St. George’s University welcomed a record-breaking 415 attendees to its 22nd Annual Research Day and Phi Zeta Research Emphasis Day on March 21, held at Louis and Marion Modica Hall. The strong turnout, including 375 in-person participants and 40 virtual attendees, marked the largest gathering to date and underscored SGU’s growing culture of research, collaboration, and academic excellence.
The full-day event brought together faculty, students, researchers, community members, secondary school students and teachers, as well as representatives from the Government of Grenada and international organizations. Attendees explored 172 presentations and posters spanning all four schools, highlighting the depth and diversity of research taking place across the University.
“Research Day is a powerful reflection of SGU’s commitment to discovery, innovation, and academic excellence,” said Dr. Mark Clunes, provost and vice president of Academic Affairs of SGU. “The record participation and breadth of scholarship on display speak to the strength of our research enterprise and its growing impact, not only within our University but across the region and around the world.”
This year’s program featured 42 School of Veterinary Medicine oral presentations, 34 from the School of Medicine, eight from the School of Arts and Sciences, and additional contributions from the School of Graduate Studies and external collaborators. Throughout the day, participants took part in dynamic presentations and interactive, multidisciplinary sessions, culminating in a poster session and networking reception featuring a live piano recital and supported by donor contributions exceeding $8,000 USD.
Inspiring the next generation of researchers
A key highlight of this year’s event was its expanded community outreach initiative. SGU welcomed secondary school students and educators from across Grenada, offering them early exposure to the world of research through a hands-on workshop on the use of artificial intelligence in scientific inquiry. The session introduced students to emerging tools shaping the future of research while reinforcing the University’s commitment to building pathways for future scientists.
One particularly impactful moment underscored this focus, as a student asked, “What does a researcher look like?” The question sparked reflection on the importance of representation, access, and mentorship in helping young people envision themselves in scientific careers.
The future of surgical innovation
The keynote address was delivered by Dr. Jonathan Noël, a consultant urological surgeon at Guy’s and St. Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust in London. In his featured lecture, “Robotic Surgery and Telesurgery: Past, Present and Future,” Dr. Noël provided a compelling overview of how advanced technologies are transforming modern surgical practice.
A University of the West Indies graduate, Dr. Noël previously served as a clinical tutor in anatomy at SGU before completing his surgical and urology training in the United Kingdom, followed by a fellowship in robotic surgery at the Global Robotic Institute in Florida. His presentation drew on this extensive international experience, highlighting the growing role of minimally invasive and robotic techniques in improving patient outcomes and expanding access to specialized care.
“As robotic and telesurgical capabilities continue to evolve, they are not only enhancing precision and outcomes but also expanding access to care across borders and transforming what is possible in modern medicine,” said Dr. Noël.
Advancing research and global collaboration
The event was organized by the Office of Research and Scholarly Activity and opened with remarks from Dr. Trevor Noël, assistant provost of Research and Scholarly Activity. In his address, Dr. Noël highlighted the Office’s role in strengthening SGU’s research environment and supporting faculty and student scholarship across disciplines.
He also outlined the University’s “1/3s” philosophy, an approach that recognizes the importance of building on past achievements, advancing current research priorities, and strategically shaping the future of research at SGU. This framework emphasizes continuity, growth, and innovation, while reinforcing SGU’s commitment to addressing global challenges through impactful research and collaboration.
“This year’s Research Day not only surpassed previous records in participation but also highlighted the remarkable quality and diversity of research being conducted at SGU,” said Dr. Noël. “Events like this are critical in fostering a spirit of inquiry and supporting the next generation of scientists and scholars.”
Recognizing excellence in research
Winners of this year’s top presentations will be announced at the Research Day Prize Giving Ceremony on April 10. Held at the campus-based Windward Islands Research and Education Foundation (WINDREF), the ceremony will recognize each awardee with a commemorative plaque.
During the event, SGU also conducted a soft launch of the 21st Caribbean Child Research Conference. Scheduled to take place in Grenada on November 28–29, 2026, the conference highlights the University’s role as a regional leader in research, collaboration, and child-focused scholarship.
SGU will host the next Research Day on Saturday, October 30, 2027.
