The Stories (and the Person) Behind Trent’s World-Class Research Equipment
The vital role science facilities manager Chris Williams plays at Trent
It was big news when Trent’s Water Quality Centre recently got an expensive and highly specialized piece of research equipment called an ICP Mass Spectrometer – the $1.5 million machine is one of only eight in the world.
But behind the scenes, before Trent’s scientists could start using it, someone had to figure out the logistics: Where in the centre could it be placed so it would have a vibration-free floor? Would it require special exhaust or electrical needs? How many tractor trailers would be required to bring in all of the parts, so it could be assembled piece by piece?
Enter Chris Williams.
Trent’s science facilities manager, who works on these types of logistical issues every day with assistant Angela Sikma, says he loves that his job is “never boring” as he assists faculty with the purchasing, maintenance and repair of research equipment and central science services, partly funded through the federal Research Support Fund (RSF).
His unique position allows him to be a resource for scientists. Working with him beforehand means scientists can avoid big mistakes.
“They might buy a big expensive piece of equipment and then it doesn’t go through the door,” Mr. Williams explains. “Or they find out after the fact that they need electrical, and that’s another $10,000. Or, oops, now they also require exhaust. We help avoid those big costly mistakes.”
Mr. Williams is a Trent alumnus – earning his Masters science degree here in 1992 – so he enjoys that his position allows him to keep up with the ever-advancing world of science.
“I love staying in the scientific world and always staying fresh with new fascinating technology,” he says. He knows his position would not be possible without the support of the RSF. “Without it, scientists wouldn’t be able to access the kind of resources they need.”
The Research Support Fund supports a portion of the costs associated with managing the research funded by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council, and Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council, such as salaries for staff who provide administration support, training costs for workplace health and safety, maintenance of libraries and laboratories, and administrative costs associated with obtaining patents for inventions.