UBC receives $26.9 million for 70 research projects

From genetic mapping to wind turbines, the University of British Columbia (UBC) has received $26.9 million toward 70 research infrastructure projects from the BC Knowledge Development Fund in 2014.

“Our government invests in innovation to grow and diversify our economy,” said Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services Andrew Wilkinson. “Development of research and innovation into commercial opportunities leads to the jobs and investments that make the technology sector a major contributor to the provincial economy.”

The BC Knowledge Development Fund was created in 1998 to help maintain B.C. as a leader in science and research. This year’s grant to UBC will support a wide range of specializations including cancer genomics treatments, fuel cell technology and planetary sciences.

“B.C. is home to world-class research that benefits our economy, our families and our future,” said Advanced Education Minister Amrik Virk. “Because of this funding, leading researchers will be working on important projects such as personalizing treatment for cancer patients and mapping the known universe. The knowledge and results gained from research projects funded at UBC will benefit our province, our country and even the world.”

Since 2001, government has invested more than $2 billion in research and innovation in B.C., leveraging an additional $1 billion in research funding from other sources, for a total of $3 billion. Of that total, $550 million has been awarded through the BC Knowledge Development Fund.

“Investment in such projects at UBC is having a transformative impact,” said UBC president, professor Arvind Gupta. “It is spurring innovation that makes B.C. a leader in areas as diverse as renewable energy and the treatment of devastating diseases. This in turn attracts more research and talent, enhancing the social and economic fabric that benefits all British Columbians.”

British Columbia Knowledge Development Fund: www.gov.bc.ca/citz/technologyandinnovation/Funding/BCKDF/index.html