News - Faculty of Science

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�첥��Ƶ among Canada’s Greenest Employers for 14th consecutive year

Published April 22, 2026 in YFile

�첥��Ƶ continues its leadership in sustainability with recognition as one of Canada’s Greenest Employers, underscoring a long-standing commitment to environmental stewardship and innovation.

�첥��Ƶ students track NASA’s Artemis II mission

Published April 17, 2026 in YFile

NASA’s Orion spacecraft pictured from one of the cameras mounted on its solar array wings. The service module is prominently featured in this image showing a portion of the orbital maneuvering system engine and three of eight auxiliary thrusters. Also pictured is one of the four solar array wings. Each of Orion’s four solar array wings are made of three panels that provide enough electricity to power two three-bedroom homes. Credit: NASA

Learn how students used the one-metre telescope at the Allan I. Carswell Observatory to track and record the Orion spacecraft during the historic mission around the moon.

Can AI reduce bias in liver transplant waitlists?

Published April 17, 2026 in YFile

Concentrated multiethnic team of physicians men and women in workwear sitting at table at clinic, having breefing, looking for solutions, discussing clinical cases, looking at papers, chatting

A �첥��Ƶ researcher is helping to define how emerging technologies can be used to support more equitable health care decisions.

Passings: Allan Carswell

Published April 14, 2026 in YFile

Professor Emeritus Allan Carswell was a visionary in discovery, leadership and generosity whose impact at �첥��Ƶ over nearly six decades was immeasurable.

NASA award recognizes York scientists for wildfire air quality research

Published April 10, 2026 in YFile

Red sunset over Toronto's skyline due to the wildfire pollution

�첥��Ƶ is recognized by NASA for contributions to research that could change how Canadians are protected from reduced air quality during wildfire season.

Federal investment backs Lassonde clean energy research

Published April 8, 2026 in YFile

Researchers looking for alternative energy souces

�첥��Ƶ is one of 12 recipients of national funding to advance clean technology designed to reduce energy use and lower operating costs.

York University scientists help bridge research and policy in Ontario

Published April 1, 2026 in YFile

hot of businesspeople shaking hands in an office.

Three �첥��Ƶ researchers are among a cohort of scientists who will engage in dialogue with Ontario legislators to discuss evidence-informed policy and learn more about the decision-making process.

York biologist earns distinction for research achievements

Published March 27, 2026 in YFile

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The Canadian Society for Molecular Biosciences honours University Professor Emeritus Ronald Pearlman’s research leadership and contributions to genome science.

CFI funding supports collaborative biodiversity, physics research

Published March 20, 2026 in YFile

Two researchers in a lab looking at a computer

Two global research projects involving �첥��Ƶ will benefit from $14.5 million in funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) to modernize genomics and computing infrastructure.

Unique master’s program opens doors to biotechnology careers

Published March 5, 2026 in YFile

�첥��Ƶ’s Master of Biotechnology Management program develops job-ready talent through hands‑on training, industry mentorships and paid internships, opening pathways to new careers.

York recognizes co-op and work-integrated learning students of the year

Published March 5, 2026 in YFile

Students walking through the hallway of the Career Centre

Meet two outstanding �첥��Ƶ students – Sadia Tasnim and Brianna Nguyen – whose applied learning achievements shaping communities and driving meaningful change have been recognized with the Work-Integrated Student of the Year and Co-op Student of the Year awards.

Province invests $1.6M in York's research infrastructure

Published March 4, 2026 in YFile

Group of researchers in a lab discussing a project

The Ontario Research Fund supports 14 projects at �첥��Ƶ that will strengthen research spaces, tools and capacity.

CIHR grants support cutting-edge health research led by �첥��Ƶ

Published February 27, 2026 in YFile

Back view of woman patient wearing performant eeg headset sitting on chair in neurological research laboratory while medical researcher adjusting it, examining nervous system typing on tablet.

Researchers in the Faculty of Science will advance groundbreaking work in mental health care, neurosicence and genetics to support better health outcomes for Canadians.

Passings: Frederick Morgan

Published February 13, 2026 in YFile

Long-serving �첥��Ƶ faculty member Frederick Morgan will be remembered for his contributions as an educator and researcher and for his role in shaping Bethune College as an academic home for students.

�첥��Ƶ scientist earns award for climate research

Published February 11, 2026 in YFile

Professor Cora Young conducting field research

�첥��Ƶ environmental chemist Cora Young is among four global scientists honoured by the American Geophysical Union for advancing climate and atmospheric research.

NSERC awards $1M for sustainable construction, biopharma research

Published January 28, 2026 in YFile

modern construction of 3D houses. printed house using a 3D printer

Researchers at �첥��Ƶ are partnering with industries to transform mining waste into building materials and accelerate vaccine development with grants from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.

Passings: Arthur Hilliker

Published January 21, 2026 in YFile

Arthur Hilliker, a �첥��Ƶ professor and former chair of biology whose pioneering research on fruit fly genetics advanced understanding of DNA, has died.

Award places �첥��Ƶ among world leaders in medical AI research, innovation

Published January 9, 2026 in YFile

Medic expert uses tools and smart health systems to provide health solutions, showcasing scientific advancement in diagnostics and the future of healthcare through modern technology.

A �첥��Ƶ team is guiding the future of medical decision-making through innovations using AI. Find out how their work earned a top-three finish in a prestigious international competition.

Human spaceflight course launches with interdisciplinary focus

Published January 7, 2026 in YFile

A new course designed for non-science majors blends science, creativity and hands-on learning about what it takes to send humans into space.

Graduate studies award strengthens support for underrepresented scholars

Published December 10, 2025 in YFile

diverse group of students working collaborating

�첥��Ƶ’s Faculty of Graduate Studies is championing equity and inclusion with a new award that supports graduate students managing research alongside family care and community commitments.

National recognition for York's actuarial science program

Published December 3, 2025 in YFile

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York earns distinction for excellence in actuarial training and joins a small group of universities accredited by the Canadian Institute of Actuaries.

Why the flu shot may be a mismatch – and what York scientists are doing about it

Published November 21, 2025 in YFile

Flu activity is on the rise as winter sets in, but this season’s vaccine may not be a perfect match. �첥��Ƶ researchers shed light on why flu vaccines sometimes miss the mark and how innovations in modelling and AI could improve protection in the years ahead.

Passings: Kenneth George Davey

Published November 19, 2025 in YFile

Professor Emeritus Kenneth Davey was internationally recognized for his research on insects and other invertebrates. Learn more about his scientific impact and his leadership at York.

Professor launches program to make space science accessible

Published November 12, 2025 in YFile

student enjoy learning and discussing about astronomy science together in classroom, a science student doing the astronomic projec

Elaina Hyde, director of �첥��Ƶ’s Allan I. Carswell Observatory, announces Stellar Scholars, a program that introduces young learners to the wonders of the universe while addressing barriers to STEM education in underrepresented communities.

�첥��Ƶ celebrates exceptional staff at President’s Staff Recognition Awards

Published November 5, 2025 in YFile

Staff who embody the �첥��Ƶniversty spirit through their leadership, commitment and creative work were recognized at the annual awards program, held Nov. 3.

Explore new worlds through �첥��Ƶ Libraries' virtual reality workshop

Published October 31, 2025 in YFile

Man wearing a VR headset and making notes

Virtual reality (VR) isn't just for gaming – it can enhance teaching, learning and research. Discover the potential of immersive technology and its diverse applications through a workshop led by �첥��Ƶ Libraries.

Student rocketry team overcomes setbacks and soars to success

Published October 1, 2025 in YFile

What do you do when your rocket won’t launch? If you’re part of �첥��Ƶ's Arbalest Rocketry team, you rebuild, recruit and rise. See how the team's student members turned adversity into altitude.

York professor earns innovator award for equity-focused AI research

Published September 26, 2025 in YFile

Medicine doctor and robotics research and analysis. Diagnose checking coronavirus or covid-19 testing

�첥��Ƶ’s Divya Sharma is revolutionizing health care with agentic AI. Her equity-driven research just earned her the 2025 Petro-Canada Emerging Innovator Award.

From lab to literature: York prof helps a mystery novel come alive

Published August 31, 2025 in YFile

�첥��Ƶ professor Elizabeth Clare and her pioneering environmental DNA research have become a key element in author and alum Steve Burrows’ latest entry in his ongoing Birder Murder mystery series.

York biochemistry student earns national merit award

Published August 29, 2025 in YFile

Sebastian Marmorato has won the Canada Student Merit Award — the latest in a series of honours recognizing his academic excellence and leadership in student wellness at �첥��Ƶ.

Research led by York charts roadmap for sustainable pandemic preparedness

Published August 20, 2025 in YFile

Drawing on the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Professor Sergey Krylov is leading research to advancr scalable diagnostic tools and policy strategies to strengthen Canada’s pandemic preparedness and global health resilience.

York science students showcase innovation at summer conference

Published August 20, 2025 in YFile

York’s Faculty of Science celebrates undergraduate students’ bold projects in physics, biology and chemistry, revealing the impact of early-stage research.

$5.7M in SSHRC funding for York's transformative social impact research

Published July 30, 2025 in YFile

researchers working on post-its, whiteboard

�첥��Ƶ researchers will lead 34 projects funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) Insight Grants to advance interdisciplinary studies in equity, climate action, refugee law and more.

Farming methods threaten wild bumblebees, York study finds

Published July 25, 2025 in YFile

Close-up of a bumblebee pollinating delicate purple blossoms with vibrant green background.

A national study led by �첥��Ƶ scientists maps areas where wild bumblebees are most vulnerable to disease spillover from managed pollinators. Co-authored by the late Sheila Colla, the research calls for urgent conservation action.

$1.5M in grants support York-led research to strengthen health equity

Published July 23, 2025 in YFile

Nearly $1.5 million in new funding will support projects exploring the biological roots of heart failure and the social and clinical challenges faced by women with multiple sclerosis who experience intimate partner violence.

York research drives national AI projects to improve liver transplant care

Published July 23, 2025 in YFile

�첥��Ƶ Assistant Professor Divya Sharma is working with national partners on two projects that use artificial intelligence to improve access, diagnosis and long-term outcomes for liver transplant patients across Canada.

�첥��Ƶ scholars secure $1.7M for social science, humanities research 

Published July 16, 2025 in YFile

Insight Development Grants from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council will empower York scholars to lead 34 early-stage research projects that address critical issues in today’s world. 

$12.1M in NSERC grants to drive science, engineering research at �첥��Ƶ

Published July 11, 2025 in YFile

A female scientist researcher working in a lab

With 68 grants from the Natural Sciences & Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC), �첥��Ƶ continues to lead cutting-edge research on diverse topics from artificial intelligence to disease dynamics.

York doctoral students earn national recognition with Vanier Scholarships

Published July 11, 2025 in YFile

Four PhD candidates are among the recipients of Canada's top honour for doctoral research with projects to advance work in animal welfare, heart function, cross-border tax policies and more.

Banting Fellows to drive change in gaming, labour and eye contact studies

Published July 9, 2025 in YFile

students on campus talking and sitting outside

With projects focusing on the addictive nature of microtransactions in gaming, anti-colonial labour relations and the nuances of eye contact in communication, �첥��Ƶ’s three new Banting Postdoctoral Fellows are set to make a societal impact.

Appointment of dean, Faculty of Science

Published June 25, 2025 in YFile

Maydianne Andrade, a renowned expert in biological sciences, has been appointed dean of �첥��Ƶ's Faculty of Science beginning Jan. 1, 2026, for a five-year term.

Malcolm King offers lesson in humility to Class of 2025

Published June 20, 2025 in YFile

With a focus on the Seven Sacred Teachings, esteemed Indigenous health researcher Malcolm King reminds �첥��Ƶ graduates of the strength found in humility.

Two faculty members earn honorific professorships during Spring Convocation

Published June 18, 2025 in YFile

The prestigious titles of University Professorship and Distinguished Research Professorship were awarded for exceptional scholarship and teaching.

Open Air Astro Fair fosters learning, local support for �첥��Ƶ observatory

Published June 18, 2025 in YFile

Join fellow astronomy enthusiasts at the Open Air Astro Fair for an evening of celestial exploration, community engagement and support for the Allan I. Carswell Observatory.

'Walk forward with purpose,' Chief Kelly LaRocca tells grads

Published June 13, 2025 in YFile

Rhonda Lenton Kelly LaRocca Alice Hovorka

During her convocation address, Kelly LaRocca, chief of the Mississaugas of Scugog Island First Nation and honorary doctorate recipient, urged grads to live authentically, honour their communities and embrace lessons learned.

�첥��Ƶ joins elite international astronomy team to research secrets of the universe

Published June 11, 2025 in YFile

�첥��Ƶ will be host to one of two early-career researchers that form the inaugural cohort of a new global initiative to advance radio astronomy research.

$1.6M gift funds new space to enhance science student success

Published May 28, 2025 in YFile

A donation from Chinese Canadian scientist and medical doctor Taihua Wang has funded a new hub to help �첥��Ƶ Faculty of Science students thrive through access to advising services, study pods and more.

How a forgotten manuscript brought Canada’s radio astronomy story to light

Published May 23, 2025 in YFile

A decade after his passing, �첥��Ƶ Professor Richard Jarrell’s collection of reseach on videotapes documenting the story of Canada’s rise in radio astronomy has become a notable publication, capturing the spirit of his dedication to science.

Grad students thrive from human-centred supervision in science

Published May 22, 2025 in YFile

students professor talking working together

With weekly check-ins, global collaborations and a focus on living a balanced life, Professor Wendy Taylor is redefining what it means to mentor graduate students in high-stakes science and see them succeed in their field.

Provincial recognition for �첥��Ƶ early-career researchers

Published May 21, 2025 in YFile

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Professors Eric Kennedy and Kohitij Kar have been recognized with Ontario’s Early Researcher Award for impactful work that will advance wildfire predictive services and understanding how those with autism process sensory information.

�첥��Ƶ celebrates excellence in research, innovation

Published May 2, 2025 in YFile

Ali Abdul-Sater, Shital Desai and Kean Birch

More than 70 York researchers have earned recognition for their innovations and contributions to their fields of study through the 2025 Research Awards.

Stargazing gets social: new partnership is changing astronomy at York

Published May 2, 2025 in YFile

Discover how a new partnership is transforming astronomy at �첥��Ƶ with monthly stargazing events that draw record crowds and make the night sky accessible to all.

�첥��Ƶ’s School of Continuing Studies launches four future-focused programs

Published May 2, 2025 in YFile

Building on a decade of workforce innovation, the School of Continuing Studies introduces four new pathways to in-demand professions.

AI-focused research gives new hope for osteoarthritis treatment

Published April 30, 2025 in YFile

Researchers testing blood samples in a lab with computers on the desk

A new study led by Faculty of Science Assistant Professor Divya Sharma explores how the integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and biology lead to unprecedented advancements in joint replacement surgery outcomes.

Appointment of interim dean, Faculty of Science

Published April 30, 2025 in YFile

Robert Tsushima, associate professor and Chair, Department of Biology, will serve as interim dean in the Faculty of Science beginning July 1.

Block model learning in Lassonde a blueprint for success

Published April 24, 2025 in YFile

A cohort of engineering students are reporting enriched learning through Lassonde's block model, which allows learners to focus on foundational subjects one course at a time.

Spiral learning reinforces real-world applications of coding

Published April 24, 2025 in YFile

Multiracial young creative people in modern office. Group of young business people are working together with laptop, tablet, smart phone, notebook. Successful hipster team in coworking.

Students studying first-year computer science have a unique opportunity to gain practicial experience from the "spiral" learning model, where coding lessons are applied to real-world science scenarios.

Cosmic honour for �첥��Ƶ astrophysicist

Published April 11, 2025 in YFile

�첥��Ƶ Professor Emeritus Marshall McCall's groundbreaking research into the intricate structures of galaxies has earned him a place among the stars with an asteroid named in his honour.

Chemistry professor earns prestigious fellowship

Published April 4, 2025 in YFile

Jennifer van Wijngaarden has been named a fellow of the Chemical Institute of Canada, recognizing her contributions to spectroscopic research and dedication to mentorship in the chemical sciences.

King Charles III Coronation Medal honours �첥��Ƶ community members

Published April 2, 2025 in YFile

More than 20 �첥��Ƶ community members are recipients of the prestigious medal that recognizes exceptional leadership, contributions and efforts to make positive change throughout Canada.

�첥��Ƶ prof makes astronomy history with largest-ever observation grant

Published April 2, 2025 in YFile

Professor Adam Muzzin was awarded a record-breaking allocation of observation time with the world's most powerful telescope to explore the universe's farthest galaxies and very first stars.

Transformative Faculty of Science courses prepare future scientists