Science Atlantic launches database to enable sharing of high-priced equipment

In an effort to make sure equipment bought with public money is used efficiently, CBC reports that a new database launched by Science Atlantic will make it easier for Atlantic Canadian researchers to share major equipment. AFRED—the online, open-access database—allows researchers to search for available research equipment at Atlantic postsecondary institutions, read brief descriptions of the equipment, and see contact information for the host facilities. Science Atlantic Chair David McCorquodale noted that the increasing the use of the specialized equipment, which is currently “not used to full capacity,” could result in benefits to both research and economic development. CBC