‘Brainstorm,’ a special edition of YFile publishing on the first Friday of every month, showcases research and innovation at York University. It offers compelling and accessible feature-length stories about the world-leading and policy-relevant work of York’s academics and researchers across all disciplines and Faculties and encompasses both pure and applied research.
Special announcement: York University Research Awards Celebration May 11, from 1:30 to 3 p.m.
Please join the President & Vice-Chancellor Rhonda L. Lenton and the Vice-President Research & Innovation Amir Asif in celebrating the York University Research Awards, for 2019 and 2020 on May 11, from 1:30 to 3 p.m. Help us to congratulate the award winners on their remarkable achievements.
Join the live stream at: http://go.yorku.ca/watchresearchleaderscelebration.
In the May 2021 issue
Exploring a universe of mysteries: Four scientists consider how we fit into the ‘vast cosmic dance’
What are the mysteries of the ‘final frontier?’ Four exceptional researchers identify the most pressing questions in space exploration, planetary science and cosmology, once again demonstrating York University’s leadership on an international (and perhaps cosmic) scale. Read full story.
Study on Anishinaabe ways of knowing could transform universities’ knowledge creation
After winning a major grant from SSHRC, History Professor Carolyn Podruchny leads a study on Indigenous ways of knowing. This has tremendous potential to inform knowledge creation and transfer, and aid in decolonizing the university. Read full story.
Trailblazing research examines virtual characters and walking style – Bonus video
A post-doctoral fellow joined the BioMotionLab two years ago and continued some compelling work on the perception of realistic virtual characters. She recently wrote a conference paper on attractiveness and confidence in walking style of these virtual characters – an original contribution in a cutting-edge field. Read full story.
Research on Syrian refugees and depression tells powerful story of letdowns, could spur change
A health services expert led an examination of a year-long study with Syrian refugees and discovered that rates of depression actually rose over the year. This brought to light perceived sinking social support and control, language barriers and more disappointments – predictors of depression, which could point the way to policy change. Read full story.
Intrepid educators launch new resource for educational development
Seeking to demystify educational development as a career path, a pair of educators created a novel, online resource. They’re hoping to spur an interactive and dynamic discussion where those new to the field, or those considering this career, can gain vital insights. Read full story.
Coming this summer: New resource for those wanting to conduct Indigenous research
The Indigenous Council will soon offer an indispensable guide for non-Indigenous researchers hoping to undertake Indigenous research. ‘Brainstorm’ speaks with the curators of this information to learn more. Read full story.
Launched in January 2017, ‘Brainstorm’ is produced out of the Office of the Vice-President Research & Innovation in partnership with Communications & Public Affairs; overseen by Megan Mueller, senior manager, research communications; and edited by Jenny Pitt-Clark, YFile editor and Ashley Goodfellow Craig, YFile deputy editor.