related recovery expectations, goals and conservation priorities. The results could have implications for marine management policies, practices and conservation plans. The two government entities are charged with managing and conserving the North Atlantic right whale population within their respective jurisdictions. Seasonal migrations, which send a portion of the right whale population through Canadian and American waters, have made recovery of the species a joint concern.

Apart from the multi-million-dollar whale watching industry that has grown around them, whales play a vital role in stabilizing marine ecosystems by helping to regulate a wide spectrum of marine organisms with their presence. The nitrogen-laden fecal matter they release when they rise to the ocean’s surface to defecate, for instance, is known to stimulate plankton growth and other microorganisms that form the foundation of the oceanic food chain, critical to the existence of marine life and for the maintenance of the fishing industry.

Besides Genome Canada funding, the international research project will receive support from Fisheries and Oceans Canada and Research Nova Scotia in Canada, and from the Georgia Department of Natural Resources, the US National Marine Fisheries Service, and the New England Aquarium in the United States.

The project is expected to start between July and September this year.

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QUOTES:

The endangered North Atlantic right whale plays an important role in our marine ecosystem, and conserving this species is of vital importance and urgency. By identifying to what degree genetic factors are influencing the whales’ recovery, this project will aid conservation efforts and help us monitor their population. Conserving endangered marine wildlife benefits our environment, our economy and our communities.”

—Dr. Steve Armstrong, president, Genome Atlantic, the Canadian non-profit corporation managing the project.

“Although inbreeding has been an important topic in population biology for over a century, our understanding of its impact in the wild, and in endangered species in particular, is still in its infancy due to a lack of good case studies. This study, where we have the ability to combine 40 years of field data with genomic data for such a high percentage of individuals, will allow us to not only quantify the impacts of inbreeding on the recovery potential of this species, but will also greatly improve our understanding of the impacts of inbreeding on wildlife populations and the subsequent implications for conservation.”

—Dr. Timothy Frasier, project co-lead and Associate Professor, Department of Biology, Saint Mary’s University, Halifax, N.S.

“Since 2015, this species has experienced a precipitous decline that is unprecedented in 40 years of study. We know many are dying from vessel strikes and entanglements; We don’t know the impacts of non-lethal wounds caused by humans, or the impacts of their reduced breeding pool. We need to make bold changes to how we use the oceans and to do so, we need as much understanding of the problem and cultural support for those changes.”

—Philip Hamilton, project co-lead and Senior Scientist, Kraus Marine Mammal Conservation Program, Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, New England Aquarium, Boston, Mass.

“We now have individual genetic profiles for over 80 per cent of the whale population that has enabled researchers to identify paternity and construct family trees. We can now address the burning question: what, if any, is the impact of inbreeding on reproduction and how does that affect species recovery? In my dealings with representatives of the shipping and fishing industries, I often get asked that very question. The results of the DNA analyses will be shared with mariners to help them understand the importance of measures to reduce entanglements and ship strikes, in order to avoid further narrowing the genetic diversity of the species. Additionally, this will enable researchers to identify paternity, and therefore help reveal the family tree of these incredible creatures.”

—Dr. Moira Brown, Senior Scientist, Canadian Whale Institute, Welshpool, N.B.

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Genome Atlantic is a not-for-profit corporation with a mission to help Atlantic Canada reap the economic and social benefits of genomics technologies. Since its inception in 2000, the corporation has worked with a range of private and public-sector partners to enable more than $125 million in new genomics R&D.

Saint Mary’s University is one of Canada’s top primary undergraduate universities–known for its international collaborations, leadership in entrepreneurship, and research that benefits local and global communities. Our programs in Arts, Science, Graduate Studies and the Sobey School of Business are among Canada’s best and feature professors who are committed to the success of their students. Saint Mary’s provides our 7,000 students with a place that fosters possibility, excellent research opportunities, and distinguished graduate and professional programs combined with a caring community. Nestled in the heart of Halifax, Nova Scotia, on Canada’s east coast, Saint Mary’s University is marked by iconic buildings, green spaces and fresh ocean air. The Saint Mary’s University community is committed to a prosperous future for the world—a world without limits.

The New England Aquarium is a global leader in marine science and conservation, working to safeguard ocean animals and habitats. With more than 1.3 million visitors a year, the Aquarium is one of the premier visitor attractions in Boston and a major public education resource for the region. The Aquarium’s research and rescue efforts build on the institution’s 50-year legacy of protecting the blue planet and advocating for vital and vibrant oceans. In the Anderson Cabot Center for Ocean Life, scientists conduct applied marine research that informs ocean management, policy, and industry practices, and contributes to the innovation of new technologies. Through its Sea Turtle Rescue Program, the Aquarium helps protect critically endangered and threatened sea turtle populations through rescue, rehabilitation, and release efforts.

New Partnership Supporting BIPOC Youth in Computer Science, Technology, Leadership and Sustainable Development

Alfred Burgesson, Founder at Tribe Network and Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray, President of Saint Mary’s University.
Photo Credit: Ian Selig

A new province-wide program available to youth ages 15 to 18 in Nova Scotia who identify as Black, Indigenous and People of Colour and are interested in developing skills in computer science and technology, leadership, and sustainable development has launched.   

"The Brilliant Creators Fellowship offers a unique opportunity for BIPOC youth to develop new skills while practicing creativity, innovation, leadership, and learning with technology. We are committed to working with youth and empowering them to be creators of the world they want to live in," said Alfred Burgesson, Founder at Tribe Network.  

The 15 participants in the Brilliant Creators Fellowship are engaged in regular workshops, events, team-focused projects, and hands-on, experiential learning opportunities. Participants will develop their interpersonal skills and competencies in digital literacy, communication, sustainable development while also developing peer-to-peer networks. In addition to skill development, participants will also gain access to community leaders and industry mentors. The Saint Mary's University Entrepreneurship Centre will support youth entrepreneurship skill development throughout the initiative.   

"Saint Mary's University is committed to a world without limits. The Brilliant Creators Fellowship helps us to support and reduce barriers facing BIPOC youth, which is an important part of achieving that goal," says Saint Mary's University President Dr. Robert Summerby-Murray. "We are proud to partner with Tribe Network and Brilliant Labs on this project."   

"We recognize the importance of championing diversity across all fields of research, work and study," says President Summerby-Murray. "That is why we are offering every student who finishes this program a $12,000 scholarship over four years to study computer science or business at Saint Mary's University."    

In the first year of the program, participants include youth from Halifax, Dartmouth, Lower Sackville, Fall River and Membertou First Nation. 

Saint Mary’s University is pleased to partner with Tribe Network, to support the participants, and to further the impact of the Brilliant Creators Fellowship for years to come.