The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) has announced a significant investment of $26 million through its Collaborative Research and Training Experience (CREATE) program for 2024. This funding will support the establishment of 16 innovative training programs aimed at facilitating the transition of new researchers into the Canadian workforce while addressing critical challenges in science and engineering.
The CREATE programs are designed to enhance the training environment for emerging researchers, equipping them with essential skills to boost their job readiness. Over the next six years, participants will benefit from personalized professional development, inclusive mentorship, and unique networking opportunities. They will gain expertise in advanced technologies, develop strong problem-solving skills, and enhance their professional competencies.
The 2024 CREATE funding will support training and mentoring initiatives across various crucial fields, including:
- Agriculture and food security
- Biotechnologies and immunotherapies
- Public health and health equity
- Robotics
- Technological infrastructure security
- Data science
- Plastics management
- Climate science and ecosystem restoration
This investment is a vital step towards nurturing the next generation of researchers and ensuring they are well-prepared to tackle the pressing challenges facing society today.