OTTAWA, November 15, 2005 — The Honourable David L. Emerson, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), today proposed the appointment of Dr. Suzanne Fortier as President of NSERC. The proposed appointment is being referred for review to the Standing Committee on Industry, Natural Resources, Science and Technology.
"Dr. Fortier's leadership and experience, along with her expertise and participation in university research activities, make her an excellent candidate for the President of NSERC," said Minister Emerson. "I am confident that her contributions will enable Canada to remain at the forefront of growth and advancement in university research and researcher training."
Having held research positions at the Medical Foundation of Buffalo and the National Research Council of Canada, Dr. Suzanne Fortier joined the faculty of Queen's University as Assistant Professor in the Department of Chemistry. She went on to hold the positions of Associate Dean, School of Graduate Studies and Research; Acting Vice-Principal, Research, and Dean, Graduate Studies and Research; Vice-Principal, Research; and Vice-Principal, Academic. In addition, Dr. Fortier served on the Board of Directors for the Ontario Centres of Excellence, Inc. and is currently serving on the Board of Governors for the Royal Military College of Canada.
Dr. Fortier earned her Bachelor of Science and PhD from McGill University. In 2005, she received a Distinguished Service Award from the Queen's University Council for her exceptional contributions to research and academics and her devotion to Queen's University.
NSERC is a key federal agency investing in people, discovery and innovation. It supports basic university research through grants, and project research through partnerships among postsecondary institutions, government and the private sector, and the advanced training of highly qualified people.
For more information, please contact:
Christiane Fox
Office of the Honourable David L. Emerson
Minister of Industry
(613) 995-9001
Michael Dwyer
Media and Public Affairs Officer
NSERC Newsbureau
(613) 992-9001
