Sergey Krylov, a professor in Department of Chemistry in the Faculty of Science at York University and a Tier 1 York Research Chair in Bioanalytical Chemistry, has received more than $717,000 over three years from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).
The award will fund Krylov’s project, which helps streamline the process for small-scale chemical manufacturing (SSCM), used for the production of pharmaceuticals, research, reagents, nanomaterials etc. There is an unmet need for a continuous synthesis/purification/analysis technology that could facilitate streamlined SSCM.
Krylov and his research team, joined with Professor A. Yudin from University of Toronto, AB Sciex, and Alphora Research to develop a FLOWSTREAM technology platform that integrates continuous synthesis, purification, on-line analysis, and automated process control for use in pharmaceutical chemistry. The technology’s anticipated use in pharmaceutical chemistry is completely-uninterrupted continuous-flow manufacturing of drug leads and drugs. FLOWSTREAM relies on chemical reactions and purification process in water rather than hazardous organic solvents; it, thus, creates a technological platform for chemical manufacturing with a small environmental footprint.
“Professor Krylov and his research team are working to develop novel methods for the production of pharmaceuticals in collaboration with industry,” said Robert Haché, York’s vice-president research & innovation. “The Natural Sciences and Engineering Council of Canada’s investments in research, support the creation of new knowledge and scientific scholarship. At York, we appreciate their continued support and recognition of the work of our researchers.”
Ed Holder, minister of state (science and technology), accompanied by Mike Allen, member of parliament for Tobique-Mactaquac, made the announcement on Feb. 10.
The investments are the result of the 2014 Strategic Project Grants competition, administered by NSERC. Through this program, researchers work with companies on projects that will generate new knowledge and technology with the strong potential to strengthen Canada’s industrial base, generate wealth, and create employment opportunities in areas of importance to Canadians. This year, $38 million in support will be awarded to 78 scientific teams at universities across the country. Researchers will work with companies and other organizations on long-term projects in areas that benefit Canadians and improve their quality of life.
See the complete list of NSERC recipients.