Y-EMERGE In The Media

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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

On October 13, 2025, Professor Ali Asgary was featured as a co-author in The Conversation. The article examines how public and media attention toward rapid-onset disasters like wildfires and earthquakes often overshadows slower, long-term crises such as droughts, climate change, and environmental degradation. The authors argue that this imbalance affects preparedness and policy priorities, emphasizing the need for more equitable attention to all types of disasters and for greater investment in prevention, resilience, and social equity. Read More
On September 29, 2025, Professor Ali Asgary was featured in the Stratford Beacon Herald for leading drone operations during an emergency aviation simulation at Stratford Municipal Airport. He highlighted the advantages of drones in search-and-rescue, including faster coverage, effectiveness in low-light conditions, and access to areas cut off by disasters such as floods. Dr. Asgary also noted that York University is developing specialized training courses to expand Canada’s capacity in drone-assisted emergency response. Read More
On September 24, 2025, Professor Kelly Thomson was recognized in the journal Academia Revista Latinoamericana de Administración (ARLA). Her work appeared in a special section on qualitative accounting research, which brings together scholars from around the world to study how accounting connects to social issues like geography, gender, and income. Read More
On September 21, 2025, Professor Mark Winfield was featured in Now Toronto, commenting on Canada’s stalled progress toward its 2030 climate targets. He noted that while Canada may face limited legal consequences under the Paris Agreement, failure to meet commitments in the Net Zero Accountability Act could trigger domestic accountability measures. Dr. Winfield warned that recent wildfires are “just the beginning,” emphasizing that rising emissions and missed reduction goals signal that Canada is not moving in the right direction on climate action. Read More
On September 20, 2025, Professor Yvonne Su was featured in PressReader, reflecting on the rise of Canada First rallies. She explained that such nationalist movements risk fostering social exclusion and division. According to Dr. Su, this rhetoric challenges Canada’s commitments to equity and inclusion, and could deepen political and social fractures across the country. She emphasized the importance of safeguarding social cohesion and justice in Canadian society. Read More
On September 23, 2025,Professor Ali Asgary was featured in the Markham Economist & Sun for his leadership of the Swan Lake Citizen Science Lab, launched at York University in 2024. The project engages citizens, students, and engineers to monitor long-term environmental change, using drone mapping and simulations to study water quality and ecological conditions. Early results from 2025 already show measurable seasonal differences in the lake’s temperature, color, and overall water quality. Read More
On September 3, 2025, Professor Edward Furman was featured in Insurance Business Canada, raising concerns about Canada’s lack of formal academic pathways for insurance professionals. He explained that while actuarial science offers a clear route from university to industry, there are no equivalent programs for underwriters, brokers, claims specialists, or risk managers. Dr. Furman emphasized that relying on chance recruitment leaves the sector vulnerable, particularly as systemic risks like climate and cyber threats grow. Read More
On September 3, 2025, Professor Maleknaz Nayebi was featured in CBC News, addressing the harms of AI-generated wildfire imagery and misinformation during emergencies. She emphasized that such content can cause confusion and emotional distress, noting that “people might think the fire is close to them or their loved ones.” She highlighted the need for research-based fact-checking platforms and legal consequences to reduce the risks posed by fake AI-generated content during disasters. Read More
On September 1, 2025, Professor Ali Asgary was featured in CBC News, discussing the urgent need for schools to be better prepared for climate-related emergencies like wildfires. He stressed that while many school boards have emergency response plans on paper, they often lack regular updates and practice. Dr. Asgary urged that “even one day, two days, one week of losing school for children is a huge gap, a huge loss. We want to minimize that.” He called for regular emergency drills and stronger support from all levels of government to help schools respond effectively to future climate-related disruptions. Read More
On August 24, 2025, Professor Yvonne Su was featured in Foreign Policy, where she critiqued the rise of climate visa lottery systems as unjust responses to global displacement. Drawing on her extensive field research, she argued that “when governments are unprepared to mitigate and adapt to climate change, randomness fills the void of policy.” Her article highlighted the psychological harm and structural inequality perpetuated by lottery-based migration systems, and called for rights-based, community-led solutions to climate-induced displacement. Read More
On August 22, 2025,the York U YFile spotlighted the Y-EMERGE in its Research in Focus series, featuring insights from Dr. Eric Kennedy, Y-EMERGE Director. The article highlights Y-EMERGE’s mission to reduce disaster risk and build a more resilient and equitable society through interdisciplinary, community-driven research. Dr. Kennedy spoke about Y-EMERGE’s action-oriented approach and its close collaboration with government, NGOs, and industry to address a wide range of hazards—from wildfires to cyber threats. Read More
On August 21, 2025, Medical Xpress highlighted a new study coauthored by Professor Usman T. Khan showing that the Safe Water Optimization Tool (SWOT), developed at York University, delivers safe drinking water nearly three times more effectively than standard humanitarian guidelines. Published in BMJ Global Health, the research demonstrated the tool’s impact in Cox’s Bazar, Bangladesh, where SWOT enabled households to achieve safe water 90% of the time compared to 35% under the status quo. Read More
On August 19, 2025, Professors Ali Asgary and Maleknaz Nayebi were featured in The Conversation Canada, exploring how AI-generated misinformation can complicate emergency response. Drawing on recent examples such as fake wildfire images circulating in British Columbia, they explained that digital disinformation during crises can spread panic, misdirect resources, and delay evacuations. The professors emphasized that “such misinformation can create confusion, misdirect resources, and erode trust at the very moment clarity is most needed.” Read More
On August 13, 2025, Professor Neil Tandon was featured on CBC News to discuss the increasing frequency and severity of heatwaves in Canada, and their connection to climate change. In the interview, he explained how rising global temperatures are amplifying extreme heat events and highlighted the importance of both mitigation and adaptation strategies. His clear and evidence-based commentary brought national attention to the science behind recent heat events and emphasized the need for long-term planning in climate policy. Read More
On August 14, 2025, Professor Seyed Moghadas was featured in York University’s Summer Undergraduate Research Conference, where he mentored student award winners across multiple disciplines. Students under his guidance presented projects spanning brain-machine interface technologies, neurodegenerative disease research, infectious disease modelling, and environmental change. Their work earned top honours in both poster and oral presentation categories, showcasing the breadth of innovation and scientific inquiry fostered through Moghadas’s mentorship and York’s Faculty of Science programs. Read More
On August 8, 2025, Professor Hassan Qudrat-Ullah was featured in Energies for his paper proposing a new vision for equitable nuclear governance. His Qudrat-Ullah Nuclear Peace and Trust (Q-NPT) framework emphasizes transparency, fairness, and trust in international cooperation on nuclear energy. By supporting technology sharing, real-time compliance tools like blockchain and AI, and flexible adoption strategies, the framework seeks to make nuclear governance more inclusive—particularly for developing countries. Read More
In August 2025, Professor Celina Da Silva was featured in York University’s View Magazine for her research on using video games as powerful educational tools. Together with Professor Eva Peisachovich, she is developing virtual simulation games that help nursing students build empathy and practice responding to challenging scenarios in safe, controlled environments. Read More
On July 31, 2025, in the Globe and Mail, Professor Cary Wu challenged common myths about political polarization. Drawing from his study published in the Journal of Canadian Studies, Dr. Wu revealed that the population of political moderates is growing. Contrary to popular narrative, his research indicates that significant polarization is primarily a phenomenon of the far right, not the left. Read More
On July 16, 2025, Professor Gunho Sohn was featured in YFile as the lead of a major York-led initiative funded through the NSERC Collaborative Research and Training Experience (CREATE) program. With $1.65 million in federal support over six years, Professor Sohn will develop and deploy “Smart Mobility Advanced Research & Training (SMART)” to train the next generation of researchers and professionals in mobility systems innovation. Read More
On July 16, 2025, Professor Ida Ferrara was awarded an Insight Development Grant from the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC) of Canada. Her project, titled "Advancing Gender Diversity in Leadership Positions: An Integrated Multidisciplinary Approach", received federal funding to support innovative early-stage research over the next two years. Read More
On July 11, 2025, we are proud to share that several Y-EMERGE members have been awarded 2025 NSERC Discovery Grants for their outstanding interdisciplinary research in science, engineering, and health.
Congratulations to Dr. Aijun An, Dr. Afshin Rezaei Zare, Dr. Iain Moyles, and Dr. Huaiping Zhu on this well-deserved recognition. Their work reflects Y-EMERGE’s commitment to innovative research that addresses complex global challenges. Read More
On July 8, 2025, Professor Yvonne Su was featured in the Toronto Star with a compelling op-ed titled “ICE surge should not be copied here.” In the article, Dr. Su critiqued Canada's proposed Bill C2, warning that it mirrors the aggressive immigration enforcement tactics of the United States under President Trump’s second term. Dr. Su urged Canadian policymakers to resist framing migration as a threat, cautioning that mimicking U.S. tactics could erode Canada’s commitments to human rights, fairness, and refugee protection. Read More
On July 7, 2025, Professor Jack L. Rozdilsky was featured in Inside Halton, offering expert commentary on the emergency response challenges posed by Coldplay’s four-night concert series at Toronto’s Rogers Centre. With tens of thousands expected to attend each show, Dr. Rozdilsky emphasized the critical need for coordinated planning involving police, transit, and emergency services. He noted that the event presents an opportunity to apply lessons learned from crowd management and urban emergency preparedness. Read More
On July 2, 2025, Professor Jack Rozdilsky was featured in The Globe and Mail, discussing the mounting financial burden faced by Canadian municipalities hosting wildfire evacuees. He emphasized the growing challenge of delayed federal reimbursements and the strain on local emergency services amid increasingly frequent wildfires. The article highlighted the need for stronger support systems to sustain emergency response capacity across vulnerable regions. Read More
On July 1, 2025, Professor Maleknaz Nayebi was featured in the UNITAR Airports and Economic Development Global Training Programme, delivering insights at the international workshop “Future-Proofing Airport Development: Harnessing Technology to Streamline Terminal Operations” in Rabat, Morocco. She highlighted the role of artificial intelligence in advancing airport crisis management systems. The workshop convened over 30 aviation professionals from 13 countries and focused on terminal modernization, AI integration, and cybersecurity. Read More
On June 30, 2025, Professor Yvonne Su was featured in Policy Options, discussing the need for cultural intelligence in anti-racism policy. She highlighted that conventional equity frameworks often fail to address the cultural dynamics shaping policy impact, and called for a holistic approach that fosters cross-cultural understanding to strengthen anti-racism efforts. Read More
On June 23, 2025, Professor Mark Winfield was featured in CBC News discussing Ontario’s escalating housing crisis. In the article “Ontario needs to build more than 2 million homes in the next decade. Professor Winfield questioned the feasibility of such ambitious figures, noting that the plan lacks a breakdown of housing types and fails to consider current trends like immigration cuts and a cooling condo market. He stressed the need for a strategic rethink, as Ontario’s current approach risks producing unattainable targets without addressing the real constraints of the housing sector. Read More
On June 23, 2025, Professor Jack L. Rozdilsky was featured in The Conversation analyzing a recent U.S. court decision that granted President Donald Trump broad authority to deploy military troops in American cities. Dr. Rozdilsky warned that this legal development reflects a dangerous erosion of democratic safeguards and could accelerate the militarization of civil governance.
He emphasized the risks of misusing emergency powers for political gain, cautioning that invoking laws like the Insurrection Act or mischaracterizing minor disturbances as “rebellions” undermines civilian rule and fuels social division. Read More
On Jun 13, 2025, during the 8th UN Global Road Safety Week, Professor Ali Asgary officially launched MotoAI, a new web-based app designed to improve motorcycle safety through artificial intelligence. MotoAI uses 34 indicators to calculate a Motorcycle Road Safety Index (MRSI). Riders input local details into the app, and receive a personalized safety score and practical recommendations. The tool also helps policymakers, urban planners, and insurance providers visualize and respond to safety risks in real time. Read More
On Jun 13, 2025, Professor Aijun An was appointed as a Tier 1 York Research Chair in Reliable Artificial Intelligence, as part of the prestigious York Research Chairs (YRC) program. This appointment recognizes her leadership in AI innovation under the Connected Minds initiative, a $ 318 million York-led research program focused on socially responsible technologies.Dr. An’s research explores advanced topics in data mining, machine learning, and natural language processing, with real-world applications that aim to enhance the reliability of domain-specific AI systems. Her projects involve strategic partnerships with IBM and iNAGO Corp, supporting the development of AI that is transparent, adaptive, and aligned with user needs. This Tier 1 appointment reflects Dr. An’s research contributes to ongoing efforts to develop AI systems that are more reliable, transparent, and applicable to real-world needs. Read More
On Jun 13, 2025, during the 8th UN Global Road Safety Week, Professor Ali Asgary officially launched MotoAI, a new web-based app designed to improve motorcycle safety through artificial intelligence. MotoAI uses 34 indicators to calculate a Motorcycle Road Safety Index (MRSI). Riders input local details into the app and receive a personalized safety score and practical recommendations. The tool also helps policymakers, urban planners, and insurance providers visualize and respond to safety risks in real time. Read More
On Jun 9, 2025, Professor Jack Rozdilsky was featured in CBC News, offering expert insights on why some individuals refuse to evacuate during out-of-control wildfires in Manitoba and Western Canada. Dr. Rozdilsky emphasized that refusal to evacuate is not always due to recklessness but is often driven by rational concerns such as fear of homelessness, past trauma, caregiving responsibilities, and lack of resources. He noted that understanding these decisions is essential for developing more effective and empathetic emergency planning strategies. Read More
On Jun 6, 2025, Professor Ali Asgary was featured in CTV News, addressing Canada’s continued absence of a national disaster agency, despite years of calls for its creation. He warned that without such an agency, Canada remains reliant on fragmented systems and ad hoc responses to growing climate-related and complex emergencies. His commentary adds to a growing call among experts for a national-level solution to manage increasingly frequent and severe disasters. Read More
On May 30, 2025 Professor Jack Rozdilsky was featured in CityNews Toronto, providing commentary on the emergency alert issued following a fatal stabbing incident in Pickering. Dr. Rozdilsky emphasized the value of using Canada's Alert Ready system to warn the public in real time but noted the importance of reviewing alert accuracy and timing. He highlighted how mislabeling the alert as a “terrorism” event pointed to the need for improved inter-agency coordination and metadata management. Read More
On May 28–29, 2025 Dr. Ali Asgary and Dr. Maleknaz Nayebi were featured speakers at the international workshop “Future-Proofing Airport Development: Building Resilience Through Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Management,” held in Atlanta, Georgia. Dr. Asgary delivered a keynote on the global impact of disasters on airport systems, while Dr. Nayebi presented on the use of social AI for crisis management in complex airport environments. Read More
On May 23, 2025, Professor Jimmy Huang was featured in YFile, recognizing his election as a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Engineering (CAE). He highlighted that solar storms associated with these phenomena could pose significant societal risks.
Professor Huang, a Tier 1 York Research Chair in Big Data Analytics and IEEE Fellow, was honoured for his pioneering work in artificial intelligence, natural language processing, and probabilistic modeling. Read More
On May 23, 2025, Professor Mark Winfield was featured in iPolitics, commenting on the federal government's dramatic shift in energy policy under newly appointed Energy Minister Tim Hodgson. He highlighted that solar storms associated with these phenomena could pose significant societal risks. Dr. Winfield expressed concern over Minister Hodgson’s plans to accelerate project approvals and prioritize industry partnerships. Read More
On May 21, 2025, Professor Eric Kennedy, Y-EMERGE Director, was featured in YFile, discussing his wildfire research recognized by Ontario’s Early Researcher Award. He highlighted that solar storms associated with these phenomena could pose significant societal risks. In collaboration with Ontario wildfire agencies, his project aims to improve forecasting tools and protect communities from growing fire risks. Read More
On May 16, 2025, Professor Ali Asgary is leading a new international initiative supported by the Canadian Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Scholarships (QES) program. The project will fund research exchanges between York and institutions in Costa Rica, Ghana, and the Philippines, focusing on climate change and human displacement. Y-EMERGE faculty are among the key collaborators contributing to this high-impact global effort. Read More
On May 14, 2025, Professor Mark Winfield was featured in The Hamilton Spectator, discussing the potential softening of climate policies under Prime Minister Mark Carney's new cabinet. He highlighted that solar storms associated with these phenomena could pose significant societal risks. Dr. Winfield expressed concerns that the government's recent decision to eliminate the consumer carbon tax might signal a retreat from Canada's climate commitments. Read More
On May 6, 2025, Professor Aaida Mamuji was featured in CBC News, offering insights on Canada’s National Emergency Preparedness Week and the importance of inclusive disaster planning. Professor Mamuji emphasized that true preparedness requires personal readiness and coordinated efforts across communities, especially for the most vulnerable. She highlighted that emergency planning must address social inequalities to be truly effective. Read More
On May 6, 2025, Professor Seyed Moghadas was featured in U.S. News & World Report, discussing recent findings on the effectiveness of RSV antibody treatment in protecting infants from severe illness. He emphasized that the study’s results mark a significant step forward in reducing hospitalizations and complications caused by respiratory syncytial virus in newborns. Dr. Moghadas noted that such preventative strategies could ease the seasonal burden on healthcare systems. Read More
On Apr 30, 2025, Professor Jack L. Rozdilsky was featured in Toronto Life, sharing his personal story of leaving the United States and returning to Canada. Professor Rozdilsky reflected on how political tensions and social shifts under the Trump administration influenced his decision. He also discussed the importance of public trust and evidence-based leadership in crisis response—values that continue to shape his work in Canada. Read More
On Apr 30, 2025, Professor Mark Winfield was featured in the Fort Frances Times, commenting on Ontario’s efforts to fast-track mining development in the Ring of Fire. He noted that skipping essential steps like environmental assessments and Indigenous consultations could trigger delays rather than accelerate progress. Dr. Winfield stressed that meaningful engagement and due process are critical for sustainable and legally sound development. Read More
On Apr 29, 2025, Professor Ali Asgary was featured in The Conversation, analyzing the recent SUV attack in Vancouver and its implications for managing public safety at political gatherings. Dr. Asgary highlighted gaps in crowd control and emergency preparedness, warning that such oversights can erode trust in both public safety systems and democratic institutions. Read More
On Apr 25, 2025, Professor Muna-Ubdi Ali was featured in The Conversation, discussing the future of Black hiring commitments on university campuses. She highlighted that despite initial post-2020 pledges to improve racial equity in academia, many institutions are now facing a period of reckoning and resistance, with progress slowing or even backtracking. Read Mor
On Apr 25, 2025, in the YFile article published, Professor Jianhong Wu was mentioned in the context of York University’s expanding international research partnerships. He was highlighted for his role in leading collaborative efforts with global institutions, particularly in the area of infectious disease modeling and pandemic preparedness. Dr. Wu’s work exemplifies York’s commitment to impactful international research that addresses complex global challenges. Read More
On Apr 24, 2025, Professor Mark Winfield was featured in the National Observer, weighing in on the NDP’s 2025 federal election platform. Dr. Winfield noted that the NDP remains steadfast in its climate commitments, emphasizing long-standing support for carbon pricing, renewable energy, and environmental justice. He highlighted that while other parties are shifting or softening positions, the NDP continues to foreground climate as a core electoral issue. Read More
On Apr 24, 2025, Professor Mark Winfield was featured in the National Observer, weighing in on the NDP’s 2025 federal election platform. Dr. Winfield noted that the NDP remains steadfast in its climate commitments, emphasizing long-standing support for carbon pricing, renewable energy, and environmental justice. He highlighted that while other parties are shifting or softening positions, the NDP continues to foreground climate as a core electoral issue. Read More.
On Apr 24, 2025, Professor Mojgan Jadidi was featured in YFile, highlighting the success of block model learning at York University’s Lassonde School of Engineering. Professor Jadidi shared how the model, where students focus on one course at a time in shorter, more immersive sessions, has led to improved academic outcomes and greater student confidence. She noted that the approach has been especially impactful in supporting first-year students as they transition into engineering education. Read More
On Apr 22, 2025,Professor Mark Winfield was featured in The Energy Mix, offering insight into how Canada's federal parties position climate policy in their election platforms. He remarked that climate remains a defining issue this election cycle despite varying approaches. Professor Winfield noted that costed platforms help clarify each party's priorities, with the NDP continuing to stand out for its consistent commitment to climate action. Read More
On Apr 21, 2025, Professor Mark Winfield was featured on BBC News, reflecting on the New Democratic Party's enduring approach to climate action. Professor Winfield pointed out that the NDP has maintained one of the most coherent and reliable environmental platforms among Canada's major parties. He emphasized that their focus on renewable energy, emissions reductions, and a just transition for workers continues to position them as a consistent voice on climate policy. Read More
On Apr 17, 2025, Professor Jack L. Rozdilsky was featured in The Conversation, analyzing the April 15 vehicular attack at Toronto Metropolitan University. He highlighted how this targeted act — though not a mass casualty incident — underscores the persistent threat of car-based violence in urban settings. Read More.
On Apr 15, 2025, Professor Mark Winfield was featured in the NB Media Co-op, discussing the implications of nuclear energy on climate action. He highlighted that renewed focus on nuclear power may divert resources and political attention from more effective and immediate climate solutions. Professor Winfield emphasized the risks of delaying meaningful climate action by banking on technologies that are costly, slow to deploy, and face significant public and regulatory hurdles. Read More
On Apr 14, 2025, Professor Hassan Qudrat-Ullah was featured in YFile, discussing the intersection of artificial intelligence (AI) and systems thinking in decision-making. He highlighted that while AI excels at identifying patterns, it must be integrated with a systems perspective to effectively address today’s complex global challenges. His work, including four books published in 2025, such as Navigating Complexity. Read More
On Apr 12, 2025, It was announced that Dr. Eric Kennedy has been appointed as a new member of Ontario’s Public Health Emergencies Science Advisory Committee (OPHESAC). The committee brings together interdisciplinary experts to provide evidence-based guidance on public health emergency preparedness and response across the province. Kennedy, an expert in emergency management and public policy, joins the committee to support strategic planning and decision-making for future health crises. Read More
On Mar 28, 2025, Professor Stephen Gaetz was featured in YFile, discussing the shift from crisis response to prevention in addressing youth homelessness. He highlighted that while traditional approaches relied heavily on emergency shelters and crisis support, they failed to solve the root causes of homelessness. Key initiatives like the Making the Shift partnership have introduced policy innovations and pilot programs that reframe how we address homelessness. Read More
On Mar 11, 2025, Dr. Maleknaz Nayebi was featured in Mirage News, discussing her role in UNITAR’s Future-Proofing Airport Development workshop. The event, held in San Salvador, El Salvador, brought together aviation leaders to explore AI, cybersecurity, and technological innovations in air transport. A key outcome was signing a Sister Airports Partnership Agreement between Atlanta International Airport and CEPA, aiming to enhance connectivity and collaboration between North and Latin America. Read more
On Mar 11, 2025, Professor Aaida Mamuji was featured in CBC News, discussing From Distanced to Connected: COVID-19 Five-Years On, a York University exhibit showcasing pandemic experiences.
The exhibit featured 46 photos capturing lockdowns, PPE, and resilience. Dr. Mamuji described it as a “walk back in time” to reflect on challenges and progress. Read More
On Mar 10, 2025, Professor Yvonne Su was featured in NetNewsLedger, discussing tokenism in academia. She highlighted how superficial diversity efforts often fail to address systemic barriers, emphasizing the need for meaningful inclusion and equity-driven change within academic institutions. Dr. Su emphasizes that true inclusion requires addressing deep-seated institutional inequalities, moving beyond mere optics to foster genuine transformation within academic environments. Read more
On Mar 7, 2025, Professor Eric B. Kennedy was featured in Excalibur, discussing the escalating threat of wildfires across Canada. He emphasized that while wildfires are a natural part of the ecosystem, they are intensifying due to climate change, human activities, and fuel aridity. In the article, Dr. Kennedy highlights the urgent need for government policies and community-driven efforts to reduce ignition sources and adapt to the changing wildfire landscape. Read More
On Feb 25, 2025, Professor Ali Asgary was featured in The Conversation, analyzing Donald Trump’s Gaza reconstruction proposal from a disaster recovery perspective. Asgary highlighted that successful post-war reconstruction requires community involvement and careful planning. His analysis warns that neglecting local needs and imposing top-down solutions can lead to long-term instability. Read More.
On Feb 20, 2025, Professor. Jianhong Wu was featured in INsauga, discussing Ontario's ongoing avian flu outbreak. He emphasized the province's vulnerability due to shared migratory patterns with the U.S., which is also experiencing a similar outbreak. Dr Wu stressed the importance of enhancing surveillance and rapid response systems to mitigate the spread. Read More
On Feb 19, 2025, Professors Jack L. Rozdilsky and Eric B. Kennedy were featured in The Conversation, discussing the successful rescue effort following the Delta Flight 4819 crash at Toronto Pearson International Airport. They emphasized the critical role of coordinated emergency responses in saving lives. Read More
On Feb 18, 2025, Professor Usman Khan was featured in The Globe and Mail, discussing whether rain gardens and permeable pavement could have mitigated the historic flooding in Toronto this summer. Khan emphasized that strategically and consistently implementing permeable surfaces across the city could significantly reduce Toronto’s flood risk during extreme rainfall events like July 2024. Read More
On Feb 13, 2025, Dr. Yvonne Su was featured in The Star, discussing the consequences of President Trump's decision to dismantle the United States Agency for International Development (USAID). She emphasized the devastating effects this policy could have on migrants and global aid efforts. Read More
On Feb 13, 2025, Professor Anna Zalik was featured in The Narwhal, discussing the controversial role of TC Energy in developing natural gas pipelines across North America. Dr. Zalik expressed concerns about the environmental and social impacts of these pipelines. Read More
On Feb 5, 2025, Dr. Aaida Mamuji, was featured in University Affairs. The article discussed the increasing importance of disaster studies programs, particularly in the context of rising natural disasters. Dr. Mamuji highlighted York's recent launch of a PhD program in disaster studies and emphasized the need for more academic training in this vital field. Read More
On Feb 3, 2025, Y-EMERGE members, published a study utilizing deep-learning models and unconventional data sources to forecast and provide early warnings for respiratory disease outbreaks. The model, which incorporates data like satellite air quality and social media posts, showed improved prediction accuracy for COVID-19 in Ontario and influenza in Quebec. Read More
On Feb 3, 2025, Y-EMERGE members were featured in BMJ Global Health, co-authoring a systematic review and meta-analysis on the risk factors associated with human Mpox infection. The study examines data from both endemic and non-endemic regions and synthesizes evidence to identify key transmission risks related to the 2022–2023 Mpox outbreak. Read More
On Feb 3, 2025, Y-EMERGE members were featured in BMJ Global Health, co-authoring a systematic review and meta-analysis on the risk factors associated with human Mpox infection. The study examines data from both endemic and non-endemic regions and synthesizes evidence to identify key transmission risks related to the 2022–2023 Mpox outbreak. Read More
On Jan 29, 2025, Professor Jimmy Huang was named a Fellow of the Institute of Electrical and Electronics Engineers (IEEE) in recognition of his contributions to information retrieval, web search, natural language processing, and conversational systems. Read More
On Jan 27, 2025, Professor Jack L. Rozdilsky published an article in The Conversation titled "Trump’s plan to eliminate FEMA is a very bad idea." In the piece, Professor Rozdilsky critiques President Donald Trump's proposal to overhaul or potentially dismantle the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA). Read More
On Jan 25, 2025, Professor Mark Winfield was featured in The Conversation, discussing the potential consequences of Ontario’s early election amid U.S. trade tensions. Read More
On January 24, 2025, York University announced that Professor Peter Park will lead a groundbreaking road safety project funded by over $500,000 from Transport Canada’s Enhanced Road Safety Transfer Payment Program (ERSTPP). This marks York’s first-ever funding from the ERSTPP, launched in 2019 to improve road safety across Canada. Read More
On January 23, 2025, Professor Eric Kennedy, Y-EMERGE Interim Director, shared insights with Bloomberg about the growing importance of fire diplomacy in combating wildfires globally. Dr. Kennedy emphasized the benefits of mutual aid agreements between Canada, the U.S., Australia, and South Africa. Read More
On Jan 23, 2025, Professor S. Harris Ali co-authored an article in The Conversation titled "Better digital literacy could help reduce climate and disaster conspiracy theories." The piece examines the proliferation of misinformation during climate-related disasters, such as false claims about geo-engineered hurricanes and intentionally set wildfires. Read More
On Jan 22, 2025, On March 11, York University will host "From Distanced to Connected: COVID-19 Five Years," marking the fifth anniversary of the pandemic declaration. Organized by Professors Aaida Mamuji, Ali Asgary, and Jack Rozdilsky, the event will reflect on the pandemic’s impacts and lessons learned. Read More
On Jan 20, 2025, Professor Ali Asgary was featured in the Times Colonist, discussing the impact of unauthorized drone use during wildfire emergencies. He called for stricter regulations, increased public awareness, and advanced technologies to address the growing challenges of drone incursions during wildfire response. Read More
On Mar 19, 2025, Professor Cary Wu will lead a seminar on suicide prevention in China’s scientific community. He will discuss systemic issues contributing to rising suicide rates in academia and present findings from a unique database of media-reported cases spanning decades. Read More
On Jan 15, 2025, Professor Jack L. Rozdilsky was featured in The Times Colonist, discussing the impact of false alerts during emergencies, such as those issued during the Greater Los Angeles wildfires. Read More
On Jan 10, 2025, an article coauthored by Professor Seyed M. Moghadas was published in Nature Communications. It explored the potential of combining AI with traditional models to enhance disease forecasting and public health planning while identifying key challenges like dataset diversity and decision-making integration. Read More
On Jan 9, 2025, Professor Seyed M. Moghadas was featured in Nature Medicine, discussing the impact of RSVpreF vaccination on reducing the burden of respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) in infants and older adults. He highlighted that targeted immunization strategies could prevent up to 64% of hospitalizations. Read More.
On Jan 3, 2025, Tricia Corrin, a York University MDEM graduate, was recognized for her impactful research on evidence synthesis during COVID-19, supervised by Professor Eric Kennedy. Dr. Kennedy praised her work as "groundbreaking" and a testament to York's leadership in disaster management. Read More

On Dec 30, 2024, Professor Jack L. Rozdilsky was featured in The Conversation, reflecting on Jimmy Carter's legacy in nuclear emergency response and disaster management. He highlighted Carter's pivotal contributions to crisis preparedness, which continue to shape modern approaches to handling large-scale emergencies. Read More
On Dec 27, 2024, Professor Ian Garrett received a $250,000 Cultivate Grant from the Canada Council for the Arts. This grant supports the development of a framework for climate adaptation and disaster risk mitigation within cultural organizations. Read More
On Dec 18, 2024, Professor Hassan Qudrat-Ullah, Series Editor-in-Chief, is leading the development of the Systems Thinking in Decision-Making: Innovations and Applications series published by World Scientific. Read More
On Dec 17, 2024, Professor Carlota McAllister was featured in NACLA's Winter 2024 issue, discussing Guatemala and Israel's historical and ongoing relationship. In her article titled "A Genocidal Special Relationship," she highlighted the parallels between state-led violence against the Maya-Ixil in Guatemala and Palestinians in Israel. Read More
On Dec 16, 2024, Professor Mark Winfield was featured in The Conversation, discussing how Canada and its premiers should address the challenges posed by Trump's trade and energy policies. He emphasized the need for strategic responses to safeguard Canada's environmental and economic interests. Read More
On Dec 12, 2024, Professor Iain Moyles and his PhD student created a mathematical model to explore peer influence on teen vaping. The findings offer insights into using peer influence to promote healthier adolescent behaviours. Read More
On Dec 12, 2024, Professor Maleknaz Nayebi is using artificial intelligence (AI) to transform clinical trials for chronic conditions. She is partnering with RxPx to develop an “AI clinical buddy system” to improve patient recruitment, adherence, and diversity. Read More
On Dec 12, 2024, Canada's shifting public sentiment on immigration, driven by housing and economic challenges, raised concerns among experts. Dr. Yvonne Su warns against scapegoating immigrants for systemic issues. Read More
On Dec 11, 2024, Professor Jude Kong co-authored a study in Frontiers in Microbiology, leveraging machine learning and big data techniques to map the global patent landscape of phage therapy. Their research sheds light on innovation trends and intellectual property developments, offering valuable insights into combating antibiotic-resistant infections. Read More
On Dec 2, 2024, Professor Hassan Qudrat-Ullah authored his latest book, examining the role of fossil-based economies in the global transition to sustainable energy. Read More
On Dec 4, 2024, Dr. Yvonne Su told OMNI News the initiative risks harming vulnerable asylum-seekers and damaging Canada's compassionate image. Read More
On Nov 27, 2024, Dr. Eric B. Kennedy co-authored a research article titled The Evolution and Adaptation of Evidence Synthesis During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Canada, in PLOS ONE. This study explores how evidence synthesis evolved and adapted in response to the rapidly changing demands of the pandemic. Read More
On Nov 22, 2024, Professor Usman Khan is leading a project to improve water safety in Uganda's Kyaka II refugee settlement. This innovative project collaborates with the Nsamizi Training Institute of Social Development and aims to provide a sustainable solution to water safety in humanitarian settings. Read More
On Nov 19, 2024, Prof. Yvonne Su provided insights in an article for the Asian Pacific Post discussing the spike in asylum claims among international students in Canada. The piece examines the challenges faced by international students seeking asylum. Read More
On Nov 13, 2024, Prof. Mark Winfield contributed expert insights to an article in Hakai Magazine on producing hydrogen gas as cleanly as possible. The article explores the concept of "green hydrogen" and the challenges and opportunities it presents for achieving sustainable energy solutions. Read More
On Nov 12, 2024, Prof. Evalyna Bogdan co-authored a research article, Developing a Digital Disaster Documents System for Essential Documents, in the International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction. This study examines decision-makers' perspectives on the Digital Disaster Documents System (D3S). Read more
On Nov 12, 2024, Prof. Jack Rozdilsky shared insights in an article for Toronto.com on how to stay safe during the Taylor Swift concert in Toronto. His advice focused on personal preparedness, navigating large crowds, and ensuring a safe experience for attendees. Read More
On Nov 6, 2024, Prof. Jianhong Wu and his colleagues Sergey Krylov and Derek Wilson received the Synergy Award for Innovation from NSERC. This award honours their work in improving drug and vaccine development through university-industry partnerships. Read More
On Nov 6, 2024, Prof. Yvonne Su published an article in Policy Options exploring the role of institutions in supporting asylum-seeking students. Her work emphasizes the need for accessible education and solid institutional support to help displaced students integrate and succeed. Read More
On Nov 4, 2024, Professor Jose Etcheverry is advancing renewable energy initiatives in Northern Ontario. His research focuses on developing policies to combat climate change through fully utilizing renewable energy sources. Read More
On Nov 1, 2024, Professor Afshin Rezaei-Zare was featured in the Toronto Star, discussing the dual nature of the northern lights. He highlighted that solar storms associated with these phenomena could pose significant risks to society. Read More
On Nov 1, 2024, Professor Jianhong Wu was recognized for being named a Fellow of the American Mathematical Society. This prestigious honour highlights his significant contributions to mathematics and the impact of his research. Read More
On Oct 31, 2024, Prof. Aijun An, a leading expert in data science at York University, contributed to an article in Devdiscourse discussing the transformative role of blending data and machine learning for early disease outbreak detection. Read More
On Oct 30, 2024, Dr. Jennifer Spinney was featured in The Globe and Mail. The article highlighted her team’s innovative work in developing advanced forecasting models to predict severe weather events more accurately. Read More
On Oct 29, 2024, Professor Jack L. Rozdilsky was quoted in The Week regarding the safest places to shelter during a nuclear attack, highlighting that underground locations, such as basements and blast shelters, provide the best protection. Read more
On Oct 28, 2024, Professor Anna Zalik was mentioned in an article in Premium Times discussing how the federal government is depriving Bayelsa State of revenue from gas flaring. Read more
Oct 24, 2024, Professor Afshin Rezaei-Zare was quoted in the Hamilton Spectator discussing the dangers of geomagnetic storms. Read More
On Oct 29, 2024, Professor Jack L. Rozdilsky was quoted in The Week regarding the safest places to shelter during a nuclear attack, highlighting that underground locations, such as basements and blast shelters, provide the best protection. Read more
Oct 21, 2024, Professor Mark S. Winfield expressed concerns in the Toronto Star regarding allocating public funds for bike lanes on Parkside Drive. Read more
Oct 21, 2024, Professor Jack Rozdilsky published an article titled “Jasper’s Wildfire Recovery is Challenged by its Unique Land Classification and the Approaching Winter” in The Conversation. Read More
Oct 17, 2024, Professor Eric B. Kennedy's work was highlighted in the H-Net Review, which discusses the challenges of managing natural disasters exacerbated by climate change, mainly focusing on the intersections of wildfires and flooding. Read more
Oct 11, 2024, Dr. Eric B. Kennedy, Tricia Corrin and Paul Cairney co-authored a research article titled The Production and Utility of Evidence Synthesis During the COVID-19 Pandemic in Canada. Published in Policy Press, this study examines the crucial role of evidence synthesis in shaping public health policy throughout the pandemic. Read More
Oct 15, 2024, Professor James Orbinski co-authored an article titled “Evaluation of the Safe Water Optimization Tool to Provide Evidence-Based Chlorination Targets in Surface Waters:...” in Environmental Science & Technology. Read More.
Oct 16, 2024, Professor Hassan Qudrat-Ullah released his latest book, Creativity Loops–Based Decision Making: A Systems Thinking Approach, published by Palgrave Macmillan. Read More.
Oct 17, 2024, York University, led by Professor Ali Asgary, launched a new Emergency Operations Center to enhance its response to increasing extreme weather events. Read more in The Seeker.
Oct 8, 2024, Professor Maleknaz Nayebi will chair the annual Canadian Celebration of Women in Computing Conference in Toronto on October 25 and 26. Read More
Oct 2, 2024, Professor Yvonne Su raised concerns about the recent implementation of stricter international student policies in Canada at CityNews Toronto and The Canadian Parvasi.Read More
Sep 27, 2024, Professor Mark Winfield criticized Premier Doug Ford's plan to legislate limits on new bike lanes, which could remove existing lanes for vehicles. Read More
Sep 23, 2024, several Y-EMERGE members were recognized for outstanding achievements at York University's 2024 Research Awards Celebration. The honoured members included Professors Jianhong Wu, Edward Furman, Jimmy Huang, Roger Keil, Cary Wu, and Woldegebriel "Assefa" Woldegerima. Read more.
Sept 19, 2024: Professor Mojgan Jadidi introduced a virtual reality (VR) program to teach drone piloting in engineering. The program is expected to be incorporated into lab courses after testing. Read more.
On Sep 18, 2024, Professor Hassan Qudrat-Ullah released his latest book, Systems Thinking for Sustainability Education in Business Schools. The book offers practical recommendations and a visionary roadmap for enhancing business school curricula focusing on sustainability. Read more.
Sep 16, 2024, Professor Jack L. Rozdilsky published an op-ed in The Conversation titled "The Second Assassination Attempt on Donald Trump in 64 Days is a Troubling Turn of Events." Read more
Sep 13, 2024: Dr. Yvonne Su published an op-ed in the Toronto Star titled "Donald Trump's Fear-Mongering About Migrant Crime is Fuelling Hate in Canada and the World." Read more.
Sep 13, 2024: Professor Jack Rozdilsky, a Disaster & Emergency Management program faculty member, highlighted the importance of preparing for nuclear hazards. Read more.
Sep 12, 2024: Professor Yvonne Su, director of York University's Centre for Refugee Studies, published an op-ed in The Conversation titled "Beyond the Harris-Trump Debate." Read more
Sep 11, 2024: Professor Jude Dzevela Kong and co-authors released a research paper titled Machine Learning for Early Prediction of Preterm Birth on SSRN. Read more
Sep 6, 2024: Professor Huaiping Zhu, a Y-EMERGE member, was awarded the prestigious 2024 CAIMS-Fields Industrial Prize. Read More
Sept 3, 2024: Professor Carly Rozins, Y-EMERGE Member, co-authored a study in PNAS titled "Climate, Demography, Immunology, and Virology Combine to Drive Two Decades of Dengue Virus Dynamics in Cambodia." Read More
August 30, 2024: Professor Maleknaz Nayebi and her collaborators published the paper Recommending and Release Planning of User-Driven Functionality Deletion for Mobile Apps in Requirements Engineering. The study highlights the importance of user feedback in the continuous development of mobile apps. Read More
Aug 28, 2024: Professor Jack L. Rozdilsky published an article in Canadian Architect, using the St. Anne’s Church fire in Toronto as a cautionary tale. Read More
Aug 21, 2024: Professor Hassan Qudrat-Ullah published his new book Sustainable Energy: A Myth or Reality (Springer, 2024), which explores the critical role of sustainable energy in addressing global challenges such as climate change, energy security, and environmental degradation. Read More
Aug 19, 2024: Professor Jude Kong co-authored a study published on the Social Science Research Network (SSRN) titled "Epidemiological Trends and Clinical Features of Polio in Ethiopia: A Preliminary Pooled Data Analysis and Literature Review." Read more
Aug 2, 2024: A review article titled "Inferring enterovirus D68 transmission dynamics from the genomic data of two 2022 North American outbreaks" was published by researchers, including Professor Jianhong Wu, in the Nature Portfolio Journal of Viruses. Read More
Aug 1st, 2024: Professor Jack Rozdilsky published an article in The Conversation Canada. The article examines the film Twisters, highlighting the popularity of disaster movies, the real-life risks of storm chasing, and the impact of extreme weather events. Read More
July 31, 2024: Professor Ali Asgary published an article in The Conversation Canada that highlights how the recent fire in Jasper illustrates the increasing threat of climate change to Canada's national parks and world heritage sites. Read More
July 31, 2024: Professor Jack Rozdilsky published an article in The Conversation Canada. The article examines the film Twisters, highlighting the popularity of disaster movies, the real-life risks of storm chasing, and the impact of extreme weather events. Read More
July 29, 2024: Professor Hassan Qudrat-Ullah was announced as the founding editor of the "Systems Thinking and Sustainable Development" book series. Read More
July 27, 2024: Professor Jude Kong co-authored a paper titled "A Cost-Effective Air Quality Monitoring System for the Global South," published in the Sustainable Technology Journal. Read More
July 27, 2024: Dr. Ali Asgary emphasized the urgent need for Canada to establish a national emergency response agency in an article published in CBC News. Read More
July 26, 2024: In an article on The Conversation, Dr. Eric Kennedy, Assistant Professor of Disaster and Emergency Management at York University, discussed the international collaboration efforts aiding the fight against the Alberta wildfires. Read More
July 24, 2024: Professor Usman Khan, an associate professor of civil engineering, emphasized the urgent need for better flood mitigation in Toronto's Rockcliffe neighbourhood in an article on CBC News. Read More
July 22, 2024: Professor Huaiping Zhu was honored by the Canadian Applied and Industrial Mathematics Society (CAIMS) with the 2024 CAIMS-Fields Industrial Prize. Read More
July 12, 2024: Professor Anna Zalik led an engaging study abroad course titled "Free Trade, Unfree Labour and Environmental Justice in Continental North America" in Mexico City. Read More
July 3, 2024: Professor Ali Asgary, Executive Director of the ADERSIM Lab and York University's EOC, was interviewed on CBC Toronto. The news segment focused on the Opening of York University's new facility, the ADERSIM Lab. Read More
July 3, 2024: An op-ed by Professor Jack L. Rozdilsky titled "University of Toronto Protesters Dismantle Pro-Palestinian Encampment After Injunction Granted" was published in The Conversation. Read More
July 3, 2024: A review article titled "Avian Influenza: Lessons from Past Outbreaks and Inventory of Data Sources, Mathematical and AI Models, and Early Warning Systems for Forecasting and Hotspot Detection" was published by researchers, including Professor Jude Kong, in the journal SSRN. Read More
June 21, 2024: Professor Jack Rozdilsky was quoted in Canadian Affairs, discussing "Looting during wildfire evacuations: the facts and fiction."Read More
June 20-22, 2024: David Etkin lectured at the International Congress on Disaster Ethics at the University of Oviedo, Spain, on "How the Context of the 21st Century Shifts Moral Positioning,". Read More
June 20, 2024: The book "Sustainable Energy: A Myth or Reality" by Hassan Qudrat-Ullah was published. The book is part of the Springer Series on Sustainable Energy Policy and offers insights for students, researchers, policymakers, and general readers interested in sustainable energy solutions. Read More
June 18, 2024: Professor Jack Rozdilsky was interviewed on CityNews 570 Kitchener's "The Mike Farwell Show" to discuss the one-year anniversary of the Titan submersible implosion. Read More
June 14, 2024: Fifty-four researchers from York University, including Jianhong Wu, Ali Sadeghi-Naini, and Jane Heffernan, collectively received over $3.3 million in funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). Read More
June 12, 2024: Y-EMERGE established a partnership with the Research & Innovation Centre at the African Institute for Mathematical Sciences (AIMS-RIC) in Rwanda that will bring AIMS PhD students to York University to pursue their research in mathematical modelling as a tool for addressing climate change. Read More
June 12, 2024: Professor Hassan Qudrat-Ullah's study, "Creating Investor-Friendly Renewable Energy Policies: Lessons from Malawi's Solar Farm," received coverage on Devdiscourse, the International Development News website. Read More
June 11, 2024: Three faculty members, including Professor Roger Keil, a Y-EMERGE member, received honorific professorships. Read More
June 11, 2024: Mark Winfield was quoted in the Globe and Mail regarding the competition between two small communities vying to receive Canada’s inventory of nuclear waste. Read More
June 7, 2024: Members of Y-EMERGE published a paper titled "Impact Assessment of Self-Medication on COVID-19 Prevalence in Gauteng, South Africa, Using an Age-Structured Disease Transmission Modelling Framework" in BMC Public Health. Read More
June 5, 2024: Professor Eric Kennedy, co-director of Y-EMERGE, was cited in a CityNews Toronto article titled "‘Absolutely brutal’: Ontario to halt COVID-19 wastewater surveillance program".Read More
June 4, 2024: Tyee referenced York University Professor Mark Winfield in an article, discussing how a hydrogen production deal could potentially aid in revitalizing oceanic dead zones. Read More
May 28, 2024: Dr. Eric B. Kennedy, Associate Professor in Disaster and Emergency Management, was quoted on MSN News discussing the challenges provinces face in hiring firefighting pilots as wildfires burn across Canada. Read More
May 27, 2024: Dr Yvonne Su was quoted in The Guardian article "Starmer's Macho Talk on Asylum Seekers Will Only Lead to More Tragedy. Where is His Humanity?" Read More
May 18, 2024: Professor Afshin Rezaei-Zare, a Y-EMERGE Member, was quoted on cbc.ca in an article titled "The Solar Storm Knocked Out GPS Equipment on Farms – and It Could Happen Again." Read More.
May 18, 2024, Professor Jack Rozdilsky was quoted in Global News in an article titled "Wildfire Evacuations: What to Know in Case You Have to Leave Your Home." Read More
May 11, 2024: Dr. Eric B. Kennedy was quoted in the Seeker, emphasizing the need for communities to move from knowing how to mitigate risk to the rapid and widespread adoption of crucial prevention measures for wildfire readiness. Read More.
May 11, 2024: An op-ed titled "Campus Unrest Today Echoes Student Protests in 1968" by Dr. Jack L. Rozdilsky, Professor of Disaster and Emergency Management, was published in the London Free Press. Read More
May 8, 2024: Professors Ali Asgary and Eric Kennedy, Co-Directors of Y-EMERGE, travelled to the Philippines to establish a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the country’s Civil Defense Training Institute (CDTI). Read More
May 8, 2024: Professor Jack Rozdilsky weighed in on the importance of Canada’s national alert system in warning Canadians about emergencies, such as floods and tornadoes, as part of Emergency Preparedness Week. Read more on @CBCNews.
May 8, 2024: Professors Ali Asgary and Eric Kennedy, Co-Directors of Y-EMERGE, have travelled to the Philippines to establish a memorandum of understanding (MOU) with the country’s Civil Defense Training Institute (CDTI). Read More
May 8, 2024: York University brings emergency management journal in-house”. The Canadian Journal of Emergency Management, once published independently, has migrated to York Digital Journals (YDJ), and Dr Eric Kennedy is now its new editor-in-chief. Read More
May 7, 2024: Y-EMERGE member Professor Yvonne Su was quoted in The Globe and Mail in an article titled "Federal Program Matching Refugees with Jobs Set to Be Made Permanent." Read More
May 5, 2024: An op-ed co-written by Professors Yvonne Su and her colleagues, titled "Setting the Record Straight on Refugee Claims by International Students," was published in The Conversation. Read More
May 3, 2024: An op-ed titled "History Repeats Itself as Columbia University Cracks Down on Student Protests" by Dr. Jack L. Rozdilsky, Professor of Disaster and Emergency Management, was published in The Conversation. Read More
April 19, 2024: Dr. Evalyna Bogdan and her colleagues' paper, "Disaster Awareness and Preparedness Among Older Adults in Canada Regarding Floods, Wildfires, and Earthquakes," was published in the International Journal of Disaster Risk Science. Read More
April 19, 2024: Professor Yvonne Su and her colleague have published their latest paper, "Empty Pantries: The Death of Survival Myths Among Typhoon Haiyan Survivors in Resettlement Sites during COVID-19," in the International Journal of Disaster Risk Reduction. Read More
April 18, 2024: Professor Jimmy Huang and his colleagues recently their latest paper, "A Survey on Retrieval-Augmented Text Generation for Large Language Models." Published in the LJ Library Journal. Read More
April 9, 2024: In a recently published paper, Professor Usman Khan and Rahma Khalid proposed a promising new model for flood susceptibility mapping (FSM) that incorporates artificial intelligence (AI) machine learning (ML) methods. Read More
April 8, 2024: Dr. Ali Asgary, Dr. Jianhong Wu, Dr. Jude Kong, and Dr. James Orbinski, members of Y-EMERGE, published their paper titled "The Determinants of Under-Estimation of COVID-19 Cases Across Africa" on SSRN. Read More
April 8, 2024: Professor Mark Winfield was quoted in Hakai Magazine, discussing the potential of green hydrogen production to revive oceanic dead zones. Read More
April 6, 2024: Professor Mark Winfield was cited on CTVNews discussing a Federal minister's statement regarding nuclear power's role in the expansion of renewable energy. Read More
April 3, 2024: An op-ed titled 'Niagara pre-emptively declares a state of emergency in anticipation of massive solar eclipse crowds.' by Professor Jack L. Rozdilsky was published in the Conversation. Read More
April 1, 2024, Professor Eric Kennedy and his colleagues released a paper titled "Examining Human Behavior in Wildfire Evacuations" in the Canadian Journal of Civil Engineering. Read More
April 1, 2024:Op-Ed Co-Written by Professor Mark Winfield Warns of 'Nuclear Dinosaurs' in New Brunswick and Ontario Amid Impending 'Jurassic' Partnership, as Published in EnergyMix. Read More
March 31, 2024: As featured in The Globe and Mail, Professor Nirupama Agrawal, a Y-EMERGE member, supports Niagara's pre-emptive emergency declaration ahead of the solar eclipse. Read More
March 31, 2024: Professor Wu and his colleagues' paper titled 'An Advanced Deep Learning Framework for Simulating Information Propagation Dynamics' has been published on SSRN. Read More
March 29, 2024, marked the publication of a paper by Dr. Ali Asgary and his colleagues. The paper, titled "A novel flood/water extraction index (FWEI) for identifying water and flooded areas using Sentinel-2 visible and near-infrared spectral bands," appeared in the Stochastic Environmental Research and Risk Assessment journal. Read More
March 28, 2024: Professor Jack L. Rozdilsky's recent article, 'A Human, Environmental, and Economic Emergency Response to the Baltimore Key Bridge Collapse,' was published in The Conversation. Read More
March 26, 2024: Professor Cary Wu, a member of Y-EMERGE, published an article on PHYS.ORG News investigating why women are cited less frequently than men. The article delves into various approaches, explanations, and implications. Read More
March 19, 2024: Professor Wu, a Distinguished Research Professor at York University's Faculty of Science, was highlighted in a professional feature in the Society for Industrial & Applied Mathematics publication DSWeb Magazine. Read More
March 19, 2024: The Social Sciences & Humanities Research Council website published an interview with Professor Stephen Gaetz, a Y-EMERGE member, about the state of homelessness in Canada and his related research. Read More
March 13, 2024: Mark Winfield, a member of Y-EMERGE and professor at York University, was cited in CBC News. Read More
March 10, 2024: An op-ed by York University Professor Jack L. Rozdilsky was published in the Conversation. Read More
March 6, 2024: York Academics, including Dr. Jianhong Wu, a University Distinguished Research Professor, is recognized among the top two percent of researchers. Read More
March 4, 2024: Professor Jane Heffernan, co-director of the Canadian Centre for Disease Modelling, was quoted in the National Post. Read More
March 4, 2024: York University Professor Yvonne Su Affirms: Mutual Aid is a Lifeline, as Quoted in Chatelaine. Read More
On March 2, 2024, a paper authored by Professor Ali Asgary and his colleagues, titled "A Survey of the Use of Modeling, Simulation, Visualization, and Mapping in Public Health Emergency Operations Centers during the COVID-19 Pandemic," was published in the International Journal of Environmental Research and Public Health. Read More
February 24, 2024: Professor Yvonne Su has been invited to the University of Oxford to give a presentation on climate mitigation. Read More
February 20, 2024: The Y-EMERGE Member, Professor Iain Moyles, was recognized with the Excellence in Graduate Mentorship Award. Read More
February 6, 2024: Mark Winfield, Professor of Environmental and Urban Change at York University, Publishes Op-Ed in The Globe and Mail. Read More
February 12, 2024: Professor Jimmy Huang, a Y-EMERGE member, co-authors a groundbreaking study on Dependent Task Scheduling Using Parallel Deep Neural Networks in Mobile Edge Computing. Read More
February 1, 2024, Professor Mark Winfield, Co-Chair of the Sustainable Energy Initiative (SEI) at York University, was quoted in the Energy Mix. Read More
January 24, 2024: YEMERGE Director Professor Jianhong Wu, along with five other York faculty members, were elected to the Royal Society of Canada. Read More
January 27, 2024: Dr. Yvonne Su Sheds Light on the Perils of Sinking Pacific Islands in Her New Article: 'Dangerous Shoals and Rescue Efforts. Read More
January 24, 2023: Professor Jack Rozdilsky, an associate professor of disaster and emergency management, wrote in The Conversation about what the Doomsday Clock’s new setting means. Read More
January 24, 2024: Dr. Yvonne, YEMERGE member, Explores: The Australia-Tuvalu deal shows why we need a global framework for climate relocations. Read More
January 20, 2024: Dr. Cary Wu's Study on Political Polarization and the Dynamics between Actual Income and Perceived Income Inequality in the United States, 1987 to 2021, was published in the American Sociological Association Journal. Read More
January 19, 2024: In a recent interview with the National Post, Ehsanullah Amiri talked with Professor Jack Rozdilsky, an associate professor at York University and a member of Y-EMERGE. Read More
January 18, 2024: York postdoctoral fellow Martin Grunnill and an academic-industrial collaborative team, including YEMERGE director Dr. Jianhong Wu, paper on Modelling disease mitigation at mass gatherings: A case study of COVID-19 at the 2022 FIFA World Cup was published. Read More
January 18, 2024: FIFA World Cup ends with a win for Argentina and COVID-19, new research finds. Read More
January 12, 2024: Y-EMERGE Luminary, Professor Hassan Qudrat-Ullah, achieves a remarkable publishing feat: Unveiling Three Groundbreaking Books in the Past November: Spanning Systems Thinking, Supply Chain Mastery, and Sustainable Development. Read More
January 8, 2024: YEMERGE Associate Director Dr. Eric Kennedy Discusses York University's Global Campuses and Future Changemakers. Read More

December 16, 2022 - Professor Eric B. Kennedy, the Associated Director of Y-EMERGE, appointed member of the Ontario Public Health Emergencies Science Advisory Committee (OPHESAC)
December 16, 2022 - Professor Jianhong Wu, inducted as Fellow to Royal Society of Canada and Canadian Academy of Health Sciences. Also, early in July, Professor Wu was inducted to a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences. Read more here.
December 14, 2022 - York University Professor Hassan Qudrat-Ullah edits a book that explores how COVID-19 has changed business supply chain
November 14, 2022 - Y-EMERGE Member Jack L. Rozdilsky was featured in Yahoo! News Canada Nov. 14.
November 9, 2022 - Canada's 'Don’t Call Me Resilient' podcast features Y-EMERGE member Yvonne Su. Here is the link to listen and the article to read more.

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