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Canada’s protected areas were built for the past; research shows they may not support the future

Led by Dr. Michael Noonan, the study reveals that environmental instability varies widely across Canada—and has real consequences for biodiversity that existing protected areas weren’t designed to address.

Learn how this research is giving decision‑makers new tools to protect nature more effectively.

Dr. Robin Young
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2026 OER Excellence and Impact Award Recipient

Congratulations to Dr. Robin Young, Associate Professor of Teaching in Biology, who is part of an award‑winning team recognized for leadership in open educational resources.

Dr. Bowen Hui
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Mary Kenneth Keller Comp. Sci. & Engr. Undergraduate Teaching Award

Congratulations to Dr. Bowen Hui!

The Mary Kenneth Keller Computer Science & Engineering Undergraduate Teaching Award recognizes her commitment to advancing innovation in education technology and developing personalized learning in computing fields that support strong relationships with students.

In the Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science, students build lasting relationships with accomplished faculty while working on world-class research with local, national and global impact.
Looking at a wildfire spreading across the horizon from the otherside of Okanagan Lake at night.

Wildfire Research

The Irving K. Barber Faculty of Science is home to several research and education programs designed in anticipation of, and response to, increasingly impactful wildfires.

Wildfire Research at UBCO

Canadian Prescribed Fire Training Program

Strengthening Canada’s national capacity for the safe, effective use of prescribed fire in support of biodiversity, ecological and community resilience.

RXFIRE

Featured Degrees

Sustainability Students at UBCO

Bachelor of Sustainability (BSust)

The Bachelor of Sustainability inspires students to understand and address complex environmental issues by integrating knowledge from different disciplines with hands-on and community-based learning.

NEW: Master of Biotechnology (MBtec)

A course-based Master’s program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to thrive in the Biotechnology industry.