SACKVILLE, NB — Two Mount Allison University faculty members received funding through the Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada’s (SSHRC) Insight Development Grant program during the latest funding competition announcement.

Dr. Lauren Beck, professor of visual and material culture studies (VMCS) and Canada Research Chair in Intercultural Encounter, received $73,509 in funding for her study "Visualizing Far-Right Groups through Medievalism and Early Modernism." Beck was also awarded a $10,000 Department of National Defence (DND) Research Initiative for this project.

The project delves into the evolving landscape of far-right movements in North America, examining their use of historical references, particularly medieval and early modern imagery, to shape their identity and attract support.

Dr. Alison O’Connor, professor of psychology, received a grant valued at $70,632 for her study "Exploring socioemotional correlates of younger and older adults' lie-telling: A multi-methodological approach."

The project will look at how lying impacts the well-being and relationships of older adults compared to younger individuals, with the goal of improving social and mental health throughout adulthood. It seeks to provide insights for psychologists, caregivers, and the general public, shedding light on an important but often overlooked aspect of human behaviour.

“The calibre of research initiatives at Mount Allison has always been impressive,” says Interim Provost and Vice-President, Academic and Research Dr. Vicki St. Pierre. “These projects, which delve into the complexities of human behaviour and societal dynamics, promise to reveal new perspectives and understanding about the world around us, and our place in that world. Mount Allison is very proud of the exceptional work being done by these researchers, and I wish to congratulate this year’s recipients and look forward to hearing more about their findings.”

About SSHRC

The Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council of Canada (SSHRC) is the federal research funding agency that promotes and supports postsecondary-based research and research training in the humanities and social sciences (www.sshrc-crsh.gc.ca).