This edition of UBC Reports is about the excitement of discovery and the possibilities that arise when we challenge the frontiers of knowledge. At UBC, we encourage our researchers to pursue the ideas that captivate them. When groups of talented researchers collaborate, ideas ignite to help foster naturally occurring areas of excellence in any discipline.

The Next Big Thing edition isn’t about patentable devices or commercial products. It’s about the delight our faculty members and students find in pursuing new knowledge. In fact, much of our important research can’t be patented or licensed. Our challenge is to find ways to mobilize all streams of research beyond the campus. UBC’s “next big thing” could in fact be myriad small things, each making its own powerful contribution to our social, economic and environmental well-being.