CLS LIGHTS THE WAY

It has now been 20 years since the Canadian Light Source was unveiled at the University of Saskatchewan. The synchrotron, the instrument at the centre of the research facility, operates through the acceleration of electrons to 99.99 per cent of the speed of light, according to a release marking the anniversary of its launch. That’s fast enough to reach the moon in 1.3 seconds. Giant magnets bend the beam, which creates light “millions of times brighter than the sun.” The light allows researchers to analyze physical samples in enormous detail.

The list of projects in which the synchrotron has played a role is beyond impressive. It contributed to the creation of a universal blood type. It helped debunk a theory that lead poisoning contributed to the deaths of members of the Franklin Expedition in 1845 by allowing analysis of bone and tooth material. It was a tool used in the development of new approaches to leukemia, Alzheimer’s and cystic fibrosis. Safer batteries, a new way to produce medical isotopes and new properties of superconductivity are just a few more of the advances made through this technological marvel located right here in Saskatchewan.

Of course, CLS also has created jobs, attracted international attention to this part of the world and has spurred economic activity. It is proof that this province can be home to worldclass facilities and participate at the highest level of research.

As University of Saskatchewan president Peter Stoicheff pointed out, “This unique-in-canada research centre arose from an unprecedented level of collaboration among governments, universities and industry in Canada, and represents the single largest investment in Canadian science.”

This collaboration needs to be replicated as often as possible.

The anniversary is an opportunity to appreciate the important part universities play in the provincial economy. It is estimated that the University of Regina has a gross domestic product impact for Saskatchewan of $542 million annually. The University of Saskatchewan makes a contribution of $1.3 billion. Beyond the jobs they create and the economic engines they provide, these institutions are central to making the province competitive on the international stage.

Saskatchewan must develop a culture that fosters a love of learning and recognize that our future success depends on developing centres of excellence to facilitate that growth. Government dollars must flow accordingly.

CLS is the source of important research that makes the world a better place.