World-class kinesiology research facility coming to the University of Calgary

Calgary, AB – The University of Calgary will soon be home to one of the most advanced post-secondary research facilities for the study of human performance, movement and sport science, thanks to an extraordinary $20-million gift from the Taylor Family Foundation.

The Taylor Family Kinesiology Building will take UCalgary from one of the top sport science schools in North America to an international leader, with a state-of-the-art research facility that will enable revolutionary advancements in exercise physiology, neuroscience, nutrition and more. This extensive project will also revitalize existing spaces to improve labs and offices, enabling growth to undergraduate enrolment and drawing top scholars to the city — further strengthening excellence in both teaching and research.

“The Faculty of Kinesiology has already earned a place among the top sport science schools in North America, and the time has come to expand its potential. The Taylor Family’s long-standing support and vision has truly helped make the extraordinary possible at UCalgary, and we look forward to opening this iconic new facility to further our leadership in human movement, sport, recreation, and wellness.”

Dr. Ed McCauley, PhD, President and Vice-chancellor, University of Calgary

The new gift makes the Taylor Family the largest individual donor to the University of Calgary, with their support over the years totalling more than $100 million.

Don Taylor, OC, Hon. LLD’07, has supported the Faculty of Kinesiology since 1997, when he funded the Dr. Benno Nigg Chair in Biomechanics, Mobility and Longevity — named for the founder of UCalgary’s Human Performance Lab, with whom Taylor formed a deep friendship.

“Witnessing the faculty’s growth and increasing standing on the world stage over the years is inspiring. I’m thrilled by its success. Looking to the future, this new investment in the faculty just makes sense.”

Don Taylor, OC, Hon. LLD’07, Donor

The facility will boast 25,000 square feet dedicated to world-class kinesiology teaching and research — and a new home for the Human Performance Lab — a multidisciplinary centre that explores mobility and longevity. The expanded space will accelerate what is possible with an impressive breadth of equipment, with hundreds of pieces ranging from multiphoton microscopes and cell incubators to motion-capture systems and instrumented treadmills.

“We are set to be a global leader for decades to come with this new facility. Building upon our world-renowned excellence, we look forward to preparing more leaders in research and industry – and accelerating collaborations with leading companies around the world.”

Dr. Nick Holt, PhD, Dean, Faculty of Kinesiology

The Faculty of Kinesiology has earned a reputation for excellence that is due in part to the legacy of the 1988 Winter Olympics. Building on this foundation and a commitment to transdisciplinary research, the faculty has continued to climb in rankings over the decades. UCalgary faculty, researchers and students have consistently led the way in their fields and this new facility will empower their promising and impactful work. Discover more at ucalgary.ca/taylor-kinesiology

Media inquiries

Michael Platt
Senior Specialist, Media, Issues, and Outreach
403.830.2452
Michael.platt@ucalgary.ca

Brennan Black
Advisor, Media, Issues, and Outreach
brennan.black@ucalgary.ca

About the University of Calgary
UCalgary is Canada’s entrepreneurial university, located in Canada’s most enterprising city. It is a top research university and one of the highest-ranked universities of its age. Founded in 1966, its 35,000 students experience an innovative learning environment, made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. It is Canada’s leader in the creation of start-ups. Start something today at the University of Calgary.

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About the Faculty of Kinesiology

The Faculty of Kinesiology is one of the top sport science schools in the world and is improving health and mobility for all ages, from recreation participants to elite athletes and Olympians, as well as those with disability and disease.