Projets novateurs réalisés

Biophysical analysis of ABCG sterol transporters

Our research concerns a group of lipid trafficking proteins, scientifically known as ABC transporters, that only work when submerged in the sea of lipids, which we call membranes. These proteins can “pick up” lipid molecules, especially sterols, and move the lipids out or into the cells. We know that different members of these lipid trafficking proteins work together to remove different types of sterol molecules, but no one knows exactly how such types of proteins can work on different types of lipid molecules. Our objective of this project is to investigate the molecular factors that determine how such type of protein recognizes and traffics the lipid molecules in cells.

Distributed Optimization Framework for DSO-Aggregator Coordination in DER-Integrated Distribution Systems Under Uncertainty.

This project focuses on creating innovative, flexible ways for electricity grid operators and groups managing renewable energy sources like solar panels, wind turbines, and batteries to work together efficiently, even when energy production is unpredictable due to weather or other factors. By reviewing existing research, building computer models for optimal power flow, and testing them on simulated grids, the project aims to make power distribution more reliable and cost-effective in countries like Canada and Chile, which are pushing for cleaner energy. The collaboration between Simon Fraser University in Canada and Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez in Chile will strengthen their optimization and grid management expertise, lead to shared publications and tools, enhance student training through international experience, and build long-term partnerships to advance global sustainable energy research.

Uteroplacental vascular transformation in hypertensive pregnancy

Healthy pregnancies require major changes in blood flow to support the growing baby. Specifically, the mother’s uterine arteries must widen to allow more blood to reach the placenta, and the placenta must build a complex network of blood vessels to deliver oxygen and nutrients to the fetus. In hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP), these changes often don’t happen properly, which can lead to poor fetal growth and serious health risks for both mother and baby. The reasons for these vascular problems are still unclear, but they may stem from the high blood pressure interfering with normal adaptation. This project will explore how nifedipine, a commonly used medication to treat high blood pressure in pregnancy, affects blood vessel development in both the uterus and placenta. Using a well-established animal model of HDP, we aim to understand whether nifedipine helps restore healthy vascular changes that are critical for pregnancy success. This proposal strengthens our collaboration with Dr. Genevieve Eastabrook, a maternal-fetal medicine specialist and researcher at our partner organization (the Children’s Health Research Institute and London Health Sciences Centre), by generating mechanistic data that can directly inform and enhance clinical decision-making for patients she treats with HDP.

New Voices Film Lab

Frictive Pictures’ internship program will task its interns with documenting, composing, and promoting behind-the-scenes and educational content featuring the process of eight new voices in film as they create short films for broadcast and festival release. Interns will collaborate with industry professional producers to chronicle and create shareable content about the production process and then connect that content with interested and invested filmmakers and film communities.

Myotis lucifugus and Myotis yumanensis mixed maternity roost monitoring methods

This project seeks to develop a non-invasive method, which does not require direct wildlife capture and handling, for monitoring the endangered little brown myotis and a co-occurring species, Yuma myotis, at shared summer maternity roost sites in western North America. A method is urgently needed so that potential species-specific impacts to these two bats from the deadly white-nose syndrome can be assessed and mitigated as the disease inevitably spreads within BC in the near future. Our proposed method involves acoustic monitoring of bat echolocation calls, and eDNA air sampling, which captures DNA shed by bats into the air and uses genetic testing to assign a species identification to the DNA. If validated, a method such as this could be efficient, accurate, and accessible. Importantly, it would not require high levels of involvement by species experts, so it could be readily scaled up to harness non-expert conservation and citizen science groups. We will draw on and advance a WCS Canada Bat Program database, that will synthesize WCS Canada’s bat-related data, and make accessing and summarizing this data to address pressing conservation problems, like this one, easier and more manageable.

Preuve de concept : la confection d’orthèse du poignet pour le syndrome du tunnel carpien par impression 3D

Ce projet de recherche a pour objectif d’explorer si la technologie d’impression 3D est acceptable en clinique pour fabriquer des orthèses de qualité. Elles sont destinées aux personnes atteintes du syndrome du tunnel carpien. C’est une condition qui peut causer des engourdissements, des picotements et de la douleur dans la main et les doigts, ce qui peut mener à une paralysie de la main. Il est question ici d’évaluer si l’impression 3D pourrait devenir une option pratique et avantageuse pour les professionnels de la santé (ergothérapeutes et orthésistes) et les patients. Dans le cadre de l’étude, des patients porteront une orthèse conçue à l’aide de l’impression 3D et rempliront des questionnaires afin d’évaluer leur satisfaction et leur réponse au traitement. La stagiaire participe au projet notamment en collectant et en analysant les données recueillies par ces questionnaires, puis en rédigeant un manuscrit destiné à partager les connaissances acquises. Les résultats permettront à l’organisation partenaire d’ajuster le prototype d’orthèse en fonction des commentaires reçus. Une fois le prototype finalisé, le service pourra être implanté en milieu clinique, permettant ainsi à l’organisation de bénéficier de retombées économiques et de renforcer son réseau de contacts.

Comparative Study of Hydrogen Embrittlement in Additively Manufactured and Wrought 316L Stainless Steel

This research project explores how different manufacturing methods affect the durability of 316L stainless steel when exposed to hydrogen, a critical factor for the safety and reliability of future hydrogen infrastructure. The study compares conventional metal processing with two advanced additive manufacturing techniques, Wire Arc Additive Manufacturing (WAAM) and Laser Powder Bed Fusion (LPBF), to see how each influences the material’s resistance to hydrogen embrittlement, a type of damage that can cause metals to become brittle and break. By producing and testing identical samples using consistent methods in both Canada and Australia, the project will generate valuable insights into how microstructure impacts performance in hydrogen-rich environments. This collaboration between UBC Okanagan and the University of Sydney combines world-class fabrication and testing facilities, contributing to safer clean energy systems. The results will help guide engineers and industry leaders in choosing the best materials and production methods for hydrogen-related applications, while also supporting international research training and innovation in both countries.

Projet Synergique – Intégration d’une équipe de soutien intégré en parasports

Les athlètes en fauteuil roulant qui pratiquent des sports comme le basketball, le tennis, le rugby ou l’athlétisme ont besoin d’un soutien spécialisé pour atteindre leur plein potentiel. Actuellement, chaque équipe fonctionne de façon isolée, ce qui limite les échanges d’expertise et rend difficile un accès équitable à des services de qualité. Ce projet vise à créer une équipe de soutien intégrée (ÉSI), composée d’experts en préparation physique et mentale, en nutrition et en thérapie du sport, qui travaillera avec plusieurs sports à la fois.

En plus d’améliorer la qualité des services, ce projet cherche à favoriser la collaboration entre les intervenants et à assurer que chaque athlète se sente écouté, soutenu, compétent et compris. En collaboration avec des consultants scientifiques et chercheurs spécialisés, nous allons suivre l’évolution de cette nouvelle approche et évaluer ses impacts sur la performance, la motivation et le bien-être des athlètes et entraîneurs. À terme, ce projet veut démontrer que le travail d’équipe – bien structuré et bien soutenu – peut faire toute la différence dans le développement de l’excellence sportive.

Application of Novel DNA vectors in CNS gene and cell therapy

This project will test how well different DNA-based therapies work in the brain and body using a mouse model. Mice will receive either a high or low dose of the therapy, and their response will be tracked through imaging, blood tests, and tissue analysis. The goal is to measure how much of the DNA reaches target areas and whether it produces the intended protein. Results will be analyzed statistically and shared with project partners. This work supports the development of safer, non-viral gene therapies and could lead to future treatments for neurological and systemic conditions.
This project supports the partner organization’s R&D goals by optimizing how novel DNA therapies are delivered, aiming to improve treatments for rare and brain-related genetic disorders. It will generate key data to guide the design and delivery of safer, redosable gene therapies. These results will help advance msDNA technology toward clinical use and address major gaps in current treatment options, boosting the partner’s productivity and innovation pipeline.

Retracer la trajectoire organisationnelle de l’alliance Transition en commun

Ce projet de recherche propose une analyse de la trajectoire de Transition en Commun (TeC), une alliance intersectorielle montréalaise qui concentre ses efforts à la transition socio-écologique. En tant qu’initiative urbaine qui mobilise un large éventail d’acteurs TeC constitue un espace privilégié pour mieux comprendre les modalités d’émergence, de structuration et d’engagement des collectifs dans les trajectoires de transition à l’échelle de la ville.
Il existe peu de travaux sur la manière dont les organisations collectives émergent, se structurent, apprennent ensemble et ajustent leurs modes de fonctionnement. Le projet vise à documenter plus spécifiquement la trajectoire d’émergence et de structuration de TeC, la façon dont l’alliance se construit dans le temps, les formes de participation qu’elle encourage et dispositifs concrets qu’elle met en place pour susciter l’adhésion, favoriser la collaboration et renforcer l’ancrage local de son action. Par la documentation de la trajectoire et de l’historique de l’alliance, l’équipe compte faire émerger des moments charnières d’engagement et de collaboration entre les acteurs afin de développer des outils pour l’amélioration des pratiques d’engagement et des recommandations pour l’évolution future de l’alliance.

Theoretical guarantees of convergence and novel machine learning methods for computational algorithms for Variational Mean-Field Games

The project focuses on Variational Mean-Field Games: it will provide theoretical guarantees for the convergence of numerical algorithms currently used and possibly develop also novel machine learning methods for it.

Physics-Informed Deep Learning Models for Radio Wave Propagation

This project brings together researchers from University College Dublin (Ireland) and the University of Alberta (Canada) to develop smarter ways of modeling radio wave propagation in railway environments. These models help improve wireless communication systems used in train and subway services. The project uses a combination of physics and artificial intelligence (AI), allowing faster and more accurate predictions while reducing the need for costly simulations. By working together, both universities will benefit from shared knowledge, access to real-world data, and opportunities for future research funding and student exchange. This collaboration aims to support smarter infrastructure and more reliable communication systems in both Canada and Europe.