Research matters because mining needs space
Gordon Osinski looks to the heavens and finds better ways to explore the Earth. The Western University researcher studies how planets form and evolve, and the technology of extraterrestrial exploration. He has a particular interest in impact craters – the circular formations created by asteroids and comets crashing in to planets and moons. Impact craters… Continue Reading
Research matters because it enlightens employers about the complex needs of our society
Mark Darwin’s mother is 81, chronically ill and refuses to move from her home of 53 years to assisted living. His 22-year-old son lives at home at least half the year. And his step-daughter, 33, her husband and six-year-old son are planning to live under Darwin’s roof until they sort out their finances. Darwin’s wife… Continue Reading
Research matters because there’s more to solar power than meets the eye
Karen Hinzer is a researcher, not a superhero. She doesn’t have infrared vision. She does, however, have a vision about infrared radiation. And ultraviolet. And other parts of the electromagnetic spectrum that are invisible to the human eye. She is working to create solar panels that take greater advantage of radiation emanating from the sun,… Continue Reading
Research matters because energy is in the air
If you’ve ever driven through the flat, open landscape of southwestern Ontario you may have marvelled at the sight of massive wind turbines dotting the horizon. At night, these graceful giants are harder to see, but they go on spinning, turning wind into electricity long after most people have turned off their lights and TVs…. Continue Reading
Research matters. Sometimes, research also splatters
“I thought I would go into an area like nuclear physics,” says Raquel Murray, Master of Modelling and Computational Science, class of 2012. Instead she researches the physics of how blood spatters at a crime scene. “I’ve gone in a completely different direction and I don’t regret one moment of it.” Murray’s lifetime passion for… Continue Reading
Research matters because it can make concrete strong and gentle
Almost every urban structure – buildings, roads, sidewalks – contains cement. Cement is the glue that holds concrete together. Without it, cities and towns wouldn’t exist. It enables amazing feats of engineering that we rely on for comfort and prosperity. Ancient Romans were masters of cement and concrete structures. Their temples, bridges, and aqueducts still… Continue Reading
