The University of Alberta is receiving almost $6.3 million, which will help fund leading-edge research in areas like artificial intelligence (AI), health science, seniors care, and uses of advanced laser technology.

Positioning Alberta as a world leader in advanced AI technologies, $4.5 million of the funding from the province’s Major Innovation Fund will support AI research at the university’s Centre for Autonomous Systems in automated transportation, medical robots and manufacturing.

The funding also includes $1.8 million in strategic investments, including through the province’s Research Capacity Program. The money will be used to develop a world-class facility that studies the use of lasers in potential treatments for skin diseases and cancer, and in remote sensing solutions for the oilsands. The university will also use the funding to support research on the role carbohydrates may play in diseases and allow for the creation of a data portal for research, care and innovation related to seniors.

“Alberta is one of the top research destinations for artificial intelligence and machine learning. That’s why we are making a strategic investment in projects like the Centre for Autonomous Systems. This research has huge commercial applications here in Alberta for jobs today and tomorrow.”

Doug Schweitzer, Minister of Jobs, Economy and Innovation

“Alberta’s universities and colleges are home to groundbreaking research and new discoveries. Today’s investment will help set our students up for success in a future job market.”

Demetrios Nicolaides, Minister of Advanced Education

“Albertans trust the University of Alberta not only with educating tens of thousands of students every year, but also with undertaking world-leading research. We work to ensure our discoveries and research improve their daily lives, strengthen Alberta’s economy and communities, and help our province not only overcome the challenges of today but also chart a course for tomorrow. Investments such as these from the Government of Alberta are crucial to ensuring we can continue to deliver the results that Albertans have seen and come to expect from the U of A.”

Bill Flanagan, president and vice-chancellor, University of Alberta

Alberta’s Recovery Plan is a bold, ambitious long-term strategy to build, diversify, and create tens of thousands of jobs now. By building schools, roads and other core infrastructure we are benefiting our communities. By diversifying our economy and attracting investment with Canada’s most competitive tax environment, we are putting Alberta on a path for a generation of growth. Alberta came together to save lives by flattening the curve and now we must do the same to save livelihoods, grow and thrive.

Quick facts

  • The Major Innovation Fund supports research and innovation investments to attract and retain top talent to Alberta and support industries and local businesses.
  • The Research Capacity Program helps Alberta’s post-secondary institutions get the small equipment and large research infrastructure they need to attract, retain and develop researchers in the province.
    • Previous examples of RCP funding include 3D Printers for SAIT, new smart infrastructure for Olds College, and funding for artificial intelligence research.
Alberta's Recovery Plan

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