Oshawa researchers help economy

DURHAM -- The Province is sinking more than $222,000 into research at the University of Ontario Institute of Technology (UOIT).

The funding is part of Ontario's Innovation Agenda, and includes $73,000 for Dr. Yuping He, and $87,000 for Dr. Dan Zhang.

"Today's investment will support the work of 16 local researchers," said Ajax-Pickering MPP Joe Dickson recently. "The spotlight is on Durham Region as new ideas emerge from UOIT."

Dr. He's work involves developing safety control systems for automobiles using a simulator that evaluates driver interaction with vehicles during difficult driving conditions. Dr. Zhang's research is aimed at improving the performance of robotic manufacturing systems, increasing the flexibility of production lines, reducing costs, and creating a competitive edge for Ontario manufacturers.

Dr. William Smith, associate provost of research at UOIT, is pleased to receive continued support from the Ontario Research Fund.

"It is essential for successful research institutions such as UOIT to continue to build a research infrastructure and the (Ontario Research Fund's) funding contributes to this process," Dr. Smith said.

The funding is part of a larger investment in research infrastructure that will support 1,300 construction jobs and more than 3,300 scientists in Ontario, said John Milloy, Minister of Research and Innovation.