Canada Strengthens Global Science Leadership With CERN Collaboration and AI Investments
Canada strengthens science and research through a new CERN partnership and private investments in AI infrastructure. These efforts boost innovation, jobs, and economic growth.
Research & Innovation Canada: Science and Research Policy Update
September 3, 2025
Canada’s government is sharpening its focus on science and research, emphasizing collaboration and the strategic use of artificial intelligence (AI) to address pressing challenges and drive economic growth.
Mark Carney, sworn in as Canada’s 24th Prime Minister and leader of the Liberal Party in March 2025, has set clear goals: to unite Canadians, defend sovereignty, and build the strongest economy in the G7. His Cabinet includes The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and responsible for Economic Development in Quebec since May 2025.
The government views science and research as key to solving global issues, advancing innovation, and expanding knowledge. This is why it supports international collaboration and invests in research that pushes the boundaries of human understanding.
CERN: Strengthening Research Collaboration with Canada
In late May 2025, Minister Mélanie Joly announced Canada signed a statement of intent with the European Organization for Nuclear Research (CERN), based in Geneva, Switzerland. This agreement focuses on joint planning for future large-scale research infrastructure and the development of new tools and techniques.
Canada contributes to CERN through scientific expertise, advanced equipment, and talent, primarily via TRIUMF, the country’s particle accelerator centre. The statement ensures Canada’s continued leadership in physics and strengthens its role in exploring the universe’s fundamental mysteries.
The collaboration targets projects like the Future Circular Collider (FCC), CERN’s proposed next-generation particle accelerator set to succeed the Large Hadron Collider. Should the FCC proceed, Canada plans to participate actively in its physics and construction experiments, pending domestic approvals.
Beyond particle physics, the partnership also promotes joint development of advanced technologies such as quantum computing and AI, applying these to research and other fields.
The Honourable Mélanie Joly said, “Canada’s scientific community has long been at the forefront of particle physics research. This collaboration with CERN will diversify our international partnerships and strengthen Canada’s position as a global leader in science and innovation.”
Nigel Smith, Executive Director and CEO of TRIUMF, added that the agreement supports Canada’s major research facilities and the academic and industrial communities they serve.
Bolstering Canada’s AI Advantage
Also in late May 2025, Minister Joly and The Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation, welcomed announcements from leading telecom companies like Telus and Bell. These companies plan to build critical infrastructure to enhance Canada’s AI capabilities.
These private sector investments are expected to create quality jobs, open new opportunities for Canadian workers, and strengthen the country’s position as an AI leader. The initiatives support responsible AI development that benefits workers and businesses nationwide.
The government emphasizes that despite challenges such as tariffs imposed by the United States, industry efforts align with Canada’s economic goals. The focus is on scaling AI, boosting productivity, and reinforcing trust, security, and sovereignty.
Additionally, these investments aim to improve access to reliable and affordable telecommunications, supporting business growth across all regions of Canada.
The Future of Science and Research Policy in Canada
Canada is positioning itself for significant advancements in science and research policy. The agreement with CERN paves the way for stronger international scientific collaboration and innovation. Meanwhile, the expansion of AI infrastructure by private companies lays the groundwork for a technologically advanced future.
These developments create promising opportunities for researchers and innovators across the country, signaling a proactive approach to science and technology policy that supports both discovery and economic strength.
