University of British Columbia researchers have released a comprehensive estimate of the number of fisheries jobs around the world – including small-scale, artisanal operations that were previously not counted in official fisheries estimates.
Media Release Archives - 2011
People more likely to lie when texting: UBC research
Text messaging leads people to be more deceitful when compared to other modes of communication, according to Sauder School of Business researchers at the University of British Columbia.
Majority of B.C. women take prescription drugs during pregnancy: UBC study
Almost two-thirds of women in British Columbia filled at least one prescription at some point in their pregnancy, including drugs with potential risks, according to a new study by University of British Columbia researchers.
Generations disagree on public funding priorities: new poll data
Younger adults want Canada’s wealth invested more evenly across the generations, while Canadians older than 55 say they should ‘wait their turn,’ according to new polling data.
UBC scientists key contributors to ‘super-cool’ camera, built to reveal early life of stars
University of British Columbia scientists have helped build the world’s largest astronomy camera with an internal temperature colder than anything else in the Universe.
Marine predators in trouble: UBC researchers
Iconic marine predators such as sharks, tunas, swordfish, and marlins are becoming increasingly rare under current fishing trends, say University of British Columbia researchers.
UBC, CFRI and BC Children’s researchers to lead $2.8-million project to reduce deadly infection in Bangladeshi mothers, children
Researchers from the University of British Columbia, Child & Family Research Institute (CFRI) and BC Children’s Hospital (BCCH) have won a $2.8-million grant from the Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) to improve the survival rate of Bangladeshi mothers, newborns and young children through the prevention of sepsis, a life-threatening form of infection in which the bloodstream is overwhelmed by bacteria.
UBC receives $2.2M from BMO for family business and dairy research education
The University of British Columbia welcomes a $2.2 million donation from BMO Financial Group to support education and outreach for successful family business as well as innovative research and education to benefit dairy farms – most of them family-run.
UBC partnering with Province of B.C. to promote social innovation
The ISIS research centre at UBC’s Sauder School of Business is partnering with the Province of British Columbia and other business and non-profit organizations on a dynamic initiative to fund social innovation in B.C.
UBC experts available to comment on UN climate change conference
UBC experts are available to speak about the 17th United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (COP17/CMP7) in Durban, South Africa, beginning Nov. 28.
UBC experts available to comment on Greater Vancouver municipal elections
UBC experts are available to provide media commentary on a variety of topics – from Occupy Vancouver and bike lanes to voter turnout and diversity issues – in this weekend’s municipal elections.
UBC researchers provide recommendations for $100 billion in annual climate change aid
In advance of a major United Nations climate conference, University of British Columbia researchers are recommending how to manage a $100 billion annual commitment made by the international community last year to help the developing world respond to climate change – a funding promise almost equal to all existing official development aid from major donor [...]
UBC to recognize Japanese Canadian students affected by internment during World War II
The University of British Columbia Senate voted tonight to honour students and Canadians affected by a dark period in Canada’s history, and will be awarding them special degrees next spring as part of a three-pronged program to mark the 70th anniversary of the internment policy.
UBC receives $1M from Bell for online youth mental health outreach and research
Vancouver, November 16, 2011 – Today UBC and Bell announced a $1M gift to establish the Bell Youth Mental Health IMPACT project. This initiative will enable researchers from the University of British Columbia to conduct mental health outreach to youth in need.
More than 50-per-cent decline in elephants in eastern Congo due to human conflict: UBC research
Humans play a far greater role in the fate of African elephants than habitat loss, and human conflict in particular has a devastating impact on these largest terrestrial animals, according to a new University of British Columbia study published online in PLoS ONE this week.
UBC establishes significant new on-the-ground presence in India
The University of British Columbia is deepening its commitment to India by opening offices in Bangalore and New Delhi and establishing partnerships with leading universities and research institutions across India.
Wood biofuel could be a competitive industry by 2020: UBC study
Fuel made from wood could become a competitive commercial alternative to fuel made from corn by 2020 if the wood biofuel industry is supported, according to a new University of British Columbia study.
Historical B.C. newspapers digitized by UBC Library
For the first time, more than 45,000 pages chronicling B.C.’s storied past are available online following the completion of a British Columbia Historical Newspapers Project.
UBC researchers devise new technology to monitor brain aneurysms
University of British Columbia researchers have developed new technology for monitoring brain aneurysms – an approach that is potentially less invasive and more accurate than current methods, and one that is simple enough for patients to use at home for frequent monitoring.
UBC opens North America’s ‘greenest’ building to advance sustainability research and innovation
UBC has opened the most sustainable building in North America, a $37-million “living laboratory” that will help to regenerate the environment and advance research and innovation on global sustainability challenges.
$2.5M gift from UBC alumni to create student engineering design centre
The University of British Columbia opens today on its Vancouver campus the Wayne and William White Engineering Design Centre, which will boost collaboration and hands-on innovation among students from 11 engineering disciplines.
UBC releases new information on animal research
The University of British Columbia is publishing on its Animal Research website information on the total number of animals involved in research during 2010, the major species groupings, and the degree of invasiveness of the research activities.
2010 Winter Olympics provided economic and cultural boost
British Columbia’s economy grew in 2010 with new businesses, jobs and an increase in visitor spending, all likely related to the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, says a University of British Columbia study that measured the impact of the Games.
UBC announces “Name a Spider” contest winner to mark first anniversary of Beaty Biodiversity Museum
After a national contest with 810 entries, a jumping spider, discovered in Eucador by the Beaty Biodiversity Museum’s scientific director Wayne Maddison, has been named Lapsias lorax - after a Dr. Seuss character.
“Trading Places” most common pattern for couples dealing with male depression: UBC study
University of British Columbia researchers have identified three major patterns that emerge among couples dealing with male depression. These can be described as “trading places,” “business as usual” and “edgy tensions.”
New UBC professorship focuses on women’s cardiovascular health
The first research program in British Columbia to focus on gender-based differences in cardiovascular disease has been established by the University of British Columbia and Providence Health Care.
UBC welcomes $1M boost in entrepreneurship and research translation
The Genomics Research Entrepreneurship to Accelerate Translation (GREAT) project at the University of British Columbia has been chosen for funding through Genome Canada’s Entrepreneurship Education in Genomics (EEG) pilot program.
Allegations against UBC researchers’ study on Insite “without merit:” independent reviewer
An independent reviewer has dismissed concerns over a study that shows a 35-per-cent decrease in overdose deaths after the opening of Insite, North America’s only supervised injection facility.
Raising a family is harder but retiring is easier for Canadians today than in the ‘70s: UBC study
Canadian parents today are raising families with less money and time than the Baby Boomer generation even though the country’s economy has doubled in size since 1976, says a new study by the University of British Columbia.
UBC gains global politics expertise through new visiting Trudeau Fellow
An international expert on the politics of global aid, conflict and security will join UBC as a visiting fellow, thanks to a $225,000 prize from the Pierre Elliott Trudeau Foundation.
UBC researchers invent tiny artificial muscles with the strength, flexibility of elephant trunk
An international team of researchers has invented new artificial muscles strong enough to rotate objects a thousand times their own weight, but with the same flexibility of an elephant’s trunk or octopus limbs.
Six new Canada Research Chairs appointed at UBC
Six new Canada Research Chairs have been appointed at the University of British Columbia and 11 more have been renewed, infusing $12.1 million into research at the university.
Skin colour matters when it comes to Canadians’ health: UBC study
A new UBC study finds that Black Canadians with darker skin are more likely to report poorer health than Black Canadians with lighter skin. The study also suggests that a mismatched racial identity can negatively affect health.
UBC-Providence Health research to examine new treatments for heroin addiction
A clinical trial to test better treatment options for chronic heroin addiction is expected to begin in Vancouver at the end of this year. Led by researchers from Providence Health Care and the University of British Columbia, it’s the only clinical trial of its kind in North America.
Federal and provincial ministers break ground for UBC-VCH brain health centre
Representatives of the federal and provincial governments today marked the start of construction of a new centre at the University of British Columbia that will unite brain research and patient care. The Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, expected to open in 2013 at UBC Hospital, will bring together experts in the fields of psychiatry, [...]
Annual cost of violence pegged at $6.9B after women leave abusive partners: UBC research
Even after women have separated from an abusive partner, the violence still costs Canadians an estimated $6.9 billion a year, according to research at the University of British Columbia. The study – published in a recent issue of Canadian Public Policy – is the first in Canada to comprehensively identify the spectrum of economic costs [...]
UBC ranks 22nd among world universities, jumping eight spots
The University of British Columbia now ranks 22nd among the universities, according to the 2011-2012 Times Higher Education World University Rankings, released yesterday in London, U.K.
UBC innovator receives major Manning Foundation award for green engine technology
University of British Columbia Professor Emeritus Phil Hill has been named the 2011 recipient of the $100,000 Encana Principal Award by the Ernest C. Manning Awards Foundation. Hill was chosen for his discovery of a technology that enables diesel engines to run on clean-burning natural gas.
Workplace sabotage fueled by envy, unleashed by disengagement: UBC research
University of British Columbia research shows that managers should keep team members connected and engaged to avoid workplace sabotage. Co-authored by UBC Sauder School of Business Prof. Karl Aquino, the study reveals that envious employees are more likely to undermine peers if they feel disconnected from others. “We often hear that people who feel envious [...]
Global warming will reduce populations of plant-eaters: UBC research
Rising world temperatures will cause most populations of herbivores – including plant-eating fish – to decline, according to a University of British Columbia biologist. That prediction resulted from updated mathematical models that integrate fundamental biological effects of temperature with the way herbivores and plants interact. These models were combined with data from experiments using “mini-ecosystems” [...]
Bilingualism doesn’t hamper language abilities of children with autism: UBC research
Bilingual children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) acquire vocabularies just as rich as monolingual children with ASD, according to research by a bilingualism expert at the University of British Columbia.
Little progress on reducing pharmacare coverage disparities over past decade: UBC research
Changes to provincial drug plans over the past decade did little to address the wide disparities among provinces in prescription drug coverage, according to an analysis by University of British Columbia researchers.
start an evolution: UBC launches Canada’s largest fundraising and alumni engagement campaign
The University of British Columbia has launched an ambitious $1.5 billion fundraising campaign with a twin goal of doubling the number of alumni engaged in the life of the university by 2015.
New UBC law building opens following Canada’s largest law school donor campaign
Today, UBC opened the country’s first new purpose-built university law school building in 30 years, a $56-million facility made possible by the largest private fundraising effort for a Canadian law school building.
What’s so unique about the tropics? UBC researcher says: “Less than we thought”
The temperate forests of Canada or Northern Europe may have much more in common with the tropical rainforests of Southeast Asia or South America than commonly believed, according to a research group led by a University of British Columbia ecologist.
UBC-Vancouver Coastal Health researchers help discover common genetic cause of ALS and frontotemporal dementia
A neuropathologist at University of British Columbia and Vancouver Coastal Health helped find a genetic abnormality that is the most common cause of two different but related forms of neurodegenerative disease: frontotemporal dementia (FTD) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease.
UBC gains $32.6 million in funding for genomic-based forestry research
The University of British Columbia welcomed the announcement of $32.6 million in funding from Genome Canada and Genome BC for four research projects aimed at making Canada’s forests healthier and more economically productive.
UBC biologist wins MacArthur “genius” grant
Sarah Otto, a zoology professor and director of the Biodiversity Research Centre at the University of British Columbia, is one of 22 people to be picked for this year’s round of ”genius grants” from the John D. and Catherine T. MacArthur Foundation.
UBC receives $1.2 million to monitor child development across Canada
The University of British Columbia today announced a $1.2 million gift from The Lawson Foundation to develop a system to monitor differences in child development across Canada.
UBC journalism project documents global pain crisis
In advance of a United Nations conference today on the global challenges of treating cancer and other diseases, the UBC Graduate School of Journalism has launched an ambitious multimedia site, The Pain Project, which documents one of the greatest challenges to treating chronic illnesses: severely constrained access to morphine.
UBC-Vancouver Coastal Health researcher discovers new type of spinal cord stem cell
A group led by a University of British Columbia and Vancouver Coastal Health scientist has discovered a type of spinal cord cell that could function as a stem cell, with the ability to regenerate portions of the central nervous system in people with spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis or amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (Lou Gehrig’s disease).
UBC and Vancouver Coastal Health open new medical research centre
A new research facility opened today for scientists at the University of British Columbia and Vancouver Coastal Health, providing the space and equipment to study treatments and possible cures for people with prostate cancer, ovarian cancer and bone and joint problems.
UBC researcher part of $4-million NSERC effort to measure and plan for Arctic climate change
A UBC Arctic expert will help to identify the impacts of the rapid environmental changes in Canada’s North and develop an adaptation strategy, as part of a team of researchers that has received a $4-million grant from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).
Newly identified gene mutation linked to Parkinson’s: UBC-Vancouver Coastal Health research
Less than two months after publishing findings about a new gene linked to late-onset Parkinson’s disease, the same team of scientists at the University of British Columbia and Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute have discovered another gene responsible for the neurodegenerative disease – providing yet another target for potential treatments.
Simulation proven to enhance training of health professionals: UBC-Mayo Clinic researchers
An analysis by the University of British Columbia and the Mayo Clinic found that simulation-based training is an effective way to teach physicians, nurses, dentists, emergency medical technicians and other health professionals. The team reviewed more than 600 studies evaluating the use of technologies such as virtual reality computers, mannequins and training models to teach [...]
UBC launches Canada’s only journalism course to focus on First Nations and the media
The UBC Graduate School of Journalism has launched the only university journalism course in Canada dedicated to improving the quality of Aboriginal representation by the news media.
More B.C. students than ever on track for UBC degree
The University of British Columbia is serving more B.C. students on its campuses and seeing strong growth for the seventh straight year in the Okanagan.
UBC gains $2.9 million for research infrastructure
University of British Columbia research in climate change, chemistry, medical imaging and physical therapy received a $2.9 million boost today from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI).
Three research programs win $6M in CIHR grants to promote global health equity
Three research projects at the University of British Columbia have won five-year grants totaling nearly $6 million from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) to promote greater equity in global health.
B.C. Leadership Chair in Genetic Medicine appointed at UBC
The University of British Columbia today welcomed the appointment of Matthew Farrer as the new Dr. Donald Rix B.C. Leadership Chair in Genetic Medicine, the ninth B.C. Leadership Chair to be appointed at UBC.
Parents’ stress leaves lasting marks on children’s genes: UBC-CFRI research
Researchers at the University of British Columbia and the Child & Family Research Institute have shown that parental stress during their children’s early years can leave an imprint on their sons’ or daughters’ genes – an imprint that lasts into adolescence and may affect how these genes are expressed later in life.
UBC and Toyota receive federal funds to re-invent wheel manufacturing
The University of British Columbia and Toyota have received a federal grant to develop a new process for producing stronger, lighter and lower-cost aluminum wheels. The Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) has awarded UBC and Toyota $727,000 from its Automotive Partnership Canada program to refine the manufacturing process for water-cooled die [...]
Fear of “grey tsunami” overblown: UBC studies
Fears that Canada’s aging population could lead to skyrocketing health care costs and doctor shortages may be greatly exaggerated, according to two studies by researchers at the University of British Columbia.
UBC unveils $61.8M sustainable makeover to Biological Sciences Complex
A hub for biology research and education at the University of British Columbia has received a $61.8 million makeover that provides more than 2,200 undergraduates and 370 researchers, staff and graduate students with brand new research labs and classrooms featuring the latest sustainability features, including one invented at UBC.
Single parents and gay couples face rental housing discrimination: UBC study
A new UBC study finds single parents and male gay couples face significant discrimination in the Metro Vancouver rental housing market, compared to straight couples.
Lucie McNeill to be director of UBC Public Affairs
Former journalist and CBC radio host Lucie McNeill will become the new director of the Public Affairs office at the University of British Columbia’s Vancouver campus on October 17, 2011. An alumna of UBC and a long-time resident of Vancouver, McNeill has a diverse background in Canada, Europe and Asia in journalism and international development. [...]
UBC’s University Librarian first Canadian to head global group
UBC’s University Librarian is the first Canadian to head an organization that has been the global voice of the library and information profession for more than eight decades. Earlier this month, Ingrid Parent became the President of the International Federation of Library Associations and Institutions (IFLA) for a two-year term. A UBC graduate, Parent first [...]
T-cell discovery holds promise for organ transplant and immunodeficiency treatment: UBC research
University of British Columbia researchers have solved a long-standing mystery surrounding the activation of T-cells, white blood cells that find and kill viruses and bacteria but also participate in the rejection of transplanted organs. By identifying the mechanism that leads T-cells to spring into action and proliferate, the research, published online this month by the [...]
UBC receives Canada’s first ‘gold’ in new university sustainability ratings
Pioneering clean energy projects, an aggressive carbon-reduction strategy and North America’s greenest building have helped UBC to garner Canada’s first gold rating in a new international program that assesses sustainability achievements in higher education.
entrepreneurship@UBC Seed Accelerator fund to help launch UBC startups
Startups from the University of British Columbia community can now apply for investments of up to $100,000 to support their new venture thanks to the entrepreneurship@UBC Seed Accelerator fund.
Pregnant women in Vancouver may not be getting enough vitamin D: UBC research
Pregnant women taking prenatal supplements may not be getting enough vitamin D, shows a new Vancouver-based study led Timothy Green, associate professor at the University of British Columbia and Child & Family Research Institute scientist at BC Children’s Hospital. Published today in the Canadian Journal of Public Health, the study found that while almost 80 [...]
Atlanta runs world’s most fiscally efficient airport, Guangzhou boosts efficiency: UBC research
Atlanta’s Hartsfield-Jackson International Airport (ATL), one of the world’s busiest international airports is also the most fiscally efficient, says an aviation think-tank based at the University of British Columbia’s Sauder School of Business. ATL generated 60 per cent of its total revenue from non-aviation activities, compared to the lowest-ranked North American airport Chicago’s O’Hare International [...]
UBC named hosting games partner for the 2014 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games
The University of British Columbia (UBC) welcomes the announcement today that the 2014 Special Olympics Canada Summer Games will be held in Vancouver and that the University will be the host venue for the competition being held from July 8 to 12, 2014. The Games will feature athletes with an intellectual disability from across the country going for gold in 11 sports.
UBC researchers create more powerful “lab-on-a-chip” for genetic analysis
UBC researchers have invented a silicone chip that could make genetic analysis far more sensitive, rapid, and cost-effective by allowing individual cells to fall into place like balls in a pinball machine. The UBC device – about the size of a nine-volt battery – allows scientists to simultaneously analyze 300 cells individually by routing fluid [...]
Louise Cowin appointed Vice President, Students
The University of British Columbia Board of Governors has approved the appointment of Louise Cowin as the new Vice President, Students. Cowin will begin her five-year term in October 2011.
Discovery may overcome obstacle for quantum computing: UBC, California researchers
Researchers have made a major advance in predicting and quashing environmental decoherence, a phenomenon that has proven to be one of the most formidable obstacles standing in the way of quantum computing.
UBC graduate student discovers key to “bifocals” in mangrove fish species
A “four-eyed” fish that sees simultaneously above and below the water line has offered up a dramatic example of how gene expression allows organisms to adapt to their environment.
UBC Library and Vancouver Aquarium reveal Vancouver’s secret waterways
Vancouver’s vanished streams and waterways can be discovered once again thanks to a digitization project involving UBC Library and the Vancouver Aquarium Marine Science Centre. UBC Library digitized the content of the Aquarium’s paper maps from the 1970s, allowing both scholars and the public to see the paths of old streams and the original shoreline [...]
Rumana Monzur completes initial medical care
Further to an update provided via UBC on July 14, masters student Rumana Monzur completed eye surgeries last week. Four surgeries were performed in an attempt to establish some vision, but the severity of the injuries were found to be beyond repair.
UBC Documentary shows hidden human rights crisis of medical pain
The University of British Columbia Graduate School of Journalism’s International Reporting Program (IRP) has partnered with Al Jazeera English to produce Freedom From Pain, a half hour documentary that will air on the program People & Power on Wednesday, July 20.
UBC students mobilize for Rumana Monzur as she undergoes care
University of British Columbia masters student Rumana Monzur is receiving medical treatment in Vancouver but further procedures will be required to determine how much, if any, of her sight can be restored.
Newly identified gene mutation linked to Parkinson’s: UBC research
A team of researchers at the University of British Columbia has identified a genetic mutation that causes late-onset Parkinson’s disease, paving the way to a new target for potential treatments that may halt or cure the debilitating neurodegenerative disease.
UBC receives largest single gift to Faculty of Law: Alumnus donates $11.86 million and establishes annual prize for international integrity
The University of British Columbia has received an $11.86 million gift from law alumnus Peter Allard, which will support the UBC Faculty of Law’s new building, establish an international prize that supports freedom, integrity and human rights, and create an online historical faculty archive.
UBC researchers invent new drug delivery device to treat diabetes-related vision loss
A team of engineers and scientists at the University of British Columbia has developed a device that can be implanted behind the eye for controlled and on-demand release of drugs to treat retinal damage caused by diabetes.
Sauder School of Business and Copenhagen Business School forge strategic partnership
Today the Sauder School of Business at the University of British Columbia and Copenhagen Business School (CBS) announced a strategic alliance to dramatically increase collaboration. Motivated by shared values and a similar academic culture, and building on an active 16-year exchange partnership, the institutions signed an agreement providing stronger ties across a broad range of initiatives, including research, academic programs, student and faculty exchange, and other scholarly pursuits.
Innovative UBC-BC Cancer Agency system reduces waitlisting for chemotherapy patients
The stress of scheduling chemotherapy treatments has been substantially reduced by a new technology created and implemented by a team of researchers from the Sauder School of Business at the University of British Columbia and the BC Cancer Agency.
UBC-Peruvian research gains $3.4M to improve food security
Greater food security in the impoverished Andean regions of Peru will be the focus of a University of British Columbia-Peruvian study thanks to a $3.4 million investment from Canadian development agencies.
UBC researchers awarded $2 million from two NSERC programs
University of British Columbia researchers have received a total of $2 million from two grant programs of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC). More than 140 UBC students also received NSERC scholarships, fellowships and awards.
Old, large, living trees must be left standing to protect nesting animals: UBC study
Old trees must be protected to save the homes of more than 1,000 different bird and mammal species who nest, says a new study from UBC. Most animals can’t carve out their own tree holes and rely on holes already formed. The study found that outside of North America, most animals nest in tree holes formed by damage and decay, a process that can take several centuries.
Trio of studies reveals attitudes of women, obstetricians and family physicians on use of technology in childbirth
Three studies by University of British Columbia and Child & Family Research Institute (CFRI) researchers are providing the closest look yet at the attitudes of women and their caregivers around the use of birth technology, and together reveal ongoing misperceptions among caregivers around the safety of vaginal births.
UBC energy conversion saves $4 million a year, cuts GHGs
A new $85-million UBC district energy system will dramatically reduce campus greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption while advancing clean energy research and development opportunities on campus.
Global leaders in business and sustainability to join 400 students to tackle ‘unsolvable’ energy problems
Media are invited to attend the International Student Energy Summit, where world energy scholars, business leaders, government and 400 students from 35 countries will gather to explore practical solutions for a more sustainable planet.
UBC awarded $4.9-million from NSERC to support young researchers
Training for students in biomedical engineering, green building science and climate change research at the University of British Columbia has received a $4.9-million boost from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).
Shame and honour increase cooperation: UBC study informs future strategy for tackling global challenges
onour and shame work equally well in encouraging social cooperation, according to a new study by researchers at the University of British Columbia and the Germany’s Max Planck Institute for Evolutionary Biology.
Non-invasive wireless near-infrared device provides reliable diagnosis of bladder dysfunction: UBC-VCH-CFRI study
A cell phone-sized, wireless near-infrared device is as reliable as the current “gold standard” invasive tests in determining bladder disease, according to a study by researchers at the University of British Columbia, Vancouver Coastal Health and the Child & Family Research Institute (CFRI).
UBC researchers to lead $4.7-million study on early-stage oral cancer
Researchers from UBC’s Faculties of Medicine, Science and Dentistry are leading a $4.7 million pan-Canadian clinical trial aimed at improving outcomes for patients undergoing surgery for oral squamous cell cancers.
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.
Emmy-winning 60 Minutes producer Peter Klein to lead UBC Graduate School of Journalism
Three-time Emmy winner Peter W. Klein will take the helm of the University of British Columbia’s Graduate School of Journalism as Acting Director, starting on July 1, 2011.
UBC student wins Trudeau Scholarship
Lara Rosenoff, a PhD student studying anthropology at UBC, was named a 2011 Trudeau Scholar, one of Canada’s most coveted awards for social sciences and humanities graduate students.
Interactive teaching methods double learning in large undergraduate physics class: UBC research
Interactive teaching methods significantly improved attendance and doubled both engagement and learning in a large physics class, according to a University of British Columbia study published today in Science.
Major funding boost for BC-led climate change research
The Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions (PICS) is pleased to announce $1.8 million in new funding for British Columbia-led projects aimed at finding solutions to the environmental, social and economic challenges — and opportunities — brought about by climate change.
UBC Journalism School calls for release of journalist Dorothy Parvaz in Syria
The UBC Graduate School of Journalism is calling for the release of reporter Dorothy Parvaz, who is being held in Syria.
UBC named Canada’s first Fair Trade Campus
UBC has been named Canada’s first “Fair Trade Campus” – and will get its very own blend of ethically sourced coffee – as a result of its national leadership on Fair Trade purchasing.
UBC Museum of Anthropology receives prestigious national landmark status
The University of British Columbia’s iconic Museum of Anthropology, designed by the renowned late architect Arthur Erickson, has received one of Canada’s most prestigious architectural awards. The museum is one of four buildings to receive the 2011 Prix du XXe Siècle Award for enduring excellence in Canadian architecture from Architecture Canada | RAIC, the Royal [...]
Physical and emotional health of older couples linked for better or worse, study finds
A study of older married couples that gives new meaning to the matrimonial adage “for better or worse” finds that spouses have a much greater impact on their partner’s health than previously known. The study, published in the current issue of the American Psychological Association’s journal Health Psychology, finds strong associations between the physical and [...]
Astronomers unveil portrait of “super-exotic super-Earth:” Densest known rocky planet
An international team of astronomers today revealed details of a “super-exotic” exoplanet that would make the planet Pandora in the movie Avatar pale in comparison.
Ongoing relationship with care provider key for patients with a chronic condition: UBC study
People with a chronic condition such as diabetes or arthritis may find themselves taking on a more active role in maintaining or improving their own health if there is an ongoing relationship with a primary healthcare (PHC) provider, according to University of British Columbia research. Appearing in the current issue of Medical Care, the study [...]
UBC will stay a member of the CIS
The University of British Columbia today announced that it will maintain its membership with Canadian Interuniversity Sport (CIS) and will not apply to join the U.S.-based National Collegiate Athletic Association (NCAA).
UBC recognizes two Canadian medical researchers with $50,000 prizes
Two of Canada’s most eminent health researchers – Dr. Jacques Genest at McGill University and Dr. Michael Hayden at the University of British Columbia – have been awarded the inaugural Margolese National Brain and Heart Disorders Prizes, the most lucrative prizes bestowed by UBC.
Newer oral contraceptive as safe for gall bladder as older birth-control pills: UBC-VCH research
Drospirenone, the top-selling oral contraceptive marketed as Yaz or Yasmin in the U.S. and Canada, doesn’t carry any more risk of gall bladder disease than the older generation of birth control pills, despite claims by some consumers and lawyers in both countries, according to a new study by University of British Columbia and Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute researcher Mahyar Etminan.
Overdose deaths down 35 per cent after opening of Vancouver’s supervised injection site: UBC-BC-CfE study
Illicit drug overdose deaths in Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside dropped by 35 per cent after the establishment of Insite, North America’s first supervised injection facility, according a new study by researchers at the University of British Columbia and the British Columbia Centre for Excellence in HIV/AIDS. Published today in The Lancet, the study is the first [...]
Most Canadians unwilling to pay for news online, study suggests
Less than a month into The New York Times’ Canadian trial run of charging for online content, a survey by UBC researchers suggests that the majority of Canadians are unwilling to pay for news online, especially if free alternatives exist.
People control thoughts better when they see their brain activity: UBC study
As humans face increasing distractions in their personal and professional lives, University of British Columbia researchers have discovered that people can gain greater control over their thoughts with real-time brain feedback.
UBC announces largest ever gift to Faculty of Medicine: $15M towards Centre for Brain Health
The University of British Columbia today announced a $15 million gift from Vancouver philanthropist Djavad Mowafaghian for a new facility that integrates brain research and patient care. In honour of his generosity – the largest gift to date to the UBC Faculty of Medicine – the facility will be named the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health.
Some populations of Fraser River salmon more likely to survive climate change: UBC study
Populations of Fraser River sockeye salmon are so fine-tuned to their environment that any further environmental changes caused by climate change could lead to the disappearance of some populations, while others may be less affected, says a new study by University of British Columbia scientists.
Death anxiety prompts people to believe in intelligent design, reject evolution: UBC research
Researchers at the University of British Columbia and Union College (Schenectady, N.Y.) have found that people’s death anxiety can influence them to support theories of intelligent design and reject evolutionary theory.
UBC 2011 federal election experts
UBC experts are available to comment on a number of hot topics related to the possible upcoming Canadian election.
Women in Canada’s news industry still face glass ceiling: study
Canadian women journalists hit the glass ceiling in senior management despite making gains that reach or exceed parity at most other levels, according to a International Women’s Media Foundation global report co-authored by UBC Prof. Mary Lynn Young.
Michael Hayden bestowed premier award for leadership in medicine
Dr. Michael Hayden has received the Canada Gairdner Wightman Award, the premier honour for leadership in medical science in Canada.
UBC welcomes federal budget initiatives for universities
Today’s federal budget contains a range of initiatives to boost research, innovation, and the global profile of Canadian universities, said UBC President Prof. Stephen Toope.
Professor Derek Gregory appointed Peter Wall Distinguished Professor
On the unanimous recommendation of Professor Dianne Newell and the Academic Advisory Committee of the Peter Wall Institute for Advanced Studies at UBC, and with the unanimous approval of the Wall Institute Board of Directors, President Stephen J. Toope is pleased to announce the appointment of Professor Derek Gregory, Department of Geography at UBC, as a Peter Wall Distinguished Professor.
UBC forum on Japan disasters
Media are invited to attend a UBC forum where experts, students and the community will discuss Japan’s “triple disaster” of earthquakes, tsunamis and nuclear crisis.
Four UBC alumni appointed to B.C. cabinet
President Stephen Toope today congratulated University of British Columbia alumni on their new roles in Premier Christy Clark’s cabinet.
UBC experts available to comment on uprisings in North Africa
UBC experts are available to comment on the historic popular revolts in Libya, Egypt and Tunisia and their implications for North Africa, the Middle East and beyond.
“David and Goliath” viruses shed light on the origin of jumping genes: UBC study
University of British Columbia researchers have identified a small virus that attacks another virus more than 100 times its own size, rescuing the infected zooplankton from certain death. The discovery provides clues to the evolutionary origin of some jumping genes found in other organisms.
Two UBC researchers receive Killam Research Fellowships
Two University of British Columbia researchers have been given Killam Research Fellowships. Among Canada’s most distinguished research awards, the fellowships provide $70,000 a year for two years to enable recipients to pursue independent research.
Clean fuel worsens climate impacts for some vehicle engines: UBC study
A pioneering program by one of the world’s largest cities to switch its vehicle fleet to clean fuel has not significantly improved harmful vehicle emissions in more than 5,000 vehicles – and worsened some vehicles’ climate impacts – a new UBC study finds.
Oscillating “plug” of magma causes tremors that forecast volcanic eruptions: UBC research
University of British Columbia geophysicists are offering a new explanation for seismic tremors accompanying volcanic eruptions that could advance forecasting of explosive eruptions such as recent events at Mount Pinatubo in the Philippines, Chaiten Volcano in Chile, and Mount St. Helens in Washington State.
Adverse drug events costly to health care system: Vancouver Coastal Health-UBC research
Patients who suffer an adverse medical event arising from the use or misuse of medications are more costly to the health care system than other emergency department (ED) patients, say physicians and research scientists at Vancouver General Hospital and the University of British Columbia. Their research, the first to examine the health outcomes and cost of patient care for patients presenting to the ED with adverse drug events, is published today in the Annals of Emergency Medicine.
Pioneering UBC clean energy project gets $11.2 million in new government support
A first-of-its-kind clean energy project that will generate enough clean electricity to power 1,500 homes and reduce the University of British Columbia’s natural gas consumption by up to 12 per cent, received $11.2 million in new federal and provincial government funding at an official groundbreaking ceremony today. The $27-million UBC Bioenergy Research and Demonstration Project [...]
Canadians and Americans get different drug information online: UBC study
Canadians and Americans are getting vastly different search results when they look up prescription drug information online, says a study by researchers at the University of British Columbia.
Fishing down food web leaves fewer big fish, more small fish in past century: UBC research
Predatory fish such as cod, tuna, and groupers have declined by two-thirds over the past 100 years, while small forage fish such as sardine, anchovy and capelin have more than doubled over the same period, according to UBC researchers.
Infants raised in bilingual environments can distinguish unfamiliar languages: UBC research
Infants raised in households where Spanish and Catalan are spoken can discriminate between English and French just by watching people speak, even though they have never been exposed to these new languages before, according to UBC psychologist Janet Werker.
UBC researchers win national honours
UBC researchers in engineering, medicine, chemistry and physics and astronomy are being honoured this evening in Ottawa at a Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) award ceremony.
Sarah Morgan-Silvester reappointed Chancellor of UBC
Sarah Morgan-Silvester has been reappointed for a second three-year term as Chancellor of the University of British Columbia. Morgan-Silvester was first appointed in April 2008; her next term will begin July 1, 2011 and end June 30, 2014.
Student housing gets huge boost at UBC’s Vancouver campus
UBC’s Board of Governors this week dramatically increased opportunities for student housing on UBC’s Vancouver campus when it unanimously approved the formation of a Student Housing Financing Endowment.
Single-cell marine predator’s unique survival mechanisms revealed: UBC research
University of British Columbia researchers have uncovered the unique survival mechanisms of a marine organism that may be tiny, but in some ways has surpassed sharks in its predatory efficiency.
UBC and China’s Modern Green Development partner to advance green building research
The University of British Columbia and Modern Green Development Co. Ltd. – one of China’s largest property developers – have entered into a strategic partnership to advance green building research and development at UBC, thanks to an initial contribution of $3.5 million from the Beijing-based company. The contribution, which results from discussions that occurred around [...]
Arctic fisheries catches 75 times higher than previous reports: UBC research
University of British Columbia researchers estimate that fisheries catches in the Arctic totaled 950,000 tonnes from 1950 to 2006, almost 75 times the amount reported to the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO) during this period.
Roasting coffee beans a dark brown produces valued antioxidants: UBC food scientists
Food scientists at the University of British Columbia have been able to pinpoint more of the complex chemistry behind coffee’s much touted antioxidant benefits, tracing valuable compounds to the roasting process.
Nobel laureates, environmental activist, senator and community leaders to receive UBC honorary degrees
Two Nobel laureates are among the 10 individuals who will receive honorary degrees at the Vancouver campus of the University of British Columbia this year.
Genome of blue stain fungus evolved to bypass tree defense in mountain pine beetle epidemic: UBC research
The genome of the fungus that helps mountain pine beetles infect and kill lodgepole pines has been decoded in a University of British Columbia study.
UBC gains $2.8 million for research infrastructure
University of British Columbia research in nanotechnology, neuroscience, social work, the environment and consumer psychology received a $2.8-million boost today from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI).
Fears of Ontario pharmacy shortage after slashed generic drug prices unfounded: UBC research
A University of British Columbia study shows that there are enough pharmacies situated throughout Ontario communities to absorb many closures without negatively affecting geographical accessibility for residents. The research suggests concerns that reducing generic pricing could result in pharmacy shortages are unfounded.
Deer causing rapid environmental change on B.C.’s and Washington’s Gulf islands: UBC study
Growing deer populations are fundamentally changing the environment of the Gulf Islands off the coast of B.C. and Washington, leaving the region susceptible to invasion by foreign species, says a study by researchers in the Faculty of Forestry at UBC.
Genes contribute to sockeye salmon mortality in Fraser River: UBC and DFO study
Fraser River sockeye salmon with a certain genomic profile are more likely to die before spawning, contributing to the recent declines in British Columbian salmon, says a new study by researchers at the University of British Columbia (UBC) and Fisheries and Oceans Canada (DFO).
UBC-Vancouver Coastal Health researchers find critical link between Down Syndrome and Alzheimer’s Disease
Researchers at the University of British Columbia and Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute have discovered that the genetic mechanism which destroys brain cells is responsible for early development of Alzheimer’s Disease in people with Down Syndrome and for development of Alzheimer’s Disease in the general population – providing a potential new target for drugs that could forestall dementia in people with either condition.
UBC researchers part of Planck satellite team that uncovers secrets of the Universe
University of British Columbia researchers are part of European Space Agency’s Planck satellite mission that is revealing thousands of “exotic” astronomical objects, including extremely cold dust clouds, galaxies with powerful nuclei, and giant clusters of galaxies.
Four UBC professors appointed to the Order of Canada
Four professors and three members of the UBC community have been named to the Order of Canada, one of Canada’s highest civilian honours.
UBC experts panel on Canada’s election results
May. 2, 2011 | Filed under: Media Advisory, Media Release, News Feed, News Tip | Tags: business, Canada, economy, election analysis, election commentary, election results, experts, political science, politics, UBC experts list, UBC Faculty of Arts
Media are invited to attend a UBC panel discussion of Canada’s federal election results on Tuesday, May 3 (10 a.m.), the morning after the election.
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