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Writer's pictureLenora Thomas

35 Years of Innovation: 2007 ASTech Winners

In 2007, a monumental shift in our interaction with technology occurred with the release of Apple’s iPhone. This device made it possible to have the internet with us at all times, eliminating the need to log in from home to check emails (unless you had a Blackberry) or use a laptop for every online search. The iPhone was the catalyst for taking everything online and keeping our phones with us constantly.


Beyond the iPhone, several companies introduced groundbreaking technologies. Zendesk launched its new support tool for tracking customer support calls. Dropbox allowed us to store and share information in the cloud. For fitness enthusiasts, Fitbit enabled us to track our steps.


In Alberta, significant innovations emerged as well. Circle Cardiovascular Imaging, a Calgary-based company, started innovating in cardiac CT and MR scans. DeepMarkit launched in 2007, transitioning over the years into commercializing new technologies in green tech and artificial intelligence. DevFacto (now Lantern as of 2023), a notable Edmonton scale-up, began creating custom solutions to address companies’ needs.


In 2007, ASTech winners made notable contributions in physics, molecular diagnostics, engineering, and biotech.


Here are some highlights from that year:


  • Dr. Maurice Moloney won the Innovation in Agricultural Science award for developing the first transgenic canola. He founded SemBioSys, a spin-off from the University of Calgary in 1994, where his team’s groundbreaking work in biotherapeutics included cost-effective insulin derived from safflower seeds. In 2007, SemBioSys formed a subsidiary, Botaneco, based in Calgary. While SemBioSys is no longer in business, Botaneco continues to work on aquaculture feed ingredients, plant-based food ingredients, and personal care products. Dr. Moloney, who published over 70 research papers and filed 15 patent families, is now the co-founder and advisor for Core Biogenesis in France.

  • Dr. Garnette Sutherland was recognized for his innovation in neurosurgical applications with the creation of neuroArm, a 3D robotic arm used in brain surgery developed at the University of Calgary, Schulich School of Engineering (Biomedical). Dr. Sutherland received the ASTech Outstanding Leadership in Alberta Technology award for his contributions to using image-guided robotic technology for intricate surgical procedures, significantly improving patient outcomes. NeuroArm, the first image-guided, MR-compatible surgical robot capable of performing both microsurgery and stereotaxy, allows neurosurgeons to perform precise brain surgeries by operating a robotic arm from a console while the patient undergoes MRI, enhancing safety and outcomes. The neuroArm project led to the creation of OrbSurgical, founded by Dr. Sutherland, which manufactures the neuroArm for the medical industry.


These achievements reflect Alberta's dynamic and innovative spirit in 2007, contributing to a thriving technological and scientific landscape.


In 2007, there were 11 ASTech Award Winners, you can dig into their achievements here.


This post is in partnership with Technology Alberta and the ASTech Awards, celebrating the impact of 35 years of innovation in Alberta, tying our past to our present. Our thanks to Lisa Carter and Neil Goud for their research and support.

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