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Media Release Archives - 2010
Only top spenders consider school quality when buying new homes: UBC study
School quality is not a significant factor for home buyers, except for those purchasing residences priced in the top 25 per cent of the market, according to Sauder School of Business researchers at the University of British Columbia.
Beautiful people convey personality traits better during first impressions
A new UBC study has found that people identify the personality traits of people who are physically attractive more accurately than others during short encounters.
Strength training for seniors provides sustained cognitive function and economic benefits: Vancouver Coastal Health / UBC research
A one-year follow-up study on seniors who participated in a strength training exercise program shows sustained cognitive benefits as well as savings for the healthcare system. The research, conducted at the Centre for Hip Health and Mobility at Vancouver Coastal Health and the University of British Columbia, is published today in the Archives of Internal Medicine.
UBC welcomes new Centre of Excellence in wireless technologies
The University of British Columbia congratulates the Wavefront Wireless Commercialization Centre (WWCC) for being named a Centre of Excellence for Commercialization and Research (CECR) for wireless technologies.
UBC launches initiative with CCFF, CDRD to combat cystic fibrosis
The University of British Columbia, in partnership with the Canadian Cystic Fibrosis Foundation (CCFF) and the Centre for Drug Research and Development (CDRD), today launches the Cystic Fibrosis Technology Initiative (CFTI) to advance Canadian technologies that will help combat cystic fibrosis (CF).
Greenland ice sheet flow driven by short-term weather extremes, not gradual warming: UBC research
Sudden changes in the volume of meltwater contribute more to the acceleration – and eventual loss – of the Greenland ice sheet than the gradual increase of temperature, according to a UBC study.
UBC-developed formulation of leishmaniasis drug shown to be stable and effective in tropical temperatures
A new formulation of Amphotericin B (AmB) developed by University of British Columbia researchers has been shown to be stable in tropical climates and effective in treating Visceral Leishmaniasis (VL) in mouse models.
UBC and The Nippon Foundation launch $13-million research program to predict the future of oceans
UBC researchers today launched a $13-million, nine-year research program with Japan’s Nippon Foundation to study the future of the world’s oceans and to monitor the impact of human activities on seafood resources.
UBC/CFRI project receives $7M to reduce maternal, fetal, and newborn deaths
The University of British Columbia has received a $7 million grant from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. UBC researchers working at the Child & Family Research Institute will test new strategies for the monitoring, prevention, and treatment of pre-eclampsia.
“No fish left behind” approach leaves Earth with nowhere left to fish: UBC researchers
The Earth has run out of room to expand fisheries, according to a new study led by University of British Columbia researchers that charts the systemic expansion of industrialized fisheries.
B.C.’s new Rhodes Scholar a global health advocate
A University of British Columbia student with a passion to improve healthcare for those who can least afford it is this year’s recipient of the Rhodes Scholarship for British Columbia.
UBC gains $20M in 29 Canada Research Chairs
Research at the University of British Columbia has received a $20-million boost with the appointment and renewal of 29 Canada Research Chairs (CRC) last week.
UBC and HSBC Bank Canada celebrate student achievement and community programs
The University of British Columbia and HSBC Bank Canada celebrated on Monday the ongoing legacy of a $2.8-million commitment that has supported UBC Robson Square, the UBC Learning Exchange and student scholarships and awards.
Cultural number preferences impact real estate prices: UBC study
A University of British Columbia study has found that Chinese number preferences can drive real estate prices of certain addresses up or down in neighbourhoods with large numbers of ethnic Chinese residents.
City of Vancouver sets transportation records during 2010 Winter Games: UBC study
Vancouver residents and visitors set records for sustainable travel during the 2010 Olympic Winter Games, more than doubling the number of trips typically taken by public transit, biking or walking, according to a University of British Columbia study completed for the City of Vancouver.
UBC J-school partners with The Globe and Mail
A team of 10 UBC journalism students investigating the global effects of shrimp farming has partnered with The Globe and Mail to produce a web video project for the paper’s food series.
UBC researchers create iridescent glass that can reflect UV or infrared light
Using nanocrystals of cellulose, the main component of pulp and paper, chemistry researchers at the UBC have created glass films that have applications for energy conservation in building design because of their ability to reflect specific wavelengths of light, such as ultra violet, visible or infrared.
UBC professor named Canada’s Health Researcher of the Year
Clyde Hertzman, the director of the Human Early Learning Partnership (HELP) and a professor at the School of Population and Public Health at the University of British Columbia, has been named Canada’s 2010 “Health Researcher of the Year.”
Text messaging improves health of Kenyans with HIV: UBC researcher
A simple “how are you” delivered weekly through cell phone text messaging (SMS) increases the likelihood that Kenyans with HIV will stay healthy and follow their medication regimen, while reducing the spread of the disease, according to a new study led by a University of British Columbia researcher.
UBC law and journalism schools partner to investigate wrongful convictions
Canada’s first journalism-law student partnership on wrongful convictions has been launched at the University of British Columbia, with graduate journalism students and law students investigating miscarriages of justice in B.C.
UBC experts available to comment on resignation of B.C. Premier Gordon Campbell
UBC experts are available to offer a variety of perspectives on today’s resignation of B.C. Premier Gordon Campbell.
UBC researchers shine light on congenital heart disease “hot spots” using Canadian Light Source
Using the Canadian Light Source synchrotron and the Stanford Synchrotron Radiation Lightsource, a team of researchers from the University of British Columbia has shed light on the ryanodine receptor, a structure within muscle cells that has been linked to life-threatening congenital heart conditions.
Shift work linked to higher risk of work injury: UBC study
Canadians who work night and rotating shifts are almost twice as likely to be injured on the job than those working regular day shifts, according to a study by researchers at the University of British Columbia.
UBC experts available to comment on US mid-term elections and Colbert/Stewart rallies
UBC experts on US politics and media are available to comment on US mid-term elections (Nov. 2) and major public rallies by political satirists Jon Stewart and Stephen Colbert (Oct. 30).
UBC’s Professor John Robinson wins Power Smart Excellence award
BC Hydro has named UBC Professor John Robinson as this year’s recipient of the Larry Bell award for his inspirational work in imagining and promoting new sustainability solutions.
UBC’s Veterans Transition Program receives $1.37 million from the BC/Yukon Command of The Royal Canadian Legion
The University of British Columbia has received $1.37 million from the BC/Yukon Command of The Royal Canadian Legion to expand its Veterans Transition Program (VTP).
Anti-cholesterol drugs could help stave off seizures: UBC-Vancouver Coastal Health research
Statins, the family of drugs used to lower cholesterol, might also reduce the risk of epileptic seizures in people with cardiovascular disease, according to a new statistical study by a drug safety expert at the University of British Columbia and Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute. The findings could provide the basis for randomized, controlled clinical trials to test the efficacy of the drugs as anti-epileptic medication.
New legal guidelines mark new era in corporate accountability for war crimes
A global expert on international crime has published new legal guidelines for prosecuting corporations for the illegal exploitation of natural resources. The legal manual is expected to spark prosecution of companies whose dealings in resources such as diamonds, gold, oil and tin help bankroll atrocity.
UBC researcher receives federal boost to develop natural gas fuel injection prototype
The University of British Columbia welcomed the announcement of federal support for research and development of natural gas engine technology.
UBC Statement on Federal R & D Review
Today the federal government launched an independent expert panel to solicit the advice of Canadians and business leaders on how the federal government can cultivate its support of business research and development. UBC applauds the federal government for the clear parameters it has set for the federal R & D review examining how government stimulates [...]
UBC gains $5.4 million for microbiome research from CIHR, Genome BC
The University of British Columbia today welcomed the announcement of $5.4 million in funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) and Genome British Columbia for research into how micro-organisms affect human health.
UBC underwater robot to explore ice-covered ocean and Antarctic ice shelf
Researchers at the University of British Columbia are deploying an underwater robot to survey ice-covered ocean in Antarctica from October 17 through November 12.
Historic UBC music venues get $22-million makeovers
Two University of British Columbia concert halls with rich histories of teaching, learning and musical excellence officially reopened today after a $22 million revitalization funded by the provincial government, the university and a donor with a passion for classical music.
UBC officially opens the Simon K.Y. Lee HKU-UBC House and related facilities
The University of British Columbia celebrated the opening of the Simon K.Y. Lee HKU-UBC House on its Vancouver campus today.
T cell discovery shows promise for Type 1 diabetes treatment: UBC-CFRI study
A research team from the University of British Columbia and the Child & Family Research Institute (CFRI) at BC Children’s Hospital has identified the role of a type of T cell in type 1 diabetes that may lead to new treatment options for young patients.
UBC, Max Planck formalize partnership among world’s top quantum physicists
The University of British Columbia today forged a formal partnership with the Max Planck Society, Germany’s foremost basic research institution and home to 32 Nobel prizes.
Loud grunts may give tennis players a competitive edge: Study
You’ve heard them at tennis matches – loud, emphatic grunts with each player’s stroke. A new study by University of British Columbia and University of Hawaii researchers suggest these grunts may hinder opponents’ ability to accurately perceive and respond to the ball. Scott Sinnett, assistant professor of psychology at the University of Hawaii at M?noa, and [...]
UBC enters second phase of consultations on plans to preserve UBC Farm, improve housing options
UBC is proposing changes to the Land Use Plan to support the university’s academic mission and its vision of creating a model university community that is vibrant, livable and sustainable.
UBC Graduate School of Journalism wins Emmy Award for Outstanding Investigative Journalism
Students and faculty at the UBC Graduate School of Journalism have won an Emmy Award for an investigative news documentary that explores the health and environmental impacts of electronic waste. The Outstanding Investigative Journalism award, one of the top news awards, was for the PBS Frontline/World documentary, Ghana: Digital Dumping Ground, produced by 10 students [...]
Carl Wieman to take up White House post
The United States Senate has confirmed University of British Columbia professor and Nobel Laureate Carl Wieman for the position of Associate Director for Science in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy.
China tops world in catch and consumption of fish: UBC research
China leads the world in tonnage of fish caught annually as well as the amount of fish consumed, according to new research conducted by University of British Columbia scientists.
Genomic ‘haircut’ makes world’s tiniest genome even smaller: UBC research
The world’s tiniest nuclear genome appears to have “snipped off the ends” of its chromosomes and evolved into a lean, mean, genome machine that infects human cells, according to research published today by University of British Columbia scientists.
B.C. researchers gain $3.1M for rare cancer research Terry Fox Foundation
A team of researchers from the University of British Columbia, BC Cancer Agency and Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute has received a $3.1-million grant from Terry Fox Foundation to study genetic aspects of rare cancers.
Global Fisheries Research Finds Promise and Peril: UBC research
Global fisheries, a vital source of food and revenue throughout the world, contribute between US$225-$240 billion per year to the worldwide economy, according to four new studies released today. Researchers also concluded that healthier fisheries could have prevented malnourishment in nearly 20 million people in poorer countries.
First-of-its-kind study shows supervised injection facilities can help people quit drugs
A study led by researchers at the BC Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS (BC-CfE) at St. Paul’s Hospital and the University of British Columbia has found that supervised injection facilities such as Vancouver’s Insite connect clients with addiction treatment, which in turn resulted in greater likelihood of stopping injection drug use for at least six months.
Young, male, testosterone-fuelled CEOs more likely to start or drop deals: UBC study
Too much testosterone can be a deal breaker, according to Sauder School of Business researchers at the University of British Columbia. Their paper, to be published in the INFORMS journal Management Science on September 10, shows that young CEOs with more of the steroidal hormone in their system are more likely to initiate, scrap or resist mergers and acquisitions.
Gulf of Mexico oil spill threatens seahorse species with extinction: researchers
A species of seahorse unique to the waters of the Gulf Coast could face extinction because of the Gulf of Mexico oil spill, warns marine conservation organization Project Seahorse.
Orientation activities replace most first-day undergrad classes at UBC’s Vancouver campus
This advisory holds information about three orientation events happening in the next few days: International Student Orientation (Sept. 2-4): Residence Parent Orientation (Sept. 5); Imagine UBC (Sept. 7).
Oscar nominee joins UBC Graduate School of Journalism as Canwest Visiting Professor
An award-winning television journalist whose documentary about a Vancouver man dying of AIDS raised global awareness of the disease has joined UBC’s Graduate School of Journalism as the Canwest Visiting Professor for 2010-2011.
Seafood stewardship questionable: UBC-Scripps experts
The world’s most established fisheries certifier is failing on its promises as rapidly as it gains prominence, according the world’s leading fisheries experts from the University of British Columbia (UBC), Scripps Institution of Oceanography at the University of California at San Diego and elsewhere.
UBC researchers unveil “toolbox of MiniPromoters” for gene research and therapy
University of British Columbia researchers have led the development of a new “toolbox of MiniPromoters” for research and future therapies on brain, spinal cord and eye function.
Sixth year of Okanagan campus growth increases opportunities for UBC degree
Strong demand for a University of British Columbia degree has resulted in the sixth straight year of enrolment growth at UBC’s Okanagan campus, which will welcome 1,832 first-year students, up by 22 per cent. UBC’s Vancouver campus has met its enrolment target and will have 5,666 new first-year students, a slight decrease from 2009.
Fat serves as cells’ built-in pH sensor: UBC research
A specific type of fat present in cell membranes also serves as a cellular pH sensor, a team of University of British Columbia researchers has discovered.
UBC entrepreneurs to storm Silicon Valley
Forget Dragon’s Den, University of British Columbia entrepreneurs have an opportunity to pitch their business concepts and products directly to Silicon Valley venture capitalists at an August 31 alumni event at the Plug and Play Tech Centre in Sunnyvale, California.
UBC gains $900,000 federal award for unique Chinese Canadian history web portal
A bilingual website featuring the legacies of Chinese Canadians who helped shape this country will soon be a reality thanks to an ambitious project led by the University of British Columbia and a $900,000 grant from Citizenship and Immigration Canada’s Community Historical Recognition Program (CHRP).
Tattooing linked to higher risk of hepatitis C: UBC study
Youth, prison inmates and individuals with multiple tattoos that cover large parts of their bodies are at higher risk of contracting hepatitis C and other blood-borne diseases, according to a University of British Columbia study.
Tiny fish evolved to tolerate colder temperature in three years: UBC study
University of British Columbia researchers have observed one of the fastest evolutionary responses ever recorded in wild populations. In as little as three years, stickleback fish developed tolerance for water temperature 2.5 degrees Celsius lower than their ancestors.
UBC researcher discovers ancient “stress hormone” in pre-historic fish
A University of British Columbia zoologist has discovered a new corticosteroid hormone in the sea lamprey, an eel-like fish and one of the earliest vertebrates dating back 500 million years. These findings have shed light on the evolution of steroid hormones and may help conservation and management efforts for lampreys. “This new discovery has significant [...]
UBC professor credits diversified revenue for success of world’s top airports
The latest global survey of airports reveals that non-aeronautical revenue streams can help airports achieve higher efficiency so they can lower aircraft landing fees and attract more aeronautical business. Recently released by the Air Transport Research Society (ATRS) headquartered at the University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business, the 2010 ATRS Global Airport Benchmarking [...]
UBC Graduate School of Journalism garners three Emmy Award nominations
Ten students from UBC’s Graduate School of Journalism’s International Reporting class, led by former 60 Minutes producer and UBC Associate Professor Peter Klein, have been nominated for two Emmy Awards. This is the first time students at a Canadian university have been nominated for an Emmy in a news category, chosen by the U.S. National [...]
Foreign homestay students exposed to major health risks; need better safety net: UBC study
Foreign homestay students who come to Canada to attend high school without their parents are exposed to major health risks such as smoking, drug use and early sexual intercourse, according to University of British Columbia research.
UBC president applauds appointment of David Johnston as Governor General
Prof. Stephen Toope, president and vice-chancellor of the University of British Columbia, warmly welcomed today the announcement of the appointment of David Johnston as the next Governor General of Canada.
UBC welcomes $3.3 million from two federal research programs
Multidisciplinary research in the fields of prostate surgery, scar tissue reduction, drug monitoring and vascular disease monitoring at the University of British Columbia received a $1.7-million boost today from the Collaborative Health Research Projects (CHRP) program, and young researchers at UBC were awarded a further $1.6 million from the Collaborative Research and Training Experience (CREATE) program to help upgrade their skills for a successful transition to the workplace.
Psychological research conducted in WEIRD nations may not apply to global populations
A new University of British Columbia study says that an overreliance on research subjects from the U.S. and other Western nations can produce false claims about human psychology and behavior because their psychological tendencies are highly unusual compared to the global population. According to the study, the majority of psychological research is conducted on subjects [...]
Top Canadian diplomat joins UBC to advance teaching, research of Asian-Canada relations
One of Canada’s top diplomats will join the UBC’s Institute of Asian Research (IAR) as Honorary Research Associate, effective July 2, 2010.
UBC study offers ethical and cost-effective strategy for managing MRI incidental findings
The increasing number of incidental findings in brain imaging can be managed ethically and cost-effectively by screening study participants based on gender, age and family history, according to University of British Columbia researchers.
Male desire to be strong and protect family key to preventing suicides: UBC study
Masculine ideals of strength coupled with strong family ties can help men combat depression and overcome thoughts of suicide, according to University of British Columbia research.
UBC-VCH researchers funded by MS Society to investigate the validity of CCSVI
A team of researchers from the University of British Columbia, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute and the University of Saskatchewan has been selected by the Multiple Sclerosis Society of Canada and the National MS Society to assess whether a syndrome known as chronic cerebrospinal venous insufficiency has a role in MS.
UBC’s Faculty of Arts appoints new dean
The University of British Columbia welcomes Gage Averill, a world renowned ethnomusicologist, as the new dean in the Faculty of Arts, beginning July 1, 2010.
UBC’s Faculty of Forestry appoints new dean
John Innes, professor and FRBC Chair of Forest Management, will become the University of British Columbia’s new dean in the Faculty of Forestry, beginning July 1, 2010.
UBC Board re-appoints Toope to second term as President and Vice Chancellor
The Board of Governors of The University of British Columbia has reappointed Prof. Stephen J. Toope to a second term of five years as President and Vice Chancellor.
UBC’s Okanagan campus to double in size
The University of British Columbia’s Okanagan campus will soon double its land area, as the UBC Board of Governors today approved the $8.78-million purchase of 103.6 ha. (256 acres) of North Glenmore farmland from the City of Kelowna.
UBC researchers win major NSERC prizes
Three University of British Columbia researchers have been given some of the most prestigious science and engineering prizes by the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). The Honorable Gary Goodyear, Minister of State (Science and Technology) and NSERC President Suzanne Fortier announced 19 recipients of five NSERC prizes in Ottawa this week. [...]
Twenty-five UBC students win prestigious Vanier Canada Scholarships
Twenty-five doctoral students from the University of British Columbia have been awarded the 2010 Vanier Canada Scholarships, the Canadian equivalent of the Rhodes scholarships in the U.K. and the Fulbright scholarships in the U.S. UBC has the second highest number of scholars, after the University of Toronto. Last year, 17 UBC students were among the [...]
“Little brown balls” tie malaria and algae to common ancestor: UBC research
Inconspicuous “little brown balls” in the ocean have helped settle a long-standing debate about the origin of malaria and the algae responsible for toxic red tides, according to a new study by University of British Columbia researchers.
UBC announces a new summer camp for queer, trans, questioning and allied youth
The University of British Columbia is running a new camp for queer, trans, questioning, and allied youth from across the province this summer.
Regional differences in C-section rate not a result of maternal request: UBC study
Fewer than two per cent of cesarean births in British Columbia were a result of maternal request, but the number of cesarean and assisted vaginal deliveries varied widely across health regions in B.C., according to a new study by University of British Columbia researchers.
UBC researcher decodes Rembrandt’s “magic”
A University of British Columbia researcher has uncovered what makes Rembrandt’s masterful portraits so appealing.
UBC grads don cap and gown for week of Vancouver campus ceremonies
More than 6,500 students will graduate this week as UBC holds ceremonies at the Chan Centre for the Performing Arts. They will join more than 250,000 UBC alumni worldwide.
UBC Library welcomes Douglas Coupland archives
The extensive archives of Douglas Coupland – one of Canada’s most renowned authors, an internationally recognized visual artist and a cultural icon who coined the term “Generation X” – have a new home at UBC Library.
Long-term use of anti-anxiety drugs continues in B.C. despite known health risks: UBC study
Drugs to treat anxiety and sleep disorders are still being prescribed for extended periods to British Columbian patients – and increasingly so for baby boomers – despite warnings against long-term use, according to a University of British Columbia study.
UBC researchers call for “social offset” to tackle neglected tropical diseases
Public health and international development experts at the University of British Columbia are calling for a “social offset” mechanism to set aside a portion of research funding slated for neglected tropical diseases (NTD) to address broader social determinants of disease.
Inaugural Canada Excellence Research Chair appointed to UBC: up to $10M towards research in Parkinson’s, neurodegenerative disorders in adults and children
The University of British Columbia and its affiliated research institutes today welcomed Dr. Matthew Farrer as its first Canada Excellence Research Chair in Neurogenetics and Translational Neuroscience.
UBC opens Beaty Biodiversity Centre, unveils Canada’s largest blue whale skeleton exhibit
The University of British Columbia today officially opened the Beaty Biodiversity Centre, new home to some of the world’s top biodiversity researchers and Canada’s largest blue whale skeleton exhibit.
UBC and City of Vancouver partner to reach Greenest City goals
The University of British Columbia and the City of Vancouver have signed a Memorandum of Understanding to partner together to advance both the City’s and UBC’s aggressive sustainability and climate action goals.
djavad mowafaghian foundation supports childhood education and health projects at UBC with $4M gifts
The djavad mowafaghian foundation has made a contribution of $4 million toward biodiversity outreach and early childhood development research at the University of British Columbia.
UBC researchers design new biomaterial that mimics muscle elasticity
University of British Columbia researchers have cast artificial proteins into a new solid biomaterial that very closely mimics the elasticity of muscle.
Major donation, screenings, star alumni mark 40th anniversary of UBC film program
Leading international filmmakers will serve as multicultural mentors for UBC film students thanks to a $1 million donation from Canadian communications and media company Rogers Communications.
UBC journalism class wins top North American award
Ten students from the UBC Graduate School of Journalism’s International Reporting class, led by former 60 Minutes producer and UBC Associate Professor Peter Klein, have won a top U.S. journalism award.
Legislation will advance UBC as a living lab for sustainability
UBC President Prof. Stephen Toope welcomed today’s introduction of provincial legislation that supports the university’s vision to become a living laboratory for sustainability.
Supreme Court of Canada decision ends lawsuit, affirms academic freedom at UBC
UBC welcomes a Supreme Court of Canada decision issued today that ends a longstanding lawsuit against the University and affirms UBC’s role in fostering open discourse and academic freedom without threats of legal action.
Reappointment of Professor Stephen J. Toope
The current term of the President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of British Columbia, Professor Stephen J. Toope, expires June 30, 2011. The Board of Governors and President Toope have agreed that the President shall be considered for reappointment.
UBC researcher shortlisted for top conservation award
Amanda Vincent is the reason seahorses are on the global conservation agenda. Read more: http://www.indianapolisprize.org/content.aspx?CID=789
UBC gains 12 new or renewed Canada Research Chairs
The University of British Columbia will gain research strength in neuroscience, cancer screening, pediatrics, psychology, balance disorders and economics with the appointment and renewal of 12 UBC scholars as Canada Research Chairs. These chairs – three new and nine renewals – are valued at $11.4 million and bring UBC’s total number of Canada Research Chairs [...]
Astronomers confirm Einstein’s theory of relativity and accelerating cosmic expansion
University of British Columbia astronomer Ludovic Van Waerbeke with an international team has confirmed that the expansion of the universe is accelerating after looking at data from the largest-ever survey conducted by the Hubble Space Telescope.
UBC sets aggressive new targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions
University of British Columbia President Stephen Toope announced aggressive new greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions targets for UBC’s Vancouver campus today. Toope made the announcement to delegates at the GLOBE 2010 conference in Vancouver, one of the world’s largest environmental conferences.
Carl Wieman nominated for White House post
US President Barack Obama has nominated UBC Prof. Carl Wieman for the position of Associate Director of Science in the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy. White House announcement: http://www.whitehouse.gov/the-press-office/president-obama-announces-more-key-administration-posts-32210 Wieman, a 2001Nobel Laureate joined UBC’s Faculty of Science in 2007 as professor of Physics and Director of the $12 million Carl Wieman Science [...]
Markets and religion – not family ties – shaped norms of fairness, punishment in complex societies: UBC study
Members of large-scale, complex human societies have learned to play nice with strangers through the norms that are associated with market participation and world religions, and not solely due to an evolved psychology for cooperation in small groups as previously believed, according to UBC-led research.
UBC economist Paul Beaudry receives Bank of Canada fellowship
UBC professor Paul Beaudry is the recipient of the Bank of Canada’s Research Fellowship for 2010. He was also the recipient of the Bank’s Research Fellowship Award in 2005. Two of the six Bank of Canada fellowships are held by UBC professors. Prof. Michael Devereux of the University of British Columbia was awarded a research [...]
Olympic organizer, TV rant-er, Gen X author, astronaut to receive UBC honorary degrees
The architect of Canada’s Golden 2010 Games, a much-loved Canadian comedian, an acclaimed B.C. writer and artist, and an accomplished astronaut and engineer are among the 12 individuals who will receive honorary degrees during Spring and Fall ceremonies this year from UBC.
Anti-depressants bring higher risk of developing cataracts: UBC-Vancouver Coastal Health research
Some anti-depressant drugs are associated with an increased chance of developing cataracts, according to a new statistical study by researchers at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute and McGill University.
Budget good news for universities: UBC President
Today’s Federal Budget contains good news for Canada’s post-secondary sector with numerous initiatives to strengthen Canada’s research capacity, UBC President Prof. Stephen Toope said. “With substantial new support for post-doctoral scholars, the government has now rounded out a suite of post-graduate programs that will do much to attract and retain research talent for Canada,” Toope [...]
UBC experts available to comment on federal budget issues
Prime Minister Stephen Harper’s Conservative government will bring down the federal budget today and faculty members at the University of British Columbia are available to comment on key areas related to the budget.
Pediatric ER doctors need to query vitamin use in children: UBC researcher
Pediatric emergency physicians should check children’s vitamin intake to avoid potential adverse drug reactions and negative interactions with over-the-counter or prescription medication, says a researcher at the UBC and the Child and Family Research Institute (CFRI).
Statement on the tragic death of a UBC student
The University of British Columbia community of students, faculty, staff and alumni are saddened to learn of the tragic death of a UBC Student during the Reading Week break for the Olympic Games, UBC President Prof. Stephen Toope said today.
Looking back, looking forward: UBC experts analyze 2010 Games, look ahead to London and Sochi
As the 2010 Olympics draw to a close, UBC experts will be available to analyze the Vancouver Games and look ahead to the upcoming London and Sochi Games. ? Date/Time: Friday, Feb. 26, 3-4 p.m. ? Location: B.C. International Media Centre, Robson Square ? Room: Media Briefing Room Rob VanWynsberghe, Lead Researcher, UBC Olympic Games [...]
New UBC centre will use 2010 experience to help maximize sustainable benefits from sport
The University of British Columbia has launched a centre that will help future host regions learn from Canada’s experience hosting the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games.
UBC project to generate clean energy and new knowledge
A first-of-its-kind bioenergy project at the University of British Columbia will generate enough clean electricity to power 1,500 homes, reduce the university’s natural gas consumption by up to12 per cent and eliminate up to 4,500 tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions per year – the equivalent of taking 1,100 cars off the road.
Schools use digital technology to learn about the 2010 Games
The University of British Columbia’s Global Minds Challenge has announced its winners for a competition for K-12 classrooms that invited teachers and students to demonstrate the use of digital technologies to promote a better understanding of the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games. The Global Minds Challenge is part of VANOC’s 2010 Winter Games Education program.
UBC study shows increased risk of infectious disease in children of residential school survivors
For the first time ever, research has revealed a statistical connection between residential schools and infectious disease rates.
Marijuana ineffective as an Alzheimer’s treatment: UBC-Vancouver Coastal Health research
The benefits of marijuana in tempering or reversing the effects of Alzheimer’s disease have been challenged in a new study by researchers at the University of British Columbia and Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute.
Canada’s Chief Justice takes part in Western Premier of Louis Riel opera
Opera students at the UBC travel to different countries every year to learn where the art they practise comes from. But now, with the world arriving in Vancouver for the 2010 Olympics, the UBC School of Music is on a mission to showcase Canadian opera.
UBC researchers to lead two NSERC Strategic Networks worth $10.3M
Researchers at the University of British Columbia have received $10.3 million in funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) to lead and coordinate two Strategic Networks in machining and biomaterials technology.
UBC Vancouver Sustainability Initiative
UBC President Stephen Toope has announced the creation of a new sustainability strategic management initiative that will begin to take shape immediately.
UBC clinical teaching facility opens at KGH
See release at: http://www2.news.gov.bc.ca/news_releases_2009-2013/2010PREM0015-000073.htm
No evidence of a post-Olympics boom or bust for host city real estate prices: UBC study
Cities that win Olympic bids experience neither boom nor bust in their real estate prices, but gain construction jobs as they prepare for the Games, according to researchers at the Sauder School of Business at the UBC.
Weight training improves cognitive function in seniors: UBC-Vancouver Coastal Health research
Weight-bearing exercises may help minimize cognitive decline and impaired mobility in seniors, according to a new study conducted by the Centre for Hip Health and Mobility at Vancouver Coastal Health and the University of British Columbia.
“Jekyll and Hyde” cell may hold key to muscular dystrophy, fibrosis treatment: UBC research
A team of University of British Columbia researchers has identified fat-producing cells that possess “dual-personalities” and may further the development of treatments for muscle diseases such as muscular dystrophy and fibrosis.
Zebrafish behaviour monitoring system could boost drug discovery: UBC-Harvard research
Researchers from the University of British Columbia and Harvard University have co-developed a system that captures on video and barcodes the behavioral responses of zebrafish to chemical compounds on a large scale. The approach could dramatically speed up the discovery of new psychiatric drugs.
BC’s Four Research Universities Applaud the Provincial Government’s HST Rebate Decision
The Presidents of BC’s four research universities were pleased to learn of the Government of British Columbia’s decision to provide a new provincial HST rebate for universities.
Disadvantaged neighbourhoods set children’s reading skills on negative course: UBC study
A landmark study from the University of British Columbia finds that the neighbourhoods in which children reside at kindergarten predict their reading comprehension skills seven years later. The study, published this week in the journal Health & Place, finds children who live in neighbourhoods with higher rates of poverty show reduced scores on standardized tests [...]
UBC Sauder School of Business adds 50,000 sq. ft. in phase one of $85M renewal
The Sauder School of Business and the Robert H. Lee Graduate School at UBC have unveiled the completed first phase of an $85 million renewal and expansion on UBC’s Vancouver campus.
UBC receives $10.5M to map genome of sunflower family
University of British Columbia researchers have received $10.5 million in funding from Genome Canada through the Government of Canada, Genome BC and international partners to enable them to create the first reference genome of the sunflower family – work that will pinpoint agriculturally important genes and could result in a hybrid sunflower that provides both biofuel and food products.
Google founding investor gives $2M for Nobel laureate-led education transformations at UBC
A UBC alumnus widely credited for mentoring Google’s founders and helping establish the company is supporting science education transformations with a $2-million gift to the Carl Wieman Science Education Initiative (CWSEI).
