Minister of Industry in Winnipeg to congratulate scientist, innovation leader for high-tech contributions to health care
January 12, 2009, Winnipeg, Manitoba - The Honourable Tony Clement, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for the National Research Council (NRC), is in Winnipeg today to congratulate NRC scientist Dr. Ian Smith for his recent induction into the Order of Canada.
Dr. Smith, Director General of the NRC Institute for Biodiagnostics, is being recognized for his groundbreaking work in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) and its global contributions to health care. Dr. Smith is a world leader in the field of biodiagnostics and was instrumental in the advancement of a movable MRI system that allowed surgeons to do non-invasive scans before, during, and after surgery.
"Dr. Smith is an outstanding example of how a highly motivated scientist can move innovative research discoveries into the public realm for the good of all Canadians," said Minister Clement. "The Government of Canada is committed to investing in science and technology and to supporting researchers and innovators, like Dr. Smith, who conduct world-class research, improve the lives of Canadians and promote Canada's place in the world."
Dr. Smith has been a driving force in the development of technologies that reduce the invasiveness of surgical procedures, which improves the effectiveness of treatments and therapies while limiting possible complications from surgery - factors that are central to the well-being of Canadians and others around the world.
"It is a privilege to share in the success of the NRC Institute for Biodiagnostics and the Winnipeg biomedical cluster," said Dr. Smith. "I feel a great sense of satisfaction in knowing that I have contributed to improving the health of Canadians and helped to build a stronger medical devices industry that brings greater wealth and prestige to Canada and NRC."
NRC and the work of Dr. Smith are key contributors to the Government of Canada's strategy to create a competitive advantage for our country through science and technology while providing social and economic benefits to all Canadians.
Dr. Smith has built the NRC Institute for Biodiagnostics into a leading research centre for magnetic resonance imaging and spectroscopy, optical diagnostic methods and computer-based techniques resulting in the development and application of new tools for medical diagnosis. As part of the Winnipeg life sciences cluster, it is also a driving force for the local innovation system. The Institute's economic impact for Canada is significant, extending from Winnipeg to satellite labs in Calgary and Halifax, including the development of seven technology spinoff companies.
The National Research Council of Canada (NRC) is a leader in the development of an innovative, knowledge-based economy for Canada through science and technology.
For more information, please visit the NRC Web site at http://www.nrc-cnrc.gc.ca or contact:
Valerie McPherson
Communications Officer
National Research Council Canada Institute for Biodiagnostics (NRC-IBD)
Tel: (204) 984-4890
Valerie.Mcpherson@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
Marc Hudon
Media Relations Officer
National Research Council Canada
Tel: (613) 990-1572
Cell: (613) 608-8301
Marc.Hudon@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca
Industry Canada
Media Relations
(613) 943-2502
