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Marc Johnson, an associate professor of evolutionary biology at the University of Toronto Mississauga, has been awarded by (NSERC).

Presented annually to up to six early-stage academic researchers, the fellowship offers $250,000 over two years to help “enhance their research capacity, so that they can become leaders in their field and inspire others,” according to the NSERC website.

“It’s the honour of a career, maybe the greatest I will receive,” says Johnson, who calls the fellowship a “game-changer” for the funds it provides and the time to focus exclusively on research without teaching and administrative responsibilities.

“It’s the time I’m most excited about. This is more important than any money they could have given me,” he says. “This is my opportunity to take my research to the next level and make discoveries that could change the world.”

“The University of Toronto congratulates Marc Johnson on this important recognition,” said Ted Sargent, U of T’s vice-president of research and innovation and strategic initiatives. “His Global Urban Evolution Project is the world’s largest collaborative study of how urbanization around the world is influencing the ecology and evolution of organisms – and his EvoEco Lab is partnering with hundreds of scientists around the world.

“His work will help us better understand the evolutionary challenges posed by urbanization and climate change.”

“Marc is passionate about science,” said Professor Joel Levine, chair of the department of biology at U of T Mississauga. “His research is outstanding and his vision is extraordinary. The department of biology is proud of this award.

“On behalf of the group I wish him continued great success as we join with others across the University of Toronto and the rest of Canada to say: Congratulations!”