Finding solutions through research
Long before the world became interested in Alberta’s oilsands, University of Calgary researchers were helping to unlock the secrets to its riches.
It is such cutting-edge research at the university that provides a total economic impact of $3.52 billion each year to Alberta.
The use of in situ extraction, in which steam is injected into the ground to bring oil to the surface, is now common practice by the major companies working in Fort McMurray.
“It is University of Calgary research that has contributed to the development and commercialization of in situ production,” says Calgary Economic Development CEO and president Bruce Graham.
Ed McCauley, vice-president of research at the University of Calgary, says the energy industry is studied from every angle. The university launched its Energy Research Strategy in September.
“Our research tackles critical questions about global energy supply and demand, and addresses issues that are of direct relevance to the local communities that we serve and lead, by examining energy and its impact from the points of view of technology innovation, influence on and by human systems and the environment and ecosystems,” says McCauley.
The benefits from a range of study — which includes medicine, social sciences, engineering, law, kinesiology and business, as well as energy — go far beyond Calgary.
“The University of Calgary has a mission to discover new knowledge and translate those discoveries into applications that provide benefits to our society and global communities,” explains McCauley.
“We have identified six strategic research themes in which the university is positioned to assume national and international leadership,” he adds.
“We are applying our research expertise to issues of global relevance and of great importance to our stakeholder communities.”