UNB advances sustainability, healthcare in New Brunswick
From the Springboard Content Lab
Springboard member University of New Brunswick (UNB),has secured over $1.1 million in funding from ResearchNB’s Priority Sector Development Fund to support four high-impact research projects. These initiatives focus on ecological sustainability, healthcare, housing, and aquatic ecosystem management.
Key Takeaways
- UNB received $1.12M in ResearchNB funding for sustainability, healthcare, and housing research
- Projects address critical priorities: environmental sustainability, healthcare access, and housing stability.
- Research directly supports economic growth and policy development in New Brunswick.
- Demonstrates the power of university-industry-government collaboration which is a core strength of the Springboard network.
UNB research driving real-world impact in Atlantic Canada
Springboard is proud to highlight UNB research projects that address economic and environmental sustainability in New Brunswick.
With $1,119,731 awarded by ResearchNB, UNB researchers are addressing environmental sustainability in oceans and rivers, healthcare access and community well-being.
This investment underscores the critical role of Springboard post-secondary institutions in delivering applied research that supports economic growth, informs policy, and improves quality of life across the region.
Advancing ecological and economic sustainability
Two of the funded projects focus on balancing environmental stewardship with economic opportunity:
- Marine socio-ecological modelling (Dr. Suchinta Arif)
This research examines key species such as salmon, lobster, and kelp to better understand how ecosystems and coastal economies interact—supporting sustainable fisheries and the long-term health of the Bay of Fundy. - New Brunswick Aquatic Ecosystem Survey (Dr. Philip Harrison)
Expanding research across the Wolastoq / Saint John River system, this project will improve fish passage and environmental flow management—benefiting both ecosystems and industry.
Improving health, housing, and community outcomes
The remaining projects focus on social and healthcare innovation:
- Housing and health research (Dr. Julia Woodhall-Melnik)
This project explores housing as a key determinant of health, aiming to develop evidence-based solutions for individuals waiting for affordable housing. - Primary care research network (Dr. Shelley Doucet)
A new practice-based research and learning network will connect providers, researchers, and policymakers to improve healthcare delivery through data-driven insights.
Turning Research into Impact
Through Springboard Atlantic, institutions like UNB collaborate with industry and government partners to translate research into practical, real-world solutions.
This funding announcement reinforces how the region’s post-secondary ecosystem is:
- Accelerating innovation in priority sectors
- Supporting evidence-based decision-making
- Strengthening economic resilience and sustainability
FAQs
What is the ResearchNB Priority Sector Development Fund?
It is a provincial funding program that supports research aligned with New Brunswick’s priority sectors, including health, environment, and economic development.
Why is this funding significant for Atlantic Canada?
It enables applied research that directly addresses regional challenges while supporting economic growth and innovation.
How do these projects support sustainability?
They focus on balancing environmental protection with economic outcomes—particularly in fisheries, river systems, and community development.
How does Springboard Atlantic support projects like these?
Springboard connects researchers with industry and government partners to accelerate commercialization, collaboration, and real-world impact.
About Springboard Atlantic
Springboard Atlantic is a network of 19 post-secondary institutions in Atlantic Canada, connecting researchers with industry and government to solve real-world challenges. Through collaboration and programs like IP Advantage, Springboard helps transform research into practical solutions that drive innovation, economic growth, and societal impact across the region.