University of Regina research highlighted in Discourse Magazine
The latest edition of Discourse, the University of Regina’s online research magazine is available now. This online publication highlights several notable research projects underway at the University.
One of the articles takes a deep dive into assistant professor of international studies Dr. Brian McQuinn’s efforts to understand the use of social media as a tactic in armed conflict. McQuinn and his colleagues are examining how militant groups around the world, including the Taliban, have used and are using social media to further their efforts. This research into understanding how armed groups work, including their use of social media, will play an important role in preventing violence against civilians and humanitarians and building peace.
Another article features the research of Dr. Jennifer Gordon, associate professor of psychology and Canada Research Chair in the Biopsychosocial Determinants of Women’s Mental Health, who is working to solve the reasons why women are at increased risk of depression during the menopausal transition, also known as perimenopause – the transition between a woman’s childbearing years and menopause. During perimenopause, estrogen levels fluctuate. While it's been long thought that there’s a link between hormonal fluctuations and depression, Gordon’s research will help strengthen the understanding of how sensitivities to hormonal changes might be tied to mood, which may provide for better pharmacological and behavioural treatments.
This issue also features biology professor Dr. Chris Somers who is fishing for answers with the help of a new app called MyCatch. Anglers from Saskatchewan and across Canada use the app to share information about the size, weight, and condition of the fish, as well as where it was caught. This information is then accessible to biologists and researchers. For Somers, the app allows for the possibility of wider data collection by recruiting thousands of anglers that contribute many thousands of hours of fieldwork—well beyond what researchers could achieve on their own.
You are invited to explore these and other stories in the magazine at: www.discoursemagazine.ca
Interviews with these or any of the other researchers featured in Discourse can be arranged via the listed media contact.
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About the University of Regina
Set in the heart of the Canadian prairies we are a comprehensive, mid-sized university where the opportunities are as limitless as the horizon. Our campuses are on Treaty 4 and 6 - the territories of the nêhiyawak, Anihšināpēk, Dakota, Lakota, and Nakoda peoples, and the homeland of the Michif/Métis nation. It is our responsibility to strengthen relationships with Indigenous communities to build a more inclusive future for all. Our three federated colleges, 10 faculties, 25 academic departments, and 18 research centres foster innovative research with practical and theoretical applications. We are committed to cultivating the potential of our 16,700 students and supporting their health and well-being. We take learning beyond the classroom through work and volunteer experiences to develop career-ready graduates.
Let’s go far, together.