Leading in creating solutions for a just and sustainable world

Video Transcript

Lassonde is a hub for innovation and solutions-driven research designed to advance knowledge, improve lives and create a better world. With extraordinary challenges ahead requiring intricate solutions, our skilled researchers engaged in unique collaborations, blending diverse areas of expertise to develop impactful solutions across numerous sectors, including healthcare, transportation, space engineering, water resource management and more.

In 2022-23, we challenged conventional ideas, tackled daring projects and applied expert knowledge to address multiple United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals (UN SDGs). From making astronaut training more inclusive to developing a new tool for microplastic detection, our research is making a real-world impact.

To advance our School’s research capabilities and global impact, Lassonde introduced two brand-new organized research units (ORUs) with the capacity to create pragmatic solutions, build valuable partnerships and elevate knowledge. The first ORU is MTEC (Manufacturing, Technology, and Entrepreneurship Centre) and the second is MOVE (The Mobility Innovation Centre). In addition, 38 Lassonde researchers joined a $318.4M initiative, Connected Minds: Neural and Machine Systems for a Healthy, Just Society, which focuses on defining and transforming the future of socially responsible AI technologies.

Learn more about how Lassonde is leading impactful initiatives to create solutions for a more just and sustainable world.

“Connected Minds is a testament to York’s interdisciplinary DNA. This project is only possible through the deep integration of talented researchers across disciplines, including multiple branches of engineering.”

– Professor James Elder, from the article 38 Lassonde faculty members involved in first-of-kind research initiative funded through the Canada First Research Excellence Fund (UN SDG 9)

Key Highlights

Aerial View of the Bergeron Center

38 Lassonde faculty members involved in first-of-kind research initiative funded through the Canada First Research Excellence Fund

Lassonde faculty members from all departments at Lassonde joined a $318.4M-funded project which aims to advance the future of socially responsible technologies. With two Lassonde researchers (Professors Rob Allison & James Elder) on the core Connected Minds Leadership Team, this pioneering initiative will take full advantage of the engineering disciplines including computer vision, software engineering, artificial intelligence (AI), bioengineering, microfabrication and more. Together with researchers from across Lassonde, York, Queen’s University, as well as hospitals, community organizations and industry partners, this project is equipped to optimize the benefits and mitigate the risks of the new techno-social collective.

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Dr. Haley Saper at the McGill Arctic Research Station

Life on MARS: York U Team heads north to look for clues to Martian mystery

Lassonde Adjunct Professor, Haley Sapers is leading a remarkable research expedition to unlock the mysteries of Mars. Collaborating with scientists from Caltech and McGill, the team is stationed at the McGill Arctic Research Station (MARS) on Axel Heiberg Island, Nunavut, where conditions mimic those on the red planet. Their primary objective is to unravel the puzzling biosignature of methane gas and its potential implications for extraterrestrial life. With support from the Canadian Space Agency and esteemed partners, they are developing an advanced spectrometer to precisely measure methane on Mars. This groundbreaking interdisciplinary study not only deepens our understanding of Mars’ habitability but also provides valuable insights into climate change on Earth.

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This year, in addition to traditional media coverage in 50+ outlets, we reached a global audience with over 1,550 social media posts across our channels, resulting in nearly 50 million impressions, amplifying our impact in creating solutions for a better world.

York University Microfabrication Facility

The York University Microfabrication Facility (YMF) is the first of its kind at York University and the Lassonde School of Engineering to provide a comprehensive, one-stop solution to micro/nano device prototyping and production for multi-disciplinary research, including microelectronics, micro-electro-mechanical-systems (MEMS), microfluidics, bioengineering, space engineering and more.

Check out this video to hear more from Director Gerd Grau and Manager Shane Guo about what equipment the facility’s labs offer and how to access them.

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