Stephanie MacQuarrie
Sydney, Nova Scotia
Position: Dean of Science and Technology
Organization: Cape Breton University
Dr. MacQuarrie is the Dean of Science and Technology and Full Professor of Organic Chemistry at Cape Breton University and NSERC Chair for Inclusion in Science and Engineering. Originating from Nova Scotia, she obtained her BSc from Mount Allison University in 1996 starting her research career with Dr. Langler studying thiols. She continued to pursue chemistry in graduate school at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University where she earned her PhD in organic chemistry practicing asymmetric synthesis. In Dr. Crudden’s group at Queen’s University during her post-doc she had the opportunity to step outside of organic, and into materials and metals. Now at CBU, Stephanie’s research includes finding high value applications for waste streams, reducing the total carbon footprint of advanced materials and the development of functional materials for electronics, catalysis and absorption. With her partner she has raised three awesome kids in Cape Breton and they enjoy hosting visitors on North America’s #1 Island! Over the last 14 years, Stephanie has developed comprehensive and far-reaching initiatives (Promo-Science funded Island WISE) aimed at encouraging and promoting interest and public awareness as well as growing a sense of wonder about science in young girls in rural communities.
Areas of Expertise:
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My Work
What I do:
I am deeply committed to creating inclusive spaces in science and technology. As the founder of Island WISE (Women in Science and Engineering), I have spent over a decade developing initiatives to inspire young women in rural communities to pursue STEM careers. Through mentorship, educational events, and national collaborations, I have worked tirelessly to address systemic barriers and nurture the next generation of scientists. As Dean, I bring leadership, problem-solving, and compassion to my role. I advocate for students navigating challenging academic paths, collaborate on curriculum development, and prioritize the recruitment and retention of exceptional faculty. My leadership philosophy is rooted in active listening, flexibility, and respect, ensuring that decisions are thoughtful and impactful. Nationally, I have taken a active role in advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI). As one of the Chairs for Inclusion in Science and Engineering for the Atlantic provinces I am working to address systemic barriers and increase accessibility for underrepresented groups in STEM fields. As the former Director of EDI for the Canadian Society for Chemistry, I have spearheaded initiatives like childcare at national conferences, developed accessible speaker policies, and co-organized symposia to foster meaningful conversations about diversity in science.
Ask me about:
My research which is rooted in sustainable chemistry, where I explore interesting materials such as biochar for applications in catalysis, water purification, and renewable energy. My work in promoting equity, diversity, accessibility and inclusion in the Chemistry Community nation wide. My work as one of the CISE Atlantic Chairs in promoting EDI and accessibility in STEM
Why me:
I have been at CBU in the Chemistry Department as the only female faculty member since September 2009. In Chemistry and many other STEM disciplines, women are still identified as under-represented groups. My materials research program has successfully attracted external funding through a continuous NSERC Discovery Grant worth $290,000 established in 2009. I have also secured more than 2.6 million in competitive research funding to CBU
Fun facts:
I love being outdoors, I have two massive pups and three pretty awesome kids. My partner is exceptional and supportive. My dad is in a rock band and my mom has a pet sloth!
About Me
Sector: Academia (Post Secondary)
English proficiency: Read, Write, Speak
Title: Professor
Pronouns: She/Her/Hers
Gender: Female