Simon Fraser University is pioneering a university-wide open scholarship framework, guided by six principles, to advance research, innovation and sustainable development. This initiative aligns with the university's commitment to the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals and aims to increase the visibility, dissemination and rea...
Canada ranks highest in the G7 for happiness due to its strong social safety nets and pro-social behavior. The World Happiness Report also highlights the importance of assuming the best of others, as people underestimate the kindness of others and their own well-being is impacted by what they expect from others.
A new edition of 'Criminal Law in Canada: Cases, Questions, and the Code' has been released, co-authored by Associate Professor David MacAlister. The book reflects recent case law and legislation, featuring expanded discussion on key topics such as sentencing and bail reform.
A new study from Simon Fraser University found a close link between high social media use and psychiatric disorders involving delusions. Forms of delusions, such as narcissistic personality disorder and body dysmorphic disorder, were the most prevalent types related to high social media use.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University and the Max Planck Institute have identified a single gene controlling testosterone levels in three male morphs of shore birds, also applicable to vertebrates including humans. This super enzyme (HSD17B2) rapidly breaks down testosterone, producing diverse mating behaviors.
A new study from Simon Fraser University found that nurse home visiting programs can reduce intimate partner violence exposure and increase child health outcomes for young, first-time mothers. The program showed a 16% increase in annual income and fewer mental health problems for mothers by the time their children were two years old.
Simon Fraser University has received a $23 million grant to expand its Invention to Innovation (i2I) programs, providing bilingual innovation and entrepreneurship training for graduate students, researchers, and faculty. The program aims to bridge the gap between invention and innovation, equipping researchers with skills to thrive as ...
A recent SFU study reveals how indirect brain damage affects thalamus function after a stroke, potentially leading to new treatments. Researchers found that the amount of damage to the thalamus correlates with the level of impairment in patients.
A new study reveals that overfishing has caused chondrichthyan fish populations to decline by more than 50% since 1970. The risk of extinction for these species has increased by 19%, with the largest species facing elimination of up to 22% of ecological functions.
A new report from Simon Fraser University recommends building mass utility-scale solar mega-projects to diversify Canada's energy mix and reduce reliance on hydroelectric power. The study suggests that prioritizing rapid deployment of utility-scale projects in optimal sunlight locations can have a transformative effect on the electrici...
A new Simon Fraser University study finds that antidepressants are associated with reduced genital sensitivity in 13% of users, compared to 1% of other psychiatric medication users. The study highlights the need for better patient education and warnings about potential side effects.
A genetic study of the beaked hazelnut reveals that ancient Indigenous peoples cultivated and traded this plant across British Columbia. The research challenges settler-colonial narratives by establishing a large-scale cultivation network dating back 7,000 years.
A new research collaboration between the K’ómoks First Nation and Simon Fraser University highlights how Indigenous cultural heritage policies can protect archaeological sites threatened by development. The study found that the K’ómoks First Nation’s Cultural Heritage Policy provides a pathway to reconciliation and greater certainty fo...
Researchers have identified a genetic signature that can predict neonatal sepsis in newborns before symptoms appear, allowing for earlier recognition and life-saving treatment. The discovery has the potential to improve healthcare outcomes in lower- and middle-income countries where neonatal sepsis is most prevalent.
A Simon Fraser University study ranks Canadian terrestrial vertebrates by their level of evolutionary distinctness, finding that amphibians and reptiles are the most distinct species. The spiny softshell turtle is the most evolutionarily distinct terrestrial animal in Canada.
A study published in the Journal of the American Medical Association found that methadone is more effective than buprenorphine/naloxone in reducing treatment discontinuation rates among individuals with opioid use disorder. The risk of mortality was low and did not differ significantly between the two medications.
A new study by Simon Fraser University researchers found that folic acid supplementation may weaken the link between blood-lead levels and autistic-like behaviors in children. The study suggests that adequate folic acid supplementation mitigates the neurotoxic effects of lead, reducing the risk of autism.
A new study from Simon Fraser University has provided the clearest picture yet of when mammoths roamed Vancouver Island. The study found that mammoths lived on the island up to 45,000 years ago, with the youngest sample dated around 23,000 years old.
A recent study from Simon Fraser University's Beedie School of Business found that people who express ambivalence about political topics are disliked by those who disagree and those who agree but feel their position isn't strong enough. The study exposes a mismatch between expectation and social reality, suggesting that nuanced positio...
A team of scientists led by postdoctoral fellow Johan du Buisson has developed an information engine that can convert heat energy into work. By measuring the location of a tiny bead in a water bath with high accuracy, the engine is able to produce significant power output, approximately ten times faster than the speed of E. coli.
An interdisciplinary team of scientists and engineers compared various aspects of running robots with their equivalents in animals, finding that biological components performed poorly compared to fabricated parts. However, animals excel in integrating and controlling these components.
A recent study by psychologists from Simon Fraser University and the University of Sussex found that people are hesitant to reconnect with old friends, even when they want to. Despite having capacity and desire to do so, only about a third of participants send messages to rekindle lost friendships.
A Simon Fraser University professor has led a team in developing a comprehensive roadmap for next-generation printable sensor technologies. These technologies could enable everyday objects and environments to acquire sensing capabilities, paving the way for advancements in sustainability and quality of life.
A team of international partners has extended the earliest known human settlement of Curaçao by centuries, adding pieces to the puzzle of pre-Colombian Caribbean history. The study, published in the Journal of Coastal and Island Archaeology, places human occupation on the island as far back as 5735 – 5600 cal BP.
A new eight-year study found that about 60 species of deepwater sharks and rays are threatened with an elevated risk of extinction due to overfishing. The analysis highlights the need for regulating international trade in shark liver oil and protecting 30% of the world's oceans by 2030.
A team of scientists from SFU has created a synthetic protein-based motor that harnesses biological reactions to propel itself, called 'The Lawnmower'. The device uses the digestive enzyme trypsin to cut peptides and convert them into energy, enabling self-guided motion.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University have developed an AI approach to intrinsic decomposition, separating images into lighting effects and true colours of objects. This innovation enables a range of applications, including image compositing and augmented reality, making it accessible to content creators and post-production artists.
A new Simon Fraser University-led study tracks 100 years of salmon growth and finds that juvenile salmon are growing larger due to climate change. The study suggests maintaining freshwater habitats can help salmon adapt to warming temperatures, with relatively deep lakes becoming more important.
Researchers from SFU and UBC introduce MCS-DETECT, an AI-driven algorithm that detects membrane contact sites in large microscopy volumes without segmentation. This innovation enhances super-resolution microscopy capabilities, contributing to a better understanding of cellular interactions and complex diseases.
A new study from Simon Fraser University examines the Canadian military's efforts to reduce underwater noise pollution impacts on species during training exercises. However, researchers highlight limitations in the current plan, including a narrow focus on marine mammals and lack of consideration for fish and invertebrates.
A new study finds that mining companies are staking claims on future salmon habitats as glaciers retreat, threatening the environment. The research reveals that 25 subwatersheds have more than 50% of future salmon habitat near a mining claim, highlighting the need for policy changes.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University used large phylogenetic trees to identify influenza virus sequences that are likely to circulate in the upcoming season. The study suggests that this approach can help inform vaccine strain selection, with moderate effectiveness in detecting future strains.
A new study from Simon Fraser University finds that people with a history of incarceration were at significantly higher risk of opioid toxicity death during the COVID-19 pandemic. The risk increase was particularly pronounced among young adults who had been incarcerated between 2015 and 2020.
Researchers from Simon Fraser University and Brigham Young University have developed a new radar technology that significantly improves the detection of polar bear dens in the Arctic. The technology, using Synthetic Aperture Radar (SAR), has been shown to increase den detection by over 66% compared to current industry standards.
Researchers found that players with visible signs of concussion experienced greater head rotational velocities. Shoulder-to-head impacts were nearly four times more common than board-to-head impacts, highlighting the need for improved rink design and protective equipment to reduce any contact to the head.
Research reveals how global warming is changing river networks in the Canadian High Arctic, influencing erosion and sediment transport. The study's findings highlight the importance of understanding Arctic river evolution to predict future changes.
A machine learning system capable of learning diverse tennis skills from broadcast video footage has been created by a research team led by Simon Fraser University's Jason Peng. The system can generate long-lasting matches with realistic racket and ball dynamics between two physically simulated characters.
A new study by Simon Fraser University researchers highlights the urgent need for immediate methane emission reductions to meet global climate change goals. Delaying efforts will increase the risk of exceeding the 2°C temperature limit, even if CO2 emissions are reduced to net-zero.
A Simon Fraser University study found that Vancouver struggles to adopt green infrastructure due to political, organizational, and funding barriers. The city lacks consistent funding and support for GI initiatives, and most projects are implemented on public land with minimal ownership control.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University and the Lankenau Institute for Medical Research have developed a new drug, AR-787, that shows promise in treating conditions leading to sudden cardiac death. The drug targets a protein in the heart called the cardiac sodium channel, which is essential for electrical impulse conduction. By inhibiti...
A recent study reveals that climate change has led to unpredictable changes in juvenile salmon migration timing, with some populations migrating earlier or later than usual. This variability can impact the survival rates of these fish, highlighting the need for long-term monitoring and conservation efforts.
Scientists uncovered fossils of palm leaves, hydrangea flowers and extinct plants from the same family as basswood, providing clues about climate conditions 40 million years ago. The discovery sheds light on the warmer temperate to subtropical climate that existed in the area during the late Eocene era.
Researchers at Simon Fraser University are studying the genes of superbugs to develop new and effective treatments for drug-resistant bacterial infections. The team has discovered new genes responsible for causing disease and infection symptoms in humans, which can be targeted by antivirulence drugs.
A team of researchers from Simon Fraser University has produced a state-of-the-art 3D recording of the Temple of Isis in Philae, Egypt. The project uses advanced methods like photogrammetry and laser scanning to document hundreds of graffiti found on the temple's columns, walls, and roof.
A comprehensive roadmap for converting waste energy into clean power has been proposed by global experts. The guide outlines strategies for future research to harness the potential of energy harvesting materials, enabling seamless integration into everyday objects and environments.
A study by Simon Fraser University researchers highlights the need for expanded bereavement support services in response to the COVID-19 pandemic. The survey found that restrictions and isolation increased the risk of developing Prolonged Grief Disorder, with feelings of guilt being a significant contributing factor.
Researchers find first Canadian specimen of extinct ant Titanomyrma, sparking debate on how it dispersed across the Northern Hemisphere. The discovery challenges previous theories on hyperthermals and suggests a more complex picture of ancient climate and migration patterns.
A new study by SFU researchers found that shark and ray populations in the northwest Atlantic are recovering after implementation of a U.S. fishery management plan in 1993. The study shows that declines have been halted in three species and six species are clearly rebuilding, thanks to regulation, enforcement, and monitoring.
Researchers found that salmon carcasses can cause wildflowers to grow bigger and produce more seeds, shedding light on the impact of climate change on rivers and streams. The study, published in Royal Society Open Science, extends previous knowledge about nitrogen isotopes and their connection to plant growth.
The team's sensor detects Tumour Necrosis Factor alpha (TNF alpha), a biomarker involved in inflammation, which is linked to various diseases including Alzheimer's. The biosensor is sensitive and can detect low concentrations of TNF alpha, making it a promising tool for early disease detection.