University of Regina researchers receive more than $3.1 million in federal infrastructure funding
Three University of Regina researchers were awarded more than $3.1 million in federal funding to advance groundbreaking research in sound and audio innovation, next‑generation particle physics, and neutron science. Funded through the Canada Foundation for Innovation’s (CFI) 2025 Innovation Fund, the money is part of a $552 million federal investment to support cutting-edge research infrastructure across Canada.
New GENerate Collaboratory to transform sound and audio research at the U of R
Dr. Charity Marsh, professor and head of the Creative Technologies and Design Department, was awarded $866,798 to establish the GENerate Collaboratory, a new interdisciplinary hub for sound research, creation, and training at the U of R.
“GENerate Collaboratory fills a significant gap in research infrastructure on the Prairies,” says Marsh. “It creates new possibilities for interdisciplinary research, community collaboration, and creative practice in sound and audio while amplifying marginalized voices in these industries and technology sectors.”
The Collaboratory will include an experimental sound design and making studio, a critical listening and immersion lab, and a professional audio recording and performance studio. These facilities will provide the necessary infrastructure for innovative research and creative work in sound design, music production, audio engineering, and immersive media.
With a strong focus on equity and access, the Collaboratory will support interdisciplinary and community-engaged research while helping reduce systemic barriers in the sound, music, and video game industries through hands-on training and mentorship of underrepresented talent.
U of R researchers contribute to major international science collaborations
Two additional U of R researchers received Innovation Fund support as part of large-scale national and international collaborations.
Dr. Zisis Papandreou, professor of physics and head of the Department of Physics, received $1.8 million to lead the U of R’s role in developing next-generation particle detectors for the Electron-Ion Collider (EIC), a major international research facility being built at Brookhaven National Laboratory in Upton, New York. Papandreou is co-leading the national project with Dr. Wouter Deconinck at the University of Manitoba.
The U of R team, including Dr. Garth Huber, professor of physics, and Dr. Aram Teymurazyan, associate professor of physics, will design key detector infrastructure for the project, building on the university’s expertise in particle detectors and advanced sensor technologies.
“Large-scale physics projects like this create training and employment opportunities for students, postdoctoral fellows, technicians, and engineers. The experience and skills gained through this work support innovation and workforce development across several sectors,” says Papandreou.
Dr. Marcella Berg, assistant professor of physics, received $500,000 as part of a national project led by McMaster University to expand access to advanced neutron beam capabilities for Canadian researchers. The project supports research in clean energy technologies, health, food sustainability, and quantum science, while also advancing plans for an innovative future neutron source in Canada.- 30 -
About the University of Regina
At the University of Regina, we believe the best way to learn is through access to world-class professors, research, and experiential learning. We are committed to the health and well-being of our more than 16,600 students and support a dynamic research community focused on evidence-based solutions to today’s most pressing challenges. Located on Treaties 4 and 6—the territories of the nêhiyawak, Anihšināpēk, Dakota, Lakota, and Nakoda peoples, and the homeland of the Michif/Métis nation —we honour our ongoing relationships with Indigenous communities and remain committed to the path of reconciliation. Our vibrant alumni community is more than 95,000 strong and enriching communities in Saskatchewan and around the globe.
Let's go far, together.