As spring comes into full swing, catch up on some of the U of A’s most impactful research stories from the past month.
Read full stories at the link in our bio.
Hantavirus infections are rare in Canada, but knowing how to prevent exposure is key. U of A virologist Lorne Tyrrell explains how the virus spreads, why the risk to the general public remains low, and the simple precautions that can help keep you safe.
Read the full story at the link in our bio.
“I arrived at the U of A from the United States with a rigid life plan I'd made when I was only 17. I expected a seamless transition, but I wasn't prepared for the reality of being 17 and suddenly navigating a new country, and the massive leap from high school to university life all on my own. Then I realized that mental health wasn't just something I was struggling with, it was my passion.
Switching my major to psychology gave me the confidence to step up as an advocate. I began working at the U of A Counselling Services to make mental health resources more accessible for students, and separately, I took on a role at the U of A Hospital to support the mental health of the broader Edmonton community. Today, I'm a month away from graduation; I've published research papers, and I'm heading toward a future with the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry. I finally found my footing when I stopped trying to follow an old plan and started building a new one based on helping others.”
Ahladita is a fifth-year psychology student from Atlanta, Georgia. She is involved in multiple student groups such as the U of A Canadian Mental Health Association and Undergraduate Psychology Association. Additionally, she has traveled the entire East Coast of the USA. #UAlberta
The future of energy storage is one step closer to becoming cheaper, faster and safer.
U of A researchers Xiaolei Wang and Zhixiao Xu are finding a way to make rechargeable aqueous batteries perform far better than those currently available.
With further research, these batteries have the potential to power homes or electric vehicles, offering a cleaner alternative to lithium-ion batteries.
Tap the link in our bio to read the full story.
Ten years after the Truth and Reconciliation Commission released its Calls to Action, historian Crystal Fraser reflects on the progress Canada has made.
Fraser argues that without a fundamental understanding of what happened to First Nations’ Peoples in Canada, truth and reconciliation is not possible.
Her book, “By Strength We Are Still Here” which details the history of two residential schools in Inuvik, Northwest Territories, won Fraser the 2025 Governor General’s History Award.
Read more at the link in our bio.
“After finishing my previous degree, I began volunteering at the hospital and realized I wanted to be more involved at the point of care for patients and families. The nursing program at U of A is highly regarded and offered me the chance to work in unique and challenging team based environments that I wasn’t able to find in other fields.
Being part of a talented, capable and hard working team where you have the opportunity to contribute to potentially life changing positive outcomes for people is an exceptional feeling and privilege. I think in these ways, nursing pushes you to be your best, as it demands that you are willing to learn, contribute, and work together in challenging situations every day and it feels special when you’re someone who can do that.”
Adam is a second-year After-Degree nursing student. He volunteers for the U of A Wellness Supports and tutors for the Nursing Undergraduate Association. His favourite class is pathopharmacology, and he enjoys skiing. 📖 🎿 #UAlberta
A historic moment at the U of A!
Today we’re thrilled to announce a $93.5-million gift to the Women and Children’s Health Research Institute (@wchriuofa ), continuing a unique, decades-long partnership with the Stollery Children’s Hospital Foundation, @abwomenshealthfoundation and Alberta Health Services.
Building on decades of partnership to advance care and outcomes for generations to come.
Asian Heritage Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the diverse cultures, histories and perspectives that enrich the U of A community and beyond.
This May, we honour the contributions of Asian and Asian-Canadian students, faculty, researchers, staff and alumni whose work, experiences and leadership continue to shape our campuses, communities and fields of study.
Read the full story at the link in our bio.
How do we make it easier for video game developers to test new mechanics and even apply those ideas to real-world robotics?
Professor Matthew Guzdial and PhD candidate Johor Jara share how their team is building tools for first-time game developers, advancing game mechanics research and fostering connections across local and global communities.
Step inside the Game Research and AI Lab (GRAIL) with student researcher Jasmine as she explores how AI in 2D platforming games can navigate environments more efficiently and adapt to player behaviour.
With a background in psychology, she brings an interdisciplinary lens to connect game design and human cognition across her work.
