SFU applied science researchers receive the CFI’s John R. Evans Leaders Fund

September 13, 2024
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Announced today, researchers from the School of Computing Science and the School of Sustainable Energy Engineering receive a total of $225,000 from Canada Foundation for Innovation’s John R. Evans Leaders Fund (CFI’s JELF). CFI’s JELF was created to help institutions recruit and retain outstanding researchers. The fund will support researchers in building the necessary foundational infrastructure and acquire the tools needed to lead and conduct cutting-edge research. This enables SFU to remain internationally competitive in areas of research and technology development that align with the university’s strategic priorities.

Recipients of CFI’s JELF:

Jason Peng, Assistant Professor
Project title: Machine Learning for Agile Motor Skills
CFI’s contribution: $125,000

About project: The research program aims to develop general and scalable machine learning techniques that enable legged robots to replicate the motor capabilities of humans and animals. Agile and robust locomotion controllers for legged systems can drastically expand the domains in which robots can effectively operate. These systems can open the way for a wide array of applications, ranging from assisting humans with everyday activities, to exploring dangerous and inhospitable environments, such as disaster zones and the surfaces of other planets.
 

Mariana Resener, Assistant Professor
Project title: Laboratory for Advanced Research and Innovation in Modern Distribution Grids
CFI’s contribution: $100,000

About project: The project aims to establish a research laboratory for advanced research and innovation in modern distribution grids. With the global economy striving to transition energy consumption from fossil fuels to more sustainable energy sources, electrical grids have the potential to help us reduce greenhouse gas emissions. The research will enable the development of models, algorithms and technologies to overcome the uncertainties of the power grid reliabilty and facilitate the integration of distributed energy resources.
 

Read the official news release from CFI here >>