Research is foundational for new treatments, cures, practices and solutions that improve the health of British Columbians. Michael Smith Health Research BC’s funding for 23 researchers through the 2023 Scholar competition will help develop, attract and retain BC’s best and brightest health researchers and support the advancement of world-class health research in the province.
Our Scholar Program supports early-career health researchers who are building leading-edge health research programs and expanding their potential to make significant contributions to their field. This program is foundational to our commitment to building research talent for BC’s future. To date, more than 85 per cent of Scholars are employed across BC where they train an average of 12 next generation researchers.
From innovating health promotion efforts in response to tobacco use in youths, to transforming health services following traumatic brain injury through peer support, and developing physical activity interventions with and for young people diagnosed with cancer, this year’s Scholars are trailblazing health research that aims to improve health outcomes for British Columbians.
The award recipients are conducting research at many institutions across BC including University of Victoria, UBC Okanagan, Island Health, Vancouver Island University, and University of the Fraser Valley.
