Major Graduate Award for Innovation in Science

An award valued at $7,500 will be awarded annually to a full-time graduate student enrolled in the master's or doctoral program in the Faculty of Science at the University of Waterloo who is conducting research that overlaps in the area of life sciences or biology with preference to those whose research is interdisciplinary. Selection is based on academic achievement with a minimum 75% cumulative average or equivalent over the last two years of full-time study. The award is available from 2025 to 2029, with selections made each Winter term. This fund is made possible by a donation from David Major (BSc'81, MSc'84, PhD'87 Biology) to support the continuing education of promising graduate students. Examples of interdisciplinary research could include microbiology/oil & gas, microbiology & agriculture, or biomedical application and technology. Applicants must submit a personal statement by February 15, describing how they have demonstrated dedication to the pursuit of their postgraduate degree and what receiving this award would mean to that goal. The award can be held in conjunction with any other funding the recipient may be receiving.