Establishing and maintaining specialized research infrastructure (facilities, tools and equipment) is critical to advancing discovery and creating impact.
When shared by multiple users, the burden of cost can be lifted, making the resources more accessible and increasing opportunities for collaboration. Our shared platforms include cutting-edge instrumentation, advanced technologies, data processing and analysis.
The Fipke Laboratory for Trace Element Research (FiLTER) is a state-of-the art research facility that specializes in trace element analysis and electron microscope imaging. FiLTER offers a range of analytical services to UBC researchers and the broader scientific community on a fee-for-service basis.
The FiLTER lab includes some of the most advanced spectrometry and microscopy instrumentation available, which allows scientists to measure minute particles, scan them at the atomic level and determine their origin. Researchers can examine how mountains were formed by studying microscopic trace elements in a single crystal within a rock or look for trace element “fingerprints” that show mineral deposits might contain gold, diamonds or other valuable resources.
From food security and forest renewal to the development of novel bio-fertilizers and compostable plastics, UBC Okanagan’s Plant Growth Facility enables our scholars to work collaboratively to benefit the social and economic health of our region. The 5,100 square-foot, state-of-the-art research greenhouse is located in the agricultural land reserve (ALR) on the West Campus Lands, near the Upper Campus Health building.
This facility enables research collaborations between scientists, farmers and community partners to jointly experiment with a diverse range of plants and crops, including grapes, hops, cherries, honeysuckle, and more. With capacity for over 10,000 plants, plantings have included breadfruit, lavender, grapevine, flax and rhododendron. The research here extends beyond traditional biology and chemistry applications, such as plant-microbe interactions, plant chemistry and plant-insect interactions, to include emerging fields of study in environmental engineering, eco-criticism, sustainability and food systems.
As one of more than 30 Research Data Centres (RDCs) on university campuses across Canada, UBCO’s RDC enables access to detailed microdata from Statistics Canada while still protecting the confidentiality and security of Canadians’ information. This microdata can range from the longform census to administrative records for tax or employment insurance.
While Statistics Canada provides summaries and some limited public-use microfiles that are available to everyone, through the security measures of the RDC, users can use the full sample of anonymized responses. Researchers interested in accessing data must submit proposals through the Statistics Canada Microdata Access Portal (MAP).
In the Okanagan Biosciences Facility, the UBC Animal Care and Use Program provides animal care and housing, veterinary services, facilities management, ethics compliance, specialized technical services and training to support the dedicated scientists who work with animals as part of their research programs.
UBC STAR utilizes the power of collaborative research and development to solve human performance challenges in extreme environments. This platform maintains specialized research facilities with rapid prototyping, blast and ballistic testing capabilities. The UBC STAR team helps university researchers work with private-sector companies and public-sector service delivery organizations to advance innovation in the safety and security, health and sport sectors.
From conducting veteran survivor studies to protecting first responders on the front lines of war and disaster, UBC STAR researchers work directly with partners to develop technologies, strategies and standards that save lives and create more resilient communities.