Research in Prince George received a significant boost today, thanks to $852,000 in federal funding announced for the University of Northern British Columbia (UNBC) from Western Economic Diversification (WD). The University will relocate its Central Equipment Laboratory and acquire 22 new pieces of research equipment, which are in demand by local industry, particularly the bio-energy, forestry and mining sectors.

“Local industries are sending samples away, sometimes overseas, for analysis. Having a nearby facility conducting tests can save time and expenses," observed Gail Fondahl, UNBC’s Vice President Research. "The new and renewed equipment also provides our researchers and students with better facilities, while the increased partnerships with industry provide important training and collaboration opportunities between UNBC and industries.”

In a press release today, WD stated:

For its size, UNBC is among the most research-intensive universities in Canada. Much of its research focuses on the economic, social, environmental and cultural issues of the North. This has led to the establishment of world-class leadership in such areas as Natural Resources and the Environment; Rural, Remote, and Northern Health, and the Sustainability of Communities.

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UNBC PhD student Dominic Reiffarth (left) and Prince George-Peace River MP Bob Zimmer show off a microwave digestor (behind), which is the first piece of research equipment purchased with WD's support.

Visit the release from Western Economic Diversification Canada.