Early career researchers play a pivotal role in advancing knowledge and tackling pressing global challenges. As part of this recognition, the Vice-Principal Research Portfolio is honouring Suraj Persaud, whose work is driving progress in the safety and performance of nuclear energy systems, with the Prize for Excellence in Research for Outstanding Emerging Researchers.
Suraj is an Associate Professor in the Department of Mechanical and Materials Engineering.
Recipients of the prize outside Smith Engineering are Heather Aldersey (Rehabilitation Therapy) and George diCenzo (Biology).
“The recipients of this year’s awards exemplify exceptional research output and impact for their stage of career,” says Nancy Ross, Vice-Principal (Research). “Their contributions reflect Queen’s ongoing commitment to supporting talent, creating the conditions for research to thrive, and its role in shaping the future of discovery.”
Each year, faculty deans nominate early career researchers who are within ten years of completing their most recent highest degree. Nominations are reviewed by a multidisciplinary committee of academic peers. Three recipients are selected annually to receive the internal award, which includes a $5,000 prize and recognizes outstanding contributions to research across any field or discipline at Queen’s.
Through their dedication, mentorship, and contributions, these emerging researchers are shaping the future of their fields.
Suraj Persaud’s research focuses on improving materials performance in nuclear power systems, with an emphasis on corrosion control and stress corrosion cracking. As a University Network of Excellence in Nuclear Engineering Research Chair, he leads work that addresses critical challenges related to the safety and longevity of nuclear energy infrastructure. He is a member of the Nuclear Materials Group at Queen’s and works within the internationally recognized Reactive Materials Testing Laboratory.
Persaud was recently named an Ontario Early Researcher Award recipient and brought international visibility to Queen’s by hosting the 2023 Meeting of the International Co-operative Group on Environmentally Assisted Cracking (ICG-EAC), which welcomed around 120 of the world’s top nuclear materials experts to Kingston.
The 2025 Prizes for Excellence in Research will be presented at spring convocation. To learn more about the award and past recipients, visit the Vice-Principal (Research) Portfolio website.
This article was published in its original form by the Queen’s Gazette.