Dr. Erin Mazerolle, a psychology professor at St. Francis Xavier University, has been named a Tier II Canada Research Chair in Brain Health Literacy. The announcement was made September 10, 2026 at the Coady Institute on campus.
The prestigious position brings $500,000 in federal funding over five years, plus an annual $20,000 research stipend. Jaime Battiste, MP for Cape Breton-Canso-Antigonish, made the announcement, noting the importance of brain health research for the region.
Dr. Mazerolle’s research focuses on how people learn about the brain and how that knowledge can improve health. Her work will begin by surveying Canadians to understand current brain health literacy, then develop best practices for teaching the public. The research will address gaps related to housing, education, and aging.
“This really builds our capacity,” said Dr. Amanda Cockshutt, StFX’s Academic Vice-President and Provost. The university currently holds one Tier I and four Tier II Canada Research Chairs; Dr. Mazerolle becomes the fifth chair. StFX has also been allocated two new Tier I chairs.
The research has particular relevance for vulnerable populations. Approximately half of people experiencing homelessness have a brain injury, and 22.5% live with moderate or severe brain injuries, nearly ten times the general population rate. Dr. Mazerolle’s community-engaged approach aims to address such gaps.
For Antigonish, the designation signals StFX’s growing role as a hub for brain health research. It may bring new research programs and local collaboration opportunities, and could lead to student research positions at the university.
