Two TMU researchers join the Royal Society of Canada’s College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists

Two Toronto Metropolitan University (TMU) professors, Umberto Berardi and Pamela Palmater, have been named as Members of the Royal Society of Canada’s (RSC) College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists. This prestigious recognition honours the country’s emerging intellectual leaders. 

Department of Architectural Science professor Berardi is the Canada Research Chair in Building Science and an internationally recognized architectural engineer developing sustainable building materials to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and fight climate change. The materials developed through his work provide superior insulation, which lowers heating and cooling requirements for buildings. Professor Berardi is currently taking the innovations from his Building efficiency: Testing, Operation and Performance Lab (BeTOP) to the next stage with outdoor testing. 

Professor Pamela Palmater is TMU’s Chair in Indigenous Governance and a professor in the Department of Politics and Public Administration. An award-winning Mi’kmaw lawyer, author and advocate, professor Palmater is a leading voice on the complex and numerous issues facing Indigenous peoples in Canada. From her Warrior Life Podcast to her significant contributions on issues of discrimination and First Nations identities through her books and submissions to the national inquiry into Murdered and Missing Indigenous Women and Girls, professor Palmater’s research continues to highlight the impacts of colonialism, sex and violence on Indigenous peoples.  

“Many congratulations to professors Berardi and Palmater. They are both outstanding examples of early researchers excelling in their fields, advancing innovations and discussions in areas such as sustainability and equity and justice,” said Steven N. Liss, TMU’s vice-president, research and innovation. “Their memberships in the College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists will enable them to further amplify their work and contribute to critical discussions across Canada.” 

Professors Berardi and Palmater join other past and present TMU Members of the College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists: professors Catherine Beauchemin, Eliza Chandler, Anatoliy Gruzd, Sepali Guruge, Trevor Hart, Ali Mazalek, Catherine Middleton and Cheryl Thompson. The 58 new Members of the College will be welcomed during the RSC’s Celebration of Excellence and Engagement being held November 15 to 18. 

Learn more about the Members and Fellows joining the RSC this year (external link) .

Related links:
Sharing and celebrating Indigenous cultures, voices and stories
Space-age materials for building sustainability 
Creative industries professor named to the Royal Society of Canada’s College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists (September 2021)