This research cluster, a joint initiative between the Sorensen Lab at UBC and the Morin Lab at SFU with a number of key partners, involves a multidisciplinary approach to better understand the role of genetic changes in individual types of pediatric cancer, and how we might use this information to design better treatments for these […]

This project explores the potential of low-tech biochar production using an invasive species to mitigate climate change and generate carbon credits. Focused on Kenya, the research assesses the viability of this practice, considering factors like feedstock availability, production data, and environmental impacts. The team aims to provide communities, policymakers, and investors with valuable insights through […]

Finger-jointed lumber made from reclaimed and recycled lumber cut-offs/waste will be manufactured and used to produce mass timber panels (i.e., cross-laminated timber (CLT)). The mechanical properties of these panels will then be measured. The project therefore consists of two phases. The first one will focus on assessing the mechanical properties of the finger-jointed lumber made […]

This research project is dedicated to advancing seismic analysis practices for geological structures. The primary objective is to develop a suite of reliable and user-friendly modeling tools to enhance our ability to predict and mitigate the effects of earthquakes, particularly focusing on soil liquefaction. This involves robust numerical implementation of an advanced sand constitutive model […]

The chart of synaptic connections within a mammalian brain will serve as a reference map for generations, rivaling the impact of reference genomes. However, such maps have been elusive because current microscopy-based methods do not scale and necessitate sample destruction, losing the developmental history of synapses. We propose a novel “DNA tape” system that uses […]

The aim of this research internship is to contribute to our group’s research program using laser­ cooled gases to explore fundamental phenomena of quantum materials and to use them to realize new quantum sensors. This research program has two main objectives – the use of ultra-cold atomic and molecular gases to (1) realize new quantum […]

Hawaiian coral reefs are extremely diverse and host a suite of endemic species. This diversity is a key aspect of their resilience. Fishing is an important aspect of Hawaiian culture, providing food and livelihoods for local people. Most of the fishing within Hawai’i is non-commercial and occurs in the near-shore, where herbivores make up 21% […]

Hydraulic fracturing is a process where fluids are injected in high pressure into wells and fracture the rocks. This process is the driver for shale gas extraction and therefore its efficiency plays a major role for unconventional oil recovery. One of the key questions in such a process is the extent that the pressurized fluids […]

Since the Fisheries Act was enacted in 1868, a year after Confederation, it has been regarded as one of Canada’s oldest and most important environmental laws. Despite the powerful environmental protections provided by the Fisheries Act, various environmental impact studies conducted throughout the Jordan River watershed show high concentrations of copper, hydrocarbon, and wood waste […]

Abortion is an essential component of comprehensive healthcare, where lack of access to safe, affordable, timely and respectful abortion is, according to the World Health Organization, a “critical public health and human rights issue.” Trans people are often left out of abortion research, as well as the clinical delivery of abortion care, which focuses on […]

Caveolin-1 (CAV1) is a protein on the plasma membrane that forms cup-shaped structures caveolae, which flatten to protect cells under mechanical stress. However, the relationship between the caveolae and other CAV1 structures, scaffolds and dolines, in the process of caveolae formation and flattening is unclear. A challenge is to differentiate caveolae from scaffolds using conventional […]

People in prisons and on parole in Canada face extreme barriers to health, wellbeing and social belonging. However, there is limited research on the specific processes and outcomes of criminalization and incarceration, and gaps in understanding can lead to policies and laws that do more harm than good. Given this, this project will support partnership […]