CONESTOGA COLLEGE
New BioHub connects industry with biotechnology applied research

Conestoga has launched the Biotechnology Research & Innovation Hub (BioHub) at the Kitchener - Doon campus, expanding the college's applied research focus to tackle real-world challenges in food and agriculture, health and life sciences, medtech, packaging, and environmental remediation.

Located in the Cowan Centre for Medical Sciences and Biotechnology, which opened in fall 2023 with support from The Cowan Foundation, the BioHub is a collaborative environment where students, faculty, and industry partners come together to drive innovation.

"At Conestoga, we believe that applied research is an important part of academic excellence and innovation. This research hub is a testament to our commitment to integrate research into our academic programs. Our students will have the unique opportunity to engage in hands-on research, working alongside researchers, faculty and industry experts," said Dr. Natalia Ronda, dean of Heath & Life Sciences. "This experiential learning approach ensures that our graduates are not only knowledgeable but also equipped with the practical skills needed to excel in the biotechnology sector."

The BioHub was conceived in response to a growing demand of biotech-focused requests to the Conestoga Food Research & Innovation Lab (CFRIL), highlighting an opportunity to expand capacity.

"With growth in related academic programs and the creation of state-of-the-art labs supporting biotechnology, it was a logical next step to launch the Conestoga Biotechnology Research & Innovation Hub to meet the needs of industry supported by our facilities and talented staff," said Nicole Detlor, director of CFRIL and BioHub.

Dr. Anthony Bauer will serve as lead researcher for the BioHub. Holding a PhD in biological sciences from the University of Waterloo and bringing experience across multiple industrial sectors, Bauer serves as a critical bridge between industry needs and applied research solutions.

"My role is focused on turning challenges into solutions and training students to do the same," said Bauer. "It's about applied research with real impact."

With more than 100 life science companies and over 130 food processors in the Waterloo Region, the BioHub is well-positioned to play a significant role in the local innovation ecosystem. The hub will support companies in developing new products, improving existing ones, and accelerating commercialization, while acting as a critical connector between industry, applied research, and talent development.

The establishment of this new applied research hub is supported by funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada's (NSERC)  Mobilize Program  which provides Canadian colleges with flexible funding to address applied research priorities within their community and applied research training opportunities for students.

Conestoga is ranked among Canada's top research colleges and works in collaboration with industry and community partners to develop innovative products, improve processes and support informed decision-making. The college's centres of excellence and innovation focus on applied research in a variety of areas that navigate the ever-changing economic, social and environmental landscape to create practical solutions that address real-world challenges. Visit Research, Innovation & Entrepreneurship to learn more.

Conestoga's School of Health & Life Sciences offers a range of credentials to assist in the goal of becoming a health care professional. From pre-health programs, certificates, diplomas, graduate certificates and degrees, the school delivers the most up-to-date training provided by expert faculty and staff in state-of-the-art facilities.