Waterloo researchers, students and alumni tackle challenges through cross-disciplinary collaboration, developing creative solutions with global impact.
You're familiar with Waterloo's iconic inventions like BlackBerry and OpenText, and those mentioned in our 10 inventions you didn't know came from Waterloo - but you spoke, and we listened. Our readers helped us uncover even more groundbreaking innovations from this vibrant community that continue to shape industries worldwide.
The Waterloo Pump
In 1978, Waterloo engineering professors Drs. Alan Plumtree and Alfred Rudin invented the Waterloo Pump, a simple, durable water pump designed to be locally manufactured and easily repaired in developing countries. Responding to a request from Canada's International Development Research Centre, they created an affordable pump that could withstand harsh conditions - unlike complex, imported alternatives. The Waterloo Pump became widely successful and significantly improved access to clean water in rural communities around the world.
Anvil
Dr. Sebastian Fischmeister, professor of computer and electrical engineering and CEO and co-founder of Palitronica, led the development of the Anvil device, a cutting-edge non-destructive testing solution for evaluating the quality and cybersecurity integrity of electronic products before deployment. Anvil quickly identifies issues such as manufacturing defects, counterfeit components and vulnerabilities to cyber threats. Typically used at manufacturing facilities, it ensures products are secure and defect-free before shipping. Anvil provides businesses with a scalable, cost-effective solution to guarantee both hardware quality and security.
Food safety smart imaging system
Olga Pawluczyk (BASc '98) is CEO of P&P Optica (PPO) which provides advanced automated inspection systems for food safety and quality assurance in meat processing plants. Their patented Smart Imaging System uses hyperspectral imaging, artificial intelligence and machine learning to analyze the chemical composition of products in real time. Unlike traditional methods, PPO's technology detects foreign materials, such as plastic, wood and rubber, without relying on density or colour contrast. PPO enhances plant efficiency with real-time insights and supports processors in delivering safer, higher-quality food while reducing contamination risks.
Myo Armband
Created by Waterloo mechatronics engineering graduates Stephen Lake (BAsc '12), Matthew Bailey (BAsc '12) and Aaron Grant (BAsc '12) through their startup North (later acquired by Google), the Myo Armband advanced human-computer interaction. Launched in 2013, the armband uses muscle electrical activity to enable hands-free control of technology through gestures. Driven by the founders' vision to seamlessly blend the real and digital worlds, this futuristic invention can redefine how we engage with technology.
Roga
Co-founded by neurophysiologist Dr. Alison Smith (PhD '09) and Ami Lebendiker, Roga has developed a wearable device that reduces stress and anxiety through peripheral nerve stimulation behind the ears. Paired with an AI-powered app offering guided meditations, the non-invasive technology helps users build resilience and better manage stress. Launched from Waterloo's flagship Velocity incubator, the mental wellness startup has already secured corporate clients, established global partnerships and is now working toward achieving medical device status to broaden its impact on anxiety patients.
SolarPass
H2nanO, co-founded by Dr. Tim Leshuk (BASc '13, PhD '18) and Zac Young (BASc '15, MASc '20), addresses the environmental challenges of oil sands extraction with its patented SolarPass technology. By harnessing sunlight to degrade contaminants in process-affected water, SolarPass offers a faster, more sustainable solution compared to energy-intensive and chemical-heavy methods. Founded at the University, H2nanO benefited from research collaborations, co-op talent and Velocity's entrepreneurial ecosystem. Their innovative approach exemplifies how startups can deliver transformative solutions for sustainable industrial practices and environmental restoration.
Quantum delivery network security technology
evolutionQ, co-founded by Dr. Michele Mosca, Dr. Norbert Lütkenhaus and Dr. David Jao at the Institute for Quantum Computing, pioneers quantum delivery network (QDN) technology to ensure secure and resilient quantum-safe key management. The company provides cutting-edge cybersecurity solutions to protect networks from quantum threats, offering products like BasejumpSIM and BasejumpQDN to help clients transition to quantum-safe infrastructures. evolutionQ is at the forefront of securing digital systems against the evolving risks of quantum computing.
SCINTIX®
SCINTIX is a revolutionary cancer therapy developed by RefleXion Medical, a company co-founded by Waterloo alumni Akshay Nanduri (BASc '02, MASc '03) and Dr. Samuel Mazin (BASc '02). This innovative technology integrates PET imaging and radiotherapy to deliver precise, real-time treatment for tumours, including metastatic cancers. By leveraging live data and radiotracer emissions, SCINTIX dynamically tracks tumour motion, optimizes dose delivery and minimizes damage to healthy tissues, improving outcomes for patients with advanced-stage disease. RefleXion's platform is transforming cancer care globally.
SSIMWAVE
Founded in 2013 by Drs. Abdul Rehman (PhD '13), Kai Zeng (PhD '13) and Zhou Wang, SSIMWAVE has won two technical Emmy awards for its AI-driven video quality solutions. The company enhances viewing experiences by delivering top-tier video quality while reducing costs, giving media companies a competitive edge in an era of high-resolution and interactive entertainment demand. The startup was acquired by IMAX in 2022.
Tyromer
Tyromer, founded by Waterloo chemical engineering professor Dr. Costas Tzoganakis and supported by WatCo, has revolutionized rubber recycling with its patented devulcanization process. Using supercritical carbon dioxide and thermal-mechanical extrusion, Tyromer converts scrap tire rubber into tire-derived polymer without chemicals or additives. This environmentally friendly, energy-efficient process enables rapid production of high-quality materials for reuse, addressing the global challenge of tire waste while promoting sustainability in the rubber industry.
If you're inspired by Waterloo's culture of innovation and research, don't miss the THE Digital Health Summit. This event dives into the cutting-edge intersections of technology, health and research - where groundbreaking solutions are shaping the future for everyone. Join us to explore how these transformational forces can create a healthier, more connected world.
Some images in this article were generated using Midjourney for illustration.
