Three leading researchers at Trent University have had their Canada Research Chair appointments renewed, securing continued federal support for research in the humanities and social sciences.
The renewals recognize the work of Dr. Whitney Lackenbauer, Dr. Anne Pasek and Dr. Naomi Nichols, whose research spans Arctic policy and security, climate change and media, and community-partnered social justice.
Lackenbauer’s Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in the Study of the Canadian North has been renewed for a seven-year term, supported by $1.4 million in funding. A leading authority on Arctic sovereignty and northern security, his work examines Canada’s role in the circumpolar world and the intersection of Indigenous, national and international interests in northern governance. Based at Trent, Lackenbauer also leads the North American and Arctic Defence and Security Network and contributes directly to public policy discussions.
Pasek has been renewed as a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Media, Culture, and the Environment, receiving $500,000 over five years. Her research focuses on climate change, sustainability and the growing influence of digital companies on energy policies and markets.
Nichols was renewed for a second term as a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Community-Partnered Social Justice, also supported by $500,000 over five years. Her work involves research partnerships with community organizations to address social inequities and develop tools and policies aimed at systemic change. During her first term, Nichols established the Research for Social Change Lab and secured more than $1 million in additional research funding.
Trent University officials say the renewals highlight the impact of the institution’s research community and its contributions to issues of national and global importance.
Funded by the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada, the Canada Research Chairs program supports world-class researchers whose work advances discovery, innovation and public engagement.
