The B.C. Government has contributed $25 million to Genome BC to support research in agriculture, forestry, fisheries, human health, bioenergy, mining and the environment.
According to a Monday news release, the money will allow Genome BC to continue harnessing the power of genomics research and develop solutions to challenges faced by sectors important to B.C.
Past investments in Genome BC have led to the creation of full-time research positions, recruitment of top researchers to B.C. and the production of patents and licences.
Alan Winter, president and CEO of Genome BC , said “This funding will allow us to take the crucial foundational work that has been done and translate it into real-life applications for B.C. in the years ahead. Our unique approach to co-funding research projects also enables us to leverage the provincial investment fourfold.”
According to a Vancouver Board of Trade study, the provincial government’s investment of $75 million between 2005 and 2010 in Genome BC is estimated to have added $450 million to B.C.’s GDP, helped create 8,400 person-years of employment and contributed $54 million tax revenus to provincial and federal governments.
Jennifer Harrison
Twitter: JHarrisonBIV