University News

UBC-led research team finds nine new coronavirus species

A former UBC post-doctoral research fellow led an international research team in re-analyzing all public RNA sequencing data to uncover almost ten times more RNA viruses than were previously known, including several new species of coronaviruses in some unexpected places.

Jan 26, 2022

UBC clinical trial supports new self-administered rapid antigen test

Thanks to new research compiled with data from UBC’s first on-campus clinical study, a new self-administered rapid antigen test will soon be available in Canada. It’s a tool that could help combat growing uncertainty, prevent transmission and potentially save lives.

Dec 23, 2021

COVID-19: Planning for 2021/22 Winter Session, Term 2

As we approach Winter Session Term 2 in January, we would like to update you on recent discussions around COVID-19 and the emergence of the Omicron variant.

Dec 22, 2021

Statement regarding health and safety during exams

Throughout the pandemic, UBC has worked closely with the Provincial Health Officer and Regional Health Authorities to ensure we are following their guidance in our campus operations and that we are keeping our community safe.

Dec 19, 2021

UBC releases 2020 animal research statistics

UBC’s summary of animals involved in research at the university in 2020 is now available.

Dec 9, 2021

A photo of a Tŝilhqot’in drum. The Tŝilhqot’in National Government and the University of British Columbia will be signing a memorandum of understanding on Wednesday. Credit: Laureen Carruthers

Tŝilhqot’in Nation and UBC sign Memorandum of Understanding

The Tŝilhqot’in National Government (TNG) and the University of British Columbia (UBC) will be signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) at UBC’s Vancouver campus on Wednesday.

Dec 8, 2021

Exterior of Bio-energy Research and Demonstration Facility.

UBC commits to net zero emissions by 2035

The University of British Columbia today unveiled a bold new climate action plan to accelerate emissions reductions and achieve net-zero emissions by 2035 at its Vancouver campus—15 years ahead of the previous target date.

Dec 8, 2021

Event: Tŝilhqot’in Nation and UBC sign Memorandum of Understanding

The Tŝilhqot’in National Government (TNG) and the University of British Columbia (UBC) will be signing a memorandum of understanding (MOU) at UBC’s Vancouver campus on Wednesday.

Dec 7, 2021

Using MiniTorr to transform the waste at the local level into fertilizer means farmers can improve their crop yields and invest the money into their daily operations—all while cutting down on carbon emission, improving air quality and reducing wildfire risk.

UBC post-doc entrepreneur’s invention wins nearly $2M prize from Royals, Elon Musk

The waste-burning emission reduction invention of UBC post-doctoral chemical and biological engineering student now has royal recognition and the attention of one of Earth’s most influential billionaires.

Nov 24, 2021

B.C. universities team up to dress UBC grads after storm

The University of British Columbia’s first in-person graduation ceremonies since 2019 have hit an unexpected hurdle and won’t look the same as normal.

Nov 22, 2021

Statement regarding November 17 event

UBC statement regarding cancellation of November 17 event

Nov 12, 2021

UBC expanding presence in Surrey with $70M land acquisition

The University of British Columbia is expanding its presence south of the Fraser River with the $70-million purchase of a property in Surrey.

Nov 2, 2021

Preparing for the Big One: UBC research lab to shake, rattle and roll

UBC’s Earthquake Engineering Research Facility (EERF) will shake, rattle and roll for the public this International ShakeOut Day.

Oct 19, 2021

Fifty-eight per cent of Canadian youth say they have seen kids bullied based on their race or ethnicity at school, according to new survey data from the Angus Reid Institute in partnership with the University of British Columbia. Credit: Shutterstock

Half of Canadian kids witness ethnic, racial bullying at school: study

Fifty-eight per cent of Canadian youth say they have seen kids insulted, bullied or excluded based on their race or ethnicity at school, according to new survey data from the Angus Reid Institute in partnership with the University of British Columbia.

Oct 19, 2021

Launching UBC’s COVID-19 rapid testing program

UBC is requiring COVID-19 rapid testing for all students, faculty and staff, with exemptions provided for those who are fully vaccinated against COVID-19.

Sep 7, 2021

Ensuring a safe start to the new academic year

Next week sees the start of Winter Session, Term 1, and a return to campus for many of us. Here’s what you need to do to help ensure a safe environment for yourself and those around you.

Sep 2, 2021

UBC implements vaccine declaration and rapid testing for COVID-19

As a result, UBC will provide COVID-19 testing for all students, faculty and staff, with exemptions provided for those who are vaccinated against COVID-19.

Aug 26, 2021

Announcement of BC Vaccine Card for specific activities

Today, the BC provincial government announced that the BC Vaccine Card will be introduced by a new order from the provincial health officer.

Aug 23, 2021

Dale Abbey (left) and Dylan Anderson (right) from UBC Okanagan changing the air filters in an air handler to Merv 13, on the roof of the Commons building. Photo: UBC

UBC’s HVAC teams are making sure we can breathe easy

Part two in a series recognizing faculty and staff who are supporting UBC’s transition back to campus. In this update, we showcase the efforts of our colleagues who are working on HVAC systems to ensure safe building ventilation on campus.

Aug 6, 2021

Health and wellbeing a top priority as students return to campus

As UBC prepares to welcome students back to campus this September, the university is taking extra care to keep them safe and in good health.

Jul 22, 2021