AGE-WELL boosting the next generation of researchers in the fast growing field of technology and aging

TORONTO, Oct. 5, 2015 /CNW/ - AGE-WELL NCE is proud to support some of Canada's brightest young researchers.

Although only in existence for a few months, AGE-WELL is on track to provide funding to more than 160 emerging researchers and new professionals as part of its commitment to train the next generation of leaders in the field of technology and aging.

Through its Core Research Program launched earlier this year, AGE-WELL provides funding for 130 trainees in the network.                                                                                                 

Most recently, AGE-WELL completed a nationwide competition for Graduate Student and Postdoctoral Awards in Technology and Aging. 29 new trainees were selected from an outstanding field of 160 applicants and offered funding and membership in the AGE-WELL network.

"We were both thrilled and encouraged at the overwhelming number of applications for the awards," said Dr. Andrew Sixsmith, AGE-WELL Scientific Director. "These young researchers will be doing important work in fields such as robotics and smart homes systems and also helping us to better understand the policy and ethical implications of this research."

All AGE-WELL trainees are offered innovative and experiential training opportunities through AGE-WELL's EPIC initiative -- Early Professionals, Inspired Careers. AGE-WELL programming will link young researchers to community settings or with commercial enterprises—giving them exposure to practical experience that can help launch their careers and promote a burgeoning Canadian industry.

"Supporting the education and training of young researchers is at the heart of our mandate and is critical to the success of the network," said AGE-WELL Scientific Director Dr. Alex Mihailidis.

In addition, AGE-WELL is working closely with its industry and community partners to create more opportunities for emerging researchers—including newly launched funding competitions with both the Alzheimer Society of Canada and Philips HealthTech.

The AGE-WELL NCE (Aging Gracefully across Environments Using Technology to Ensure Well-being, Engagement and Long Life) is a federally-funded Network of Centres of Excellence to support Canadian research and innovation in the area of technology and aging. Its aim is to improve the quality of life of older adults and caregivers and produce economic and social impact for the benefit of Canadians and the global community. 

For background information on AGE-WELL's training and mentorship program, visit http://www.agewell-nce.ca/training

SOURCE AGE-WELL

Media contact: Paul Tyler, [email protected], [phone] or Victoria Ollers, [email protected], [phone]