January 04, 2024

Life Sciences BC seeks to raise the profile of our members and supporters, highlight their achievements, and promote BC's dynamic life sciences ecosystem. If you have news or a story to share, let us know.

You can find previous editions of BioLinks newsletters and other resources on our website at News/Publications.

Life Sciences BC News

Happy New Year! We hope you had a wonderfully relaxing holiday season filled with joy and good company. As we launch into 2024, we look forward to reconnecting with you all for another dynamic year in BC's life sciences sector.

To kick things off, we are excited to attend next week's J.P. Morgan Conference Week! This year, we are thrilled to be joined by the over 57 BC companies participating in the week's activities. This impressive representation reflects BC's exceptional spirit of innovation and entrepreneurship. If you're attending, we'd

love to connect and include you in our efforts – let us know! 

Attendees won’t want to miss out on this conference hack: BIO and Novateur Ventures are providing a"Guide to JP" app for iPhone and Android. This free app helps you decide which receptions and educational opportunities to prioritize during JPM Week.

Download it here and make the most of your experience.

We kick off this year's programming on Jan. 16/17 with BioBasics 201 – the anticipated follow-up to BioBasics 101 - that aims to elevate your comprehension of the scientific principles that form the backbone of the biotech sector, empowering you to engage in more informed discussions on biopharma.

Employers and job seekers won’t want to miss our 5^th Annual Career Connect Day on Jan. 26, which brings together life sciences sector companies and current and future job seekers to explore a world of opportunities through inspiring programming and a job fair expo!

On Jan. 30, we will explore the evolving business landscape at Understanding the Value of Employment Contracts presented by Gowling WLG, featuring a fireside chat between Wendy Hurlburt and partners Paul Armitage and Max Brunette.

And that’s just January!

We are also in preparation mode for our 9^th annual full-day Access to Innovation: Powering Life Sciences Innovation and Sustainable Economic Growth on Feb. 28, which brings life sciences leaders from academia, research, health institutions, government, and industry to engage in insightful discussions on the ever-evolving trends, developments, and policies shaping British Columbia’s thriving sector. Stay tuned as we continue to update our agenda!

Member Highlights 

Canary Medical CEO Bill Hunter was recently featured on DeviceTalks, where he discussed his professional journey, including his transition from a medical practice to a MedTech entrepreneur. Bill also shares his vision for Canary and provides valuable insights for navigating the ever-changing sector landscape. Listen here.

Sernova CEO Cynthia Pussinen spoke recently with Diabetes Daily about the potential of Sernova’s novel credit card-sized Cell Pouch System, which can be surgically implanted under the skin to treat Type 1 Diabetes. Read it here.

Axolotl Biosciences CEO Stephanie Willerth joined BEaTS Research Radio’s Podcast to talk about her research developing a 3D bioprinted Alzheimer's disease model that replicates the native tissue environment. Listen here.

Aspect Biosystems has taken an exciting step forward in expanding its Canadian presence by officially opening an additional Vancouver facility. This move aligns with their mission to advance the development of therapies aimed at treating severe diseases on a global scale. Aspect's CEO Tamer Mohamed will also present at the year's J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference on Jan. 11 - Learn more!

New Members

UVic is a public research university located in Victoria, BC, and combines dynamic learning, vital impact and an extraordinary academic environment.

Welcome to the LSBC community!

Industry Highlights

The Public Health Agency of Canada is conducting a "Vision 2030" consultation to shape the future of public health assessment in Canada by 2030. Until March 1, 2024, the Consultation aims to collect diverse perspectives from various stakeholders, including healthcare and academic professionals, researchers, government officials, industry stakeholders, and the general public. Two discussion guides are provided for different audiences, and participants are encouraged to complete a survey lasting 20 to 30 minutes. The focus is gathering input to enhance public health assessment, addressing current or emerging health concerns, proposing improvements to risk assessment processes, and evaluating existing assessment methods. The goal is to inform the development of a comprehensive vision for the future of public health in Canada. Learn more and find the survey here.

Richmond Hospital has opened an upgraded and relocated cancer care clinic as part of its redevelopment project. The clinic aims to improve patient care during chemotherapy by featuring added facilities and an innovative Remote Symptom Monitoring system. The entire redevelopment is set to be completed in 2031, representing the largest healthcare investment in Richmond's history. Learn more.

BC’s Burnaby Hospital redevelopment has reached a crucial milestone with the completion of structural building and concrete pouring for the new six-story Phase 1 pavilion, with an estimated 2025 completion date. Burnaby Hospital, which has been serving the community since 1952, aims to enhance patient care and access through this transformative project. Learn more.

To address challenges in the pharmaceutical system, including high drug costs and inconsistent prescribing practices, Canada has announced the creation of the Canadian Drug Agency (CDA). Built from the existing Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH), the CDA will receive a $89.5 million federal investment over five years and will aim to enhance appropriate drug prescribing, expand data collection, and reduce inefficiencies to ensure better health outcomes and improved access to medications for Canadians, once operational. Learn more.

In response to the growing impact of climate change on global health, Canada has announced $2.7 million in funding for six projects over three years to address climate-sensitive infectious diseases in Canada. These projects, conducted in collaboration with various institutions, aim to enhance monitoring, increase understanding of diseases transmitted by ticks and mosquitoes, boost health professional capacity, and improve overall awareness. Learn more.

Kudos

Congratulations to all the recent appointees to the Order of Canada, including BC’s Dr. Deborah Money, C.M., for her contributions to women’s health, Andre Picard for his dedication to advancing public health understanding, and Morris Barer, C.M., for his health services policy leadership. See the complete list of honourees here.

Kudos to this year’s inspiring 2023 Canada’s Most Powerful Women: Top 100 Award winners, including LSBC member Atoussa Mahmoudpour, National Chair, Life Sciences & Technology, at Cozen O'Connor. See the complete list of honourees here. 

Congrats to LifeLabs President and CEO Charles Brown, who has received the prestigious Leadership Excellence in Medical Diagnostics and Laboratory Testing in the 2023 CEO Healthcare Awards, presented by CEO Today magazine. Learn more.

People on the Move

Mitch Davies has been appointed as the new President of the National Research Council of Canada, Canada's largest federal research and development organization, effective Jan. 03. Mr. Davies brings 32 years of public service experience, including interim president of the NRC. Learn more.

This appointment follows the retirement of the current NRC President, Iain Stewart. Reflecting on 30 years of public service, 7 with the NRC, Stewart is featured in this letter of thanks.

Dr. Ariane Marelli, one of Canada’s leading cardiovascular scientists, has been appointed the next Scientific Director of the CIHR Institute of Circulatory and Respiratory Health for a term of four years, effective April 1, 2024. Learn more.

Canada has announced its four appointments to the CIHR Governing Council, including UBC’s Cathy Kline, Assistant Director of Patient and Community Engagement. See the complete list of appointees here.

Canada has announced the appointment of Brian O’Neil as Chairperson of BDC’s Board of Directors for a four-year term. A director at BDC since 2017, O’Neil brings over 25 years of experience, 15 in board-of-director level positions. Learn more.

Kevin Vos, Ph.D., is starting a new position as VP of Business Development at VoxCell BioInnovation. Kevin previously served as VoxCell’s Director of BD and Strategic Alliances.

The Terry Fox Research Institute has welcomed Canadian scientists John Bell and Linda Penn and Former Media Executive Wendy Freeman to its Board of Directors. Learn more.

London-based Bloomberg News tech reporter Thomas Seal is set to take on a new role as Bloomberg's Vancouver Bureau Chief in Canada.

Applications Open

Canadian Entrepreneurs in Life Science (CELS) is accepting applications for its Valley Ready Program 2024 spring cohort. This initiative is designed to assist companies ranging from Pre-Seed to Series A in navigating the opportunities presented by Silicon Valley and to expose promising Canadian Health Sciences Scale-ups into the dynamic Bay Area ecosystem through the power of community. It mainly benefits those seeking to raise capital or explore commercialization prospects in the United States. Companies are accepted into the program on a rolling basis. The program ends with the premier Canadian Health Sciences event in Silicon Valley, the Canada Showcase. Learn more here.

Genome BC has announced a call for applications for its 2024 Genomics Innovation Fund (GIF) program aimed at early-stage projects looking to advance innovations toward commercialization. Info sessions will be held on Jan. 31 and Feb. 13. No co-funding or partnerships are required. EOI is due May 2024. Learn more.

Calling all Canadian manufacturers! NGen, a non-profit organization at the forefront of Canada's Global Innovation Cluster for Advanced Manufacturing, is excited to offer funding opportunities of up to $8,000. This financial support is specifically designated for training and upskilling initiatives to assist leadership teams in crafting strategic and adaptive business plans. This is an excellent opportunity to enhance your team's capabilities and drive innovation in the manufacturing sector. Learn more here.

The Canadian Trade Commissioner Service (TCS) at the Consulate General of Canada in Hong Kong and Macao, in partnership with the Hong Kong Trade Development Council (HKTDC) and the Hong Kong Economic and Trade Office (HKETO), invite Canadian healthcare companies to join the Canada Delegation to two anchor events occurring during the Hong Kong International Healthcare Week May 16-31, 2024 – The Hong Kong International Medical and Healthcare Fair and the Asia Summit on Global Health. Applications are due Jan. 12. For enquiries, please email Jaclyn Chan at the Consulate General of Canada in Hong Kong.

Canada's Trade Commissioner Service is conducting several exciting trade missions and programs in 2024 and has recently reopened its CanExport SMEs funding program for trade mission participants. Application deadlines are Jan.12 for all three of these opportunities. Details below.

1.      Team Canada Trade Mission to Malaysia and Vietnam

2.      Team Canada Trade Mission to South Korea

3.      CanExport SMEs limited reopening

The TCS is also recruiting for this spring's Canadian Technology Accelerator: Boston and Cambridge Life Sciences. Applications are due Feb. 28.

We invite you to explore our expanded list of current life sciences application opportunities by clicking the button below.

Upcoming LSBC events and programs at-a-glance

We appreciate your continued support and look forward to another great year of collaboration and shared accomplishments!

Until next week,

The LSBC team

Zymeworks Outlines Strategic Priorities And Outlook For 2024 And 2025

Zymeworks Inc., a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing a diverse pipeline of novel, multifunctional biotherapeutics to improve the standard of care for difficult-to-treat diseases, provided an update on key strategic priorities for 2024 and 2025... READ MORE

Zymeworks Announces Additional Leadership Appointments

Zymeworks Inc., a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing a diverse pipeline of novel, multifunctional biotherapeutics to improve the standard of care for difficult-to-treat diseases, announced significant additions to its leadership team. These additions to the leadership team highlight Zymeworks’ commitment to nurturing and advancing internal talent to key leadership roles... READ MORE

A Roadmap for Individualized Malignant Prostate Cancer Care

A groundbreaking study led by Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute researcher Dr. Alexander Wyatt is the first to indicate that cancer complexity within the prostate may be driving tumour proliferation in this patient population more than previously understood... READ MORE

Health Canada Approves Pfizer’s Bivalent Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) Vaccine for Older Adults and Infants Through Maternal Immunization

Pfizer Canada ULC announces the Health Canada approval of ABRYSVOTM, its bivalent Respiratory Syncytial Virus (RSV) vaccine. The vaccine is indicated for the prevention of lower respiratory tract disease caused by RSV in individuals 60 years of age and older by active immunization, and the prevention of lower respiratory tract disease... READ MORE

Canadian Biosciences Companies Receive National Investment to Propel Digital Transformation

BioTalent Canada announced a new wage subsidy program that will accelerate the adoption of digital skills by small- and medium-sized businesses in Canada’s biosciences sector, better positioning them to succeed in the global knowledge-based economy... READ MORE

Aspect Biosystems to Present at the 42nd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference

Aspect Biosystems, a biotechnology company pioneering the development of bioprinted tissue therapeutics to transform the treatment of disease, announced that Founder and CEO Tamer Mohamed will present at the 42nd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference, held January 8-11, 2024... READ MORE

Xenon Pharmaceuticals to Present at the 42nd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference

Xenon Pharmaceuticals Inc., a neurology-focused biopharmaceutical company, announced that the company will present at the 42nd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference taking place in San Francisco, CA from January 8-11, 2024... READ MORE

Health Canada Approves Pfizer Canada’s Gene Therapy in Hemophilia B

Pfizer Canada ULC announced that Health Canada approved BEQVEZ), an adeno-associated viral (AAV) vector-based gene therapy for the treatment of adults (aged 18 years or older) with moderately severe to severe hemophilia B (congenital Factor IX (FIX) deficiency) who are negative for neutralizing antibodies to variant AAV serotype Rh74... READ MORE

Drs. Morris Barer, Deborah Money Appointed to Order of Canada

UBC Faculty of Medicine’s Drs. Morris Barer and Deborah Money were recently appointed to the Order of Canada. Considered one of the country’s highest honours, the Order of Canada recognizes individuals who have enriched others' lives and made extraordinary contributions to Canadian society... READ MORE

Numinus to Host Q1 Fiscal 2024 Results Conference Call on January 15, 2024

Numinus Wellness Inc., a mental health care company advancing traditional and innovative behavioural health treatments with a focus on safe, evidence-based psychedelic-assisted therapies, will release its financial results for the quarter ended November 30, 2023, after market close on Tuesday, January 15, 2024... READ MORE

HDR Appoints John Henderson as New CEO

HDR, a global employee-owned architecture and engineering firm, has named its new chief executive officer. President and Chief Operating Officer John Henderson succeeds Chairman and CEO Eric Keen, who will continue as chairman of the company’s board of directors. Replacing Henderson as president and COO is Neil Graff, who previously served as the firm’s director of U.S. and North America operations... READ MORE

Pfizer Invites Public to Listen to Webcast of Pfizer Discussion at Healthcare Conference

Pfizer Inc. invites investors and the general public to listen to a webcast of a discussion with Albert Bourla, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, at the 42nd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference on Monday, January 8, 2024 at 3:00 p.m. PST... READ MORE

Frontage Announces the Appointment of Mr. Henry Gao as President of Asia Pacific

Frontage is pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Henry Gao as President of Asia Pacific. Mr. Gao possesses more than 25 years of experience in leading various functions including finance, audit, investment, project management, compliance and board office. As the President of Asia Pacific, Mr. Gao will be responsible for oversight of the Group’s operations in the Asia-Pacific region... READ MORE

Frontage Laboratories Acquires Accelera S.r.l.’s Bioanalytical and DMPK Businesses

Frontage Laboratories, Inc. announced that, through its wholly-owned subsidiary Frontage Europe S.r.l., it has completed the acquisition of the Bioanalytical and Drug Metabolism & Pharmacokinetics businesses of Accelera S.r.l. Accelera is a premier Contract Research Organization located in Nerviano, within the Lombardy region of Italy, part of the well-established NMS Group S.p.A. which has positioned itself as a global niche player in delivering discovery & preclinical studies and clinical bioanalysis... READ MORE

Filament Health Announces Change to Board of Directors

Filament Health Corp., a clinical-stage natural psychedelic drug development company, today announced that Maureen O’Connell has stepped down from her position as Director and Audit Committee Chair on the Company’s board of directors, effective December 31, 2023.... READ MORE

United Therapeutics Corporation to Present at the 42nd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference

United Therapeutics Corporation, a public benefit corporation, announced that Dr. Martine Rothblatt, Chairperson and CEO, will provide an overview and update on the company’s business during a presentation at the 42nd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference in San Francisco... READ MORE

Zymeworks Announces $50 Million Private Placement To EcoR1 Capital

Zymeworks Inc., a clinical-stage biopharmaceutical company developing novel, multifunctional biotherapeutics, announced that it had entered into a securities purchase agreement with funds affiliated with EcoR1 Capital, LLC, for the sale of an aggregate of 5,086,521 pre-funded warrants to purchase 5,086,521 shares of common stock, $0.00001 par value per share... READ MORE

Bausch Health Announces Positive Topline Results From Global Phase 2 Study Evaluating Amiselimod (an S1P antagonist) to Treat Ulcerative Colitis

Bausch Health Companies Inc. announced positive topline results from the Company’s Phase 2 study evaluating Amiselimod, an investigative S1P antagonist, for the treatment of ulcerative colitis (UC). Amiselimod was well-tolerated, with no unexpected adverse events; coupled with the previous thorough QT study, this indicates that Amiselimod has a favorable safety profile. The full data set from this trial will be available early next year... READ MORE

Aurinia Submits IND Application To US Food & Drug Administration For AUR 200

Aurinia Pharmaceuticals Inc. announced the submission of its Investigational New Drug application (IND) to the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for AUR200, a potential next generation therapy for B-cell mediated autoimmune diseases. Upon receiving FDA clearance to proceed with proposed research, Aurinia plans to initiate a Phase 1 study in the first half of 2024 to evaluate the safety, tolerability, pharmacokinetic and pharmacodynamic properties of AUR200 in healthy volunteers... READ MORE

Acuitas Therapeutics’ Chief Legal Officer Miranda Lam Appointed as King’s Counsel

Miranda Lam, Chief Legal Officer & Vice President, Business Development at Acuitas Therapeutics, has been appointed as King’s Counsel in British Columbia. The King’s Counsel appointment recognizes lawyers who demonstrate professional integrity, good character and excellence in the practice of law, and have distinguished themselves by their counsel and exemplary contributions to the legal profession and community at large... READ MORE

AbCellera to Present at the 42nd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference

AbCellera announced that executives from the Company will present at the 42nd Annual J.P. Morgan Healthcare Conference on Wednesday, January 10, 2024, at 2:15 p.m. Pacific Time (5:15 p.m. Eastern Time)... READ MORE

Takeda Enters Into Two-Year Contract with Canadian Blood Services for GLASSIA®, Treatment for Rare form of Emphysema

Takeda Canada Inc. has entered into a contract with Canadian Blood Services (CBS) for GLASSIA® (alpha-1 proteinase inhibitor) resulting from CBS’s request for proposal for hereditary deficiency of Alpha-1 Antitrypsin Deficiency (Alpha-1). Glassia has been approved to be listed on the CBS Plasma Protein and Related Products (PPRP) formulary... READ MORE

Charles Brown Wins Leadership Excellence Award in Medical Diagnostics and Laboratory Testing

Charles Brown, the President and CEO of LifeLabs, has been honoured with the prestigious Leadership Excellence in Medical Diagnostics and Laboratory Testing in the 2023 CEO Healthcare Awards, presented by CEO Today magazine. This distinguished award celebrates individuals who have demonstrated outstanding leadership, innovative thinking, and profound impact in the healthcare field... READ MORE

WELL Health Achieves Great Place to Work® Certification, and Strengthens Data Security with ISO 27001 Certifications

WELL Health Technologies Corp., a digital healthcare company focused on positively impacting health outcomes by leveraging technology to empower healthcare practitioners and their patients globally, is pleased to announce that the Company has been certified as a Great Place to Work® by Great Place to Work Institute® Canada, and that three of its businesses have been granted ISO 27001 certifications... READ MORE

2023 StarFish Group Awards for Outstanding Contributions to Success

The eleventh annual StarFish Group awards for outstanding contributions to medical device success were presented to Ryan Field, Wes Chamberlain, Alexandra Reid, Sarah Wilson, Shahrzad Hekmat, Vanessa De Sousa, Maria Gonzalez, Vanessa Faria, and Martin Par at Red Carpet-themed holiday celebrations in Victoria (December 2) and Toronto (December 9)... READ MORE

InMed Announces Results of 2023 Annual General Meeting

InMed Pharmaceuticals Inc., a leader in the pharmaceutical research, development and manufacturing of rare cannabinoids and cannabinoid analogs, confirmed that, at its annual general meeting of shareholders held on December 19, 2023, all of the matters put forward before shareholders for consideration and approval were approved by the shareholders... READ MORE

HDR Selected to Lead Environmental Review for Green Hydrogen Energy in Washington

HDR has been selected to support the Washington State Department of Ecology in developing a programmatic environmental impact statement, or PEIS, to prepare for development of green hydrogen energy projects in the state of Washington, in the U.S. The PEIS will help evaluate potential significant environmental impacts and assess which areas of the state are suitable for green hydrogen energy... READ MORE

Filament Health Announces Termination Of Proposed Business Combination With Jupiter Acquisition Corporation

Filament Health Corp., a clinical‐stage natural psychedelic drug development company, announced that the Business Combination Agreement, by and among the Company, Jupiter Acquisition Corporation, 1427702 B.C. Ltd. and Filament Merger Sub LLC, dated as of July 18, 2023, with respect to a proposed business combination between Filament and Jupiter, has been terminated by the parties by mutual agreement...READ MORE

DUOBRII™ Lotion to Treat Moderate to Severe Plaque Psoriasis Now Available Through Quebec’s Public Drug Plan

Bausch Health, Canada, part of Bausch Health Companies Inc. announced that DUOBRII™, the company’s novel topical prescription drug for improving the signs and symptoms of plaque psoriasis in adult patients with moderate to severe disease,1 is now available to patients enrolled in Quebec’s public drug plan operated by the Régie de l’assurance maladie du Québec... READ MORE

Zymeworks Added To Nasdaq Biotechnology Index

Zymeworks Inc., a clinical-stage biotechnology company developing novel, multifunctional biotherapeutics, announced it is expected to be added to the Nasdaq Biotechnology Index. Zymeworks’ addition to the NBI will become effective prior to the market open on December 18, 2023.... READ MORE

PADCEV® (enfortumab vedotin-ejfv) with KEYTRUDA® (pembrolizumab) Approved by FDA as the First and Only ADC Plus PD-1 to Treat Advanced Bladder Cancer

Pfizer Inc. and Astellas Pharma Inc. announced that the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA) has approved PADCEV® for the treatment of adult patients with locally advanced or metastatic urothelial cancer. This combination is the first approved to offer an alternative to platinum-containing chemotherapy, the current standard of care... READ MORE

Cedar Clinical Research Selected as Clinical Research Site for Beckley Psytech’s Phase 2b Study

Numinus Wellness Inc., a mental health care company advancing traditional and innovative behavioral health treatments with a focus on safe, evidence-based psychedelic-assisted therapies, is proud to announce that its research site, Cedar Clinical Research, has been chosen as one of multiple sites for Beckley Psytech’s clinical trial for Treatment Resistant Depression... READ MORE

SFU and UBC Researchers Receive $1.25M to Study Cumulative Effects on B.C. Salmon

The Watershed Futures Initiative has received $1.25 million from the federal and provincial governments – through the joint British Columbia Salmon Restoration and Innovation Fund – to tackle the combined impacts of logging, mining, urban development, agriculture, climate change and other factors... READ MORE

Beazley names Patricia Kocsondy as Head of Global Cyber Digital Risks

Beazley, the leading specialty insurer, has named Patricia Kocsondy as Head of Global Cyber Digital Risks. Ms Kocsondy will be responsible for setting the global product and distribution strategy for all of Beazley’s cyber business sub $250million. The role reports to Paul Bantick, Global Head of Cyber Risks and is effective 1 January 2024... READ MORE

Moderna And Merck Announce mRNA-4157 (V940) In Combination with Keytruda(R) (Pembrolizumab) Demonstrated Continued Improvement in Recurrence-Free Survival and Distant Metastasis-Free Survival in Patients with High-Risk Stage III/IV Melanoma Following Complete Resection Versus Keytruda at Three Years

Moderna, Inc. and Merck announced follow-up data from the Phase 2b randomized KEYNOTE-942/mRNA-4157-P201 study, a clinical trial evaluating mRNA-4157 (V940), an investigational individualized neoantigen therapy, in combination with KEYTRUDA, Merck’s anti-PD-1 therapy, in patients with resected high-risk melanoma following complete resection... READ MORE

Pfizer Declares First-Quarter 2024 Dividend

Pfizer announced that its board of directors declared an increase in the quarterly cash dividend on the company’s common stock to $0.42 for the first-quarter 2024 dividend, payable March 1, 2024, to holders of the Common Stock of record at the close of business on January 26, 2024... READ MORE

Pfizer Completes Acquisition of Seagen

Pfizer Inc. announced the successful completion of its acquisition of Seagen Inc., a global biotechnology company that discovers, develops and commercializes transformative cancer medicines... READ MORE

BC Researchers to Tackle High-Priority Challenges in Health System

Researchers from British Columbia will be joining others across Canada as they develop research projects and programs to address complex, high-priority challenges to strengthen health systems in Canada. Michael Smith Health Research BC is a proud partner of the CIHR Institute of Health Services and Policy Research Health System Impact Fellowship program... READ MORE

Partnership Accelerates Research Trainees to Reach Potential for Clinical Trials in BC

The first cohort of clinical trials training awardees has been announced for masters, doctoral and postdoctoral students in British Columbia national educational initiative aimed at developing clinical trial talent and building capacity for clinical trials in the province. Michael Smith Health Research BC is enabling 21 awardees to participate in the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) national clinical trials training program... READ MORE

Study Finds New Clinical Trial Drug Boosts Ability of Oncolytic Virus to Target and Kill Cancer

Researchers at The Ottawa Hospital have identified a method to boost the activity of cancer-fighting viruses, known as oncolytic viruses, by pairing one with a new cancer drug currently in clinical trials. Their findings present an exciting new approach to treatment for patients who may be resistant to virus treatment alone... READ MORE

BC Team Identifies Drivers of Aggressive Childhood Cancers and Develops Model to Explore New Treatments

In a recent study funded by The Terry Fox Research Institute, a team of researchers in British Columbia verified two drivers of cancerous tumours caused by DICER1 syndrome and developed an animal model that will allow them to track DICER1 cancer growth and test novel therapies... READ MORE

uOttawa Research Team Reveals New Insights into Chemotherapy Resistance

With funding from a Terry Fox Program Project Grant, researchers at the University of Ottawa found that exposing cancer cells to sublethal doses of chemotherapeutics increases the resistance of cell populations to higher doses of drugs... READ MORE

Study Finds Smoking Tobacco Causes Mutations that Directly Disable the Genes Protecting Us from Cancer

Toronto-based researchers funded by The Terry Fox Research Institute have discovered one way smoking tobacco weakens the body’s natural defences and leads to cancer, yielding important and actionable insights into cancer treatment and prevention... READ MORE

New Findings Reveal Novel Biomarker Can Predict Success of Immunotherapy

One of the key obstacles to treating cancer is finding the most effective treatment for each patient while reducing harm to the rest of the body. Immunotherapies, which use our own immune system to fight cancer, have shown promising results in this area. However, doctors still need more information to overcome a key clinical challenge of identifying whose cancer will respond to immunotherapy... READ MORE

TFRI Supports the Next Generation of Cancer Researchers in Canada

The Terry Fox Research Institute has co-funded six Master’s and PhD students as part of the Canadian Cancer Society’s inaugural Research Training Awards. Recipients will receive between $17,500 and $30,000 for one to four years, to be matched by CCS, for a total contribution from TFRI of $269,883... READ MORE

Canadian Scientists John Bell and Linda Penn and Former Media Executive Wendy Freeman Appointed to TFRI’s Board of Directors

TFRI welcomed three new members to its Board of Directors who attended their first meeting in September. Two are well known and leading Canadian cancer researchers who have also been funded by Terry Fox during their careers. The third formerly served as president of CTV News for over a decade. They were welcomed to the Terry Fox Research Institute recently by the Board’s Chair who praised their formidable skills and achievements and what they bring to TFRI in this important role... READ MORE

Getinge Launches Fully Automated Load System for GEV Sterilizers

Getinge introduces a modular and fully automated load handling solution for seamless integration with the company’s GEV terminal sterilizers. In addition to the safety benefits for operators, the new Getinge Roller Conveyor System optimizes throughput performance in pharmaceutical production...READ MORE

Vertex is a global biotechnology company that invests in scientific innovation to create medicines for people with serious diseases. The company has multiple cystic fibrosis (CF) medicines in the market, and several ongoing clinical and research programs in CF.

Beyond CF, Vertex has a robust pipeline of investigational small molecule medicines in other serious diseases where it has deep insight into causal human biology, including pain, alpha-1 antitrypsin deficiency, and APOL1-mediated kidney disease. In addition, Vertex has a rapidly expanding pipeline of genetic and cell therapies for diseases such as sickle cell disease, beta thalassemia, Duchenne muscular dystrophy and type 1 diabetes mellitus. Vertex is consistently recognized as one of the industry's top places to work, including 11 consecutive years on Science magazine's Top Employers list and a best place to work for LGBTQ equality by the Human Rights Campaign. LEARN MORE

Government of Canada Invests in Projects to Help People in Canada Address and Adapt to the Impacts of Climate Change to Their Health

The Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health, announced six new projects totalling $2.7 million over three years, to help address and adapt to the impacts of climate change to health. These projects will increase monitoring efforts and improve overall awareness and understanding of climate-sensitive infectious diseases in Canada.The Government of Canada is working with partners and stakeholders, such as the provinces and territories, health professionals, communities, as well as First Nation, Inuit, and Métis groups to adapt to our changing climate... READ MORE

Government of Canada Appoints New President of the National Research Council of Canada

Supporting research and innovation and connecting Canada’s researchers and entrepreneurs are essential in order to continue tackling some of the world’s most pressing challenges, such as climate change and pandemic preparedness. The National Research Council of Canada plays a pivotal role in Canada’s research ecosystem by advancing leading-edge knowledge and working with innovators to find creative and sustainable solutions that will enhance the competitiveness of Canada’s economy... READ MORE

Government of Canada Announces Appointments to the Canadian Institutes of Health Research Governing Council

The Honourable Mark Holland, Minister of Health, announced four new appointments as members to the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Governing Council. The Institute of Circulatory and Respiratory Health is one of CIHR’s thirteen Institutes. As Scientific Director, Dr. Marelli will develop and advance research and training initiatives that address circulatory and respiratory research priorities in Canada while supporting the implementation of CIHR’s Strategic Plan... READ MORE

Dr. Ariane Marelli Appointed Scientific Director of CIHR Institute of Circulatory and Respiratory Health

Dr. Tammy Clifford, Acting President of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, announced that Dr. Ariane Marelli has been appointed the next Scientific Director of the CIHR Institute of Circulatory and Respiratory Health for a term of four years, effective April 1, 2024. Dr. Marelli is one of Canada’s leading cardiovascular scientists, known internationally for her work in congenital heart disease... READ MORE

Richmond Hospital Redevelopment Reaches Milestone

People in Richmond are accessing enhanced care as the newly refurbished and relocated cancer care clinic opens at Richmond Hospital. With work on Phase 1 well underway, renovations are wrapping up on the ground floor of the Milan Ilich Pavilion. They include the updated cancer-care clinic, which opened to patients on Nov. 27. It has two additional examination rooms and care bays, as well as a clinical teaching room. The Richmond Hospital cancer-care clinic is leading a transformative approach... READ MORE

Minister Valdez Announces Appointment of Brian O’Neil as Chairperson of the Board of Directors of the Business Development Bank of Canada

The Honourable Rechie Valdez, Minister of Small Business and Minister responsible for the Business Development Bank of Canada (BDC) announced the appointment of Brian O’Neil as Chairperson of BDC’s Board of Directors for a four-year term. BDC is Canada’s leading bank for entrepreneurs. It provides access to financing and advisory services to help Canadian small and medium-sized businesses grow and succeed... READ MORE

The Government of Canada Announces the Creation of the Canadian Drug Agency

Canadians should be able to appropriately access and afford the prescription drugs they need. However, many Canadians are left vulnerable due to high drug costs, inaccessible health data, and the lack of consistent standards for prescribing practices. To better understand these challenges, the Canadian Drug Agency Transition Office consulted extensively with provinces, territories, and key stakeholders to identify core gaps in the pharmaceutical system... READ MORE

Expanded Care Coming to Burnaby Hospital

People in Burnaby are one step closer to getting expanded patient care as the Burnaby Hospital redevelopment moves forward with the structural building and concrete pouring completed. Completion of the structural work means the focus will shift to finishing the building’s exterior and interior. Phase 1 of the Burnaby Hospital redevelopment includes the construction of the new pavilion and the expansion and renovations of the existing Support Facilities Building. The pavilion will include maternity, neonatal intensive care, mental health in-patient and medical in-patient units... READ MORE

Agreement Reached on Retaining Medicago’s Strategic Research and Development Assets in Canada and Recovering Payment from Medicago

Following the cessation of Medicago’s operations by its parent company Mitsubishi Chemical Group Corporation in February 2023, the Government of Canada’s objectives were threefold: maintain Medicago’s intellectual property and critical research assets in Canada; ensure a Canadian company retains the technology platform, talent and expertise; and identify third-party investors that could help maintain and expand Medicago’s platform capabilities in-country. This is to enhance domestic pandemic preparedness capabilities and ensure that a promising technology platform remains in Canada... READ MORE

Consultation: A Vision for Public Health Assessment for Canada’s Future

The Public Health Agency of Canada is leading Vision 2030, an initiative to develop a vision for what public health assessment in Canada could look like by 2030. We want to hear from you to make sure that the vision is informed by diverse perspectives from across Canada... READ MORE

QA Manager

The Quality Assurance Manager is responsible for the upkeep and monitoring of the Eupraxia Quality System, to ensure compliance with GxP and applicable international regulatory standards. To this end, the Manager will need to keep abreast of evolving changes in the regulatory environment, compliance policies and procedures...LEARN MORE

Senior Director Process Development & Manufacturing

Aspect Biosystems is seeking a Senior Director Process Development and Manufacturing to lead the strategy and execution of process development and manufacturing activities for our pipeline of Bioprinted Tissue Therapeutics. Reporting to senior leadership, this role requires a deep understanding of biopharmaceutical process development, cGMP manufacturing, and regulatory requirements associated with cell-based therapies and combination products...LEARN MORE

Manager, Business Development Cell & Tissue Therapy

Aspect Biosystems is seeking a strategic Manager, Business Development Cell & Tissue Therapy who has clearly demonstrated they can develop deep insights from qualitative research and quantitative data analysis, communicate well, and has a strong desire to create value and bring an innovative approach to addressing the key priorities over the coming years. Reporting to the Chief Business Development Officer, the Manager, Business Development Cell & Tissue Therapy will play a key role in the company's growth and expansion strategy...LEARN MORE

Industry Partnership Manager

Working under broad directions of the Executive Director of CIEBH, the Industry Partnership Manager will develop and mobilize academic and hospital discoveries originating from the University and its Affiliated Hospitals, through fostering sponsored research, supporting entrepreneurship, developing and implementing knowledge mobilization plans, engaging with researchers and industry, and conducting evaluations...LEARN MORE

Director, Data Science and Pharmacokinetic Modeling

Eupraxia is seeking a highly skilled and experienced Director of Data Science and Pharmacokinetic Modeling to lead our programs designed to deliver appropriate, robust and defensible data in a readily understandable manner. They will also responsible for preparing and maintaining related documentation for relevant due diligence exercises, ensuring the content is comprehensive and structured to make the most complex issues and analyses accessible to lay personnel...LEARN MORE

Senior Manager/Associate Director, Project Management

Alpha-9 is seeking a Senior Manager/Associate Director of Project Management, to lead program management activities for several early-stage radiopharmaceutical cancer therapeutics from IND-enabling studies through clinical trials. This role will ensure organizational alignment and oversee program execution, as well as foster team building and a collaborative environment and is responsible for working closely with team members to forecast key milestones and decision points and deliver program objectives...LEARN MORE

Associate/Scientist, Surface Plasmon Resonance

Alpha-9 is seeking an Associate Scientist to join our Biology group. The ideal candidate will have extensive hands-on experience and skills in Surface Plasmon Resonance, especially for characterization of molecular interactions between target of interest and radiopharmaceutical ligands (especially for small molecules or peptide-based molecules). Experience with membrane protein purification is a plus, but not mandatory...LEARN MORE

Research Associate, Preclinical

NanoVation Therapeutics is looking for a collaborative and solution-focused Research Associate, Preclinical, to join our team. Reporting to the Scientist II, Preclinical, the Research Associate, Preclinical will work closely with the Preclinical Team and will be responsible for executing in vivo research focusing on flow cytometry in support of our research goals and plans...LEARN MORE

Account Manager, proXimity

Reporting to the VP, proXimity, you possess a unique blend of clinical trial industry knowledge and general business acumen; a hard worker striving to enhance the experience of our existing customers and drive new business within our current customer base forward. You are part of the proXimity team ensuring we are reaching our business goals and targets for the proXimity software and ensuring the current proXimity customers are receiving an exception level of customer service...LEARN MORE

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