Vancouver, BC – Dr. Don Rix who passed away on Friday, November 6th, dedicated over 40 years to developing the life sciences sector in British Columbia and leaves a legacy of innovation, vision and capacity. Through his leadership and numerous philanthropic contributions his legacy will continue to provide for British Columbians in the years to come.

Among his many activities and ventures including MDS Metro (now LifeLabs), The Vancouver Board of Trade, the BC Innovation Council; Dr. Rix was also a founding Director of Genome BC, Chair of its Board from 2000 to 2006 and a member of the Board of the Genome BC Foundation until his passing.

Dr. Rix’s contributions to Genome BC and the life sciences industry are significant. Over the years Dr. Rix gave back to his community - not only giving of his time and talent to mentor young entrepreneurs and scientists but also through his charitable contributions that have provided scholarships for students, research funding and investments for local start-up companies.

“Don’s vision and leadership contributed substantially to the success of Genome BC and the BC life sciences sector. He was not only a great leader, but a wonderful man and we are all richer for having known him. He will be missed,” says Dr. Alan Winter, President and CEO of Genome BC.

About Genome BC
Founded in 2000, Genome BC works collaboratively with government, universities and industry as the catalyst for a genomics-driven life sciences cluster with significant social and economic benefits for the Province and Canada. The organization's research portfolio, over $410 million since inception, includes 74 projects and technology platforms focused on areas of strategic importance to British Columbia such as human health, forestry, fisheries, bioenergy, mining, agriculture, and the environment. Genome BC programs are funded by Genome Canada, the Provincial Government of British Columbia, Western Economic Diversification Canada and other public and private partners.

Media contact:
Sally Greenwood
Director - Communications, Genome BC
604.637.4373 or sgreenwood@genomebc.ca