Grant: Major Resources Support Program - Infrastructure

Research in the Earth and environmental sciences relies on isotopic analysis of minerals, water, gases and biological samples. The measurement of environmental isotopes and noble gases allows researchers to trace the origin of compounds and the reactions that they have undergone. The G.G. Hatch Isotope Laboratory hosts one of the most sophisticated fleets of mass spectrometers and associated sample interfaces in the world. The Hatch Lab also maintains Canada's only noble gas facility for isotopes and concentrations in minerals, waters and gases. The lab provide analyses of isotopes of carbon, oxygen, nitrogen, sulphur, hydrogen and noble gases to research groups across Canada and overseas. Our facility is the only one worldwide that offers technologist training courses, and supports the research of some 75 geoscientists, environmental scientists, biologists, ecotoxicologists. Users of the Hatch Lab conduct research ranging from ecotoxicology, climate change, water pollution and economic geology to analogues for life on Mars. This MRS grant will help support the highly qualified research technologists and Research Associates who develop the innovative analytical methods on which research in the Hatch Lab relies.