Internationally Recognized Researcher Named Invasive Species Chair
February 1, 2010 1:00 PM
McGuinty Government Taking Steps To Tackle Non-Native Species
Dr. Pedro Antunes has been appointed research chair of invasive species biology at Algoma University.
Dr. Antunes will develop an international network of researchers through the university's Invasive Species Research Institute and will conduct invasive species research on critical priorities in Ontario. He will also work closely with the Invasive Species Centre in addressing the threat of forest invasive species and invasive plants.
In addition, Dr. Antunes will lead the university's initiative to study invasive species from different parts of the world in a contained, secure environment.
QUICK FACTS
- The research chair is jointly funded by the Ontario government and Algoma University. Ontario has provided $800,000 to fund the Invasive Species Research Chair for five years.
- Ontario has committed $15 million to creating an Invasive Species Centre in Sault Ste. Marie.
- According to the Great Lakes Institute for Environmental Research, losses caused by invasive species in Canada average $7.5 billion annually. That figure is expected to swell to between $13.4 billion and $34.5 billion annually over the next five years.
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CONTACTS
- Media Desk
Communications Services Branch
416-314-2106
- Kevin Hemsworth
Algoma University
705-949-2301, Ext. 4120
ontario.ca/natural-resources
"The naming of the chair is an important step forward in meeting our Province's commitment to addressing invasive species. We look forward to Dr. Antunes' leadership as we partner with Algoma University to enhance invasive species research in Ontario."
– Linda Jeffrey
Minister of Natural Resources
"This new Research Chair at Algoma University will help our province curb the progression of invasive species to preserve biodiversity and protect Ontario's natural resources. The creation of the Invasive Species Centre will further establish Sault Ste. Marie as a national leader in forestry research."
– David Orazietti
MPP for Sault Ste. Marie and Parliamentary Assistant to the Minister of Natural Resources
"We are excited to have such an esteemed researcher as Dr. Antunes joining Algoma University. His wealth of international research experience positions him well to lead our research team in the fight against the threat of invasive species in this region and beyond."
– Dr. Celia Ross
President of Algoma University
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