Ontario Tech students explore advanced fusion research at Canadian Nuclear Laboratories

Fifteen master’s and PhD students from Ontario Tech University gained invaluable experience and insight into fusion research and the nuclear industry during a recent week-long trip to Canadian Nuclear Laboratories (CNL) in Chalk River, Ontario. The opportunity for Ontario Tech students to explore CNL’s advanced energy facility is the first initiative of a new three-year partnership between the university’s School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies (SGPS) and CNL.

CNL’s Graduate Immersive Experience Program, established in partnership with SGPS and Ontario Tech’s Brilliant Catalyst innovative learning hub, is cultivating the next generation of nuclear science and engineering leaders in advance of them entering the workforce. During the final week of June, graduate students engaged directly with CNL experts and toured CNL’s industry-leading facilities.

The university’s collaboration with CNL provides students with deep insight into current nuclear research and facilitates mentorship opportunities crucial for their career advancement. It also underscores Ontario Tech’s commitment to hands-on, experiential learning, preparing graduates to tackle complex challenges in the nuclear energy field.

Beyond the immediate learning experience, the trip also served as a potential career gateway: 11 of the students expressed interest in potential roles at CNL and were offered job interviews.

Later this year, the CNL Graduate Immersive Experience Program will feature a Fall Ideathon at Ontario Tech. With a theme of ‘Exploring Fusion Energy for Canada’s Future’, the October Ideathon will Involve up to 75 graduate students who will get their chance to pitch innovative solutions. Participants will vie for prize money and a chance to join another immersive experience at CNL in Spring 2025.

CNL experts will serve as mentors, advisors, and judges during the Ideathon, giving students even more opportunities to experience nuclear innovation. The event will challenge students’ creativity and problem-solving skills to address critical energy challenges facing Canada.

Quotes

“This three-year initiative provides Ontario Tech graduate students with unique learning experiences supported by industry experts at CNL. Our partnership with CNL exemplifies our commitment to providing exceptional experiential learning opportunities for our students. We are keen to work with organizations to create tailored programs that address their specific needs and challenges. These collaborations not only enhance our students’ education but also contribute to the broader goals of our partners, ensuring mutually beneficial outcomes and preparing our graduates to excel in their future careers.”
– Dr. Pejman Mirza-Babaei, Associate Dean, School of Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, Ontario Tech University

“This is an extremely valuable partnership for Ontario Tech and its students. CNL is doing some incredible research and they’re well-connected with the nuclear sector, which is taking the charge on sustainable energy right now. From the perspective of potential future jobs, this experience is amazing for our students.”
-Dr. Brendan MacDonald, Associate Professor, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Ontario Tech University

“We understand students want more experiential learning and they’re also very invested in making a difference. We’re driving research and development innovation supporting Canada’s clean energy future and students are looking at where they can not only invest their skills but where they can make an impact. We want to show them the variety of truly interesting opportunities available at CNL.”
–Gina Strati, Director Academic Partnership Programs, Canadian Nuclear Laboratories

“The overall experience was a five out of five. I loved how all the CNL staff were so enthusiastic about what they were sharing and so willing to engage with students. It made me feel that this is a great team to be part of.”
-Mercy Nandutu, Master of Engineering (Nuclear) candidate/student, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Ontario Tech University