Funding secured for a joint project between the Biotechnology Laboratory and BC Cancer Agency called the Centre for Integrated Genomics

The Centre for Integrated Genomics (CIG) is a joint project by UBC and the B.C. Cancer Agency that links gene studies, biotechnology, and cancer research. The project received $9.35 million from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) for the construction of a new biotechnology research building at UBC. Components of the CIG included the Genome Sequence Centre (previously directed by Nobel laureate Michael Smith), the B.C. Cancer Research Centre (previously led by Victor Ling) and the UBC Biotechnology Laboratory (previously directed by Doug Kilburn). The centre was unique in North America in that it will combine state-of-the-art gene research technology with the clinical practice of a comprehensive-service cancer organization.

Pictured (L-R): Doug Kilburn, Marco Marra, Michael Smith, and Victor Ling