Cape Breton University is supporting academic research with the award of internal grants to 25 faculty across disciplines. Research, Innovation, Scholarship and Exploration (RISE) grants are awarded annually through a competitive process, with each successful applicant receiving up to $10,000 for their project.
The award of RISE funds considers the top contenders as distinguished RISE, highlighting those with the highest ranking in three categories. Co-applicants Dr. Ted Matheson, Assistant Professor of Geology, and Dr. Jason Loxton, Senior Instructor of Geology, are among the Distinguished RISE recipients in the science category, with a project that will fund equipment and training to build 3D virtual models of geologic outcrops across Cape Breton.
"These virtual models will make field-based geological research on the Island safer and more accessible for researchers from CBU and around the world," explains Dr. Matheson. "It will allow them to visit locations from the comfort of their computer that wouldn't have been practical on foot."
Beyond its potential for research, Dr. Loxton says these models will support CBU's record of providing cutting-edge educational experiences. "These models can be loaded onto student's phones, explored using virtual reality or augmented reality. We plan to introduce it to educators across Cape Breton and abroad. It's really an amazing tool to showcase our world-class geology," says Dr. Loxton. "It's going to be a game changer for us," he adds.
Also noted with a distinguished RISE project, Dr. Nancy Spina, faculty in the School of Education, who will explore LGBTQIA+ Homelessness, Embodiment, and School Disengagement in Cape Breton.
"Despite the rise of youth homelessness in Cape Breton, there is a lack of research focused on the educational experiences and school disengagement of this group, and in particular, individuals belonging to the LGBTQIA+ community," Dr. Spina explains. "With the support of RISE, I hope to engage with the Sydney Youth Project to support academic success within this community."
The third category of RISE applications is social determinants of health, with Dr. Abidemi Fasanmi, Assistant Professor of Healthcare Management in the Shannon School of Business, recognized as a distinguished applicant for her project Pathways to Practice: Facilitating the Integration of Internationally Trained Physicians in Nova Scotia.
"I'm grateful for the support of RISE for this project," says Dr. Fasanmi. "Internationally trained physicians bring valuable skills but face challenges in obtaining licensing, navigating credentialing processes, and integrating into local communities and healthcare systems." She aims to identify and recommend successful strategies, such as bridging programs, mentorship initiatives and streamlined credentialing processes.
Dr. Tanya Brann-Barrett says that while faculty have more than a year to complete the research they've outlined in their RISE grant proposals, summer is an opportune time gain the support of student research assistants.
"Many faculty focus on research during the summer and we are thrilled to help them get underway with the support of RISE awards," says Dr. Brann-Barrett. "These awards help them to advance new publications, discoveries and partnerships, and offer incredible student research opportunities," she adds.
Congratulations to the 2025 RISE recipients!
