Nigerian-born Professor Rita Orji, an internationally recognised artificial intelligence researcher, has emerged as one of three finalists for Canada's 2026 Public Impact Award, earning further recognition for her contributions to technology, healthcare and global scientific innovation.
A Professor of Computer Science at Dalhousie University and Canada Research Chair in Persuasive Technology, Professor Orji is being recognised alongside two researchers in Nova Scotia.
Her research focuses on human-centred artificial intelligence, persuasive computing, behavioural science and digital health. She explores how technology can influence positive behavioural change, improve healthcare outcomes and deliver practical solutions to societal challenges.
Through her work, she is advancing the development of digital interventions that encourage healthier decisions, support disease prevention and improve engagement with healthcare. Her research also contributes to the development of responsible and human-centred artificial intelligence.
Beyond academia, Professor Orji has secured a place in international technology governance through her appointment to the United Nations' first-ever Independent International Scientific Panel on Artificial Intelligence. She was selected among 40 experts from more than 2,600 candidates worldwide and is the only Nigerian among the appointed members.
The landmark panel provides independent scientific expertise to strengthen global understanding of artificial intelligence and inform international discussions and policymaking on its development and implications.
Her international recognition highlights the growing contribution of Nigerian expertise to scientific research and the global technology landscape.
The other finalists are Dr. Stefanie Colombo and Dr. Dave Risk, whose research addresses two other areas of innovation.
Dr. Colombo is an Associate Professor at Dalhousie University and Canada Research Chair in Aquaculture Nutrition. Her work involves developing innovative fish feeds and production practices that improve fish health. Her research is helping to strengthen the sustainability and competitiveness of Nova Scotia's seafood industry.
Dr. Risk is the Brian Mulroney Institute of Government Research Chair in Climate Science and Policy at St. Francis Xavier University. His work advances methods for measuring, understanding and reducing methane emissions while connecting scientific discoveries with environmental policy, industry and practical climate action.
Sponsored by Research Nova Scotia, the Public Impact Award recognises researchers whose work has delivered measurable benefits to Nova Scotia's economy. Unlike awards focused primarily on academic achievements, it emphasises the practical application of research through improved productivity, industrial competitiveness, economic growth and new commercial opportunities.
Its priority sectors include natural resources, climate change and clean energy; life sciences and health sciences; and construction and transportation. Researchers from academia, public research institutions, government and the private sector are eligible, regardless of whether they have previously received funding from Research Nova Scotia.
A key requirement is evidence that research has progressed into practical use through commercialisation, industry adoption, partnerships or other implementation pathways capable of producing measurable economic benefits within the province.
The 2026 winner will be announced in November at the 24th annual Discovery Awards, which celebrate outstanding achievements in science and technology and recognise innovators helping position Nova Scotia on the global innovation stage.
For Professor Orji, the finalist recognition adds another distinction to an international research career spanning artificial intelligence, healthcare and behavioural technology. Her achievements also offer a compelling example of Nigerian intellectual contributions to the institutions, research and policy conversations shaping the future of technology.
As artificial intelligence continues to transform healthcare, business, education and governance, researchers capable of connecting technological advancement with human needs will play an increasingly important role.
Professor Orji's emergence among the three finalists is therefore significant beyond the award itself. It highlights the reach of Nigerian talent in global science and reinforces the country's place in an increasingly competitive international knowledge economy.
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