Michael Smith Health Research BC – Conconi Family Foundation Biodevice Innovation Fellow

Who

The University of British Columbia, with philanthropic support from the Conconi Family Foundation and Michael Smith Health Research BC, is launching the first Biodevice Innovation Fellowship. This program brings bright minds together to turn bold biomedical ideas into real solutions, opening the door to innovations that could change lives here in B.C. and beyond.

What

Based at the Conconi Family Biodevice Foundry, the first purpose-built facility in Western Canada to combine microdevice manufacturing and life science research, the Fellow will step into a role where bold ideas come to life. Housed in UBC’s School of Biomedical Engineering, they’ll have access to world-class tools and mentorship, designing and testing ideas that help redefine what’s possible in clinical translation and biotech. 

Why

The Fellowship is about more than just research, it’s about training the next generation of scientists here in B.C. By working hands-on at the Conconi Family Biodevice Foundry, Fellows get real experience with cutting-edge technology while learning how to tackle big challenges in biomedical innovation. It’s about developing the talent we need to take the Conconi Family Biodevice Foundry to the next level, and ensuring that everyone in British Columbia has access to the best possible health care.

Wild Card

This first-of-its-kind fellowship, made possible by public and philanthropic partners, gives early-career researchers a unique chance to work at the crossroads of engineering, biology, and medicine. The Biodevice Fellow will balance the needs of industry, health care, and academia, gaining the skills, mentorship, and networks needed to lead in research, business, or entrepreneurship. By opening doors for young scientists, we’re helping grow B.C.’s next generation of research leaders—and we hope more private funders will join us in supporting future Fellows.