Research

Research in the College of Natural and Applied Sciences Office of Research spans our three faculties: Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences, Engineering, and Science.

We are home to some of the most comprehensive research infrastructure and teaching facilities in the world, such as the Canadian Ice Core Lab; 25,000 acres of farm and ranch land; and a national, open-access facility for micro- and nanoscale fabrication. Our researchers push the boundaries of knowledge to create discoveries and innovations that improve our lives and the world, and help shape our future.

Research in our college focuses on:

  • creating and maintaining interdisciplinary and large-scale research programs;
  • facilitating complex partnerships with partners in industry;
  • supporting ethical and effective research practices;
  • documenting the impact of CNAS research; and
  • increasing overall levels of research funding in the college.

Key research areas

Our college has 10 key research areas, including:

Leadership

David Bressler, Associate Dean (STEM Research)

David Bressler is the associate dean (STEM research) in the College of Natural and Applied Sciences. David joins the college from the Faculty of Agricultural, Life & Environmental Sciences, where he has been a faculty member for 20 years. David has also served as the Associate Dean (Research) for the faculty. His research centres on bioresource technology and fermentation. David is an alumnus of the Department of Biological Sciences and served in a teaching position in the Department of Chemical and Materials Engineering, providing a unique college-wide research perspective and awareness. He is the founder of Forge Hydrocarbons, a spinoff company based on his research. David is passionate about fostering a culture of innovative, collaborative, and multidisciplinary research.

In his role as Associate Dean (STEM Research), David leads the College of Natural and Applied Sciences research strategy. David can be reached via email at cnasadr@ualberta.ca.