The Ontario government is recognizing the province’s leading researchers for their contributions in the fields of chemistry, economic science, physics and physiology/medicine.

The winners are nominated by the deans of graduate schools and chosen by a selection committee organized by the Ontario Council on Graduate Studies.

The 2021 Polanyi Prize winners are:

Dr. Farnaz Heidar‐Zadeh, Queen’s University, Chemistry

Dr. Farnaz Heidar-Zadeh is using quantum chemistry and machine learning to develop new mathematical tools, numerical algorithms and computer software in order to predict the outcome of chemical phenomena. Dr. Heidar-Zadeh’s research will allow her to design new molecules to quickly address real-life problems.

Dr. Adam Lavecchia, McMaster University, Economic Science

Dr. Adam Lavecchia’s research aims to better understand how various economic policies affect Ontarians. His work focuses on the impacts of minimum wage increases on labour force participation and employment, the effects of increased contribution limits to tax-advantaged savings plans, and the causal affect of capital gains taxes on the behaviour of Canadians.

Dr. Gwendolyn Eadie, University of Toronto, Physics

Dr. Gwendolyn Eadie is leading Canada’s first Astrostatistics Research Team to develop new methods and models for studying the distribution of matter in galaxies and star clusters. Her research will advance our knowledge of dark matter and galactic evolution.

Dr. Eno Hysi, St. Michael’s Hospital affiliated with the University of Toronto, Physics

Dr. Eno Hysi uses laser light and sound waves to identify the degree of scarring caused by kidney fibrosis. Kidney fibrosis is an irreversible, invisible phenomenon where the tissue surrounding blood vessels forms scars, eventually causing the kidney to fail. When kidney donations become available, doctors will now be able to tell how much scarring is present in the kidney. This research will help to revolutionize kidney transplant management in Canada.

Dr. Fumin Guo, University of Toronto, Physiology/Medicine

Dr. Fumin Guo’s collaborative research program is focused on improving treatment for Ontarians who suffer from ventricular tachycardia (VT), an abnormally high heart rate in the left ventricle and one of the leading causes of sudden cardiac death. Through the integration of artificial intelligence, Dr. Guo will develop effective imaging methods to help those with VT live a better life.