McMaster and Western forge strategic partnership to expand research infrastructure access across institutions

We are pleased to announce that McMaster and Western have signed a strategic agreement to share access to 13 leading research facilities at each of our institutions.

This partnership is a significant step toward deepening collaborations between two of Canada’s leading research-intensive universities and strengthening the research ecosystem within the region. It unlocks new opportunities for researchers and research outcomes by providing reciprocal access to members of both communities.

Equitable Access, Enhanced Impact

Under the agreement, researchers are provided the same usage rates and charged the same fees as those affiliated with the host institution, removing financial barriers that often limit cross-institutional collaboration. This equitable model ensures national and provincial investments in research infrastructure are fully leveraged to support high-impact discovery.

We hope to reduce duplication and encourage synergies within – and across – institutions wherever possible. This partnership is a first step in a longer-term strategy to develop a regional node of core research platforms with other institutions in the area.

By leveraging each other’s world-class facilities, our institutions aim to:

• Maximize the use of cutting-edge research infrastructure;
• Enhance training and mentorship opportunities;
• Accelerate interdisciplinary collaboration; and
• Build a more connected and resilient research community across Southern Ontario.

Which Facilities are Included:

Researchers at McMaster and Western will share equal access to 13 premier facilities at the two institutions, including:

Looking Ahead

Launched as a three-year pilot in 2025 – with the flexibility to add facilities over time – the partnership underscores a shared commitment to advancing Canadian research excellence. Through this Team Ontario approach, McMaster and Western will build a more integrated, efficient and accessible research ecosystem to support discovery, innovation and the next generation of research leaders and outcomes.

Gianni Parise                                                                           Penny Pexman

Vice-President, Research                                                          Vice-President (Research)
McMaster University                                                                  Western University