Tanya McDonald, Director of the Olds College Centre for Innovation (OCCI) has been welcomed for a two year term as a member of the Governing Council for the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), a federal research funding agency that plays an important role in Canada’s research and scientific landscape. NSERC invests over $1.2 billion each year on building a diversified and competitive research base in Canada, and on enabling partnerships and collaborations that bridge the innovation gap between scientific discovery and industry application.
The NSERC Governing Council consists of up to 18 members appointed from the public and private sectors, and represents the academic research and private sector research and development communities in the fields of the natural sciences and engineering. The Council works to achieve the maximum strategic impact for Canada from the expenditure of public funds, and to advance Canada’s research and development agenda.
“I am honoured by the opportunity to serve and contribute as a member of the Governing Council for NSERC,” explains McDonald. “In this role I will strive to promote and foster research and innovation that maximizes benefit to Canadians. Many years ago I was encouraged to study science after receiving an undergraduate scholarship that promoted women entering science and engineering, and I am proud to be able to give back to such an impactful organization.”
Throughout her career, McDonald has developed a unique blend of research expertise in agriculture and the environment, large scale project management experience, as well as leadership, policy development, strategic planning and budget management experience. She brings to NSERC her expertise in applied research and scientific inquiry and a background in post-secondary administration developed through many initiatives at Olds College, including in her current role as Director of the Olds College Centre for Innovation. Research funding acquired by McDonald in this capacity has had a tremendous impact on the ability for industry to connect with Olds College to increase productivity and address emerging issues and it has also dramatically enhanced the learning experience for our students; the future leaders in agriculture.
“As a passionate and dedicated research professional, I have always strived towards making valuable contributions to scientific research and enhancing access, support and resources to collaborations that connect scientific discovery with industry.” McDonald asserts. “I am excited to be able to support NSERC in the goal of maximizing strategic impact and research outcomes. I truly value this opportunity to have influence on the national research and innovation landscape.”
