Automotive research at McMaster receives funding boost

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[img_inline align=”right” src=”http://padnws01.mcmaster.ca/images/AUTO21.jpg” caption=”Top photo: Mo Elwestawi; middle: David Wilkinson; bottom: Marek Niewczas”]Automotive research at McMaster received a boost with funding for three research initiatives in the Faculty of Engineering. The AUTO21 Network of Centres of Excellence announced the funding at a ceremony in Toronto this week.

Mo Elbestawi, professor in mechanical engineering and dean of engineering, received funding for research in high-efficiency machining processes; David Wilkinson, professor in materials science and engineering, for research in chemically enhanced formability of automotive aluminum alloys; and Marek Niewczas, associate professor in materials science and engineering, for wrought magnesium for automobiles.

“The strong collaboration between government and industry supporters and the Canadian research community is leading to new technologies and also a steady stream of highly qualified student researchers who will lead the country's future automotive sector,” said Peter Frise, AUTO21 program leader and CEO.

AUTO21 announced the funding of 41 innovative auto-related research projects at the ceremony. Through AUTO 21, the Government of Canada is investing up to $9.8 million in project funding. The projects are supported by an additional $14.7 million from industry and other public sector partners, including several vehicle manufacturers, automotive suppliers and federal and provincial government departments and agencies.

AUTO21 research takes a multidisciplinary approach, pairing non-traditional fields together to spark innovative solutions. A project may consist of engineers, occupational therapists, nurses, economists, chemists, and psychologists. In addition, the projects provide excellent training opportunities for graduate and post-graduate students who benefit from working with Canada's top researchers and representatives from Canada's auto industry.

Full details can be found at www.auto21.ca.