Gordon Houlden, a respected former Canadian diplomat and academic with 36 years’ experience working on China affairs, will conduct this review. Working with governments, agencies and institutions, Houlden will provide advice on an approach to post-secondary international relationships that balances innovation and competitiveness with risk mitigation.

“It is imperative that we protect Alberta’s and Canada’s economic and security interests while enabling post-secondary agreements that advance research and innovation for the greater good.”

Jason Kenney, Premier

“We need to ensure our researchers can work with counterparts around the world in the safest way possible. I’m looking forward to the insights from this important work.”

Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Advanced Education

"Through their international connections, Alberta’s universities generate innovation and prosperity, but their research warrants protection from those who would take advantage of Alberta's openness to the world."

Gordon Houlden, director emeritus, China Institute at the University of Alberta

Houlden will work with the province’s comprehensive academic and research universities to identify areas of risk and potential mitigation measures.

Houlden’s review will explore topics important to post-secondary research such as new innovations, commercialization and intellectual property. His work will help inform a balanced approach to post-secondary international agreements and relationships that advance research for the greater good.