TORONTO – The Ontario government is recognizing leading researchers in the province for their contributions in the fields of chemistry, economic science, physics and physiology/medicine. The John Charles Polanyi Prizes are awarded annually to five outstanding researchers in the early stages of their careers. Recipients of the Polanyi Prizes are making advancements in science, technology, health care and more to encourage long-term economic growth, better public policies, improved infrastructure and a cleaner, healthier environment for Ontarians.
Details were shared today by the Honourable Elizabeth Dowdeswell, Lieutenant Governor of Ontario and the Honourable Jill Dunlop, Minister of Colleges and Universities.
“These researchers represent the next generation of innovators, who are making discoveries that advance knowledge, drive progress and create a better and brighter future for the people of Ontario,” said Minister Dunlop. “Science and research are at the core of the global knowledge-based economy and are critical to the province’s long-term economic growth.”
The 2021 Polanyi Prize winners are:
- Dr. Farnaz Heidar‐Zadeh, Queen’s University, Chemistry
- Dr. Adam Lavecchia, McMaster University, Economic Science
- Dr. Gwendolyn Eadie, University of Toronto, Physics
- Dr. Eno Hysi, St. Michael’s Hospital affiliated with the University of Toronto, Physics
- Dr. Fumin Guo, University of Toronto, Physiology/Medicine
“For 34 years, the Ontario government has encouraged outstanding scholars to pursue their academic careers here in this province,” said Dr. John Charles Polanyi, Nobel Laureate in Chemistry. “The effect of this recognition can be seen in the continued strength of our postsecondary institutions. I congratulate all our prizewinners and our province.”
The research sector is a key source of innovation and commercialization, making it one of the leading contributors to Ontario’s global competitiveness and productivity. The province’s focus on protecting and supporting the commercialization of intellectual property will support long-term economic growth and help Ontarians reap the benefits from the inventions and discoveries that result from publicly funded research and innovation.