Dalhousie University: Dalhousie innovators celebrated for their impact in Nova Scotia and beyond at Discovery Awards
Last night’s 20th annual Discovery Awards, co-presented by Dalhousie, was a moment to celebrate the university’s innovators who are inspiring the next generation of Nova Scotian scientists and strengthening the province through their efforts.
Winner in the category of Emerging Professional, Dr. Souvik Mitra of the Faculty of Medicine was recognized for his research and clinical work that has had a direct impact on the lives of premature babies suffering from heart defects in Nova Scotia and around the world. Biology researcher Dr. Arunika Gunawardena won in the category of Science Champions for her leadership of the Atlantic Science Links Association and efforts to connect grade-school students with leading-edge science education.
“The outstanding achievements of tonight’s finalists are helping to put Nova Scotia at the forefront of global innovation and building the capacity of our future leaders,” said Dr. Alice Aiken, vice president research and innovation in her opening remarks at the event.
“Partnership with our community is critical to our success as a university, and central to Dalhousie’s strategic plan. When it comes to building the strength of innovation in Nova Scotia and Atlantic Canada, we are all in this together, from the initial spark in a child’s mind at the Discovery Centre to the transformative discoveries taking place at our universities.”
Dalhousie alumnus Mo AlGermozi, co-founder, president & CEO of Nova Scotia-based Graphite Innovation Technologies, won the award for Innovation in recognition of his company’s revolutionary eco-friendly protective coatings for ships that reduce fuel consumption and greenhouse gas emissions.
Researcher and orthopaedic surgeon Dr. Ron El-Hawary was nominated in the category of Professional of Distinction for his pioneering work championing new surgical techniques, as well as his award-winning mentorship of future medical professionals. Dr. Amina Stoddart from the Faculty of Engineering was nominated in the category of Emerging Professional for her work with Halifax Water to ensure the safety of our wastewater.
Dalhousie had two nominees for the Public Impact Award, including Dr. Jennifer Llewellyn from Dal’s Schulich School of Law who was recognized for her role in enhancing the province’s justice system and expanding the application of a restorative approach. Dr. David Percival from the Faculty of Agriculture was recognized for the economic impact of his research that has helped grow and strengthen Nova Scotia’s wild blueberry sector.
The annual Discovery Awards gala raises funds to support the Discovery Centre, a not-for-profit interactive science museum in Halifax, Nova Scotia with a mission to stimulate interest, enjoyment and understanding of science and technology.