Benchmarks summer 2018 by Memorial University

Summer 2018

History made Paradigm Hyperloop team at spacex.

Smart Research

Global Leader

from the dean

Welcome to the summer 2018 issue of Benchmarks. Benchmarks is our way of sharing with you our successes and accomplishments here at Memorial Engineering over the past year. The Dr. Greg Naterer new science and engineering building is taking P. E n g . , P h D , F C SME , shape and the placement of structural steel is FA SME , F E I C , F C A E complete. The Facility (CSF) is scheduled for Dean, Faculty of Engineering completion in 2020 and will provide modern and Applied Science teaching, research and laboratory spaces for engineering for decades to come. The size of this project and the volume that it will add to Memorial’s campus is massive, including 156,000 square feet for research labs; 98,000 square feet for teaching labs; 148,000 square feet of shell space for industry partnerships; and 78,000 square feet for other teaching and support spaces, including faculty and student collaboration space. The development of this facility is the cornerstone of Memorial’s infrastructure renewal plan. Once complete, the facility will enhance our ability to recruit and retain world-class faculty and students, as well as enhance teaching and research capabilities. To follow this project, visit www.mun.ca/csf. As with previous years, many of our students and faculty members received prestigious national and international awards and honours in 2017. Dr. Faisal Khan, head, Department of Process Engineering, was appointed the Canada Research Chair in Offshore Safety and Risk Engineering. Ocean and naval architectural engineering professor Dr. Brian Veitch and associate dean of research Dr. Claude Daley were named fellows of the Canadian Academy of Engineering. The head of the Department of Mechanical Engineering, Dr. Yuri Muzychka, was named a fellow of the Canadian Society for Mechanical Engineering; and Dr. Leonard Lye, associate dean, graduate studies, was named a fellow of the Engineering Institute of Canada.

Fac u lt y o f Engineering and A pp l i e d Sci e n c e Newsletter

S p r i ng 2 01 8 Editor Jackey Locke Graphic Design Mike Mouland Contributing writers Moira Baird Jennifer Batten Susan Flanagan Kelly Foss Jeff Green Kathryn Hong Jackey Locke Greg Naterer Jinghua Nie Dave Sorensen Susan White Photography Rich Blenkinsopp MCpl Vincent Carbonneau Chris Hammond Alain Lusignan Mike Ritter Doug Smith Benchmarks is a publication of Memorial University’s Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science. Please address any questions, comments or suggestions to: Jackey Locke, editor Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science Memorial University

Our students continue to excel in national and international competitions. During summer 2017, the Paradigm Hyperloop Team, formerly called OpenLoop, built the world’s first and fastest air-levitating ground transport vehicle and took first place in North America at the SpaceX Hyperloop Competition in California. The team made history when it became the first ever team to use an air-bearing system.

240 Prince Phillip Drive St. John’s, NL A1B 3X5 Email: jackey.locke@mun.ca or telephone: 709 864 8287. facebook.com/MUNEngineering

This past fall, graduate student and India native Karan Bhatia became the first engineering student to come to Memorial under the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Scholarship program. He was invited to represent the university at a gala dinner at Rideau Hall with former Governor General David Johnson. This issue highlights many other shining examples of our proud achievements by faculty, staff and students. Once again, we are delighted to share our accomplishments over the past year with you and we look forward to continued success in 2018. ■■■

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twitter.com/MUN_Engineering

w w w. m u n . c a / ENGINEERING

A cad e m ic p r o g r a m s

Memorial University is one of the premier engineering

· ·

schools in Canada. Under a co-operative education model, the faculty has six accredited undergraduate engineering programs. Our co-op programs are among

has been explosive – from 261 graduate students in 2007

experiential learning opportunities and up to two years of

civil engineering computer engineering electrical engineering mechanical engineering

Features

The faculty is home to state-of-the-art laboratories, such

Civil

Laboratory; Manufacturing Technology Centre; Computer

ocean and naval architectural engineering

Engineering

process engineering

Research

Laboratories;

Thermo-Fluids

Communications Laboratory and the Ocean Engineering Research Centre, among numerous others.

Electrical and Computer Engineering

Mechanical Engineering

The faculty has a strong and proud history and reputation for excellence in engineering research and education. Our

thesis-based programs at the master’s (M.Eng.) and doctoral (PhD) levels in: civil engineering

Ocean and Naval

researchers are making a major, positive impact on the

Architectural

community, economy, job creation and the environment –

Engineering

with a special obligation to the people of Newfoundland

computer engineering

and Labrador. Our strategic areas of focus are energy, ocean

electrical engineering

technology, environment and sustainable infrastructure and

mechanical engineering

also has an 11,700-square-foot R&D centre for offshore

oil and gas engineering

engineering, which supports a collaborative environment

process engineering

Process Engineering

information and communication technology. The faculty

ocean and naval architectural engineering

Awards

Community

whereby our researchers and students collaborate with industry to solve challenging engineering problems.

In addition, the faculty offers course-based master’s

Engagement

(MASc.) programs in:

One of the primary outcomes of our research is the

computer engineering

education and training of highly qualified personnel.

environmental systems engineering

Researchers aim to generate new knowledge and

and management

Undergraduate Students

understanding that will lead to the creation of new products

oil and gas engineering

and technologies. It combines the efforts of researchers,

safety and risk engineering

graduate students and entrepreneurs. Our research

energy systems engineering

educating future innovators and leaders in society.

The faculty also offers a graduate diploma in:

Our

safety and risk engineering

faculty

members

are

leading

researchers,

internationally renowned and award-winning in their respective fields of research. They have secured a broad

The faculty plans to launch the following additional

range of research grants and contracts from industry,

graduate diploma programs in the Fall of 2019:

government and other organizations. As show in the

Arctic engineering

chart below, the relative impact and citations to research

Communications engineering

articles by our professors has risen dramatically and

Geotechnical and structural engineering

approximately doubled over the past six years.

Mechanics and materials engineering

Average number of research citations annually per professor 400 300 200 100

2013

2014

2015

2016

2017

Graduate Students

programs are finding new solutions to global problems and

(to be launched in Fall 2019)

2012

Laboratory; Advanced Drilling Laboratory; Multimedia

The faculty’s graduate programs include research

2011

Engineering

Laboratory; Structures Laboratory; Enhanced Oil Recovery

undergraduate programs.

· · · ·

Control Laboratory (NRPOP); Autonomous Ocean Systems

gas engineering electives, which are available in all six

increased funding levels and new faculty hires.

as the Northern Region Persistent Organic Pollutions

Students also have the option of taking offshore oil and

· · ·

COVER STORY

cent increase is the result of new, innovative programs,

Our undergraduate programs include:

· ·

Contents 04

to approximately 619 students in 2017. The 137 per

practical work experience prior to graduation.

· · · · · · ·

Thermofluids engineering

Over the past 10 years, engineering graduate enrolment

the best in Canada and provide students with valuable

· · · · · ·

Mechatronics engineering

Alumni

C O V ER

History made

Paradigm Hyperloop places second at international competition Paradigm Hyperloop, a team that designed a high-speed, air-levitating ground transport vehicle, took second place for speed at the SpaceX Hyperloop Competition in California this past August. The team’s pod reached a top speed of 101 kilometres per hour. Paradigm Hyperloop, which is comprised of 40 highly-innovated post-secondary students from Memorial University, Northeastern University and the College of the North Atlantic, was one of 24 finalists to compete in Competition Weekend II, which was the second SpaceX Hyperloop Competition, held at SpaceX headquarters in Hawthorne, Calif. Paradigm Hyperloop made it into the final three and became the only North American finalist to test their pod in the SpaceX Hyperloop Tube. The team made history when it became the first team ever to use an air-bearing system. “As the sun sets, we take home the 2nd place prize for speed, however, history has been made this day by proving the air bearing concept,” the team tweeted. To earn their spot in the competition, the team, formerly known as OpenLoop, was one of 30 teams selected from 1,200 teams to showcase and test its pod in January 2017. 04

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Pa r adi g m h y p e r l o o p t e a m at t h e s pac e x hyperloop competition.

The team placed in the top 10 in final testing. In March 2017, the team competed in the second design competition and the judges were so impressed by their design, the team was directly put through to the final stage of the second competition.

“For most of the other pods, engaging the wheels in an emergency requires a series of built-in steps; it’s not automatic nor intended for high speed,” explained Mr. Keating. “In our case, if our pod lost both power and air, we automatically land on the wheels.”

Since March, the team worked hard to prepare for the competition. While they kept the frame, shell and the core of the compressed-air system, they optimized their novel air-bearing system, added new wheels to increase speed capability and completely redesigned the braking, stability, electrical and power systems.

With Paradigm’s second-place finish, the team is feeling blessed and happy that it’s over.

The biggest upgrade to the pod was the introduction of an integrated high-speed wheel system with each of the four air bearings. “We incorporated wheels into the airbearing system, which is what the pod nominally levitates on,” said Adam Keating, a recent graduate of Memorial’s mechanical engineering program and team lead. “If the air system stopped working during flight, the pod could safely continue to run on wheels at full-speed.” According to Mr. Keating, most teams use wheels on their pods but what makes Paradigm’s unique is that if the air system failed, the wheels would automatically engage to allow the pod to continue and at a high speed.

“It’s an incredible feeling and satisfying after two years of working on this,” Mr. Keating said. “I’m one of two founding team members still involved and I just really wanted to see everything we’ve done over the past two years succeed. Going forward I hope to to stay involved as an advisor so that we can keep building this here.” The team that won last year has commercialized and started their own company. Paradigm team members haven’t decided what they’ll do next but they’re excited about the possibilities and grateful for all the support they’ve received. “We’ve received tremendous support,” said Mr. Keating. “From Canadian and U.S. companies, the provincial and federal governments and Memorial University. It’s an incredible feeling to be recognized and supported on the world stage for the innovative work executed by this team, the world’s future brightest engineers.” ■■■

F E ATURE

Perfect vision

Dean reappointed

Memorial’s Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science is more than half way through its eight-year strategic growth plan (2012-2021). Over the past five years, the faculty has successfully increased the number of graduates from our undergraduate programs over five per cent per year and nearly doubled the number of graduate students, while raising the faculty’s research profile and reputation, nationally and internationally. “By harnessing the ingenuity and talents of young engineers, we’re developing the next great innovations that our province needs,” said Dr. Greg Naterer, dean, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science. “We have attracted the best and brightest students from across the province and around the world, who are remarkably talented.” The faculty has focused its growth and research directions on strategic areas of importance for the province – energy, oceans, information and communication technologies, and the environment, among others. This growth in enrolment and research capacity is requiring Memorial’s engineering faculty to expand beyond the walls of the S.J. Carew Building and the Bruneau Centre for Research and Innovation. The Core Science Facility (CSF) and Battery Facility will have key roles in supporting the engineering expansion. CSF brings modern, worldclass science and engineering facilities that will dramatically improve the functionality of Memorial’s campus for decades to come and foster multi-disciplinary innovation. Also, the Battery Facility will expand Memorial’s public engagement with the community and open up new space on the main campus for engineering expansion. Additional students and faculty have also meant additional administrative support staff, including laboratory technologists and programmer consultants. The faculty has also added new courses, program streams, interdisciplinary centres such as the Memorial Centre for Entrepreneurship (MCE), and several research chairs. In 2012, the provincial government invested $1.7 million to allow for the first year of development of engineering expansion, as well increasing international recruitment and co-operative education services. The provincial government also invested $1.1 million per year in subsequent years to continue the eight-year expansion. “Industry and community support have been absolutely critical to the success of our strategic plan,” said Dr. Naterer. “Engineering at Memorial is building capacity in fields that support the province’s economic growth strategies and it is an important driver of a more innovative, diversified and knowledge-based economy.” ■■■

D r . G r e g Nat e r e r .

Dr. Greg Naterer has been renewed for a second term as dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science effective Aug. 1, 2017.

“I am grateful for the continued support of exceptional faculty, staff and students with whom I’ve had the honour and privilege of serving over the past five years in my role of dean of Engineering and Applied Science,” said Dr. Naterer. “I look forward to many bright opportunities ahead for us in coming years. It’s an exciting time to be working with so many talented and renowned faculty members, dedicated co-op education team, staff members and wonderful students that shape our success.” As an innovative leader in engineering education and research, Dr. Naterer has served in prominent national and international leadership roles throughout his career. He is a former chair of the Discovery Grant Committee (Mechanical Engineering) with the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada and past chair of the National Council of Deans of Engineering and Applied Science of Canada. In June 2016, Dr. Naterer was inducted into the Canadian Academy of Engineering (CAE). Dr. Naterer is internationally respected for his contributions to mechanical engineering, particularly in the fields of energy systems, heat transfer and fluid mechanics. He received the Julian C. Smith Medal of the Engineering Institute of Canada in 2014 for exceptional achievements in the development of Canada. Dr. Naterer was recognized for engineering creativity and ingenuity by the Canadian Nuclear Society with the CNS Innovative Achievement Award in 2012 and received the CSME Jules Stachiewicz Medal of the Canadian Society for Mechanical Engineering in 2013 for outstanding contributions to heat transfer. Since his appointment as dean in 2012, Dr. Naterer has successfully led the faculty in the development and implementation of its eight-year strategic plan, Vision 2020, and the Engineering Expansion Strategic Initiative. The Faculty has experienced major growth in faculty, enrolments, and research, as well as new interdisciplinary initiatives and centres such as the Memorial Centre for Entrepreneurship (with Business Administration). For a fourth consecutive year, Newfoundland and Labrador had the highest percentage of female undergraduate engineering students (26.9 per cent) in Canada. ■■■

F E ATURE Fortis Inc. pays tribute to Dr. Angus Bruneau through continued support of teaching technology and modern learning facilities at Memorial

Fortis Inc. pays tribute

A generous $200,000 donation from Fortis Inc. was used to modernize the primary lecture theatre in the S.J. Carew Building on Memorial University’s St. John’s campus. The donation was marked by a ceremony that included a tribute to the life and legacy of Dr. Angus Bruneau, founding dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science and founder of Fortis Inc. To recognize this generous donation from Fortis Inc., the theatre was renamed the Fortis Angus Bruneau Lecture Theatre. “Dr. Bruneau was the founder of two great success stories in Newfoundland and Labrador, Fortis Inc. and the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science at Memorial University,” said Barry Perry, president and CEO, Fortis Inc. “He was a gentleman who was incredibly charitable through his support of Memorial and community organizations in the province. He was also very giving of his time, always showing interest in the ideas and career paths of the future leaders at Fortis. This donation by Fortis to create a great learning environment for students at Memorial is our way of recognizing Dr. Bruneau’s extraordinary life.” Renovations to the theatre included additional seating capacity, improved wheel chair accommodations and updated teaching and learning technology, which will support the current and future growth of the faculty.

D R . A NGUS B RUNE A U .

This is the second donation from Fortis for this initiative. In 2006 the company donated

From left are Dr. Stephen Bruneau, p r o f e s s o r , C ivi l E n g i n e e r i n g a n d Dr. Angus Bruneau’s son; Barry P e r r y; D r . Ga r y K ac h a n o s ki ; D r . G r e g Nat e r e r ; a n d D r . I a n S u t h e r l a n d , d e a n , Fac u lt y o f M u s ic .

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$100,000 to mark Dr. Bruneau’s retirement as chair of the board of directors of Fortis Inc. The theatre was named in honour of Dr. Bruneau and the funds were used to remodel the space, as the theatre had changed very little since its inauguration with the building’s opening in 1974. “This gift from Fortis highlights the crucial role that industry partners play in our success, both as a university and a province,” said Dr. Gary Kachanoski, president and vice-chancellor of Memorial University. “We sincerely appreciate the ongoing support from Fortis and value the special relationship and history that we share through the incredible legacy of Dr. Bruneau. His commitment to the company, our university and Newfoundland and Labrador will endure.” Dr. Bruneau, who passed away on February 19, 2017, was a giant presence at Memorial and throughout the province through his work as the founding dean of the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, the founder of Fortis Inc. and as an inspiring philanthropist. “We are very grateful to Fortis for their generous donation,” said Dr. Greg Naterer, dean, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science. “The upgrades to the main engineering lecture theatre will enhance teaching and learning through improved seating and technology. The theatre is also the venue for public lectures and other outreach activities, which support our community engagement initiatives. Dr. Bruneau has been a great personal inspiration to me since I became dean of engineering at Memorial and to many others and we are honoured to have our signature lecture theatre in his name.” ■■■

F E ATURE

E n g i n e e r i n g s t u d e n t s T o r i B a r r e t t ( civi l ) a n d J a r e d B a r t l e t t ( p r o c e s s ) c o n d u c t s ci e n c e e x p e r i m e n t s w i t h s t u d e n t s at t h e F r o u d e A v e . C o m m u n i t y C e n t r e f o r t h e i r Wi n t e r 2 0 1 7 w o r k t e r m s .

Experiential engineers Engineers have an obligation to use their technical expertise to make the world a better place. One of the ways they do this is by giving back to their communities. Memorial’s Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science has partnered with local not-for-profit community groups to teach students how engineers can have positive impacts on their communities and reinforce the values that engineers serve the world. Darlene Spracklin-Reid is a former senior instructional designer with the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science and the Centre for Innovation in Teaching and Learning at Memorial and is thrilled with the new service learning initiative for co-op students. “Service learning has huge benefits for the local community and our students,” said Ms. Spracklin-Reid. “Our students are serving to not-forprofit community groups who can benefit from their excellent technical skills. Our students have an opportunity to apply the skills they learn in school to real situations for community groups in need.” Memorial’s undergraduate engineering program is a co-operative education program. In addition to successfully completing eight academic study terms, students must successfully complete at least four work terms to graduate. A community-based experiential semester can offer students another opportunity in which they can learn and grow into professional engineers.

The service learning experiential terms were introduced during the Fall 2016 semester. Seven students were placed with four community groups. “We had two students at Deborah’s Garden, a community garden in Pouch Cove where the students designed a greenhouse; two students at the St. John’s Northwest Rotary Club where they designed a reliable power source for a school in Zimbabwe; one student at O’Donel High School ERik O ’ B r i e n . in Mount Pearl who supported staff, students and teachers to enhance science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) education; and two students at Manuels River Hibernia Interpretation Centre where they designed a bridge to improve the trail connectivity,” explained Ms. Spracklin-Reid. Erik O’Brien is a third-year ocean and naval architectural engineering student who completed a service learning semester at the Manuels River Interpretation Centre. “It was rewarding to be a part of a project that helps provide such meaningful help to the community,” said Mr. O’Brien. “Quite often when we think of engineering, we think of its industrial applications so it was very nice to also see first hand how engineering benefits the needs of a non-profit organization as well as the community of Conception Bay South.” “Service learning semesters are becoming more popular with our students and community groups,” said Ms. Spracklin-Reid. “In 2017, more than 28 students completed service learning semesters with 20 not-for-profit organizations.” ■■■

F E ATURE

Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science receives positive accreditation review of undergraduate programs

The Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science has received good news of a positive accreditation decision for its six undergraduate programs from the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board (CEAB). In its review, the CEAB noted the high quality education with respect to our expanding programs and that our faculty’s world-class (mandatory) co-op program is highly respected. A new accreditation model involving outcomes-based assessment, graduate attributes (GAs) and continual improvement (CI) processes were adopted by CEAB for the first time in Canada in 2016. The faculty introduced a number of new GA/CI systems, which had not previously been assessed by CEAB under the new accreditation model. CEAB suggested some improvements to our GA/CI departmental processes, as well

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as some minor curriculum changes regarding design content in one of the programs. These suggested changes have been introduced and will be implemented over the coming year. All of the programs received accreditation for three years with an extension for up to three more years to 2023, subject to a written report after a few years to demonstrate progress on these issues and their adoption through a few academic year cycles. During their accreditation review, CEAB noted high morale and commended our faculty, administrative staff, technical staff and students on their commitment and dedication, which, in turn, fosters an excellent collegial environment. They highlighted that staff are highly competent and provide a high level of support to faculty and students. They also noted that our students demonstrated a strong sense of loyalty, commitment and satisfaction with the faculty and their overall university

D r . Oc tavia D o b r e , e l e c t r ica l e n g i n e e r i n g p r o f e s s o r , w i t h u n d e r g r ad u at e s t u d e n t La u r a J a n e Si m p s o n .

experience. The common sentiment from industry partners was that Memorial engineering students are first-rate and well-prepared to be productive engineers upon graduation. There were many other such praiseworthy comments from the accreditors about our programs, students, faculty and staff members. “Special acknowledgement and thanks to all in the faculty’s leadership team who contributed in significant ways to achieve this successful outcome, particularly the Office of the Associate Dean (undergraduate studies) and department heads,” said Dr. Greg Naterer, dean, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science. “Overall it was a strong team effort and good news to receive this positive accreditation outcome. We should all take great pride in the many strengths and outstanding features of our programs and students that were noted by CEAB during their accreditation review.” ■■■

F E ATURE

Two subsea engineering chairs appointed at Memorial University Memorial University’s research capacity and partnerships with the offshore oil industry expanded through the appointment of two new subsea engineering research chairs. The announcement was made in March 2017. Dr. Octavia Dobre, an electrical engineering professor, was appointed as the Research Chair in Subsea Communications and Dr. Bipul Hawlader, a civil engineering professor, was appointed as the Research Chair in Seafloor Mechanics. The research chairs will expand research and educational initiatives as well as graduate student supervision in subsea engineering as part of an ongoing Memorial/Statoil partnership. Drs. Dobre and Hawlader bring valuable expertise in strategic areas that are critical to expanding Memorial’s ongoing partnership with Statoil. Memorial is contributing $1 million over five years towards this partnership and the chair programs. As the new Research Chair in Subsea Communications, Dr. Dobre is focusing on underwater communications with applications to the oil and gas industry provincially, regionally and nationally. “Strengthening research in underwater communications, as well as our partnerships with industry, will contribute to the transfer of knowledge and training of highly qualified personnel in this strategic area for the province,” she said. “Given the geographical location of Memorial, undertaking and focusing on research in underwater communications is natural. This chair position is expanding Memorial’s research

in the area of information technology, especially in underwater communications.” As the new Research Chair in Seafloor Mechanics, Dr. Hawlader is developing a research team and program to investigate both geotechnical and structural issues of subsea infrastructure.

D R . B I P UL H A WL A D ER .

“Offshore oil and gas development has increased significantly, not only in shallow water, but also in deep water in the range of water depths between 500 metres and two kilometres or more,” he said. “Proper understanding of seabed sediment is central to the safe and economic design of subsea infrastructure. Using our well-equipped geotechnical laboratory, the world-class centrifuge facility at C-CORE and advanced numerical simulations tools, this chair position is providing innovative new solutions to challenges related to seafloor stability and design of offshore foundations, anchors, pipelines and risers.” D R . O C TA V I A D O B RE .

Dr. Ray Gosine, then vice-president (research) pro tempore, Memorial University, said the new chairs significantly strengthen the university’s oil and gas research capacity, which will be bolstered through international industry and academic collaborations. “Dr. Dobre’s work in underwater communications and Dr. Hawlader’s work in seafloor mechanics will further enhance Memorial’s reputation for developing innovative solutions for subsea operations in harsh offshore environments,” said Dr. Gosine. “These new chairs will also provide valuable research opportunities for

Memorial’s graduate students who will undertake industry-relevant research. I thank Statoil for its ongoing partnership with Memorial and for continuing to invest in Memorial’s diverse research activities.” “The Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science is pleased to welcome these new chairs in subsea engineering,” said Dr. Greg Naterer, dean, faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Memorial University. “Drs. Dobre and Hawlader bring valuable expertise to the positions which are critical to fulfilling the mandate of the chairs, industry partners and our faculty’s growth plan.” ■■■

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C I V I L ENG I NEER I NG

Workshop and symposium to discuss emerging marine and coastal pollution This past October, the inaugural Persistent, Emerging and Organic PoLlution in the Environment (PEOPLE) Workshop and Symposium was held in St. John’s.

The event was a huge success with more than 60 delegates coming together to discuss the network’s vision, goals, future strategies and potential funding opportunities.

The workshop and symposium officially established the PEOPLE Network as a unique pan-Canadian/global hub/platform for national and international researchers, industry experts and government regulators focused on the persistent and emerging pollutants, particularly in cold marine and coastal environments.

“By targeting the persistent and emerging pollutants with fast-growing concerns, PEOPLE

PEOPLE consists of leading researchers from many universities from across Canada and international institutions. PEOPLE also engages with over 15 partners from public and private sectors and communities, including indigenous groups.

entails natural and social sciences, facilitates collaborative research and development and training, and advances science and technology through integrated approaches and synergetic efforts, leading to long-term benefits to Canadian and global communities and the environment,” said Dr. Chen. “The event provided a great opportunity for researchers – particularly the Network members – and students to disseminate their findings and gain a better understanding of the needs of key stakeholders, which include regulators, practitioners and indigenous groups.”

Dr. Bing Chen, founding leader of the Northern Region Persistent Organic Pollution Control (NRPOP) Laboratory, co-chaired the PEOPLE 2017 workshop with Dr. Kenneth Lee, national senior scientific advisor, Fisheries and Oceans Canada. The symposium was held on the second day and was co-hosted with the 2017 Atlantic Symposium of the Canadian Association on Water Quality (CAWQ) and the 2017 Annual Conference of International Society for Environmental Information Sciences (ISEIS).

Many persistent and emerging pollutants, such as petroleum hydrocarbons, pesticides, disinfection by products, pharmaceutical and cosmetic products, chemical surfactants, engineered nanoparticles and microplastics, are toxic, bio-accumulative, carcinogenic and currently not included in regulatory guidelines. Understanding their fate, behavior, environmental and health impacts in cold and coastal environments and developing pollution prevention, control and remediation technologies are essential for evidence-based

D R . B I NG C HEN .

policy/decision development.

making

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sustainable

The workshop and symposium identified the knowledge and technical gaps, and brought direct benefits to academia, government and industry, as well as communities and especially indigenous people in terms of research and development, policy making, technology transfer, education and training, and public engagement. Delegates shared knowledge and discussed strategies, which included identifying critical short- and long-term impacts caused by persistent and emerging pollutants in cold waters and harsh environments. They also discussed possible the research needs in developing more effective solutions in prevention, control and remediation as well as in mitigating ecological, health and socialeconomic impacts. The network is seeking funding for core operations and collaborative research and training activities with special meetings already planned for 2018 to focus on the applications process. Key funding agencies have been engaged. Another important outcome of the event highlighted the need to engage with indigenous communities, particularly in Labrador, to gain an understanding of their needs with regards to emerging pollution. With files from Weiyun Lin.

P e o p l e W o r k s h o p a n d S y m p o s i u m d e l e g at e s .

and

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C I V I L ENG I NEER I NG

On March 1, 2017, Dr. Carlos Bazan, an assistant professor in the Department of Civil Engineering, was appointed Engineering Chair in Entrepreneurship. Dr. Bazan’s extensive background and expertise in entrepreneurship make him the ideal person to provide academic leadership of entrepreneurial activities in Newfoundland and Labrador.

C a r l o s B aza n .

Memorial University has a new Engineering Chair in Entrepreneurship

D R . HELEN Z H A NG .

Engineering professor is new Canada Research Chair

He has more than 20 years of teaching experience at the undergraduate and graduate levels. He has designed, conducted and managed research projects in several disciplines. Outside of academia, he has extensive management and business startup experience and has helped start several businesses in a wide range of industries. Dr. Bazan has also been on the board of directors of several companies and institutions including a Fortune 500 company, and worked as chief financial officer, finance manager, program manager and project manager for several organizations.

and innovation in the province, and lead research aimed towards better understanding, and contributing to, a healthy entrepreneurial ecosystem in the province. Dr. Bazan received his B.Sc. in civil engineering and MBA from the Catholic University of Asuncion, Paraguay. He received an M.Sc. in numerical methods from the Polytechnic University of Catalonia in Barcelona, Spain, and an M.Sc. in business administration (finance) and PhD in computational science from San Diego State University in San Diego, California. During his graduate studies, he was a Fulbright Scholar sponsored by Harvard University’s LASPAU.

In his new role, Dr. Bazan will build research capacity in the field of entrepreneurship

He has taught several courses in finance, engineering economics, civil engineering, computational science and applied mathematics. He has co-authored 18 journal articles, conference papers and technical reports in a wide range of areas from biomedical sciences to computational finance. He also owns a patent in financial modeling. ■■■

This past November, Dr. Helen Zhang, an associate professor in the Department of Civil Engineering, was named the Canada Research Chair in Coastal Environmental Engineering.

Coastal oil pollution problems caused by oil spills into the seawater near shore and onto the land due to human activities or natural disasters can lead to major ecological and economic damage.

Dr. Zhang is one of three new Canada Research Chairs (CRC) at Memorial, one of the country’s highest honours for research excellence.

Dr. Zhang’s research will help explore a new dimension of coastal oil pollution research to achieve a shift towards improved microbial engineering knowledge, eco-friendly technologies and novel bio-products so as to protect human health and the environment.

Dr. Zhang has been an associate professor with the department since 2015. Her research involves coastal environmental engineering with a focus on the development of new methodologies and biotechnologies for studying and mitigating oil pollution in coastal soil, beaches and seawater under cold and harsh conditions.

Created in 2000, the Canada Research Chairs program has helped attract and retain some of the world’s most accomplished and promising minds to post-secondary institutions in the country. With files from Susan Flanagan.

summer 2018

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ELE C TR I C A L A N D C OM P UTER ENG I NEER I NG

‘Who’ knew?

In April 2017 an episode of the long-running hit British television show, Doctor Who, had a special connection to one Memorial University researcher. The episode, titled Smile, saw “The Doctor” taking his newest companion, Bill, to the colony world of Gliese 581 D, a bright, sunny world tended to by a swarm of tiny bird-like robots called Vardies and their user interface, the Emojibots. The Vardies, it just so happens, were named for Dr. Andrew Vardy, a professor jointly appointed with the faculties of Engineering and Applied Science and Science.

Doctor Who writer inspired by professor’s swarm robotics research

D r . V a r d y d e m o n s t r at e s h i s s w a r m r o b o t s .

Frank Cottrell-Boyce, an English screenwriter, novelist and actor, wrote the episode and, by way of a 2013 conference in Italy became friends with Dr. Vardy. “Frank and I were paired up to contribute to a book called Beta Life,” Dr. Vardy explained. “Frank wrote a short story for this book based on some ideas of mine and the story was actually named for my dog. We kept in touch and I guess he wanted to give me some credit for the swarm of robots that were set to appear in the Doctor Who episode.” It’s not hard to see the connection. Dr. Vardy’s main research area, swarm robotics, concerns the development of multi-robot systems inspired by social insects. Social insects such as ants and bees work together to find food, build their nests and solve all sorts of problems — all without any one insect being in charge. One recent outcome of Dr. Vardy’s research is an improved algorithm for swarms of robots to sort objects. This is tested by deploying the robots in an environment containing a random distribution of coloured pucks. The robots sort the pucks into clusters, a process Dr. Vardy would like to extend to recyclable materials. He is also working on the ability of a set of robots to form structures like walls and enclosures. ■■■

D R . A N D REW V A R D Y.

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Despite their name, smart devices make our personal information vulnerable to hackers and criminals – as witnessed in the global ransomware hack. Personal information stored on our smart devices, such as credit and debit cards, interfaces with smart card readers, which in turn allows the smart card readers to do more intelligent things. “The flow of info between a smart card and the reader is something you want to protect,” said Dr. Howard Heys, an electrical and computer engineering professor in the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science. “In fact, we assume that when we put our smart cards into smart card readers that we can trust the reader. It’s quite possible that that reader is trying to get information from the smart card that it’s not allowed to access - information that’s hidden by a cryptographic key.” In a world where our smart cards are inserted into readers several times each day, protecting our personal information is very important. Dr. Heys’ research in lightweight cryptography is helping us do just that. Lightweight cryptography refers to the design and implementation of security algorithms that are targeted to digital hardware systems constrained in resources, such as area, power or energy. Such systems are typically embedded, as is the case in smart devices. “The constrained nature of many embedded systems pose unique challenges for the design of system security,” said Dr. Heys.

“My research investigates the design, implementation and application of lightweight cryptographic algorithms targeted to embedded systems, such as smart cards and cell phones, to ensure that information stored on the device is secure.” Since many embedded systems use multiple cryptographic algorithms, it is important to examine aspects such as resource sharing to improve efficiency. Dr. Heys is therefore investigating how the designs and implementations allow attacks – such as a smart card reader analyzing how much power a smart card is consuming – and is exploring methods to mitigate such attacks. “We hope to create new lightweight encryption by analyzing new and existing algorithms to find areas where they are most vulnerable,” said Dr. Heys. “We also plan to develop new and more efficient ways to implement algorithms.” Dr. Heys adds that while smart cards are probably smart enough not to give out information it shouldn’t, the reader could be analyzing how much power the smart card is consuming while it’s plugged in, and from the amount of power the smart card is using it is possible to find out information about the key.

dr. howard heys.

Smart reasearch Engineering prof researching ways to keep personal information safe

“Your credit card doesn’t have any power, but when it’s inserted into a reader the reader gives it power to do computations or cryptographic algorythms.” ■■■

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The sweet spot Avoiding costly shutdowns in offshore drilling operations Dr. Geoff Rideout illustrates vibrations in a This story was first published in The Telegram on Aug. 12, 2017.

drill string with a mock up of a mass-springmass-spring lumped segment model with a tiny

Drilling several kilometres under the ocean floor presents mind-boggling challenges. Not the least of which is that each twist and turn of the pipe causes vibrations that could potentially tear the equipment apart. Dr. Geoff Rideout, mechanical engineering professor and director of first-year engineering in the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, researches how to predict and control vibrations. His research, as a member of Memorial’s Drilling Technology Laboratory led by Dr. Steve Butt, can help in the design of efficient and reliable drill strings for the oil and gas industry. The drill string — the pipe leading from an offshore rig down to and into the ocean floor — consists primarily of steel pipe lengths that are connected end-to-end, sometimes for several kilometres. As the diamond-headed drill bit grinds its way through solid rock at the bottom of the ocean, the steel pipes following the drill bit can deform and vibrate in a variety of ways. Twisting, bending and other vibrations can sometimes be felt right up to the floor of the rig. These vibrations can damage downhole equipment like the battery-operated sensors, which detect drilling trajectory and help the driller steer the bit during directional drilling, other drilling tools and components in the bottomhole assembly, the drill bit, and even sections of the drill string itself. “They no longer have to drill straight down, extract whatever oil is there, move the rig, and drill straight down in a new location,” explained Dr. Rideout. “The drill string can now follow a complex, predefined threedimensional path so that maximum oil production can be achieved for a given field.”

Drilling companies need to predict how the drill string is going to vibrate and avoid drilling in directions that will cause too much vibration. Impacts and stresses from vibrations can lead to failure and premature wear of downhole components.

drill bit on the end.

In turn, this could potentially lead to the shutdown of offshore drilling operations, which could be in the range of a million dollars a day. From left are Drs. Mejbah Sarker and Geoff

Dr. Rideout and his team can predict the various types of vibrations and how they may affect downhole equipment by using finite element modelling, a popular type of computer modelling that can capture very fine detail in the physical system. The only trouble is that finite element modelling can take days to predict a few seconds of vibration. To reduce the time needed, Dr. Rideout’s research uses simpler models, which take far less time but are not always as detailed or accurate as a finite element model. “We are looking for a proper model that is just complicated enough to predict what you want, but not any more complicated,” he noted. “It’s no good to have a fast model if it’s wrong. It’s a trade-off between accuracy and speed. I’m looking for the sweet spot. Sometimes it’s tempting to add complexity to a model just because you think you know how… but as soon as you add real life complexity to uniform pipes, the math becomes pretty crazy in a hurry. You have to make a lot of assumptions.” To deal with these challenges, Dr. Rideout and recently-graduated PhD student Mejbah Sarker have come up with a model that divides continuous pipes into shorter chunks joined by 3-D springs. This model acts like the real thing, while allowing Dr. Rideout and Dr. Sarker to insert tool and sensor submodels at any location.

Rideout conducting field trials on a tool to measure vibrations near the drill bit at a quarry in C.B.S. in 2014.

“If you think of the drill string as a bunch of smaller masses that can’t stretch, connected by lightweight springs, then that system is mathematically much easier to deal with and will vibrate like the continuous system if you break it into enough chunks. The computer will crank through the resulting equations much faster,” said Dr. Rideout. “Now that we have the models, we want to use them to perform forensic analysis on broken components, and to design better ones — or at least figure out where to put them in the drill string to keep them out of trouble.” In a perfect world, Dr. Rideout’s proper model of masses and springs will properly predict bit vibrations and avoid unnecessary and costly shut downs in the oil and gas industry in the future. Though his work is complex, Dr. Rideout finds inspiration in the words of one of the greatest scientists. “As Einstein once said: ‘Everything should be made as simple as possible but not simpler.’” This project was funded by the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency Atlantic Innovation Fund. ■■■

ME C H A N I C A L ENG I NEER I NG

A number of graduate and undergraduate students took part in a 10-week workplace mindfulness course in the Winter 2017 semester. The course, which included a 90-minute session per week and a two-hour capstone session at the end, was offered to students engaged in co-op work terms, internships or field placements for their respective programs in the School of Social Work, the Faculty of Education, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Faculty of Business Administration and the Faculty of Science’s Department of Psychology.

D R . J A NN A ROS A LES .

Be mindful Workplace-oriented mindfulness training program offered to students

According to Dr. Janna Rosales, lead investigator for the project, mindfulness training cultivates attention and present-moment awareness free from judgment. Mindfulness has also been linked to increased empathy and compassion towards oneself and others. “In the past number of years, mindfulness training programs have been adopted by many workplaces to support employee well-being, focus and clarity, among other things,” Dr. Rosales said. Dr. Rosales has been interested in the uses of mindfulness practices in education for some time. She co-founded the Faculty Learning Community for Contemplative Education in 2009, which is a multidisciplinary, cross-campus monthly gathering for faculty and staff interested in how mindfulness and mediation can contribute to their teaching or to their professional development or to student learning. “Through discovered

my connections, I that contemplative

education was a movement that was building across North American campuses,” she said. “I’d tried a few mindfulness exercises in my engineering class with facilitator Andrew Safer to help students hone skills essential to their professional development, such as noticing, listening and questioning. I also did some reading and research around mindfulness in engineering, and on workplace mindfulness more generally. When I became the Chair for Teaching and Learning in the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, one of my goals was to was make a workplace mindfulness experience available to students in co-op programs.” Prominent organizations such as Google, Nike and Intel are champions of workplace mindfulness. In 2015 Memorial piloted a successful workplace mindfulness program for employees, and adopted The Okanagan Charter, which signifies the university’s commitment to support a vision to transform the health and sustainability of its current and future societies, strengthen communities and contribute to the well-being of people, places and the planet. Dr. Rosales said the mindfulness program ties in well with Memorial’s greater awareness on student well being. Funded by Memorial University’s Teaching and Learning Framework, the Workplace Mindfulness initiative was led by Dr. Rosales, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science and Dr. Kara Arnold, Faculty of Business Administration. ■■■

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Safer ships Predicting the structural response of vessels and ice impacts

contact with undetected small pieces of glacial ice, commonly known as growlers, as this generally occurs at significant speed.” Dr. Quinton’s research uses recent advances in engineering knowledge for predicting the hull structural response of vessels like the Connaigra, Sanderling and MV Veteran to ice impacts. These new developments may be used by ship owners, operators, designers and policy makers to mitigate the risks associated with operating in this new ice climate.

D R . B RU C E QU I NTON .

As an island in the middle of the North Atlantic, Newfoundland and Labrador relies on ships to transport goods and people to and from mainland Canada, transport people within the province, for search and rescue, oil-spill response, sovereignty protection and other essential operations. Often, these ships are low- or non-ice class vessels, which can pose significant problems given that the province is surrounded by iceinfested waters for more than six months of the year. According to Dr. Bruce Quinton, a professor of ocean and naval architectural engineering, unexpected ice impacts have been prevalent in the province since the Arctic began experiencing record high temperatures, and this has meant a larger quantity of more dangerous, multi-year ice is free to move south offshore Newfoundland and Labrador’s waters. “Global warming means that ice will be a greater hazard than ever before. Multi-year ice, which is ice older than two years, normally trapped in the Arctic by more plentiful firstyear ice, has greater geographic mobility due to the reduced extent of first-year ice,” he said. “Of additional concern is the response of lowand non-ice class vessels when they come in

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Dr. Quinton recently discovered that steel hulls respond very differently to moving, or sliding, hull loads than they do to stationary impacts, when the impact causes hull denting. He also discovered ship hulls are more likely to fracture under sliding ice loads. This is important because the sliding motion of hull loads is almost always ignored in calculations when considering the response of ships to accidental impact, which may lead to an overestimation of a vessel’s capabilities. “Essentially, accidental moving, or sliding, hull loads incite a very different state of stress in the hull than loads of similar magnitude that do not slide,” said Dr. Quinton. “The present state-of-the-art for design and analysis of ship hulls assumes that all impact loads are stationary, and do not slide on the hull. As we now know sliding loads cause varying states of stress, and that hull fracture varies with particular states of stress, not just an average measure of the stress magnitude, and we are able to predict when moving, or sliding, loads will cause hull fracture. This would not be predicted correctly if the impact was analysed as a stationary load.” Dr. Quinton’s research has national and international reach since his findings apply to all ships operating in ice-infested waters. His research means a more accurate, overall prediction of the operational capabilities of existing low- and non-ice class ships and allows for the modification of new designs to minimize hull fracture in ice. ■■■

New advisory board for Ocean and Naval Architectural Engineering The Department of Ocean and Naval Architectural Engineering (ONAE) has an advisory board. The board will advise and guide the department on innovative ways to excel and lead in ocean and naval architectural engineering education and research, and help the department to achieve national and international recognition. The board has met several times over the past year and consists of eight senior people from federal government and industry and an international university. “We are thrilled to have an advisory board,” said Dr. Wei Qiu, department head, ONAE. “Board members bring their knowledge, expertise and skills to ensure the ONAE program provides industry relevant learning. The board’s strategic guidance and feedback are invaluable and will enable us to continually improve our program.” ■■■

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National network aims to better support Canada’s marine industry The Canadian Network for Innovative Shipbuilding, Marine Research and Training (CISMaRT), which was founded and is led by Dr. Wei Qui, department head, ocean and naval architectural engineering, hosted a full-day workshop on marine education and training this past July. The primary goal of the 50 marine sector professionals who attended – to better understand the challenges in educating and training highly qualified personnel related to the Canadian marine industry and to develop a strategy to address those challenges. Recommendations regarding education and training were the starting point for the workshop, including greater use of work terms, curriculum improvements, mid-career training, better preparation for high school students/greater awareness and practical shipyard experience for the next generation of naval architects and marine engineers. Delegates expressed an overall satisfaction with Canada’s naval architectural and marine engineering education. However, there were concerns with the lack of engineers with marine-related expertise in electrical/electronic engineering; retaining staff when competing with the offshore oil and gas industry; and the ability of the educational infrastructure to provide the technical staff to meet the demands generated by projects under the National Shipbuilding Strategy. While it was agreed it is important for engineers to be aware of newer

technologies, undergraduate education was not considered to be the best vehicle. Alternatives proposed included graduate education, short courses and capstone projects. There was unanimous support for improving soft skills, including technical writing, communications and project management. Industry work terms also received unanimous support as well as visits to shipyards, ports and harbours as a means of exposing students to the wider marine world. Opinions were divided on the value of short and conversion courses. Alternative options discussed included very short, focused courses, and the possibility of CISMaRT being utilized for training. Many expressed concern about the cost to industry for training technical staff in the latest technologies and regulatory developments. Finally, there was general support for using newer technologies, such as webinars, to deliver training although a concern was expressed in regard to how the practical/hands-on elements might be delivered. CISMaRT plans to undertake a couple of pilot training projects and is embarking on pilot collaborative research projects. Two are described on its website (http://cismart.ca/pilot-projects/) and the third one on investigating the effect of manufacturing tolerances on performance of marine propellers is currently under development. An overview of the workshop is available at www.cismart.ca. ■■■

DR. Neil Bose.

Memorial welcomes new vice-president (research) In November 2017 Memorial University appointed Dr. Neil Bose as vice-president (research). No stranger to Memorial, Dr. Bose is a long-standing and respected member of Memorial University’s research community. He came to Memorial in May 1987 as an assistant professor in the naval architectural engineering program. He also served as director of the Ocean Engineering Research Centre, was chair of ocean and naval architectural engineering program and, in 2003, was named a Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Offshore and Underwater Vehicles Design in the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science. In 1992, he received the President’s Award for Outstanding Research. Prior to returning to Memorial, Dr. Bose was the principal of the Australian Maritime College (AMC), the national institute for maritime education, training and research at the University of Tasmania. He was also a professor of maritime hydrodynamics at the AMC. From 2009 to 2011 he was director of the AMC’s National Centre for Maritime Engineering and Hydrodynamics. Dr. Bose joined the college in May 2007 as the manager of the Australian Maritime Hydrodynamics Research Centre. ■■■

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Workshop and symposium identifies and establishes new collaborative research opportunities This past October, the third annual Safety and Integrity Management of Operations in Harsh Environments Workshop and Symposium was held in St. John’s. Hosted by The Centre for Risk, Integrity and Safety Engineering (C-RISE), Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, in collaboration with the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Petroleum Board (C-NLOPB), delegates identified and discussed potential solutions to operational challenges in harsh environments. The workshop and symposium was a huge success with approximately 150 leading experts from industry and academia coming together to share knowledge and experiences to identify and establish new collaborative research opportunities relevant to the Canada-Newfoundland and Labrador Offshore Area and other harsh environments.

C - R I SE P l a n n i n g C o m m i t t e e w i t h D r . Fai s a l K h a n ( at p o di u m ) .

classification society that specializes in offshore installation and ship rules, which include harsh environment requirements. He spoke about the importance of a flexible, goal based approach and appropriate tools to manage the impact of such environments from design to operations and maintenance of offshore and marine facilities. “I found the workshop to have been exceptionally well organized, interesting and informative,” said Dr. Attwood. “The variety of speakers and breakout sessions provided an excellent opportunity for individuals to understand the latest thinking in their areas of specialization and also to get an overview of other related areas. I look forward to the next conference, which I understand will be in summer 2019.” The workshop and symposium also included a special panel focused on the tragic sinking of the Ocean Ranger.

“The workshop and symposium provides an “The panel on the Ocean Ranger was a fitting tribute international platform to share knowledge on safety, to such a significant tragic event in the history of our risk and integrity management,” said Dr. Faisal province,” said Dr. Dennis Peters, acting dean, Faculty Khan, founder and director of C-RISE. “Through of Engineering and Applied Science, in his remarks D R . D A RYL ATTWOO D . the sharing of knowledge, we are strengthening our at the conference. “This event has, of course, had a beliefs and taking important steps to developing innovative solutions lasting impact on Newfoundland and Labrador and has inspired to prevent failures, incidents and accidents, thus improving safety and many of the developments in safety practices that we see today. integrity. Furthermore, the workshop and symposium is an opportunity I believe that the people of our province are well-positioned to to enlighten our understanding of harsh environments and develop lead in the development of processes, techniques and technologies a collective action plan to ensure safer designs and operations.” to enhance safety in harsh environments, and the work presented at this symposium is a significant part of that. Congratulations to Dr. Daryl Attwood was one of the keynote speakers at the event. He Dr. Khan and the organizing committee on the continuing success of has worked for various branches of Lloyd’s Register (LR) for 27 years, this very important workshop and symposium.” and currently as a senior programme manager with the Lloyd’s Register Foundation, a UK charity established in 2012 which funds The next Safety and Integrity Management of Operations in Harsh the advancement of engineering-related education and research and Environments Workshop and Symposium is planned for 2019 supports work that enhances safety of life and property. LR is a maritime in St. John’s. ■■■ 18

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D R . FA I S A L K H A N .

Memorial has a new Tier 1 Canada Research Chair. In May 2017, Dr. Faisal Khan, head, Department of Process Engineering, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, was appointed the Canada Research Chair (CRC) in Offshore Safety and Risk Engineering. Dr. Khan’s research, which focuses on offshore operations in harsh environments, is pursuing ways to help industry evaluate the impact of its activities on both humans and offshore infrastructure, to ensure safe operations in challenging conditions and remote locations. His research aims to help industry better understand, quantify and manage risk to enable safe and sustainable developments. “The Canada Research Chairs program plays a crucial role in helping Memorial build specialized research capacity in strategic areas, while supporting world-class scholars and scientists such as Dr. Khan,” said President Gary Kachanoski. “This funding supports Memorial’s continued leadership in innovative groundbreaking scientific research. I wish Dr. Khan much success in his research activities.”

New engineering research chair Tier 1 Chairs, tenable for seven years and renewable, are for outstanding researchers acknowledged by their peers as world leaders in their fields. As part of Dr. Khan’s appointment, Memorial will receive $200,000 annually for seven years. In addition, Dr. Khan received federal support of $100,000 for infrastructure associated with a Canada Research Chair through the Canada Foundation for Innovation’s John R. Evans Leaders Fund. The Research & Development Corporation (RDC), which has since been replaced with InnovateNL, also invested over $150,000 in infrastructure for Dr. Khan’s research. Both federal and provincial investments will help to establish a labscale plant, known as a Dynamic Risk Management Experimental Facility, at Memorial to evaluate the performance of dynamic risk assessment models and demonstrate which models provide a reliable indication of process safety performance. Dynamic risk management is an important tool in ensuring the safe operation of remote production and processing facilities. The testing facility will lead to verification of dynamic risk assessment models and reliable knowledge transfer into real-life industrial applications.

Dr. Khan called the CRC appointment a tremendous honour. “This research chair is an important milestone in the continuing journey to make design and operations safe in the face of challenges, such as natural hazards, industrial hazards, harsh environments, extreme operating conditions and remote operations,” he said. “I want to sincerely thank my research team and graduate students who have made great contributions and continue to do so. I am also grateful for the extraordinary support I have received from the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science and Memorial’s senior administration.”

Dr. Khan is also director of Memorial’s Centre for Risk, Integrity and Safety Engineering (C-RISE). The centre’s more than 40 team members, including graduate students, work on a wide range of theoretical and applied research activities in process safety and asset integrity management. Dr. Khan joined Memorial as an associate professor in 2002. He has worked on safety and risk engineering and extended his research scope by applying risk-engineering concepts to safety, asset integrity management, pollution prevention and renewable energy. Memorial is currently home to a total of 10 CRCs.

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In June 2017 Dr. Yuri Muzychka, professor and department head of mechanical engineering in the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, was named Fellow of the Canadian Society for Mechanical Engineering (CSME) for his significant research and teaching contributions to the fields of heat transfer, thermodynamics and fluid mechanics.

D r . Y u r i M u z y c h ka .

Dr. Yuri Muzychka named Fellow of the Canadian Society for Mechanical Engineering

CSME was founded in 1970 as a national organization for Canadian mechanical engineers and technologists. It is a constituent society of the Engineering Institute of Canada. The organization provides a wide range of professional development activities for mechanical engineers and students with common fields of interest. Being named Fellow is one of CSME’s highest honours, and is awarded through a selection committee to members who have attained excellence in mechanical engineering and who have contributed significantly to the profession and society.

Last August Gordon Jin, an academic staff member with the engineering co-operative education office, was appointed chair of the Canadian Society for Civil Engineering’s (CSCE) Honours and Fellowships Committee for a two-year term.

Gordon Jin.

Gordon Jin appointed chair of national committee 20

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CSCE’s awards recognize and encourage the pursuit of excellence in civil engineering. “I am honoured to become chair of this committee,” said Mr. Jin. “As chair, I will oversee the nomination and selection process of all of the above for approval by the committee and CSCE’s board of directors. I joined the society as a student member in 1980 and served as president from 20092010, so I am very thankful to CSCE for providing me with this opportunity.”

“I feel honoured to receive this CSME Fellow designation,” said Dr. Muzychka. “Being selected by a national committee of my peers to join the ranks of other honoured mechanical engineers in Canada is great recognition for my research contributions. I am also thankful to those who nominated and supported my selection.” Dr. Muzychka joined Memorial in 2000. He is also a Fellow of the American Society of Mechanical Engineers (ASME) and a senior member of the American Institute for Aeronautics and Astronautics (AIAA). In 2004 he received the Petro Canada Young Innovator Award. Dr. Muzychka’s research focuses on the modeling of complex fluid dynamics and heat transfer problems in internal flows, such as transport in porous media, compact heat exchangers, two phase flows, micro-channel flows and non-Newtonian fluids. He also conducts applied research in marine icing, electronics packaging, contact heat transfer and thermal design and optimization of energy systems. ■■■

Mr. Jin graduated with a bachelor’s degree in civil engineering from Memorial University, and is a registered professional engineer in Newfoundland and Labrador. He has been an academic staff member with the faculty’s co-operative education office for the past eight years and is mentoring the future generation of engineers and ensuring their success as they journey through their undergraduate program. Mr. Jin became a Fellow of the Engineering Institute of Canada (EIC) in 2015, a Fellow of Engineers Canada in 2013 and a Fellow of the Canadian Society for Civil Engineering in 2003. He was also accorded the James A. Vance Award from CSCE in 2004 and accorded the Canadian Pacific Railway Engineering Medal from EIC in 2001. ■■■

AWA R D S

Acclaim from the academy

Two researchers inducted into the Canadian Academy of Engineering Drs. Brian Veitch and Claude Daley were inducted as fellows of the Canadian Academy of Engineering (CAE) this past June.

tools they need to respond to emergencies in dangerous and unpredictable offshore conditions.

Fellows of the academy are nominated and elected by their peers, in view of their distinguished achievements and careerlong service and contributions to the engineering profession.

His research has played a leading role in the creation of a standard for emergency escape, evacuation and rescue for Canadian and international offshore industries. For this work, he has also been honoured as a fellow of the Society of Naval Architects and Marine Engineers and the Royal Institute of Naval Architects.

Dr. Veitch is a professor in the Department of Ocean and Naval Architectural Engineering and the NSERC/Husky Energy Industrial Research Chair in Safety at Sea.

“It’s an honour to be recognized by my senior peers,” said Dr. Veitch.

His areas of interest include ice interaction, ice mechanics and simulation, discrete mechanics and chaos theory, solid destruction mechanics and offshore design/regulation rule development. Dr. Daley obtained his PhD in 1991 from Aalto University and, in addition to teaching courses in ship structures and ice mechanics, was principal investigator on an $8-million Sustainable Technology for Polar Ships and Structures (STePS2) research project, which developed design and assessment tools for ships and offshore structures in the Arctic.

He obtained a PhD degree in engineering at the Helsinki University of Technology, now Aalto University, in 1995 and began teaching at Memorial in 1998. His research involves virtual environments and efforts to improve safety at sea by focusing attention on the human element of safety.

“The CAE is also part of the Council of Canadian Academies, which provides a mechanism for members to contribute to public policy in Canada through independent, evidence-based assessments of important issues.”

He’s particularly interested in the safety of people who work in maritime environments, such as the offshore petroleum industry and the shipping industry.

Dr. Daley is a professor in the Department of Ocean and Naval Architectural Engineering and associate dean (research) in the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science.

“As the years go by and I think about the role of engineering in society, I continue to be amazed by the many challenges that engineering faces as it serves society’s needs. The CAE plays an important leadership role, representing the best of Canadian engineering capabilities. I hope to continue supporting excellence in engineering in Canada.”

The innovative simulator technology that Dr. Veitch and his team have developed has greatly improved marine safety worldwide by providing those working at sea with the

He specializes in Arctic offshore engineering and is one of the world’s leading experts in the structural design of ice-going ships in icecovered waters.

Drs. Veitch and Daley join other fellows with strong ties to the Memorial community, including faculty members, alumni and friends who have been inducted over the years. ■■■

D r s . B r ia n V e i t c h a n d C l a u d e D a l e y.

“I’m very honoured to be joining the Canadian Academy of Engineering as a fellow,” said Dr. Daley.

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National service Engineering dean completes term as chair of national council This past April, Dr. Greg Naterer, dean, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science completed his two-year term as chair of the National Council of Deans of Engineering and Applied Science.

F ROM LE F T A RE D R . LYE A N D D R . R I C H A R D B ATHURST.

Dr. Naterer served as vice-chair from 2013-15 and chair from 2015-17.

Exceptional engineer Dr. Leonard Lye inducted as Fellow of the Engineering Institute of Canada This past April Dr. Leonard Lye, associate dean, graduate studies, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, was inducted as a Fellow of the Engineering Institute of Canada (EIC) for his exceptional contributions to the engineering profession. He was one of 20 engineers in Canada inducted during the institute’s annual awards gala in Gatineau, PQ. The institute annually recognizes outstanding engineers among its academic and industry-based member societies for their excellence in engineering and their services to the profession and to society. Dr. Lye was recognized for his exemplary achievements and leadership as an educator, researcher and administrator. Particularly, for his significant contributions to civil engineering education, research and the profession over the past 30 years. He has received many awards and honours including President’s Awards for Distinguished Teaching and for Exceptional Community Service of Memorial University, the Lifetime Achievement Award of the Tetra Society of North America, Teaching Award and Community Service Award of Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Newfoundland and Labrador (PEGNL), the Teamwork Award of the Government of Alberta, Outstanding Contribution Award of CSCE NL Section and the Bridging the Gap Award of Recreation Newfoundland. Dr. Lye is a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineering (CAE), the Canadian Society for Civil Engineering (CSCE) and Engineers Canada (EC). His research contributions in environmental statistics, design and analysis of experiments, hydrology and hydraulics has led to over 160 journal and conference publications and five inventions of engineering educational devices and software. ■■■

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As chair, Dr. Naterer led a number of major national engineering initiatives. One such initiative is the startup of a national pilot project involving 12 engineering schools across Canada to streamline and shift the accreditation process toward an outcomes-based model. “This initiative aims to shift the emphasis of undergraduate education from what students are taught to learning outcomes and resulting graduate attributes,” said Dr. Naterer. “The pilot project aims to improve the flexibility of educational innovation in engineering programs, alternate modes of program delivery and ways to better prepare students for a range of careers in an increasingly globalized world.” Dr. Naterer also led new advocacy initiatives to the federal government for the importance of engineering in innovation and productivity in Canada, and he launched a new liaison committee with National Sciences and Engineering Research Council to engage a broad range of stakeholders including industry and government. This national council, comprised of all 44 engineering deans in Canada, is committed to the continuous improvement of engineering education and research that enhances the innovation and leadership skills of Canadian engineering graduates. ■■■

D r . G r e g Nat e r e r .

AWA R D S

President’s Awards The President’s Awards recognize excellence in public engagement, teaching, research, service to Memorial and community service. The awards for 2017 were formally presented by Dr. Kachanoski, president and vice-chancellor, Memorial University, at a special ceremony on the St. John’s campus on Dec. 13. For more information on the awards, please go to http://www.mun.ca/president/home/awards.php. D r . B r ia n V e i t c h .

Her students have benefitted from her teaching methods. For Ms. Koenig, the award not only validates her approach with students but also the faculty’s dedication to student success.

Caroline Koenig.

Caroline Koenig receives President’s Award Caroline Koenig, a laboratory instructor for first-year engineering students, received the President’s Award for Exemplary Service. The prestigious award recognizes outstanding service and/or significant contributions to the university community. Ms. Koenig joined Memorial in 2008 as an engineering technologist and became a laboratory instructor in 2016. In her teach-yourself approach with her students to promote lifelong learning, she created computer-aided design (CAD) learning videos and CAD Clubs for her students to achieve industry-recognized certification.

“Recognition by the president of Memorial University, for the award for Exemplary Service, reflects our faculty’s dedication to providing our students with the tools and guidance they need to succeed,” she said. “Faculty funding kick-started the CAD pilot projects and nurtured them into popular student clubs. With the support from administrative staff, Engineering Computing Services and the Cahill Help Centre, the SolidWorks Club, AutoCAD Club, GradCAD and BlitzCAD clubs are thriving and have resulted in over 175 co-operative student certifications. “The excellence of our teaching assistants continues to play a fundamental role in delivering resources, fine-tuning learning materials, and supporting students to achieve these industryrecognized certifications. It is an honour to work with a team that demonstrates such a high-level of commitment to our students, while being recognized for my efforts.” ■■■

Dr. Brian Veitch receives President’s Award Dr. Brian Veitch received the President’s Award for Outstanding Graduate and Postgraduate Supervision for 2017, which recognizes exemplary efforts to foster success in the research and scholarship of graduate and postgraduate students to advance their success in the profession. Dr. Veitch has been an ocean and naval architectural engineering professor at Memorial since 1998. Most of the work he does with his students is done in team settings and involves researchers from other universities and research institutions, industry and government. His students have come to know and depend on his unwavering support. Since joining Memorial, Dr. Veitch has supervised 64 graduate students, 44 fulltime research staff and over 130 work term students. Dr. Veitch is humbled and grateful for the recognition. “My job entails working with bright, motivated people in a creative, pleasant atmosphere, he said. “I’m a lucky person. Being recognized for doing my job is humbling.” ■■■

C OMMUN I TY ENG A GEMENT

Speaking of Engineering … Public lecture series provides opportunities for the faculty to engage with the community D r . G r e g Nat e r e r , d e a n , Fac u lt y o f E n g i n e e r i n g a n d A pp l i e d Sci e n c e , w i t h w i n n e r s o f t h e fac u lt y ’ s a w a r d s .

The Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science supports regional science students This past April, more than 200 regional junior-high and high-school science students came together at MacDonald Drive Junior High School for the 37th annual Eastern Regional Science & Technology Fair.

The Faculty hosts four public lectures each year in partnership with the Professional Engineers and Geoscientists of Newfoundland and Labrador (PEGNL). The series presents engineering related topics of interest to people of the province. A M A A SU B ONTENG .

In February, a panel that consisted of Dr. Suzanne Hurley, a visiting professor in the Department of Civil Engineering; Florian Villaumé, director of the university’s Memorial Centre for Entrepreneurship; and Ama Asubonteng, a gender activist engaged with promoting the rights of women and children in Ghana, presented on the role of engineering in promoting gender equality in international development.

The faculty annually sponsors the science and technology fair by awarding best project awards in each discipline: civil, computer, electrical, mechanical, ocean and naval architectural and process engineering. All engineering awards went to female students.

In April, Dr. Ray Gosine, chair of the independent public panel and then vice president (research) pro tempore, Memorial University, provided an overview of hydraulic fracturing operations in the context of Western Newfoundland.

In order to qualify for the regional fair, students would have competed in their school’s science fairs. As with previous years, members of the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science served as judges. Some engineering students who were completing work terms also served as judges.

This past October, Dr. Bruce Pike, head of Image Science, University of Calgary, reviewed major developments in how engineering has revolutionized brain imaging and what the future may hold in this field.

In addition to the departmental awards, the faculty offered tours of some of its engineering labs and was an exhibitor at the fair. Student Liaison Officer Cheryl Keough chatted with students and parents about engineering programs.

Most recently, in December, Dan Harris, refinery manager, North Atlantic Refinery Limited, spoke about engineering’s role in process safety management.

The event is organized by volunteer members of the Eastern Newfoundland Science Fairs Council. Members of the council are teachers, university researchers and instructors, as well as other members of the local community. ■■■

All presentations were recorded and can be viewed at http://www.mun.ca/engineering/ community/programs/lectures/. ■■■

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SU Z A NNE HURLEY.

F l o r ia n V i l l a u m é .

D R . R AY GOS I NE .

D R . B RU C E P I K E .

D A N H A RR I S .

C OMMUN I TY ENG A GEMENT

Ideas with purpose Students developing business ideas that meet community needs The Memorial Centre for Entrepreneurship (MCE) is helping students, staff and faculty at Memorial develop business ideas with a purpose. And that purpose is to solve existing problems and challenges in our communities, businesses and industries. Florian Villaumé, director of MCE, says one of the centre’s key roles is to help entrepreneurial students, faculty and staff at the “ideation” phase of business development by helping to focus their ideas on the real world. “Ideation is the process of actively looking for problems that someone or an organization in the world is interested in paying for,” he said. “It could be a new process, service, product or adding value to something. There are problems and challenges all around us — at work, at home, at our supermarket, in nature, everywhere. We just need to become more aware of them and listen to what people say about them.” One student who has done just that is Kyle Goulding, a fifth-year business student from Paradise, N.L. Mr. Goulding’s business, SafeAlert, addresses a challenge for businesses whose employees work alone in the field. Existing laws in Canada, the United States and some countries in Europe require those employees to check in with employers regularly while on the job. SafeAlert provides both web and mobile applications that prompts employees to

do so while also notifying employers if an employee has failed to check in. To date, Mr. Goulding has sold SafeAlert to one of the largest construction companies in the province and has sales in the U.S. and the U.K.

K YLE GOUL D I NG .

BlueBrick Learning is another student-run business that is meeting a community need by providing teachers with the means to control what students are accessing online. The business offers an educational technology solution that creates a safe and secure network environment, which allows teachers to filter and monitor what the students are accessing on the Internet, on any device. “This means that teachers can tell their students to bring their own devices to class without the fear of students becoming distracted,” said Anna Gosine, a fourthyear mechanical engineering student and business lead with BlueBrick. While most schools use firewalls that limit which websites students can use, BlueBrick allows teachers to do so on a per-classroom basis. It also notifies them should a student switch from Wi-Fi to data, which would let them access unrestricted websites. Eighteen schools in the province have agreed to participate in a pilot project to test the software. BlueBrick Learning is also involved in Propel ICT’s accelerator program. Ms. Gosine says MCE’s funding and mentoring allowed the BlueBrick team to develop a prototype that they otherwise may have struggled to create. “Because of MCE, we were also able to take part in the Evolution program through the Genesis Centre, which was another program that helped us to better understand our market, develop an effective pitch and brought us into an environment where we got to work with other entrepreneurs, which is always motivating and inspiring,” Ms. Gosine said.

A NN A GOS I NE a n d F l o r ia n V i l l a u m é .

“MCE promotes pursuing every idea, no matter how crazy they may seem. When we first came together as a group of students, we were trying to develop an expandable mannequin that would improve online shoppers’ experiences. MCE encouraged us to fail fast, take what we learned and move forward.” MCE is currently developing other programs that will help students to explore business ideas that address existing problems. It’s all part of MCE’s mandate to provide students, staff and faculty with the opportunity to contribute to bettering society through business. “If you have an idea and nobody wants to use or buy it, then you missed an opportunity to make it exist in our society,” said Mr. Villaumé. “We want to help all creative minds to maximize their contribution to society. Students get a great education at Memorial. We are here to inspire and help entrepreneurial students apply what they have learned at university to a real-world problem that can lead to the creation of a viable and hopefully successful company.” For more information on the Memorial Centre for Entrepreneurship, please visit mce.mun.ca. ■■■ summer 2018

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Welcome to our house In 2017, the faculty welcomed almost 300 visitors to our Annual Open House. The open house marked the fourth year members of the public were invitied to tour the exciting things happening in the faculty. A R C T I C ENG I NEER PA RT I C I PA NTS .

Reaching our youth The summer of 2017 marked significant growth for Memorial Engineering Outreach (MEO) programs. More than 350 youth from across the province participated in our programs: Robotics and Junior Engineers, Girl Quest, ArcticENGINEER, Teen Circuit, the Boys and Girls Club, Memorial’s Childcare Centre and the Labrador Outreach program. The faculty increased capacity by offering multiple programs each week, a brand new Teen Circuit program as well as new partnerships with SuperNOVA at Dalhousie University and the Memorial Child Care Centre. Teen Circuit was a tremendous success. Youth were inspired to explore engineering through unique, hands-on activities. Working with the campus Childcare Centre, MEO delivered a week of workshops to youth ranging in ages from five to 14. An exciting addition to MEO programming in 2017 was the partnership with SuperNOVA, which enabled the faculty to deliver programming in nine Labrador communities. Two students from Memorial and a coordinator from Dalhousie spent nine weeks in Labrador, offering a week-long program in a new community each week. This resulted in an amazing summer that our students, and camp participants are not likely to forget. ■■■

TEEN C I R C U I TS PA RT I C I PA NTS .

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Guests were greeted by people hosting exciting booths in our building’s main lobby. From there, they went on tours and demonstrations to learn how the diverse field of engineering is shaping the world we live in. Interactive stations for visitors of all ages allowed for handson learning and opportunities to experience the engineering design process first-hand. From underwater technologies, safety simulators, oil recovery, cool electronics and more, our faculty, staff and students put on a great show! ■■■

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During summer 2017, six senior mechanical engineering students placed second for their design of a 3D printer. They were competing in a national design competition, the Canadian Society for Mechanical Engineering (CSME) National Design Competition for three-dimensional, or 3D, Printing. The competition was open to all Canadian engineering undergraduate or technical college students enrolled in engineering degree or diploma programs. While it was the third year for the competition it was the first time that a team from Memorial had competed. “We established the CSME MUN Chapter in 2016, said Javier Valdés, team lead. “Once the Chapter was established, we started looking for events to get involved in and decided to participate in this competition.” Competing teams were tasked with designing and building a 3D printer from materials readily available in the market for under $300. While the team from Memorial used a materials kit provided by the organizers, their 3D printer was innovative in several ways. The team wanted to combine large printing volume, two print heads, a heated bed and calibrating instruments. According to Mr. Valdés, it is difficult to find a low-cost 3D printer with this combination of features. THE ATLUS M A R K I P R I NTER .

Mechanical engineering students place second in national competition

“One of the ways our printer was unique is that it has two printing heads,” said Mr. Valdés. “This means it can create an object that is made from two different materials. We also used sensors for auto-levelling, which means that the two printing heads position themselves before every print, resulting in higher-quality parts. Also, the heated bed allows for a broader range of printing materials. Instead of being able to print only with acid (PLA), we can print plastics that require very high temperatures.” The combination of features means that the objects printed by the Altus Mark 1, which is the name of Memorial’s 3D printer, are very high quality. The team from Memorial was one of 10 teams competing in the competition, which required teams to mail in a prototype and submit two reports and a marketing video online. They won Best Business Plan, which earned them a second place finish alongside the team from McGill University, which won Best Technical Proposal. The team from Concordia University placed first with Best Overall Design. The student design team, which was mentored by mechanical engineering professor Dr. Oscar DeSilva, consisted of Javier Valdés, Clara Decan, Evan Kearley, Bassem Hanna, Joshua Thorne and Artem Chashchin. “This project was self-initiated by the student group and completed at an impressive pace,” said Dr. Oscar De Silva. “The students pretty much figured out the technicalities and the design on their own. Hats off to a job well done!” To view Memorial’s team video, go to: https://www.youtube.com/ watch?v=IA2dlsTtVzY. ■■■

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Memorial’s Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science prides itself on the high-calibre of its students and graduates. The program is rigorous. Students must successfully complete at least four work terms and eight academic study terms to graduate, and the opportunities to work on extracurricular activities with fellow students are numerous. And while the program is intense, it is the intensity that creates huge opportunities for students to shine – students like Adam Keating. Mr. Keating graduated in June 2017 with his bachelor of engineering degree in mechanical engineering. As an undergraduate student, the Mount Pearl native made the Dean’s List every year, earned numerous scholarships and led several team projects that have created two business initiatives for him now that he has graduated.

A D A M K E AT I NG .

No limits Bright future for engineering graduate and entrepreneur

He was also the recipient of the 2017 Chancellor’s Undergraduate Award, the Governor General’s Medal (Undergraduate), the Dean’s Honour Award in Engineering, The Fry Family Foundation Undergraduate Leadership Award and the Professional Engineers and Geoscientists Newfoundland and Labrador Award for Excellence. While he admits juggling studies and extracurricular activities can be challenging, Mr. Keating encourages all students to get involved as much as they can. “For people who want to do something other than the normal, getting involved in all aspects of school can give them an advantage,” he said. “Connections made when working on team projects can you an edge when securing work terms. It is also important to not limit yourself. The more involved you get, the more technical experience you get and that is something you can’t get in the classroom.” One of Mr. Keating’s business initiatives is CoLab, which he co-founded with fellow engineering

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student Jeremy Andrews. Mr. Andrews has also graduated. CoLab is a software development company that is creating the future of mechanical design through its collaborative computer-assisted drawing program. Upon graduation, Mr. Keating and Mr. Andrews deferred job offers from companies in the Silicon Valley to pursue CoLab, and are working hard to accelerate the growth of the company. Mr. Keating also co-founded DuXion Motors with another mechanical engineering student, Trevor Forward. Mr. Forward also graduated in 2017. DuXion Motors was founded to develop propulsion systems for the future of electric airplanes. DuXion won first place in MUN’s Canadian Society for Mechanical Engineering Design Competition against 15 other teams. In his final year, Mr. Keating received the Canadian Association for Co-operative Education (CAFCE) honorable mention award, which recognizes outstanding co-op students across Canada. Mr. Keating placed second in Canada among many thousands of co-op students. Mr. Keating also served on the faculty’s Engineering Society as vice-president academic and devoted his time to organizing outstanding initiatives close to his heart such as the Keith Keating Memorial Tournament, in memory of his dad, Keith Keating, for the past four years and the Keith Keating Terry Fox Run for the past five years. “When my dad passed away I was determined to make a difference,” Mr. Keating said. “Today, the Keith Keating Memorial Tournament is the largest basketball tournament in the province and has raised more than $70,000 for cancer care. The Association of Fundraising Professionals Newfoundland and Labrador named it the Top Special Event for 2015. Similarly, the Keith Keating Terry Fox run team was the largest in the province for several years and has raised over $35,000.” ■■■

UN D ERGR A D U ATE STU D ENTS

Mechanical engineering students showcase their senior design projects In April 2017, the Memorial University CSME Student Chapter held its second annual MUN CSME Design Competition.

D UX I ON TE A M .

Five teams comprised of senior mechanical engineering students presented their design projects to a panel of judges. The winner was DuXion for its AC induction motor with a rotor integrated ducted fan. The Duxion team consists of students Trevor Forward, Adam Keating, Adam Parsons and Justin Wheeler. The students are designing and building electric motors that will help create a more sustainable and efficient future for transportation. The commercial aircraft industry currently uses turbofan or turbo propeller engines, which release very harmful emissions into the environment contributing to global warming. DuXion’s solution is an electric motor that has a fan integrated directly inside the motor rather than being shaft driven like existing designs. This has never been done before and will create a motor that is more compact and lower weight than existing designs, while also being environmentally friendly, quiet, and have lower maintenance and operating costs. The electric aircraft industry will be an emerging market seeking new innovative solutions and with DuXion’s motor technology, the goal is to be at the forefront of this movement. Given the architecture of the motor, an easy application transition to other emerging markets, such as the Hyperloop, is also possible. Dr. Oscar DeSilva, assistant professor, mechanical engineering, was the team’s supervisor for the project. Honourable mention went to EMGrip for its affordable 3D printed myoelectric prosthetic. While many different types of prosthetics are available worldwide, the EMGrip team, which consists of students Claire Dobbin, Bryan Mandeville, Sarah Smith and Tyler Spurrell, identified a gap in the market. Common prosthetics either have many capabilities using highly functional body sensors, but are extremely expensive; or are affordable but body-powered, which compromises natural and basic functionality. To solve this problem, the team designed a mechanical prosthetic that can grasp everyday objects by using electromyogram sensors, which allows for direct control of the device through muscular contraction to simulate natural human movement and reduce fatigue on the user.

EMGR I P TE A M .

EMGrip constructed the prosthetic using MUN Med’s 3D printing to keep cost at a minimum and to allow the product to be easily reproduced. The prosthetic also includes a customizable housing sleeve to integrate the controls and mechanical components that acts as an interface with the residual limb. EMGrip hopes their product will give those unable to access expensive prosthetics a better quality of life. Dr. George Mann, professor, mechanical engineering, was the team’s supervisor for the project. Dr. Yuri Muzychka, head, Department of Mechanical Engineering, was extremely pleased with the caliber of design projects from the students. “The students in this year’s class all contributed outstanding design projects for their senior Capstone Course,” said Dr. Muzychka. “Choosing one best project overall project was very difficult. The two notable projects chosen were among the best I have seen in my 17 years at Memorial.” Judges for the event included Professor Andy Fisher and Dr. Yuri Muzychka from the Department of Mechanical Engineering; Sonya Rideout, technical communications co-ordinator, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science; and Mike Caines from DVTest, a graduate of the mechanical engineering, class of 1999. ■■■

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A new destination Cohort of engineering students complete work terms in India

PETER OGLAN.

International reach Doctoral student attracted to expertise, value and structure

S o m e o f t h e w o r k t e r m s t u d e n t s w i t h A n i l Ra h e ja a n d D r . U g u r G u v e n ( b o t h at c e n t r e ) .

In 2017, six engineering undergraduate students did what no other MUN engineering students have done. They completed their work terms in India.

had to overcome in the beginning, but students, faculty and staff of UPES were quite welcoming and our students received tremendous support.”

The work placements began to take shape when the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science’s Dr. Faisal Khan, then acting associate dean, graduate studies, and Jinghua Nie, manager, International Programs, visited India’s University of Petroleum and Energy Studies (UPES) in 2015.

While all members of the group say the experience was rewarding, student Michael Daly says it was one of the most rewarding experiences of his life.

“Dr. Khan and I discussed the possibility during that visit,” said Ms. Nie. “During a subsequent visit in early 2017, which I attended with Dr. Khan, Annil Raheja, director of engineering co-op education; and Dr. Dennis Peters, head of electrical and computer engineering, seven undergraduate work terms were developed.” Just a few short months later, the students arrived at UPES to begin working. “There was some initial culture shock,” said Ms. Nie. “There were definitely some challenges the students

“It was the greatest three months of my life,” he said. “I can’t believe I hesitated. Of course, it was not without challenges, but I strongly urge everyone to go on a similar adventure.” The experience was also rewarding for Memorial and UPES with officials from both universities delighted to see the advancement of student mobility programs. Efforts by Sonja Knutson, director of Memorial’s Internationalization Office, Ms. Nie and Julie Kavanagh, co-operative education coordinator, helped facilitate the successful launch. MUN engineering students continue to complete work terms in India. ■■■

Peter Ogban’s path from Nigeria to Newfoundland to pursue a PhD in mechanical engineering was slightly circuitous.

predict and design fluid systems, such as oil and gas movement through subsea pipelines or air motion through wind turbines.”

He first heard of Memorial University when he was completing a master of science degree in renewable energy in Newcastle, U.K. It’s also where he first learned of Dr. Greg Naterer, Memorial’s dean of engineering and applied science.

The structure of Memorial’s research programs also helped with Mr. Ogban’s transition to his new home.

“Dr. Naterer is internationally respected for his research contributions to heat transfer in mechanical engineering, specifically entropy and the second law of thermodynamics,” he said. Mr. Ogban reached out to Dr. Naterer, who encouraged him to apply to Memorial, and he was accepted for the fall of 2016. Mr. Ogban says it didn’t take him long to adapt; he attended the welcome events and met other engineering students from Nigeria. As a computational research engineer, Mr. Ogban takes fluid motion equations and models them using computer simulations in order to predict actual fluid behaviour in engineering systems. “Higher system efficiency and optimization is what we are looking for to reduce operating costs and environmental emissions,” he said. “We can use results from this modelling to more accurately

He says the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science enables students to first take courses relevant to their area of research, then take a comprehensive examination to ensure they have a sound background in their research area. Students can then develop and present a proposal of their research. It is only after the fundamental coursework is complete that students undertake research work, publish and then write and present a thesis. Once he has developed the necessary code, Mr. Ogban and his fellow classmates will set up experimental facilities for turbulence measurement and modelling in the engineering thermal/fluids lab. This will allow them to validate their findings and predictions. The new computer simulation tools will allow designers to more effectively optimize the energy efficiency of devices such as turbines, fluid pumping systems, oil and gas separators, and others. ■■■

GR A D U ATE STU D ENTS We tend to learn from our mistakes. And while that works for most, PhD candidate Doug Smith believes that we learn more when we look at our successes. As part of the Arctic Shipping Safety project in Memorial’s Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Mr. Smith is working under the supervision of Drs. Brian Veitch, Faisal Khan and Rocky Taylor on a novel method that aims to improve safety for complex operations, such as shipping operations.

DOUG SMITH.

Complex operations Active learning proving promising in Arctic shipping environments

“A shipping operation is a complex operation in that it requires many interactions between humans and technical components to get the job done,” said Mr. Smith. “When a captain navigates a ship, he uses resources to detect possible dangers, such as using radar and ice forecasts. Those ice forecasts may have been developed up to 24 hours before, which means the captain has to use his/her navigational experience to make predictions about present ice conditions.” Humans can act as a source of resilience for the operation and make adjustments to dynamic operational conditions. When the unexpected happens, someone has to take note and make sure the appropriate adjustment is made. That’s where the doctoral student’s research comes into play. Mr. Smith meets with shipping operators to learn first hand how the operation usually achieves success.

T h e R V La n c e tak e n d u r i n g a r e s e a r c h e x p e di t i o n t o t h e B a r e n t s S e a i n May 2 0 1 3 .

He then creates models of functional maps using the functional resonance analysis method, also known as the FRAM method. “We meet with key personnel in the operation to learn about the functions that need to take place for the operation to succeed and the FRAM method allows us to do that,” he said. “The functions are represented in the model using nodes that are connected by lines

which represent the functional path to success for the operation.” Functions such as observing a radar, communicating with your first- and second-mates, downloading ice charts and interpreting sea conditions are connected in order to map how they all relate to each other. Mr. Smith says that while it isn’t linear, there is a chronological element to it. Once the functions are mapped, Mr. Smith assesses the variables that can occur within the operation and examines all the functional outputs for each task. “It could be a function that happened some time ago, but its output becomes relevant much later, such as a ship inspection” he said. “And once we learn how all the functions relate to each other, we can communicate that to the operator.” The model is then used to examine the potential ways success can be achieved by an organization, especially when variable operational conditions are present This also provides a different perspective to examine operational failures. “The novel part of our method is that we use successes to actively learn instead of waiting for the failures to learn from them,” he said. “If you’re waiting for accidents to happen to learn, maybe you only have one or two examples per year, but if you also try to learn from your successes, you likely have many more successes throughout the year to actively manage your operation.” Looking at an operation’s successes not only provides Mr. Smith with the opportunity to make the operation safer, it also provides the operator with an opportunity to promote its strengths. Mr. Smith is pleased with the results so far. “We have applied this methodology to Arctic ship navigation and offshore installation management. These are dynamic and complex operations and the initial results are promising.” ■■■

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Global leader Engineering student represents Memorial at Rideau Hall gala

F r o m l e f t a r e S t e p h e n Wa l l ac e , S e c r e ta r y t o t h e G o v e r n o r G e n e r a l ; K a r a n B h at ia ; a n d t h e Ri g h t H o n . D avid J o h n s t o n , f o r m e r

The 2017 Queen Elizabeth Scholars are pictured with former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien and his spouse, Mrs. Aline Chrétien, and former Governor General David Johnston and his spouse, Mrs. Sharon Johnston, during an event at Rideau Hall, in Ottawa. Photo credit: MCpl Vincent Carbonneau, Rideau Hall, 2017.

The Queen Elizabeth Scholarship program fosters a dynamic community of young global leaders that create lasting impacts at home and abroad. Through professional experiences, the program provides international education

a university that has a memorandum of understanding with Memorial University, and have excellent academic standing and industry experience.

opportunities for discovery and inquiry.

Mr. Bhatia, who was concluding his undergraduate studies in mechanical engineering at Pandit DeenDayal Petroleum University in Gandhinagar, India, met all the criteria for the program and began his graduate studies in safety and risk engineering at Memorial in September 2016.

Queen Elizabeth Scholars engage with communities, learn about cultures and create projects and actions that impact the world. They are part of a global network of young scholars who share knowledge, exchange ideas, and collaborate on meaningful initiatives.

G o v e r n o r G e n e r a l o f C a n ada .

Karan Bhatia is the first engineering student to come to Memorial under the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Scholarship program. In September 2017, Mr. Bhatia, a graduate student who comes to Memorial from India, was invited to represent the university at a gala dinner at Rideau Hall with former Governor General David Johnston. He said it was a privilege to attend. “I had an opportunity to meet many great people, from former Governor General David Johnston to former Prime Minister Jean Chrétien,” he said. I also met several industrialists, community leaders and politicians. Of course, the best part of this trip is that now I am connected with 18 other Queen Elizabeth Scholars from all around the world, who are among the best at their respective universities. I went there alone, but came back with 18 new friends and lots of experiences.”

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The program is managed through a unique partnership of the Rideau Hall Foundation, Community Foundations of Canada, Universities Canada and Canadian universities. Mr. Bhatia is one of 11 Queen Elizabeth Scholars recruited by Memorial’s School of Graduate Studies through the university’s Internationalization Office. “Because Memorial was awarded more than $500,000 in funding from the Queen Elizabeth II Jubilee Scholarship program, we were able to access the financial resources to recruit these young scholars,” said Dr. Aimee Surprenant, dean, School of Graduate Studies.

“We are very fortunate to have such a highperforming student, such as Karan,” said Dr. Faisal Khan, acting associate dean, graduate studies, Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science. “He is sincere, hardworking and dedicated. He has excelled with his classroom studies and in his research. He is also very actively engaged in the community. He played an important role in helping to organize a recent workshop and engaging with our industry partners.” For his graduate work, Mr. Bhatia is working on two problems simultaneously. He is currently studying spray icing on offshore structures and vessels, which includes experimental work and modeling. He says he will use his experimental design in the faculty’s cold room lab to test and validate his model.

“This group is well on their way to becoming leaders who are already making an impact both at home and abroad. They are wonderful ambassadors for our university, our province and our country.”

In the longer term, Mr. Bhatia’s research focuses on developing risk-based assessment techniques that takes into consideration the dynamic conditions of the facility.”

In order for an international student to attend Memorial University as a Queen Elizabeth Scholar, the student must be enrolled at

He is also working on a knowledge gap between how solutions to risk-based problems that have been identified will be implemented. ■■■

A LUMN I

Charged by nature Alumni turn heads with wind- and water-powered electronics charger A group of alumni turned entrepreneurs didn’t have to look far for inspiration for their latest product. Living in a country with the most water in the world — and its windiest province — they were literally surrounded by it. Now, a piece of technology Seaformatics Systems Inc. developed is set to revolutionize how outdoor adventurers stay connected to wireless devices. The St. John’s-based startup with roots at Memorial has developed a hand-held water turbine, allowing people to charge electronic devices with water and wind. “We’re producing a suite of turbine products that allow our customers to harness renewable energy in the form of flowing water and wind to power and recharge standalone devices such as personal electronics — think cellphones, cameras and GPS — as well as batteries in watercraft and RVs, and river- and oceangoing sensing systems and observatory nodes,” Andrew Cook, company co-founder and Memorial alumnus, told the Gazette recently. “Our first product, the WaterLily micro turbine, can capture energy from a flowing river or can be suspended in a windy area to recharge USB re-chargeable devices such as cellphones, action cameras and portable battery banks.” The pioneering technology behind the company was developed at Memorial over the last decade.

The SEAformatics Project — as it was originally known as — began developing a prototype seabed instrumentation platform designed to monitor the subsea and seabed environment in 2007. Dr. Vlastimil Masek, associate professor in the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, was principal investigator. The project received funding from a number of sources, including the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency’s Atlantic Innovation Fund and Springboard Atlantic’s Innovation Mobilization Program. Mr. Cook and his fellow co-founders — Adam Press, Geoff Holden and Robert Boyd, who are all Memorial alums — were employed with the project, as well as a followup project led by Husky Energy. “Without this R&D the company simply wouldn’t exist today,” said Mr. Cook. He and his team are now commercializing the technology developed at Memorial.

F r o m l e f t a r e S e af o r m at ic s c o - f o u n d e r s R o b e r t B o y d , G e o ff H o l d e n , A da m P r e s s and Andrew Cook.

“I think our future is very bright.” — Andrew Cook “We believe our technology is easier to setup and use, more efficient, more reliable and less costly in the long term than existing solutions,” he noted. The company is a current client of the Genesis Centre Memorial’s award-winning business incubator for technology startups. Since launching the WaterLily, the company has caught the attention of customers, curiosity seekers and mainstream media. Atlantic Business Magazine featured the product in a November 2017 article detailing 25 things invented in Atlantic Canada. The national program Daily Planet featured the product earlier this year.

That exposure has piqued a lot of interest in the company’s innovative offerings, says Mr. Cook. “Our technology is novel and has one patent issued and another in progress at the moment.” “We launched the product on April 1 of this year and to date we have over 700 customers in 18 countries. As well, we have over 10 million views of our content on Facebook and we have been featured by numerous online, print and television media outlets.” He says there are direct competitors on the international market but none are as simple to use, efficient and reliable as their product. “Our customers see value in the ability to charge 24-hours per day versus solar and they recognize the energy limitations that batteries place on their activities. I think our future is very bright.” For more information, seaformatics.ca. ■■■

summer 2018

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Smart switch

Young startup creates first smart thermostat

F r o m l e f t a r e Mat t h e w F u d g e , T e c h n ica l S e r vic e s ; Z ac h a r y G r e e n ; J a s o n S t e va n s , T e c h n ica l S e r vic e s ; B r ad l e y H e ff o r d , T e c h n ica l S e r vic e s ; a n d K o n Y u e , m e c h a n i ca l e n g i n e e r i n g s t u d e n t, i n f r o n t o f t h e c o m p u t e r n u m e r ica l c o n t r o l m ac h i n e i n t h e E n g i n e e r i n g b u i l di n g .

Joshua and Zachary Green are on a mission to provide innovative technology to help the world become more environmentally friendly. In their quest to do so, the brothers have created a smart, Wi-Fi enabled, line voltage thermostat called Mysa – Swedish for comfort – through their company, Empowered Homes. The device helps homeowners save money by allowing them to remotely control their heating systems. Mysa displays a room’s current temperature and allows users to adjust the temperature from anywhere using their mobile phone, tablet, computer or the touch buttons on their thermostats. The company is off to an incredible start with its product in high demand. “Our pre-order clients are coming from all over North America, with only 15 per cent being in Newfoundland and Labrador,” said Zachary Green, who graduated from Memorial in 2016 with a bachelor of engineering (mechanical) degree. “We pre-sold 45 per cent of our thermostats in the U.S. market. They are typically pre-

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ordered for personal homes or vacation homes and cabins.” The company is a current client of The Genesis Centre, Memorial’s award-winning business incubator for technology startups. Designed to control electric baseboard heaters and fan-forced heaters, Mysa’s software maximizes energy savings by using machinelearning algorithms and big data to automate the homeowner’s heating schedule. The difference between Mysa and other products on the market is that Mysa integrates a friendly user interface with smart features and learning functionality. Mysa also has an easy scheduling feature that senses when users are home and suggests improvements to the schedule over time to save even more energy. “Tell Mysa what type of heating you have and it will take care of the rest,” said Andrew Murphy, director of marketing for Mysa. “Currently there is no truly smart thermostat for high voltage heated homes on the market. We aim to change that by year end. For electric baseboard heaters, Mysa takes advantage of home heating zones to heat the right rooms,

at the right times. Mysa can also adjust its heating algorithm to efficiently control fanforced heaters.” Mr. Murphy adds that the Mysa thermostat would not be at the point it is today without the collaboration of the Department of Technical Services, a unit within the Office of the Vice-President (Research). “Technical Services has been instrumental in rapid prototyping our plastic and metal parts,” he said. “With their help, we went through six design iterations of our plastic housing. They also helped us design a custom aluminum heat sink and brass testing pins.” Collaboration with Tech Services is a perk of being a Genesis client. The company participated in the centre’s flagship Enterprise Program, which helps entrepreneurs commercialize their ideas. “The folks at Tech Services were very capable of understanding what we needed and had the heat sinks milled out of aluminum in a couple of days. This process helped us order 10,000 extruded heatsinks from China with confidence,” he said. More information about the company and its products available at getmysa.com. ■■■

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Mr. King gives back in several ways. His company has employed more than 50 engineering work term students and Mr. King says the students work alongside their fulltime developers on the same projects. “MUN engineering students are incredibly eager to help solve challenging coding problems,” he said. “Over the years they have helped develop many application features that will eventually become live in the Verafin application.” Mr. King also established the Verafin Entrance Scholarship in 2014 to encourage young students from rural areas to attend the engineering program at Memorial.

J A M I E K I NG .

Profiling alumnus

Jamie King Jamie King knows the value of giving back. Mr. King grew up in the small community of Lethbridge, on the province’s east coast. He moved to St. John’s to attend Memorial University and obtained an electrical engineering degree in 1999 and started Verafin Inc. in 2003 with two other electrical engineering graduates, Raymond Pretty and Brendan Brothers. Over the past 15 years, Verafin Inc. has become very successful as a North American leader in fraud detection and anti-money laundering (AML) software with more than 1,700 clients and almost 350 employees. And even though he’s a family man and runs a successful company that was selected as one of Canada’s Top 100 Employers, Canada’s Top Family-Friendly Employers and Atlantic Canada’s Top Employers for 2018, Mr. King makes time to give back to his alma mater. “I believe that Memorial is the future of our province,” he said. “Very few people move here, but many of us who are from here, stay here. Memorial graduates are the future of our province and I want to support them where I can to help improve the quality of life for everyone who lives in our beautiful province.”

Engineering

Reunion 2018

The Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science is hosting a reunion celebration for the classes of 1978, 1983, 1988, 1993, 1998, 2003 and 2008.

To register, visit

“I grew up in rural Newfoundland and not many from my high school graduating class came to Memorial,” said Mr. King. “I hope this scholarship will make the transition from rural Newfoundland and Labrador to St. John’s to attend university a little easier for some students.” Mr. King also sits on the advisory board for the Memorial Centre for Entrepreneurship (MCE) since its inception, a campus-wide centre that promotes entrepreneurship while supporting students in the early development of their start-up ideas. “I believe there are hundreds of student entrepreneurs at Memorial who need help realizing their potential,” said Mr. King. “There’s nothing special about Ray, Brendan and I. We weren’t particularly entrepreneurial during our university years. We saw an opportunity and we had a desire to come up with a better solution to a complex problem.” Through his support of Memorial and the Faculty of Engineering and Applied Science, Mr. King hopes to create many future entrepreneurs for our province. His advice to young engineering students? “Consider entrepreneurship,” he said. “Why get a job when you can create hundreds of jobs.” If you are considering giving back to Memorial, please contact Matthew Conway at (709) 864-3274 or mdconway@mun.ca. ■■■

Alumni from celebrating classes are invited to join your fellow classmates on Friday, October 12, 2018 at 7:30 p.m., along with Faculty and staff, as you gather to reminisce about your days in the S. J. Carew Building and share lots of laughs, stories and memories of this important time in your lives.

https://event-wizard.com/2018engineeringreunion/0/register/

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