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Applied research

RDP holds fourth Annual Research Showcase

Mar 13, 2025 | 2:46 PM

Red Deer Polytechnic celebrated its achievements in applied research at its fourth Annual Research Showcase this week.

On March 12, those involved in research at the Polytechnic shared their innovative projects at the showcase, which included three poster displays and 18 presentations about various subjects.

“The Research Showcase demonstrated the multi-disciplinary research that is initiated by students, faculty and staff across the Polytechnic, providing significant impact for academia, industry and communities,” said Lindsay Engel, Vice President, Academic and Student Experience at RDP.

“As a polytechnic institution, we strategically integrate applied research with education and training to help advance Alberta’s priorities and productivity.”

Many of the research projects presented included a joint effort from students, faculty, and partners.

There were also seven breakout sessions that covered a variety of topics in humanities, science, technology and wellness.

As an example, one session featured a research project titled Identification of Vertebrate Prey Within Black Bear Scat. It featured collaboration between RDP student Taylor Eaton, Ecologist Team Leaders with Parks Canada, Ramona Maraj, and RDP Biology instructor Sandra MacDougall.

MacDougall has been involved in applied research with wildlife in Alberta extensively. With a grant of $475,000 collaborated with students and partners to research a recolonizing population of American black bears within the Bear Hills Biosphere region.

Officials say the diverse opportunities for RDP students to participate in applied research and share their findings create a multi-faceted impact.

In addition to making industry connections, officials note students have unique opportunities to participate in collaborative, experiential learning and further develop their competencies through applied research.

By integrating applied research with education and training at RDP, officials say students are equipped to address the needs of industries and communities as they prepare for rewarding careers.