Life sciences innovation in Alberta is set for a boost as the province continues to invest in the sector.
Alberta Innovates announced this week that it is once again investing in the growth of Alberta’s clinical trial workforce through an annual competition offering graduate and postdoctoral trainee salary awards.
The growth of Alberta’s clinical trial environment is dependent on the development of a sustainable and qualified workforce, according to a statement from the organization.
And that is why building up this workforce within the region is a strategic priority for the Alberta Clinical Research Consortium, a collaborative initiative managed by Alberta Innovates that works to expand clinical research capacity and capabilities in the province.
As part of the Consortium’s talent development strategy, Alberta Innovates last year invested $286,250 to fund 17 clinical trial trainees at the University of Alberta and University of Calgary—and intends to repeat the process this year.
“The commitment to training that Alberta Innovates has made, while leveraging the national effort, is critical to ensure that the talent and expertise needed in Alberta is available in Alberta,” stated Dr. Lawrence Richer, who serves as Associate Dean of Health Research for the College of Health Sciences at the University of Alberta.
In addition to salary support, trainees gain access to a community of experts and mentors across the country.
“A new generation of Alberta-based methodologists and trialists are equipped with the much-needed expertise in modern trial designs and analytical expertise to evaluate promising therapies and interventions for healthcare innovation,” says Dr. Tolu Sajobi, a Professor in the Departments of Community Health Sciences and Clinical Neurosciences at UCalgary’s Cumming School of Medicine.
The life sciences sector, a magnet for investment in Canada so far this year, appears to be booming in Alberta.
“Alberta is a premier destination for clinical trials, supported by a highly skilled clinical research workforce,” says Tim Murphy, Vice President of Health at Alberta Innovates and Chair of the Alberta Clinical Research Consortium.
“Opportunities to advance your career in the life sciences and clinical trials are growing in Alberta,” believes Richer.
“We have a growing research and innovation ecosystem here in Alberta,” agrees Sajobi.
One example is Innovate Calgary’s Life Sciences Fellowship program, which finds early-stage startups with technology-driven solutions to important problems and adds funding, technology development resources, professional development training, and expert support.
Recent graduates include BioMimir, a medical device company founded in 2021 that is developing biomaterials-based solutions for complex wounds.
Alberta trainees can still apply to several CTTPs for the 2024-2025 competition by May 31.
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