Recommendations for the Virtual Centre of Excellence for In Situ Research

This project was commissioned to develop recommendations for a governance structure, a five-year research framework, and 2–3 field centres for the Virtual Centre of Excellence (VCE) to lead and coordinate in-situ applied research across the three oil sands regions. The research framework includes a detailed funding model and implementation plan to guide long-term efforts. It also outlines the regulatory process for establishing the proposed field centres, which would support collaborative research, technology development, training, and education. The recommendations were informed by a literature review, interviews with academic and industry experts, and a collaborative workshop. Overall, the plan is designed to enhance coordination and impact of in-situ research throughout the oil sands region.

For the VCE to operate effectively, this project recommends a governance structure that contains a VCE Steering Committee, a Strategic Advisory Panel, an Administrator or administrative team, and Project Champions working in collaboration with various researchers and consultants. For long-term, multi-faceted projects, this project recommends that the location of the VCE occur in small watersheds, or sub basins, covering at least a few square kilometers as field study areas. There may be additional “satellite” sites, for example, specific, isolated well pads or reclamation areas being studied and monitored that may complement selected field centre sites.