UBCO researcher Dr. Jian Liu is focused on designing, building and testing better batteries, ones with increased lifespan, improved safety and a low purchase cost.
Two UBC Okanagan research projects were awarded a combined $4.15 million in infrastructure funding today as part of the Canada Foundation for Innovation's Innovation Fund.
Funded projects include pursuing the development of better, cleaner battery technology in a new, state-of-the-art on-campus facility and the revitalization of endangered Indigenous languages and cultures through a series of resource hubs embedded in regional Indigenous communities.
The Innovation Fund is a grant program that supports large-scale, team-based research projects that require cutting-edge infrastructure to help Canada remain at the forefront of exploration and knowledge generation. Funds support researchers in addressing global challenges and making meaningful contributions to the social, health, environmental and economic aspects of life in Canada.
The announcement marks the first time UBCO has been awarded funding through the Innovation Fund, a sign of the university's continuing research growth and expanding expertise, says Dr. Suzie Currie, Vice-Principal, Research and Innovation.
"I am delighted to see our researchers and their teams recognized for their knowledge, drive and ongoing contributions to such important and impactful areas," says Dr. Currie. "The urgency for cleaner, more efficient, affordable energy has never been more evident, nor has the need to safeguard endangered languages and cultures that are a prominent part of our region's history. We are grateful to the CFI for this vote of confidence and look forward to establishing ourselves as leaders in these fields as we continue to make impactful contributions to benefit Canada and the world."
The Honourable Mélanie Joly, Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions, announced the funds today at the Université de Sherbrooke as part of more than $552 million in support for Canadian research infrastructure through the Innovation Fund.
A total of 14 projects across UBC were awarded funding.
Dr. Jeannette Armstrong is partnering with scholars, Indigenous educators and community members to help ensure BC's 34 unique Indigenous languages survive.
