Saskatchewan nuclear research received a boost this morning when the minister responsible for Innovation, Rob Norris, signed a multi-year agreement to provide funding for the new Canadian Centre for Nuclear Innovation.

"(The centre) will play a vital role in advancing our vision for a safe, responsible, value-added nuclear agenda that focuses on nuclear medicine, material science, safety and small reactor technology," Norris said, in a press release.

The research centre, based at the University of Saskatchewan, was approved in December to be distinct from the university, but to report on their academic and research activities, reflecting the university's academic interest in the centre's activities.

According to the release, the Canadian centre of Nuclear Innovation expects to issue a call for proposals later this spring. Then, local researchers can partner with outside industry, academics, and governments to submit project proposals.

Edited by News Talk Radio's Angela Hill