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International Women’s Day is a time to recognize the leadership, research, and achievements of women across our community. Over the past year, women at Queen’s have led major research projects, earned national recognition, supported students, and stepped into important leadership roles.

Here are several Queen’s Gazette stories that highlight their impact.
 

Advancing research and discovery

Women researchers at Queen’s are addressing challenges that span technology, health, sustainability, and global policy.

In computing, Dr. Sara Nabil explores how materials and design can reshape interactive technology. Her iStudio lab blends electronics, textiles, and interior design to build new forms of computing while also creating opportunities for women in science. Women make up 77 per cent of lab members and more than 83 per cent of undergraduate research assistants and supervisees.

Graduate researchers Shaina Smith and Jordan Abt are studying how supercomputing systems can become more sustainable at the Computing at Extreme Scale Advanced Research (CAESAR) Lab. Their work explores ways to reuse waste heat from data centres and improve energy efficiency.

Other projects focus on global and health challenges. Dr. Susan Bartels was awarded $2.5 million to lead an international partnership studying sexual exploitation and abuse in humanitarian crises. Dr. Jennifer Wilkinson and Emily Ferguson, recipients of Ontario Women’s Health Scholars Awards, study nutrition strategies that could improve women’s muscle health during recovery from illness or injury.

Queen’s also welcomed new Canada Research Chairs, including Dr. Kristine Spekkens, Dr. Amy Latimer-Cheung, Dr. Sari van Anders, Dr. Kristin Moriah, and Dr. Emily Oby, whose work spans astrophysics, neuroscience, disability and physical activity, Black feminist arts, and gender and sexual diversity.

Political scientist Dr. Stéfanie von Hlatky continues to shape discussions about gender and global security through her research on alliances and defence policy.
 

Mentorship and leadership

Several women took on new or renewed leadership roles at Queen’s over the past year, guiding key portfolios across the institution. Dr. Nancy Ross was renewed for a second term as Vice-Principal (Research), continuing to oversee the university’s research strategy, while Ann Tierney was newly appointed Vice-Provost (Global Engagement) to lead international partnerships and initiatives.

New advisory roles strengthen institutional priorities. Dr. Michelle Searle supports initiatives connecting Queen’s with local communities, while Dr. Brenda Brouwer advances work on academic accommodations and inclusive learning.

Women across Queen’s are also recognized for contributions to teaching and supervision. Dr. Susanne Soederberg received the Queen’s Award for Excellence in Graduate Student Supervision for her commitment to supporting graduate students and postdoctoral fellows.