Scientists, scholars will build bridges

The Canada 150 Research Chairs program, cited in this paper by Dr. Raymond Blake (Canada 150 Chairs: Canadians need not apply, July 27), is designed to help universities attract top-tier international researchers, including Canadian scientists working abroad, who are looking for opportunities to grow their ambitious research projects in a country that values science, diversity and inclusivity. Research excellence comes when scientists and scholars share ideas, work collaboratively and remain open to the perspectives of others.

The new program complements the many other generous programs and investments our government has put in place to support researchers in Canada. While Dr. Blake is correct in stating that the $117 million over eight years for the Canada 150 Research Chairs is only available to non-Canadian and expat-Canadian researchers, that amount represents a small fraction of federal funds available each year to researchers working at Canadian universities. In fact, researchers have access to more than $3 billion in annual funding through the three national granting councils. Once the Canada

150 Research Chairs are recruited, they will be able to use their funding to assemble and sustain world-leading teams of researchers and students in Canada who will work together to further our knowledge and understanding of each other and the world.

It is my firm belief that our scientists and scholars are not inclined to build walls that block others from joining our rich culture of research. Rather, they, along with our government, welcome the opportunity to build bridges for talented researchers who will come to Canada to enhance our reputation as a global centre for science and research excellence.

Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science