ResearchNB is proud to announce the six (6) recipients of Round 1 of the Academic Startup Fund, with awards totaling $360,000 in early-stage research across New Brunswick. As part of its Talent Support Pillar, this program supports the launch and acceleration of new professors’ research programs in New Brunswick. The program provides flexible funding for the purchase of equipment, student support, and other critical research-related costs that help new faculty members establish momentum early in their careers.
Congratulations to the following:
Researcher: Morgane Desmau, Université de Moncton
Professeure adjointe, Département de chimie et de biochimie
Project: Elucidating the role of biofilms in metal fate in various NB ecosystems
This research explores how biofilms—a structured community of microorganisms—accumulate and transform metal(loid)s in aquatic ecosystems. The project aims to determine the environmental impact of metal(loid)s by analyzing their presence and transformation within biofilms across New Brunswick’s rivers and marine environments.
Researcher: Shuang Xu, University of New Brunswick
Assistant Professor
Project: High-Performance Inverters for Clean Energy Grid Integration
This project will develop compact, single-stage power inverters that enhance the integration of renewable energy and electric vehicles into NB’s electrical grid. With potential for high power density and full grid-support capabilities, this work bridges core research and real-world infrastructure.
Researcher: Ahmed Shehata, University of New Brunswick
Canada Research Chair in Rehabilitation Engineering
Project: Adaptive Human-Machine Interaction Framework for Assistive Technologies
This research aims to enhance rehabilitation devices—such as powered prostheses—by integrating real-time user behavior into control systems. The project will develop adaptable technologies that deliver personalized, efficient, and user-friendly rehabilitation solutions.
Researcher: Sébastien Vaudreuil, Collège communautaire du Nouveau-Brunswick (CCNB)
Chercheur – Responsable du développement des affaires
Project: Sustainable Composite Materials for Naval Applications
Focusing on natural hemp fibres and bio-sourced resins, this project will develop sustainable composite materials to replace traditional petroleum-based products in naval applications. The research promotes eco-friendly innovation with commercial potential for NB industries.
Researcher: Philip Harrison, University of New Brunswick
Fish Passage Lead, New Brunswick Aquatic Ecosystem Study
Project: Enhancing Anadromous Fish Passage at Hydropower Facilities
Building on the work of the Mactaquac Aquatic Ecosystem Study, this project will track fish behavior and river connectivity using advanced telemetry. The research will guide province-wide adaptive fish passage strategies at NB Power’s hydropower facilities.
Researcher: John Xiaogang Shi, University of New Brunswick
Associate Professor in Hydrotechnical Engineering
Project: AI-Driven Flood Prediction for Climate Adaptation in Rural NB
This project introduces an AI-powered framework for real-time flood modeling, offering a faster, more accurate alternative to traditional physics-based models. The goal is to improve flood resilience and protect agriculture, infrastructure, and communities across the province.
We would like to thank all the researchers who applied for this funding opportunity.
ResearchNB is proud to offer a range of funding programs available throughout the year. Discover our new suite of research funding programs on the ResearchNB website. We look forward to working with New Brunswick’s gifted, innovative, and resourceful research community to help our province grow and thrive.
For further information, contact Research Services researchservices@researchnb.ca .