University of Alberta

For researcher Meghan Riddell, WCHRI's early investment helped launch a career dedicated to unlocking the mysteries of the placenta, one of the most essential yet overlooked organs in human health.

By advancing pregnancy research and mentoring future scientists, she is helping shape healthier futures from the very earliest stages of life.
https://www.ualberta.ca/en/giving/why-give/impact-stories/wchri/where-great-ideas-grow.html

As Canada introduces the proposed Safe Social Media Act, U of A media and technology expert Mackenzie Common argues that we may be reaching a turning point in our relationship with social media.

New research also suggests that even a two-week digital detox can improve attention, mental health and overall well-being.

Has social media’s day of reckoning come? Two recent court cases have resulted in costly verdicts for Meta and YouTube — prompting some, including U of A media expert Mackenzie Common, to call this social media’s “big to***co moment.”

Graduating with a master’s degree in digital humanities at Spring Convocation 2026, Francerlândio Macena da Cruz transformed his own experience navigating ADHD into NeuroBridge, an AI-powered app designed to support neurodivergent learners.

Through his work, he hopes to make academic spaces more accessible by helping students overcome executive dysfunction and engage with AI responsibly.

Master’s grad builds an AI-powered bridge for neurodivergent students Digital humanities master’s graduate Francerlândio Macena da Cruz created an app based on his own research journey called NeuroBridge, designed to help neurodivergent students cut through distraction to overcome executive paralysis.

Graduating with a degree in conservation biology at the U of A’s Spring Convocation 2026, Chance Park is combining firsthand oilfield experience with a deep respect for the environment. Through his work, he hopes to help shape an industry where conservation and responsible resource development go hand in hand.

From safety vest to science degree By combining his job experience with education and his passion for nature, U of A conservation biology grad Chance Park hopes to contribute to improving best practices in the oil and gas industry.

Congratulations, Class of 2026! ✨🎓

As convocation celebrations begin, we’ll be sharing graduate stories and special moments to celebrate this incredible milestone. Here's to the memories made, the challenges overcome and the exciting journeys ahead.

Artificial intelligence is transforming health research. From developing more effective treatments to improving cancer detection, newly minted Canada CIFAR AI Chair Amber Simpson is harnessing artificial intelligence to unlock new possibilities in health research and patient care at the U of A.

New research chair unlocks AI's potential for drug development and diagnostic imaging Biomedical computing expert Amber Simpson foresees medical breakthroughs at the U of A, thanks to the synergy of some of the world’s top minds in artificial intelligence working together as Canada CIFAR AI Chairs.

As we mark National Indigenous History Month and the 150th anniversary of Treaty No. 6, Dr. Florence Glanfield encourages us to deepen our understanding of Treaty and its ongoing significance in shaping our relationships, responsibilities and shared future.

Understanding the concept of Treaty National Indigenous History Month and the 150th anniversary of Treaty 6 is an opportunity to deepen our understanding of Treaties and our responsibilities as Treaty People.

For Maskwacîs mother and advocate Kerrin Simon, partnering with WCHRI-supported researchers has helped turn lived experience into meaningful change for Indigenous families navigating autism. By sharing her family’s journey and helping shape community-based supports, she is ensuring research reflects local realities while creating stronger connections, understanding and opportunities for families like hers. https://www.ualberta.ca/en/giving/why-give/impact-stories/wchri/from-awareness-to-lived-reality.html