On May 3rd, the UBC Life Science Centre came alive with BPI Research Day 2024, celebrating research excellence, strong partnerships, and community spirit. With the theme "Connecting & Empowering the Next-Gen Innovators," this year's event underscored BPI's commitment to nurturing young researchers poised to drive the future bioeconomy. Over 200 guests from 24 academic, industry, and government organizations participated, reflecting the wide network of the BPI community.
The day began with a warm welcome from Robert Kozak, Dean of the Faculty of Forestry, followed by an update on BPI’s progress from Scientific Director Orlando Rojas. Newly graduated from the Master’s program, Samuel Hahn served as the emcee.
The Poster Competition featured 48 students and postdocs presenting their innovative research. The judging panel was strong and diverse, comprising 12 faculty members, 6 industry experts, and 17 HQPs.
Master's student Cecilia Cancellera and PhD students Ruby Osei-Bonsu and Akash Gondaliya won the Best Poster Awards. Postdoc Faye Hajiali received the EDI.I Excellence Award, while the People's Choice Awards went to undergraduate student Sarah Lin and PhD student Zhangmin Wan, who received the most votes from attendees.
Akash Gondaliya reflected on the event, saying, "It was amazing to be recognized alongside so many talented individuals, presenting my work and connecting with professionals to gain new perspectives. I am truly grateful for this experience." Judge Ana Xavier from Suzano Canada shared her enthusiasm, remarking, "The talks and research presented in the posters were truly engaging. I'm looking forward to future opportunities for collaboration."
Davis Chiu from Paper Excellence and Elicia Maine from Simon Fraser University delivered compelling keynotes, illuminating the vast opportunities within the industry and sharing innovative strategies for translating research into tangible, real-world impacts. Richard Sones, Director of BPI Partner Innovations, followed with an insightful update on the BPI Accelerating Technology Readiness program, highlighting the significant strides being made.
Dr. Orlando Rojas concluded the event with heartfelt gratitude, emphasizing the vital role of partnerships in advancing BPI's mission. Research Day 2024 was a dynamic platform for learning and connecting, fostering a strong community of world-class researchers and industry partners, and setting the stage for further collaborations in bio-based innovation and sustainability.
Congratulations to all participants on another successful event!
Explore the event highlights on our YouTube playlist.
- Opening - Robert Kozak, Dean of Faculty of Forestry
- BPI Update - Orlando Rojas, BPI Scientific Director
- Keynote - Davis Chiu, Global Director of Carbon Strategy at Paper Excellence
- Keynote - Elicia Maine, Associate VP of Knowledge Mobilization & Innovation at Simon Fraser University
- BPI ATR Program Update - Richard Sones, BPI Director of Partner Innovations
- Award Ceremony & Closing - Orlando Rojas and Samuel Hahn