New Brunswick universities prove that health is wealth

By Ursula Leonowicz ©2018 Postmedia Network Inc. ​This article was published in the Telegraph-Journal on Feb 15, 2025

Health is the most precious asset we have, which is why the research being conducted by two New Brunswick universities is so essential — not only to our health, but also our wealth. 

“Our immersive simulation laboratory in the Faculty of Health Sciences and Community Services, for example, works to use technology to improve training and field practices with the aim of having a more efficient health system,” says Amélie Gallant, a communications adviser at Université de Moncton. 

“Emphasis is placed on transfer of knowledge and technology, in order to maximize the impact of research on the economic and social development of the community.” 

U de M’s research spans the gamut from health, artificial intelligence and robotics to the environment, modern optics and materials — not to mention Acadian studies and minority communities. Thanks to numerous collaborations between the community and researchers, the university can increase its research income, provide students with experiential education opportunities and stimulate innovation. 

“Our collaborative research projects typically aim to solve one or more partner challenges. For example, in the manufacturing field, applied research in robotics and AI increases the productivity of our partners,” Gallant explains. 

“We also offer microprograms in AI and data sciences for people in the job market and short, tailor-made training courses for companies.” 

As for the University of New Brunswick, it’s doing its part to improve the health sector through its Integrated Health Initiative (IHI). 

The IHI supports research partnerships with the local community by creating an ecosystem where interdisciplinary health education, cutting-edge research and groundbreaking innovation converge seamlessly. 

“With the IHI, we are not just dreaming of a healthier New Brunswick, we are building it, one innovative leap at a time,” says Dr. Petra Hauf, UNB’s provost and vice president academic.  

“In addition to launching new academic programs to support the skill sets needed for the future of the health sectors, we will bring world-class researchers to Saint John, creating new networks and forming new partnerships. We are also spurring significant economic development in the community.” 

Improving the level of care and patient experience is always top of mind, as is contributing to growth.  

 “Through interdisciplinary collaboration, the IHI’s collaborative research clusters will convert knowledge and innovation into tangible improvements within New Brunswick’s health sector, across the Atlantic region and nationwide,” Hauf says. 

Together, both universities contribute to the health and well-being of society, fuelling economic growth and proving that health is, indeed, wealth. 

For more information about U de M’s research programs, visit umoncton.ca/recherche. To find out more about UNB’s Integrated Health Initiative, visit unb.ca/integrated-health. 

This story was created by Content Works, Postmedia’s commercial content division, on behalf of Universities Canada.