Established in 2022, Y-EMERGE is a pan-university research institute at York University focusing on science, technology, and human and social aspects of disaster and emergency management. It brings together researchers from several faculties with common interests in disaster and emergency management-related research to enhance people's safety and security.
Y-EMERGE will build on York’s exceptional expertise to develop, grow, and sustain transformative and multidisciplinary research and teaching in transformative disaster risk reduction, emergency preparedness, response, and recovery.
Y-EMERGE DIRECTOR
We all see the profound the impact of disasters around the world, from pandemics and cyber attacks to floods and earthquakes. It’s critical to come together to reduce these risks, protect those most vulnerable, and to build a resilient future for all.
We invite you to join Y-EMERGE, whether as a student in our Early Career Network; as a member researcher; by sharing your expertise in the Canadian Journal of Emergency Management (CJEM); as a practitioner to collaborate on real-world problems; or by participating in our affiliated training and degree programs.
Doing better at mitigation, preparedness, response, and recovery requires a whole of society approach, and Y-EMERGE is eager to support you in any disaster, emergency, and crisis-related opportunities.
Professor Eric B. Kennedy
Director of Y-EMERGE
Open Positions and Opportunities
Important Links
- Y-EMERGE publication platform-CJEM
- About Canadian Journal of Emergency Management (CJEM)
- Y-EMERGE Monthly Newsletter
- PhD Program in Disaster & Emergency Management
- Research Services Office
- Job Opportunities in Research
- Grants & Applications
- Research Ethics
Our Mission
Transformative & Interdisciplinary
Y-EMERGE will transform the way societies understand, conceptualize, analyze, manage, and govern crises, disasters, and emergencies. YEMERGE will foster interdisciplinary collaborations & real-world and need-driven research.
Partnership & Community Engagement
Y-EMERGE will transform the way societies understand, conceptualize, analyze, manage, and govern crises, disasters, and emergencies. YEMERGE will foster interdisciplinary collaborations & real-world and need-driven research.
Knowledge Mobilization & Mentoring
Y-EMERGE will transform the way societies understand, conceptualize, analyze, manage, and govern crises, disasters, and emergencies. YEMERGE will foster interdisciplinary collaborations & real-world and need-driven research.
On November 17, 2025
Professor Mark Winfield was quoted in The Energy Mix in a story covering the launch of Skyview 2, Canada’s largest battery energy storage project. The article highlighted growing investment in large-scale storage and the role these projects may play in meeting Ontario’s rising electricity demand. Read More
On November 12, 2025
Professor Mark Winfield spoke to CBC News about concerns related to rising hydro rates in Ontario. He noted that increasing costs highlight broader challenges in the province’s energy planning and emphasized the importance of clear long-term strategies to support affordability for households and businesses. Read More
On November 7, 2025
Professor Roger Keil was quoted in YFile as a co-author of a study published in Social Science & Medicine calling for more equitable and sustainable approaches to antimicrobial resistance (AMR). He highlighted how social, environmental, and political inequalities shape vulnerability and access to treatment, especially in low- and middle-income countries. Read More
On November 1, 2025
Professor Jennifer A. Spinney was featured in CHEK News discussing Canada's National Public Alerting System (NPAS). She explained that the system is crucial for warning Canadians about dangers. The current funding runs out in 2026, so the country needs a stable funding plan to keep the system working properly across Canada. Read More
On October 29, 2025
Professor Ali Asgary was quoted in Disability Insider for his contributions to an emergency preparedness workshop hosted by Caribbean and Southeastern U.S. airports. He discussed the importance of coordinated regional planning, especially for travelers with disabilities who may face additional risks during emergencies. Read More
On October 15, 2025
Y-EMERGE Members, Professors Harris Ali and Roger Keil were featured as co-authors in the journal City. Their research highlights how infectious diseases such as COVID-19 have had disproportionate impacts on communities living at the urban periphery, including migrant workers, First Nations reserves, and informal settlements. Read More