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University of Ottawa researcher awarded $1 million for innovative technology
OTTAWA, March 2, 2010 — Professor Zisheng (Jason) Zhang from the Department of Chemical Engineering will receive one million dollars from the Ontario Research Fund Research Excellence (ORF-RE) Program.
Dr. Zhang’s research focuses on developing a photo-bioreactor system for the cost-competitive production of a new animal-feed additive called xylanase, an enzyme that helps break down plant fibers and thus eases the digestion of plant-derived feed. At the same time, the additive will greatly improve the level of nutrients in feed, allowing farmers to decrease the amount they give to their animals. Dr. Zhang’s research also has applications in other areas, including the food, renewable-energy and environmental industries.
“Dr. Zhang’s project will not only allow us to develop a key expertise in our institution, but also make Ontario industries globally competitive and have a significant positive impact on our society, our health, our quality of life and our environment” says Mona Nemer, uOttawa’s vice-president, research.
As part of the Ministry of Research and Innovation, the ORF-RE Program finances leading-edge research that is carried out in Ontario and that focuses on areas such as bio-economy and clean technologies, advanced health technologies, digital media and information and communications technologies.
The University of Ottawa, one of Canada’s top research-intensive universities, contributes significantly to the development of clean technologies. We are committed to research excellence and encourage an interdisciplinary approach to knowledge creation, which attracts the best academic talent from across Canada and around the world.
