Over $3.4 million in provincial funding through the BC Knowledge Development Fund will enable the University of British Columbia to conduct new, cutting-edge research in life sciences, agritech, sustainability and electronics.
UBC has been awarded BCKDF funding for 22 research projects, seven of which will be undertaken at UBC's Okanagan campus.
"UBC prides itself in ranking as one of the world's top research universities and our ability to attract the highest-calibre research faculty and students," said Santa Ono, president, University of British Columbia.
"This funding will help launch 22 unique research initiatives that will investigate subjects ranging from improving cancer detection to innovation in the natural gas sector."
Research projects include new cancer screening technologies, improved treatment and mitigation of diseases that impair brain function, examining natural gas processing and outcome leading to more sustainable, healthy crops. Funds will also be used to establish labs to help make better decisions during wildfires, and to integrate renewable energy sources with British Columbia's power grid.
BCKDF investments are aimed at attracting and retaining world-class research and innovation talent in British Columbia. Successful proposals have the potential to spur technology commercialization, talent development and job creation.
"The BC Knowledge Development Fund supports our #BCTECH Strategy by investing in research that makes a difference," said Steve Thomson, MLA, Kelowna-Mission.
"Examples of the projects being undertaken here in Kelowna include support for better wildfire decision making, improved cancer screening, treatment for brain diseases and development of healthier crops."
Since April 2015, this brings the Province's BCKDF investments to more than $57 million for public post-secondary institutions, funding 84 research infrastructure projects.
BCKDF funding is part of the #BCTECH Strategy, a key component of the BC Jobs Plan to support the growth of B.C.'s vibrant technology sector and strengthen British Columbia's diverse innovation economy. The multi-year strategy includes initiatives to increase talent development and market access for tech companies that will drive innovation and productivity throughout the province.