Students at Simon Fraser University's Burnaby campus are learning and practising research methods with state-of-the-art equipment after an intense renovation updated the chemistry wing of Shrum Science Centre.

"Investments in science and technology research not only provide jobs today, but also ensure we are on the cutting edge of breakthrough ideas that will sustain our future growth and prosperity in British Columbia," said Premier Christy Clark. "Here at the Shrum Science Centre, we are creating the tools, programs and services to make sure our young scientists do more than dream. They can make the discoveries of tomorrow to keep our economy strong, dynamic and vital for generations."

The $49.4-million project was jointly funded by the provincial ($25 million) and federal ($24.4 million) governments through the Knowledge Infrastructure Program. The Shrum Science Centre upgrades were completed in just 20 months and include: refurbished exterior, seismic bracing, new heating, ventilation and air-conditioning systems and new lab and learning spaces.

"This investment created jobs for people in British Columbia at a critical time, while improving the infrastructure that Simon Fraser University will need to maintain its reputation as an innovative leader," said James Moore, Minister of Canadian Heritage and Official Languages and Senior Minister Responsible for British Columbia. "Our government's support for the knowledge economy has not only made a difference in the short term, but also set the foundation for future prosperity."

Renewal of the 9,476-square-metre (102,000-sq.-ft.) facility will enable SFU to further its research and development in key areas of health and life sciences (nuclear medicine and medicinal chemistry), radiochemistry and environment.

"This new facility will assist SFU in its efforts to create a high-quality and supportive learning environment, and to foster research excellence on the Burnaby campus," said Andrew Petter, president and vice-chancellor of Simon Fraser University.

This was among 39 projects at post-secondary institutions throughout the province that were part of the Knowledge Infrastructure Program (KIP). KIP was a joint federal-provincial investment designed to renew infrastructure at post-secondary institutions throughout B.C., while also providing local jobs for communities.

Initiatives like KIP aid the success of the BC Jobs Plan and its goal of enabling British Columbians to gain the knowledge and skills they need to be successful for future careers.

Quick facts:

• SFU has more than 30,000 students and employs more than 3,000 faculty and staff on campuses located in Burnaby, Vancouver and Surrey.
• The chemistry department ranks among the top 10 university chemistry departments in Canada, and is known for cutting-edge chemical and multidisciplinary research.
• Over 2,400 students took courses in chemistry at SFU during the spring 2012 semester.

Learn more:

Simon Fraser University: http://www.sfu.ca/

Knowledge Infrastructure Program: http://ic.gc.ca/knowledge-infrastructure

BC Jobs Plan: http://www.bcjobsplan.ca/

Contacts:

Sara MacIntyre
Director of Communications
Office of the Premier
250 580-7701

Joanne Whittier
Communications Manager
Ministry of Advanced Education
250 952-6400

Stephanie Thomas
Press Secretary
Office of the Honourable Gary Goodyear
Minister of State (Science and Technology)
613 960-7728

Don MacLachlan
SFU Public Affairs & Media Relations
778 782-3929
donmac@sfu.ca