Prince George, B.C. – An engineer with a remarkable 25-year academic career, including more than a decade in a variety of administrative roles, will join the University of Northern British Columbia as its new Vice President Research and Innovation. Dr. Paula Wood-Adams will officially begin in the role on Sept. 1.

“Dr. Wood-Adams brings exceptional skills and significant experience to the role of Vice President Research and Innovation. As a research-intensive University with a focus on innovation, I look forward to working with Dr. Wood-Adams to support UNBC researchers as they discover solutions to some of the most pressing challenges facing society,” says UNBC President Dr. Geoff Payne. “I also want to extend my sincere thanks to Dr. Kathy Lewis, who took on the challenge of being the interim vice president for more than three years. I’m grateful for the insight and leadership she brought to the role.”

Wood-Adams earned a Ph.D. in Chemical Engineering and M.Eng in Chemical Engineering from McGill University. She completed her undergraduate work at the University of Alberta and is a well-known scientist and expert in applied polymer science. She comes to UNBC from Concordia University, where she served in roles such as Interim Vice President Research and Graduate Studies, Dean of Graduate Studies, and Graduate Program Director of mechanical and industrial engineering. In 2022, she helped lead the institution to an all-time high in institutional research grant funding.

“I’m excited to begin working with the engaged students, faculty and staff at UNBC,” says Wood-Adams. “With UNBC’s commitment to innovative research excellence and its deep connection to northern communities we are uniquely positioned to solve today’s problems and to create the knowledge that is needed for a better future."

The Vice President Research and Innovation promotes and enhances research success at UNBC by taking a strategic approach to research priorities and supporting faculty members in developing outstanding research programs in all disciplines.

The Vice President fosters research partnerships with local, provincial, national, and international agencies and industry collaborators, supports technology transfer and commercialization of research discoveries, and enhances relationships with major research funding agencies. The Vice President also supports graduate programs at the University, which feature world-class research, faculty, students and facilities.