Public lecture

Perseids Sky-watching Party and Astronomy Lecture 2025

Heather Neufeld — Wed, 02 Jul 2025 17:09:21 +0000

Perseids Sky-watching Party and Astronomy Lecture 2025 Heather Neufeld Wed, 07/02/2025 - 13:09

Explore the night sky with astronomers from the Faculty of Science and Royal Astronomical Society of Canada. The Perseids meteor shower will be at its most spectacular, so let's gather to learn something and then enjoy the view! We will meet first at 7:30pm in the nearby Optometry building for a short lecture by the ��ݮ��Ƶ Centre for Astrophysics' Dr. Lisa Dang.

This is a family-friendly event, but if your kids will have trouble sitting through a lecture, you're welcome to join us on the Columbia Fields around 8:30pm for the stargazing portion of the evening.

Note that if the skies are cloudy, the lecture will still take place on August 12th, but we will not gather on the fields for stargazing. Please register so that we can keep you updated.

Parking is available in Lot X ($7) near the lecture venue, and in the OpenText lot (free) on Frank Tompa Drive, north of Brubacher House. It is an easy walk between both parking lots, the lecture, and the fields. Please do not park in the small gravel lot adjacent to the field, as your car lights interfere with our stargazing.

WCA-KPL Public Talk - Mapping Millions of Galaxies with DESI (Dustin Lang)

Victoria Van Cappellen — Mon, 23 Jun 2025 15:42:58 +0000

WCA-KPL Public Talk - Mapping Millions of Galaxies with DESI (Dustin Lang) Victoria Van C… Mon, 06/23/2025 - 11:42

The Dark Energy Spectroscopic Instrument (DESI) is helping scientists to produce the largest and most comprehensive map of galaxies ever seen. This map is then being used by cosmologists to understand the growth of the Universe over cosmic time. In this month’s KPL astronomy talk, Dustin Lang will discuss the technology behind this innovative experiment, and how these advances have allowed cosmologists to make insights that change our view of the Universe.

Dr. Dustin Lang is a computer scientist at the Perimeter Institute for Theoretical Physics. Dustin works at the intersection of computer science and astronomy, developing tools to analyze the massive amounts of data produced in astronomical surveys. In his spare time, you can often find Dustin rock climbing with his family.

For questions about this program, please email: joseph.brannan@kpl.org.

WCA-KPL Public Talk - Cosmic Trailblazers: Women in Astronomy and Astrophysics (Lammim Ahad)

Victoria Van Cappellen — Sat, 10 May 2025 18:33:28 +0000

WCA-KPL Public Talk - Cosmic Trailblazers: Women in Astronomy and Astrophysics (Lammim Ahad) Victoria Van C… Sat, 05/10/2025 - 14:33

Our knowledge and understanding about the Universe at present day brings together various famous discoveries made by astronomers. Many of these discoveries were made by women who never became household names. In this month’s KPL astronomy talk, Lammim Ahad will discuss some of the important work done by women who contributed significantly to astronomy and astrophysics, but whose contributions were often underappreciated or unrecognized at the time.

Dr. Syeda Lammim Ahad is a postdoctoral researcher in the ��ݮ��Ƶ Centre for Astrophysics. Her research combined simulations and observations to understand how galaxies evolve across different environments. Outside of astronomy, you can often find Dr. Ahad painting, reading, and travelling.

For questions about this event, please email: joseph.brannan@kpl.org

2024 Birdsall-Dreiss Distinguished Lecture: Ben Rostron

Victoria Van Cappellen — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 18:58:57 +0000

2024 Birdsall-Dreiss Distinguished Lecture: Ben Rostron Victoria Van C… Mon, 04/28/2025 - 14:58

Join us for the 2024 Birdsall-Dreiss Distinguished Lecture featuring

Ben Rostron
Professor Emeritus
Earth & Atmospheric Sciences
University of Alberta

Lithium in brines (Duperow aquifer) in southeast Saskatchewan: a modern-day gold rush

Wednesday, February 7, 2024
3:00 p.m.

In-person: DC 1304

There is currently an enormous exploration interest in brine-hosted lithium from the Duperow/Leduc aquifer in Western Canada. Published concentrations of lithium up to 259 mg/L are found in southeast Saskatchewan, significantly higher than those currently being exploited further west in west central Saskatchewan and Alberta. Yet, the origin of this difference within a single formation has received little attention in the open literature. The question remains: what controls the distribution of lithium in subsurface brines? A second question is: why are there extreme variations in lithium concentrations mapped very close together?

An exploration and testing program was conducted in 2020-2022 to better understand the distribution of lithium in the Duperow aquifer in southeast Saskatchewan. First, a refined lithostratigraphy was developed subdividing the Duperow Formation into 24 mappable units across the area. Second, lithium concentration data were inserted into this refined lithostratigraphy. This led to the identification of widespread continuous zones with correlatable lithium concentrations across the area. Furthermore, putting multiple measurements from a single well (or nearby wells) in their correct stratigraphic position explains the origin of some of the large differences in concentration measurements from the same well: different zones in the Duperow aquifer in the same location can have different lithium concentrations. An exploration program followed, which included drilling one new well, re-completing a nearby well, and re-entering and deepening a third well.

In the first well, lithium concentrations from eight individual zones of the Duperow aquifer ranged from 48 to 173 mg/L. Three of the same individual zones were tested approximately 20 km away in the second well and results were between 53 and 170 mg/L. Zonal concentrations correlated between the wells, over a distance of approximately 20 km. These results support the newly-developed exploration model of a widespread layered distribution of lithium in the Duperow aquifer. The layered distribution of lithium was supported by the third well 7 km further north, albeit with slightly lower concentrations (up to 137 mg/L). However, the final story remains to be told: recent results from a series of wells drilled by a different operator 40 km further northeast have yielded concentrations as high as 259 mg/L. Further drilling is underway.

This talk will review this new type of brine-hosted lithium resource from southeast Saskatchewan and provide the latest public results from this active exploration play.

FREE ADMISSION ~ ALL WELCOME

Adrian Smith 2025 Lecture: Douglas Kent

Victoria Van Cappellen — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 18:50:51 +0000

Adrian Smith 2025 Lecture: Douglas Kent Victoria Van C… Mon, 04/28/2025 - 14:50

Join us for the 2025 Adrian Smith Lecture featuring

Douglas B. Kent
Scientist Emeritus
Earth Systems Process Division U.S. Geological Survey

Findings from studies of the environmental geochemistry of wastewater from oil and gas production

Oil and gas (OG) development in the United States generates more than two million cubic meters of co-produced water (herein called “wastewater”) annually, more than six times the annual production of petroleum hydrocarbons. Most of this wastewater is disposed of by injection into the subsurface, but some reaches surficial environments through land-surface application for beneficial uses (such as road deicing) or accidental releases (leaks and spills). We have been conducting research on potential water-quality impacts on the health of humans and aquatic ecosystems through the examination of wastewater and of surficial systems where accidental releases occurred. Changes in wastewater composition were examined at a shale-gas well completed in the Devonian-age Marcellus formation (Marcellus Shale Energy and Environment Laboratory, MSEEL, near Morgantown, West Virginia, United States) for over three years after the well went into production. As typically observed, dissolved salt concentrations increased with time in production, eventually reaching 200 grams per liter (g/L, ionic strength 4.0). Dissolved salt concentrations decreased substantially during prolonged shut in periods, but rebounded within weeks of going back into production. The wastewater compositions can be classified as a sodium-calcium-chloride brine, with elevated concentrations of barium, strontium, ammonium, and radium. Wastewater collected from the separator and from the wastewater storage tank on the pad had suspended solids dominated by ferrihydrite and quartz. Partitioning of strontium, barium, mercury, and lead from the aqueous to solid phases increased with increasing pH. Lead-210 (210Pb, half-life 22.2 years) and radium-226 (226Ra, half-life 1600 years) were the principal radioactive constituents, with 210Pb predominantly associated with the solids and 226Ra predominantly associated with the aqueous phase. Potential impacts of releases of OG wastewater were examined in a creek near Williston, North Dakota, United States, after discovery of a wastewater spill from a leaking pipeline. The wastewater had a total dissolved salt concentration of 300 g/L (ionic strength 8.1) with elevated concentrations of ammonium, strontium, barium, and radium. Wastewater-derived ammonium likely contributed to fish mortality observed during in-stream incubations conducted at a site 7.2 kilometer downstream of the spill. Wastewater-derived constituents, including 226Ra, were observed in stream-water, groundwater, stream-sediments, and seep-sediments at sites up to 7.2 km downstream of the spill site up to 2.5 years after the spill was discovered. Chemical extractions of sediments showed that barium, which is a surrogate for radium, was present predominantly as one or more solids while strontium was predominantly sorbed. These investigations provide guidance on assessing potential impacts of releases of OG wastewater.

Free admission ~ Reception to follow in DC 1301

Douglas B. Kent
Scientist Emeritus
Earth Systems Process Division U.S. Geological Survey

Doug Kent is a scientist emeritus at the United States Geological Survey. He holds a bachelor of Arts degree in chemistry from the University of Caliornia, San Diego and a Ph.D. in oceanography from Scripps Institution of Oceanography in La Jolla, California. After a stint in the Civil Engineering Department at Stanford University, he joined the United States Geological Survey (USGS), where he has conducted research focused on understanding water-quality impacts on the availability of water to sustain humans and aquatic ecosystems.

2025 Darcy Lecture: Grant Ferguson

Victoria Van Cappellen — Mon, 28 Apr 2025 18:44:43 +0000

2025 Darcy Lecture: Grant Ferguson Victoria Van C… Mon, 04/28/2025 - 14:44

Join us for the 2025 Darcy Lecture featuring

Grant Ferguson, Ph.D.
University of Saskatchewan

Deep Groundwater and Deep Time

Thursday, April 24, 2025
10:45 a.m.

In-person: EIT 1015

The volume of continental groundwater is enormous, rivalling the amount found in ice sheets. Fluxes from groundwater to surface water are responsible for generating a substantial portion of streamflow globally but these fluxes are dominated by relatively shallow groundwaters (<500 m deep) and have short residence times. Deeper groundwaters are responsible for generating only a small amount of streamflow and a disproportionate amount of depletion of storage relative to streamflow capture tends to occur when they are pumped. The relative isolation of deeper groundwater systems has made these environments a target for carbon sequestration, disposal of produced waters from the oil and gas industry and nuclear waste isolation. However, despite the small fluxes of water between deep groundwater and the rest of the hydrologic cycle, geochemical fluxes can be substantial due to the elevated concentrations of many elements in deep groundwater. Deep groundwaters also contain microbial ecosystems that make up a considerable amount of the Earth’s biomass. Studying these systems is challenging not only due to the fewer windows into deeper subsurface but also because of the different processes and time scales that should be considered. While topography-driven flow still dominates many deep groundwater systems, variations in fluid density and various geological processes can drive fluid flow. Boundary conditions need to consider shifts in climate and geologic forcings over long time periods and, in some cases, changes in the flow system geometry, notably due to burial and denudation. Improving our understanding of this frontier of hydrology will require new approaches, new tools and collaboration with other disciplines in the geosciences and beyond.

Grant Ferguson is a professor of hydrogeology in the Department of Civil, Geological and Environmental Engineering at the University of Saskatchewan. He also holds a joint appointment in the School of Environment and Sustainability at the University of Saskatchewan and is an adjunct professor at the University of Arizona and University of ��ݮ��Ƶ. Ferguson holds a B.Sc. from the University of ��ݮ��Ƶ and a Ph.D. from the University of Manitoba. His research focuses on the hydrogeology of deep groundwater systems, paleohydrogeology, the hydrogeology of the Canadian Prairies and sustainable development of groundwater resources.

Science in the City - Aging

Victoria Van Cappellen — Tue, 22 Apr 2025 17:00:17 +0000

Science in the City - Aging Victoria Van C… Tue, 04/22/2025 - 13:00

Researchers in the ��ݮ��Ƶ Region are doing amazing work when it comes to the science of aging. From neuroplasticity and maturing brains, to the impact of physiological changes in our bodies and the relationship with medications, ��ݮ��Ƶ researchers are focused on finding answers to today’s problems. Join us to explore some of the great things happening right in your backyard at the University of ��ݮ��Ƶ.

The event is free. Light snacks and beverages will be available for purchase.

Please register!

Meet our speakers

Tejal Patel

University of ��ݮ��Ƶ - School of Pharmacy
Clinical Associate Professor
Schlegel Specialist in Medication Management and Aging

The number of medications an individual is prescribed increases with age. This is due to an increasing prevalence and treatment for chronic medical conditions such as diabetes and hypertension. However, as the physiology of the body changes, it’s effect on medications changes as does the effect of medications on the body. I will review the relationship of the body with medications, discuss some problematic medications for aging adults and provide tips on safe medication use.

Ben Thompson

University of ��ݮ��Ƶ - School of Optometry and Vision Science
Professor

Neuroplasticity refers to the ability of the brain to change. Neuroplasticity is high in childhood but reduces as the brain matures. Reduced neuroplasticity in adulthood can be a barrier to rehabilitation following disease, injury, or neurodevelopmental disorders. I will discuss research into ways of increasing neuroplasticity in the adult brain to improve rehabilitation of vision loss caused by disease or the abnormal development of visual brain areas.

WCA-KPL Public Talk - Galaxies, Clusters, and the Biggest Things in the Universe (Roan Haggar)

Victoria Van Cappellen — Fri, 11 Apr 2025 16:32:21 +0000

WCA-KPL Public Talk - Galaxies, Clusters, and the Biggest Things in the Universe (Roan Haggar) Victoria Van C… Fri, 04/11/2025 - 12:32

Astrophysics deals with structures of incredible sizes and scales. But what are the biggest things out there, and how big can something actually get? In this month’s KPL astronomy talk, Roan Haggar will speak about galaxy clusters, the largest objects in our Universe that are held together by gravity, discussing what clusters are made from and what we can learn by studying them.

Learn more about Dr. Roan Haggar.

Science in the City - Tackling the global climate crisis

Victoria Van Cappellen — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 16:52:16 +0000

Science in the City - Tackling the global climate crisis Victoria Van C… Fri, 02/07/2025 - 11:52

Researchers in the ��ݮ��Ƶ Region are doing critical work to tackle the global climate change crisis. From revolutionizing aviation and advancing nanotechnology to understanding aquatic ecosystems, join us to explore how University of ��ݮ��Ƶ experts are developing innovative solutions to address one of the most pressing issues of our time.

The event is free. Light snacks and beverages will be available for purchase.

Please register

Meet the Speakers

Dr. Suzanne Kearns, an aviation professor and Director of the ��ݮ��Ƶ Institute for Sustainable Aeronautics, will share insights into how interdisciplinary research and education in sustainable aeronautics are shaping a future that benefits industry, people and the planet.

Dr. Anna Klinkova, an associate professor in the Department of Chemistry and a University Research Chair, will unpack the science behind designing nanomaterials that serve as catalysts for the sustainable production of renewable fuels that help mitigate climate change.

Dr. Tonya DelSontro, an assistant professor in the Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, will share how human activities and climate change alter aquatic carbon cycles and greenhouse gas budgets as she guides us through climate-friendly solutions to manage our waterways.

Science in the City - Quantum

Victoria Van Cappellen — Fri, 07 Feb 2025 16:30:42 +0000

Science in the City - Quantum Victoria Van C… Fri, 02/07/2025 - 11:30

The 2025 International Year of Quantum recognizes 100 years since the development of quantum mechanics. Researchers at the University of ��ݮ��Ƶ are at the forefront of quantum innovation, pushing the boundaries of discovery and positioning ��ݮ��Ƶ as a global leader in quantum research. Join us to celebrate the Year of Quantum by engaging with leading experts who share what’s next in quantum science!

The event is free. Light snacks and beverages will be available for purchase.

Please register

Meet the Speakers

Jonathan Baugh (Chemistry)

In the popular imagination, quantum mechanics is often associated with the dual wave-particle nature of matter—as illustrated by the canonical double-slit experiment. Yet, a deeper narrative emerges when quantum mechanics is reconciled with another groundbreaking 20th-century theory: Einstein’s relativity. Out of this synthesis emerges a striking feature of matter particles—intrinsic angular momentum, or spin. In this talk, I will provide a brief historical overview of the discovery and understanding of spin, and then explore its pivotal role in the cutting-edge development of quantum computers.

Kazi Rajibul Islam (Physics & Astronomy)

Did you know that light can be used to cool things down? In my research group at the University of ��ݮ��Ƶ, we use lasers to cool individual atoms to temperatures near absolute zero (minus 273 degrees celsius), the coldest temperature possible in nature. At these extreme temperatures the atoms become almost motionless and can be levitated in space using electric forces. Once trapped, these ions can stay in place for hours, even days!

Scientists are using these quantum effects to build a new quantum computer where trapped ions replace traditional bits. I will discuss how powerful these quantum computers could be how close we are to making them a reality!

Adam Wei Tsen (Chemistry)

Materials scientists work to develop new materials with superior physical and chemical properties. For solid-state physicists, a large focus is on material systems with unconventional quantum behavior, which can be potentially harnessed to build next-generation electronic devices. I will showcase an approach to engineering quantum materials that is inspired by building LEGOs—stacking together different compounds consisting of single atomic layers, each with their own unique physical properties. I will demonstrate how device prototypes incorporating such quantum materials can outperform traditional devices in various applications.