Lakehead University is setting up an industrial research chair to focus on mining and exploration.
University President Moira McPherson calls the announcement “huge.” The province, the federal government, LU, and Impala Canada will provide a total of $2.15 million towards five years worth of research.
“This industrial chair is really going to enhance the mineral exploration industry. It’s going to enhance the ability to discover new mines,” explains McPherson.
Impala Canada says it will allow them to unlock the potential of the over 40,000 hectares of exploration property they have in northern Ontario.
Chief Executive Officer Tim Hill says Impala is providing $375,000 to the research.
“In addition to contributing this financial investment, we are thrilled to be an active partner in this research where our geology team will be boots on the ground and infield support,” says Hill.
Energy, Northern Development and Mines Minister Greg Rickford announced $670,000 will come through the Northern Ontario Heritage Fund.
“Investing in job creation and research and development at Lakehead University will help drive new solutions and support our government’s commitment to grow the province’s mineral exploration and prospecting industry,” says Rickford. “Through this project, we have the potential to attract new investments into the region and drive more economic opportunities here in northwestern Ontario.”
Dr. Peter Hollings, who now serves as chair of the university’s Department of Geology, will head the new Industrial Research Chair in Mineral Exploration.
The federal money comes from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada.
