UBC’s researchers contribute to a global effort to save lives, fight disease and address critical health and environmental issues concerning humans and animals.
Our researchers have helped to improve understanding and treatment of global health challenges like cancer, HIV/AIDS and Alzheimer’s disease. They’ve developed treatments for age-related blindness, technologies to treat heart disease, and tests to diagnose heart, lung and kidney failure. Some have made breakthroughs in animal-borne diseases that can also affect humans, such as Creutzfeldt-Jakob disease, avian influenza, and Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome (SARS). Many of our researchers are engaged in studying the impact of climate and environmental change on the survival of animal species, and how they adapt to these changes.
Recent UBC research breakthroughs have occurred in areas such as human health, animal welfare and environmental sustainability. Examples are included below.
UBC team developing oral insulin tablet sees breakthrough results
Innovative coating for blood vessels reduces rejection of transplanted organs
Researchers develop new weapon for hard-to-treat bacterial infections
Two pathogens linked to salmon health and survival in B.C.
Surprising insights into the migration pattern of world's farthest-migrating species
Toxic toilet paper and long-lasting chemicals found in endangered killer whales
Data from thousands of cameras confirms protected areas promote mammal diversity