The University of Waterloo is cementing its reputation as a world-leading research institution.
A ground breaking ceremony was held Thursday morning for WaterFEL, the Waterloo Free Electron Laser research facility.
Using an infrared free electron laser, WaterFEL will allow researchers to address some of the globe’s most pertinent challenges, everything from monitoring molecular changes in wastewater to identifying biomarkers to better understand complex medical issues.
WaterFEL will be a first-of-its-kind facility in North America.
Dr. Scott Hopkins, a professor of Chemistry at UW and WaterFEL lead, told 570 NewsRadio, WaterFEL’s adaptability will be one of its strengths.
“So there’s going to be an area of fixed experiments where we know what we can do. And there’s also going to be an area that’s a flexible space so that if we have any new ideas that become fashionable, we can bring those in immediately.”
Hopkins said the building itself will cost around $50 million, and the laser another $20 million to construct.
According to a press release from UW, funding came from several sources. The Canada Foundation for Innovation chipped in $10 million. The Ontario Research Fund contributed $6.4 million. The British Columbia Knowledge Development Fund added $3.6 million, and UW contributed $7.5 million towards the project.
Hopkins believes the building itself is even more impressive than the laser.
“It’s a living, breathing building,” he said. “We have regions that have to be nuclear energy worker regions, laser safety regions, biological and chemical hazard regions. The building needs to know who can go where and when, so you need to be able to direct around. And the whole safety component and research aspect is very impressive, how everything works together.”
WaterFEL’s location on UW’s north campus was chosen intentionally for its proximity to the new regional hospital, which is expected to open in 2035.
The two facilities will work hand-in-hand in an environment of collaboration and allow for the rapid application of research findings in a clinical setting.
Waterloo Mayor, Dorothy McCabe was one of the dignitaries to speak at the ceremony.
“For me, as someone who leads this city and who also represents the region, the outcomes are what’s important for our residents. Not just in Waterloo and Waterloo Region, but beyond these borders. And, the economic impact this will have and the opportunities for research and development are simply incredible.”
WaterFEL is expected to begin operation in 2028.
