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The Faculty of Science is creating a framework that facilitates the transformation of innovative academic ideas into real-world businesses. Through lab space, mentorship and technical support, uOttawa is supporting students, alumni and faculty to turn groundbreaking research into thriving startups. Here are a few inspiring examples.

EcoSafeSense

Founded by PhD candidate Olga Koppel from the Department of Biology, EcoSafeSense is an environmental technology startup that specializes in real-time, AI-driven air quality monitoring. Recently, the company earned third place at Queen’s University’s QICSI pitch competition, initiated data collection in the Durham Region and signed a contract with the Municipality of North Grenville for 100 sensors. The company was also awarded a Mitacs Accelerate 18-month project worth $180,000 and was named a partner in Transport Canada’s Kanata North Medium-Size Autonomous Vehicle project. In addition to its research and development accomplishments, EcoSafeSense also opened its doors to students, providing them with hands-on opportunities to gain real-world experience in environmental innovation. With a focus on leveraging data for sustainable urban planning and public health, EcoSafeSense continues to make significant strides in environmental technology and community well-being.

Yellowbird Diagnostics

Yellowbird Diagnostics specializes in development of medical imaging agents that enhance diagnostic precision for critical health conditions affecting the brain, heart and kidneys. The company was co-founded by two uOttawa PhD graduates in chemistry, Nicholas D. Calvert and Alexia Kirby, along with Adam Shuhendler, associate professor and Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Chemical Biology. Their innovative dyes reveal molecular-level disease markers that are often undetectable with current imaging technologies, thereby enabling earlier, more accurate diagnosis.

In 2024, the company achieved significant recognition by winning the $10,000 first place prize in the “Traction” category at the University of Ottawa’s Desjardins Elevator Pitch Competition. Recently, it successfully closed its oversubscribed funding round, which will be used to launch first-in-human scans and a Phase 1 clinical trial for its lead product, NeuCaVis. This novel PET dye has garnered attention in the scientific community and has been featured in publications such as Applied Radiation Oncology and MedicalXpress. Yellowbird Diagnostics is pushing the boundaries of imaging science to support timely, precise diagnosis, ultimately saving and improving lives.

TerraFixing Inc.

Founded by uOttawa PhD graduates Sean Wilson and Vida Gabriel, TerraFixing is a climate technology startup developing the world’s first direct air carbon capture (DACC) system optimized for cold climates. The company’s patented five-step process captures carbon dioxide directly from the atmosphere and stores it in the Earth, helping reverse climate change.

With strong backing from the Canadian government, industry partners and community stakeholders, TerraFixing has secured key partnerships for renewable energy, material supplies and CO₂ storage in Canada’s Far North. Among its recent milestones, the company received a $10 million contract with energy project developer Tugliq and funding from the MilkyWire Climate Transformation Fund.

TerraFixing has gained widespread recognition for its scientific and entrepreneurial achievements. With a mission to scale direct air capture while supporting communities on the frontlines of climate change, the company continues to lead innovation in sustainable technologies and environmental restoration. As the company grows, it is opening its doors to new talent, creating job opportunities for individuals passionate about climate solutions and clean technology.

Quadrufy

Founded by former NMR (nuclear magnetic resonance) Facility manager Patrick Szell, Quadrufy advances magnetic resonance through quadrupolar spin resonance (QSR) spectroscopy. Its compact, easy-to-use technology aims to make chemical analysis accessible to non-experts.QSR is a form of radio frequency spectroscopy applied to solids, like solid-state nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. This technique offers unparalleled resolution, making it effective in identifying unknown substances and minerals, expediting chemical product development, characterizing green functional materials and assuring the quality of manufactured chemical products.

The company participated in the University of Ottawa’s Startup Garage Rally Day, showcasing its innovative approach to magnetic resonance technology. Through its commitment to making advanced spectroscopy tools more accessible, Quadrufy is set to make significant contributions to scientific research and various industries.

Sugar Coated Technologies

Sugar Coated Technologies was co-founded by PhD graduate Maxime Leblanc Latour and Andrew Pelling, a professor in the Department of Physics. The company develops sustainable, bio-based additives for the coatings industry, aiming to transform traditional paints, adhesives and surface treatments using eco-friendly materials—without sacrificing performance.

Its product line includes epoxy additives and UV-curable coatings that improve durability and adhesion while lowering environmental impact and reducing energy use during application. These coatings offer a solution to the construction, automotive and consumer goods sectors, among others, that demand greener products.

In 2024, Sugar Coated Technologies received the Judge’s Choice Award at the Capital Angel Network’s MASHUP event. The company continues to invest in research and development, creating smarter, more sustainable materials. With a strong focus on innovation and environmental responsibility, Sugar Coated Technologies is helping to shape the future of the coatings industry.

PanTHERA CryoSolutions

PanTHERA CryoSolutions was co-founded by Dr. Robert Ben, a professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biomolecular Sciences at the University of Ottawa, and Dr. Jason Acker from the University of Alberta. The company develops innovative synthetic compounds called ice recrystallization inhibitors (IRIs) that greatly improve cryopreservation by controlling the size and formation of ice crystals during freezing and thawing. This breakthrough significantly enhances the survival and functionality of preserved cells, tissues and organs.

The company’s technology addresses one of the biggest challenges in cryopreservation, paving the way for major advances in regenerative medicine, including cell and gene therapies, organ transplantation and reproductive medicine. By improving preservation outcomes, PanTHERA’s IRIs help increase the availability and effectiveness of life-saving treatments.

The University of Ottawa played a pivotal role in these innovative market-oriented initiatives by providing laboratory space and infrastructure support during the companies’ early stages. These collaborations exemplify the University’s commitment to fostering innovation and turning academic research into real-world applications.

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