BC Research Firsts in Health and Biotech

Long term strength—from foundational discovery to health system implementation

A selective snapshot of accomplishments that show how British Columbia research has moved from discovery to real-world health impact.

1

2003 | Sequencing the SARS coronavirus

BC scientists at the Michael Smith Genome Sciences Centre were first in the world to sequence the SARS coronavirus, helping reveal the cause of the outbreak and demonstrating the power of genomics in responding to emerging infectious disease.

2003
2

Foundations of mRNA vaccines | Lipid nonoparticles

Research led in BC helped establish the lipid nanoparticle delivery platform that made mRNA medicines and vaccines possible, linking foundational science to technologies used around the world,including COVID-19 vaccines.

2005+
3

World-first precision oncology

BC Cancer researchers pioneered the use of whole-genome analysis to help inform cancer treatment planning, advancing a more personalized approach to care and helping position BC at the forefront of precision oncology.

2010s
4

Faster hereditary cancer screening

A BC developed screening approach expanded testing for hereditary cancer genes, reduced costs and cut wait times from 13 months to six weeks, showing how research can improve access and change the standard of care.

2016+

Built on curiosity.
Driven by collaboration.
Delivering impact for a healthier future.

  • World class talent
  • Bold research and innovation
  • Strong partners and ecosystem
  • Better health for all

The next wave - translation, commercialization and patient impact.

These examples show how BC research continues to generate
new therapies, stronger companies and direct benefits for patients.

1

Bioprinted tissue therapeutics for diabetes

Aspect Biosystems is advancing bioprinted tissue therapeutics for diabetes, illustrating how BC research in regenerative medicine is moving toward clinical application and attracting major global partnerships.

2022+
2

FDA approval for a BC founded cancer therapy

Vancouver based Zymeworks reached a major commercialization milestone when its HER2-targeted therapy for biliary tract cancer received FDA approval, showing how BC innovation can progress from discovery to approved treatment.

2024
3

More pediatric cancer patients receive PGx testing

Pharmacogenomic testing to guide drug treatment expanded from fewer than 10% to more than 60% of pediatric cancer patients in Canada, demonstrating how research can change routine care and improve treatment
decisions.

2010s
4

World-first patient cured using prime editing

A BC patient with a rare immune disease became the first person in the world cured using prime-editing gene therapy, highlighting the next generation of precision treatment and direct patient impact.

2016+

From research excellence
to patient impact.Better health. Stronger BC. A healthier future for all.

  • Stronger companies
    and good jobs
  • Global partnerships and investment
  • Better treatments and patient outcomes
  • Benefits for communities