Researcher in wet lab pouring from a bottle

Biomedical Innovation Across BC

Collaboration is sparking innovation across the province

The bio-manufacturing sector in BC is anchored by a collaborative community of academic researchers, private sector firms and public institutions. This dynamic community is working together to accelerate the development of new medicines and technologies across the entire biomanufacturing process — from research to clinical translation and commercialization. 

  • Health innovation in BC is underpinned by a strong and collaborative public health system and leading provincial entities like Michael Smith Health Research BC, GenomeBC and health research institutes across the province. 
  • BC is home to some of Canada’s largest biotechnology companies (Zymeworks, Aurinia, AbCellera), the largest medical device design company (Starfish Medical), and Canada’s largest biotechnology employer (STEMCELL Technologies). 

B.C. is home to the fastest growing life sciences sector in Canada:

  • 1,100 Active Companies
  • 20,000 Employees
  • $5.4 Billion Revenue (Annual)
  • $500 Million Exports (Annual)
  • $1.6 Billion GDP (Annual)

*Life Sciences BC, 2018-2021 Data

 

    Leading Canada’s pandemic response 

    BC’s biomedical innovation strength is underscored by the significant impact UBC scientists and spin-off companies are having on the COVID-19 pandemic response.

    The lipid nanoparticle delivery mechanism that enables mRNA therapeutics was developed right here in BC at the University of British Columbia — helping save millions of lives across Canada and around the globe.  

    Whether it’s developing new treatments, preventing infection or understanding the deep societal impacts, BC’s health research community has mounted a globally-recognized response to COVID-19 and is helping prepare Canada for future health threats. 

    Dr. Pieter Cullis in front of shelves in his lab
    Biomedical innovator spotlight: Dr. Pieter Cullis

    Learn how UBC professor Dr. Pieter Cullis paved the way for mRNA vaccines and other next-generation medicines.  
     

     

     

    UBC Biomedical Innovation

    BC Canada

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