Innovation Saskatchewan is investing $459,000 in three research projects at the University of Regina through its Innovation & Science Fund (ISF), targeting advances in water security, environmental sustainability and antimicrobial resistance.
The provincial funding is being matched by the Canada Foundation for Innovation under its John R. Evans Leaders Fund, effectively doubling the resources available to accelerate the university’s research efforts.
“The U of R is leading research that’s making a real impact and helping shape a stronger, more sustainable future for our province,” announced Warren Kaeding, minister responsible for Innovation Saskatchewan, in a statement. “These investments help ensure Saskatchewan stays at the forefront of innovation and is ready to tackle challenges with solutions developed right here at home.”
The funded projects build on the university’s strengths in climate science and population health, aligning with Saskatchewan’s priority research areas in life sciences, agriculture and energy.
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A total of $205,779 will support an advanced antibacterial research technology project led by Omar El-Halfawy, associate professor of biochemistry at U of R. The funding will enable the acquisition of specialized laboratory tools, including high-throughput imaging and advanced bacterial genomics, aimed at accelerating drug discovery and improving understanding of antimicrobial resistance.
Another $170,176 has been allocated to a water quality research initiative led by U of R professor Kerri Finlay. The investment will fund new field and laboratory equipment to expand high-precision monitoring across more than 100 lakes in southern Saskatchewan, supporting efforts to assess the impacts of human activity and climate change on prairie water systems.
The remaining $83,140 will support the Waste Management System Design Laboratory, led by professor Kelvin Tsun Wai Ng. Funding will enhance computing capacity and introduce new analytical tools, including near-infrared spectrometry, to improve how plastic waste is mapped and managed under prairie conditions.
Together, the projects are expected to strengthen Saskatchewan’s capacity to attract and retain researchers, train future scientists and develop solutions to key environmental and public health challenges.
“Innovation Saskatchewan’s investment in research leaders at the University of Regina positions our province at the forefront in innovation, enabling bold research that addresses urgent challenges — from antimicrobial resistance to sustainable waste systems and water security,” said Chris Yost, vice-president of research at U of R. “Support for our research enterprise drives solutions that benefit communities here at home, across Canada and around the world.”
Innovation Saskatchewan recently expanded the ISF program, nearly doubling its annual funding to $5.2 million and introducing four streams focused on research infrastructure, projects, ecosystem development and international collaboration. The expanded program is set to launch April 1, 2026, with funding decisions expected later that summer.
Since its launch in 2018, the Innovation & Science Fund has invested $26.6 million, leveraging approximately $167 million in external funding to support academic research.
