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Research U of T Engineering faculty and students carry out path-breaking research on the world stage. Our research in applied science and engineering is part of a global effort, fostered by international collaborations, to advance scientific understanding and its application to solve human problems. The challenges include meeting the energy needs of future generations, breaking down the barriers of geography and disciplines to connect individuals, and accelerating and refining medical diagnosis and treatment. By partnering with existing companies, and creating new ones, we are translating our advances into innovations, products and services. Our research is distinguished by the creative collaborations we forge with industry, government and other educators. Whether it involves exploring ways to help Canadians share digital information quickly and easily or teaming up with international companies and universities to tackle the challenges facing large cities, our researchers are deeply engaged in profound labwork and fieldwork that makes a difference. It is multidisciplinary teamwork that is adding quality and strength to the research we do. The lengthy list of companies partnering with U of T Engineering researchers is a testament to our increasing collaboration with organizations finding ways to benefit society and meet market needs. Magna and General Motors of Canada are two of many automotive companies participating in research to develop a stronger Canadian automotive sector. A growing number of industrial partners are also adding their financial support to the funding we already receive from NSERC and other government agencies. The contribution from industry is nearly four times what was in 2001–2002. Research funding received by U of T Engineering has experienced impressive growth in recent years, increasing 44 per cent from 2008– 2009 to 2010–2011, while the infrastructure funding that supports our research activity has more than quadrupled in the same period. Our annual share of NSERC funding also grew in 2011–2012, providing a strong foundation of support for research and collaboration.
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