Ocean Networks Canada (ONC) is delighted to join the University of Victoria (UVic) and the Centre for Aerospace Research (CFAR) at the 18th Canadian Science Policy Conference, taking place November 24–27, 2026, in Ottawa. Visit our shared booth to learn how our science, research, and innovation are advancing Canada’s priorities, from ocean to orbit.

This year’s conference theme, Sovereignty by Design: Mobilizing Action to Reshape Canada's Science, Technology, and Innovation Capacity, will explore how Science, Technology and Innovation (STI) can strengthen economic resilience, support sovereignty and security, accelerate economic transformation, modernize public institutions, and position Canada as a trusted and competitive global partner.

Registered attendees are invited to visit ONC, UVic and CFAR staff at Booth #20 to learn how our latest scientific and technology advancements and data services are building capacity and expertise on the three coasts of Canada and in space. Stop by the booth to connect with the team and pick up a complimentary copy of ONC’s latest annual report and a 2027 calendar.

The following schedule outlines ONC-presented sessions:

Wednesday, November 25, 2026

The Infrastructure of Sovereignty: Scaling Industry Through Research Excellence
4:00 PM - 5:15 PM, Canadian Room (Lower Level)
About the session: In an era of rapid technological disruption, Canada’s economic sovereignty depends on transitioning discoveries from the lab to the global market. While discourse often focuses on commercialization and access to venture capital, a critical "hidden" layer is the sophisticated research infrastructure that makes high-stakes innovation possible. This panel explores how the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) and its Major Research Facilities (MRFs) serve as the indispensable backbone for Canada’s industrial strategy. We move beyond the academic perspective to hear from industry leaders who rely on shared infrastructure to de-risk R&D and scale in key sectors.
Moderator: Sylvain Charbonneau, Président-directeur général | Fondation canadienne pour l'innovation
Speakers: Jay Cullen, interim CEO and president, Ocean Networks Canada; Volker Gerdts, Director and CEO, Vaccine and Infectious Disease Organization (VIDO); Janet King, Chair, Vice-Chair, Polar Knowledge Canada, Canadian Light Source; Greg Johnson, President, RBR Ltd.

Friday, November 27, 2026

Multi-use research facilities in the North: conjugating research with indigenous needs and assertion of sovereignty
11:00 AM - 12:15 PM, Ballroom
About the session: This panel focuses on multi-use research facilities in the Arctic and brings together representatives from government, northern Indigenous organizations, academia, and research institutions to examine the needs, opportunities, and drivers in the North. It will explore how multi-use research infrastructure can strengthen governance, knowledge systems, advancing both Canadian and Indigenous sovereignty. Drawing on concrete examples such as Amundsen Science and Ocean Networks Canada, the panel highlights how integrated research platforms combine scientific infrastructure with community engagement, Indigenous knowledge systems, and operational capacity.
Moderator: Benoît Pirenne, Corporate Innovation and Technology Officer, Ocean Networks Canada
Speakers: Alexandre Forest, Executive Director and COO, Amundsen Science; Naluturuk (Nally) Weetaluktuk, Acting Director, Engagement, Polar Knowledge Canada; Rodd Laing, Director of Environment, Nunatsiavut Government; Tracy St Denis, Assistant Deputy Minister, NWT Government; Homa Kheyrollah Pour, Associate Professor, Canada Research Chair, Executive Director, Cold Regions Research Centre, Wilfrid Laurier University; Jessica Shadian, President and CEO, Arctic 360.