RDP Students Showcase Research at Conferences

Red Deer Polytechnic continues to provide opportunities for students to engage in applied research that advances the economic and social priorities of communities.  

Recently, Red Deer Polytechnic hosted the Student Science Conference and Agora Conference which celebrated and shared the research that was conducted by RDP learners.  

“As a polytechnic institution, we provide enhanced education, training and applied research opportunities that prepare students for the workforce and meet the needs of industry,” says Chad Flinn, Associate Vice President, Academic. “The Student Science Conference and Agora Conference showcased diverse projects and applied research that was conducted by students in several academic disciplines, complementing their education and helping to create real-world solutions.” 

At the two-day Student Science Conference, attendees were able to view a range of posters and discuss the findings with student researchers. Guests also had opportunities to expand their learning by attending formal student presentations on a variety of scientific topics.  

In addition, the Student Science Conference featured keynote speaker Dr. Jeff Biernaskie, Professor of Comparative Biology & Experimental Medicine at the University of Calgary. Dr. Biernaskie’s research focuses on stem cell biology and tissue regeneration in the skin and brain. 

The Agora Conference also provided opportunities for RDP students, who are taking classes in Humanities and Social Sciences, Social Work and Justice Studies, to share their innovative ideas, projects and coursework with an audience. While this event created a collaborative, knowledge sharing and learning environment, it also helped Red Deer Polytechnic students to develop important skills for their careers, such as organization, information dissemination and communication. 

Some of the exceptional work that was showcased at the Agora Conference will be published in the Agora Journal. In addition to the journal sharing this work with a wider audience, it also provides opportunities for students to gain experience editing, fact-checking and relationship building with authors, while being guided by RDP faculty. 

While the Student Science Conference and Agora Conference highlight research that is conducted in specific academic disciplines at RDP, applied research occurs across the institution by students, employees and in collaboration with industry partners. 

Red Deer Polytechnic focuses on five research themes: Advanced and Additive Manufacturing, Sustainable Energy, Health Care and Community Wellness, Resiliency and Child Advocacy and Environment and Ecology. 

Learn more about research at RDP.