Updates, news and stories

How AbCellera grew from a UBC lab to a global biotech company

A UBC spin-off powered by alumni talent, pushing B.C.’s economy forward It didn’t look like the beginning of a global biotech company. In 2012, six scientists working in a corner of a UBC lab were developing technology they believed could transform how new medicines are discovered—the team that would go on to form AbCellera.  

Have your say on UBCO's future academic structure

Dr. Mary Jung appointed Scientific Director of CIHR Institute of Nutrition, Metabolism and Diabetes

UBC Okanagan researcher Dr. Mary Jung is taking over leadership of one of the 13 institutes that make up the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), enabling her—and UBCO—to play a key role in advancing health research across the country. Dr. Jung, a Professor in the School of Health and Exercise Sciences, was appointed Scientific Director of the CIHR Institute of Nutrition, Metabolism and Diabetes (INMD) for a four-year term, beginning January 1, 2026. 

Share your feedback on proposed amendments to the Deaccessioning Policy (UP11), the Information Systems Policy (SC14), and the Wireless Network Policy (SC11)

The UBC community is invited to comment on proposed amendments to the Deaccessioning Policy, the Information Systems Policy, and the Wireless Network Policy by Jan. 9, 2026. Find out more

Participate in the UBC Community Safety uniform design challenge

UBC Campus Security is preparing to transition into UBC Community Safety in early 2026, refreshing its identity to better reflect their caring and proactive approach to campus safety. As part of this transformation, UBC’s Slow Fashion Research Cluster, in partnership with UBC Community Safety, is inviting the UBC Vancouver community to help reimagine the next generation of UBC Community Safety uniforms through a campus-wide Uniform Design Challenge.

Research in focus: Vince Hopkins

Vince Hopkins, an assistant professor in the Department of Political Science, researches behavioural public policy and Canadian politics, with a focus on improving access to public services—especially employment programs. His work helps governments identify and remove barriers so more people can access the programs, benefits, and supports they need.

How the Nuxalk Nation Is Working with UBC’s Museum of Anthropology to Host the First-Ever Exhibit of Their People

UBC's Financial Planning Process for 2026/27

The purpose of this update is to give our leadership community a clear view of the financial environment we are operating in, the expectations for Faculties and Administrative Units as we begin the 2026/27 budget cycle, and the upcoming steps in the planning process.

Dr. Candace Galla appointed UNESCO Co-Chair to advance Indigenous and non-dominant language rights

UNESCO has appointed UBC professor Dr. Candace Galla as Co-Chair for Rights Education among Indigenous and Non-Dominant Language Communities—a global role focused on advancing language rights, education, and community-led research.

UBC recognized as one of Canada’s Best Places to Work in 2025

Paid leave for staff between Boxing Day and New Year’s Day

With the holiday season approaching, please note that certain UBC staff are eligible for paid leave during the university’s seasonal closure – the three normal working days between Boxing Day and New Year’s Day. This year’s paid leave dates are Monday, Dec. 29; Tuesday, Dec. 30; and Wednesday, Dec. 31, 2025. 

Faculty of Pharmaceutical Sciences celebrates official opening of Indigenous Student Space