Defence at the U of A
U of A student Jonathan Bonham and 3 Canadian Division Support Group (CDSG) Formation Sergeant Major (FSM) – CWO Pierre Ouellet
Supporting the evolving needs of Canada's defence sector
As Canada faces a period of global uncertainty, the need for an increased commitment to defence, secure domestic innovation, and technological sovereignty is critical. By advancing a connected ecosystem linking post-secondary institutions, industry, innovators, government and military end-users, Alberta is establishing itself as one of the country’s trusted and secure industrial, technological and human-centred defence hubs.
The University of Alberta is a national leader in this effort, managing active defence and dual-use projects with additional programs in development.
Our Collaborative Approach
The University of Alberta is connecting local researchers with industry partners and end users in the Canadian Armed Forces to develop new technologies, innovations and initiatives that strengthen our country’s resilience. We are creating a direct path for university research to develop practical tools that solve real-world and security challenges, supported by a deep network of partners that accelerates the transition from lab to industry.
This collaborative approach is anchored in an integrated ecosystem where we serve as a founding member of the Edmonton Region Defence Alliance (ERDA). ERDA mobilizes, aligns and advances the Edmonton region’s defence, security and dual-use technology ecosystem, operating as a coordinated partnership to position the region as Canada’s western hub. Expanding on this regional foundation, University-led initiatives such as CMVF3C and HiMARC provide specialized research and support across the country.
Within this framework, Alberta leverages the region’s high concentration of engineers and over 800 local companies, applies expertise from the energy and manufacturing sectors to solve national security needs, and engages the health, business and education systems to enhance community resilience and capabilities. As the 'Gateway to the North,' we use our unique location and logistical strengths to support Canada’s interests in the North through a culturally respectful, community-engaged approach, ensuring the development of a reliable, domestic supply chain for the future.
Key Outcomes
- Leverage post-secondary capabilities and networks for Canada’s defence and sovereignty
- Establish post-secondary institutions as trusted, secure hubs for sensitive defence and dual-use research
- Educate resilient leaders and researchers of today and tomorrow
- Foster collaborative research partnerships and innovation that solve real-world problems
- Increase intellectual property and local ownership of new technologies
- Boost small and medium enterprises, startups, and new tech products
- Attract more follow-on investment for local companies
- Create thousands of new, high-value jobs
- Drive direct growth in Alberta’s GDP
- Lead with purpose, leveraging Alberta’s innovative and collaborative spirit in defence of Canada
Defence at the U of A
The University of Alberta is home to:
Centre for Applied Research in Defence and Dual-Use Technologies (CARDD-Tech)
Canada’s only dedicated university-based centre for defence research and innovation.
NATO DIANA Test Centre
One of only two such designated sites at a Canadian post-secondary institution.
Royal Canadian Navy Engineering co-op program
A direct partnership providing students with hands-on technical experience within Canada’s maritime forces.
nanoFAB
The country's largest open-access micro and nanofabrication facility.
Institute for Circumpolar Health Research
An interdisciplinary partnership with the School of Public Health dedicated to research, education, and engagement in Canada’s North.
Top-ranked AI research program
Recognized as #1 globally for artificial intelligence and reinforcement learning.
The Canadian Military, Veteran and Family Connected Campus Consortium (CMVF3C)
A national network supporting the post-secondary success of the military community.
Heroes in Mind, Advocacy and Research Consortium (HiMARC)
A provincial hub developing health and wellness solutions for military members, Veterans, public safety personnel, and their families.
Safeguarding Research Office
A dedicated unit ensuring all defence research remains secure and fully compliant with the Contract Security Program and Controlled Goods Program.
“The University of Alberta’s leadership in dual-use technology and defence shows how research can deliver practical, everyday solutions for Canadians, increase economic growth and build the sovereign capacity our country needs.”
Aminah Robinson Fayek, Vice-President (Research)
Contact Info
To connect with us, please contact defence@ualberta.ca.