(SYDNEY, NS) May 7, 2008 – Cape Breton University (CBU), with assistance from the Government of Canada, is furthering its research capacity with the installation of a new high-field Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) spectrometer. Led by assistant professor of chemistry and researcher, Dr. Matthias Bierenstiel, the spectrometer is an essential analytical instrument for chemistry research, particularly for organic and inorganic chemistry.
“Our government’s contribution of almost $130,000 to this project is a strategic investment in the development of the Island’s economy,” said the Honorable Peter MacKay, Minister of National Defence and Minister of the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency. “Not only will this equipment assist in the recruitment of new students, it will enhance research at Cape Breton University, which will benefit various industries.”
“In simple terms, an NMR spectrometer takes pictures of molecules,” says Dr. Bierenstiel, the university’s first inorganic chemist. “The physical principle of nuclear magnetic resonance is the same principle used in MRI technology in hospitals. The difference is that the magnet of the NMR spectrometer is more compact and has a much higher field, resulting in better analysis of compounds.”
With a better determination of the structures of chemical compounds, the spectrometer will enhance research, leading to the identification of new chemical molecules and give an enhanced understanding of biological systems.
Dean of Research at CBU, Dr. Harvey Johnstone, said, “This tool will not only be used by chemistry researchers but also by B.Sc. undergraduate students in biology, chemistry and engineering. The students will have hands-on access to state-of-the-art research equipment.”
With the arrival of the spectrometer, Dr. Bierenstiel and his students will continue important collaborations with the NMR facility at the Atlantic Regional Magnetic Resonance Centre in Halifax, Nova Scotia.
Industries that could potentially benefit from the NMR at CBU include chemical and pharmaceutical companies, biotech companies and industries requiring qualified personnel for quality control and analysis.
The total cost of acquiring this equipment is $259,000. Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation is providing a contribution of $129,500.
CBU recognizes research and innovation as essential components of advanced education and community development. Increased research productivity and commercial applications will maximize economic benefits both locally and globally.
Enterprise Cape Breton Corporation offers programs in support of economic development initiatives and is responsible for delivering ACOA’s programs on Cape Breton Island and in the Mulgrave area.
Contact:
Kelly Rose
Communications Officer, Cape Breton University
Tel: 902-563-1638
e: kelly_rose@cbu.ca
Amanda Sawlor
Research Support Officer, Cape Breton University
Tel: 902- 563-1107
e: amanda_sawlor@cbu.ca
Dr. Matthias Bierenstiel
Assistant Professor, Inorganic Chemistry
Cape Breton University
Tel: 902-563-1391 (office)
902-563-1462 (lab)
e: matthias_bierenstiel@cbu.ca
D.A. Landry ECBC
Communications
Tel: 902-564-3617