British Columbia’s life sciences industry contributed over $805 million in revenues in 2018. There are over 300 biopharmaceutical and medical device companies as well as over 8,500 talented and specialized individuals residing in BC. This project partnered with the Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research and Mitacs to develop a methodology and case study approach to demonstrating the impact of health and life sciences research, working back from outcomes to determine what inputs and strategies led to which results. In this study, health and life sciences research is a broad range of research activities (including basic, clinical, health services & policy, population health) that is conducted within university, hospital, community, or industry settings.

This study identified key enablers and barriers to life sciences and health research creating an impact in BC. Key enablers included creating multidisciplinary research teams, accessing early-stage financial support and an entrepreneurial spirit. Barriers in creating translational research impact were communication obstacles with community and research partners, resistance to opportunity creation, and technological uncertainty inherent in novel discoveries. Supporting early career scientists with translational research funding can overcome some of the revealed barriers as well as innovation programs designed to support university spin-offs.

This study will better inform policy-makers, funding agents, investors, researchers and developers on the impact of health and life science research in BC on both health, socio-economic, academic environments. The findings provide insights for future resource allocation, talent training, research, and development strategies within and beyond the Province of BC.