Science and innovation

Latest stories

A student's perspective: entomology at the CFIA

My name is Kiersten DeViller, and I'm in my third year studying Biology at Carleton University. My summer was filled with new experiences and so many beetles, so here's a little snapshot of what it looked like.

Food poisoning trivia with 2 epidemiologists

In this podcast episode, we bust popular myths about food poisoning with 2 epidemiologists, Tanis Kershaw and Courtney Smith, from the Public Health Agency of Canada.

The food safety puzzle: piecing together an outbreak investigation

Behind every outbreak of food poisoning, a team of detectives works around the clock to pinpoint the source. This podcast episode, 4 experts explain how they connect the dots to save lives.

How food testing helps keep you safe

CFIA scientists test food products to look for undeclared allergens and other hazards, like pesticides and bacteria, that could make you or your loved ones sick.

International conference drives science forward in the post-pandemic era

The 2021 BSL4ZNet conference brought together experts from around the world. Learn more about this CFIA-led network and the role of science diplomacy in protecting human and animal health.

Creating more inclusive workspaces at the CFIA's Burnaby Laboratory

Learn how welcoming a student at our Burnaby Laboratory sparked a journey towards inclusivity that created more accommodating workspaces for current and future scientists.

Meet Dr. Caitlyn Best, CFIA veterinary program officer

In my job, dealing with animal diseases and outbreaks is rewarding. Even when there are no active outbreaks, I’m always thinking of how Canada can prepare. And that’s why I work at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA).

Digging through the past and planting seeds for the future

The CFIA's Centre for Plant Health will soon be home to a state-of-the-art scientific facility. Discover the fascinating century-old records and artifacts that volunteers unearthed as construction gets underway.

Meet Anas Zaman, CFIA junior communications officer

For Generation Z (including me), choosing a career path and entering the workforce can be intimidating. Here's how a co-op student opportunity at the CFIA opened my eyes to the fascinating world of communications in the Government of Canada.

Outstanding in their field: meet Ashley Balchin and Renée Cloutier, CFIA plant breeders' rights examiners

Plant breeding helps boost new crop varieties, yields, tolerance to disease and nutritional value for the food we grow. Here’s how two CFIA experts support innovations that benefit shoppers, farmers and other countries.

Women in Science: meet Diane Allan, Vice-President of Science at the CFIA

The CFIA has many exciting job opportunities where you could help to protect Canada's food, plants and animals. Watch Diane Allan's inspiring message for women and girls considering a career in STEM.

Meet Dr. Carmencita Lake, CFIA veterinarian

I can’t think of a time when I didn’t want to be a veterinarian. After 20 years in private practice, here’s how I’m helping to protect your health while paving the way for the next generation of veterinarians and inspectors.

New technology to detect and identify plant diseases

With the help an online tool, scientists at the CFIA’s Charlottetown Laboratory can quickly pinpoint plant pathogens based on their DNA. That’s great news for our crops and ecosystems!

Meet Ray Knight, CFIA ship inspector

Many people are surprised to learn that the CFIA inspects ships to stop the spread of invasive species. One thing is for shore: it’s an important job. Let me explain why.

Meet Wei Ke, CFIA application analyst

Because I'm hearing impaired, I used to rely on colleagues to take notes at meetings. Now I rely on technology. Learn how I am able to work, and how the CFIA helps support persons with special needs.