UBC Opens Canada’s First Purpose-Built Biomedical Engineering Facility

The University of British Columbia has officially opened the Gordon B. Shrum Building, a $139.4 million, state-of-the-art facility that now houses Canada’s first purpose-built School of Biomedical Engineering. The five-storey, 158,000-square-foot building brings together researchers, students, and industry leaders under one roof to accelerate innovation in medical devices, AI-driven diagnostics, and life-saving treatments. With cutting-edge labs and collaborative spaces, it’s set to become a key hub for training the next generation of biomedical engineers and expanding B.C.’s thriving life sciences sector.

Funded by UBC, the B.C. government, and private donors, the facility includes biomechanical crash labs, AI-enhanced diagnostic research centers, a bio-device foundry, and a prototyping zone with 3D printers and electronics testing equipment. The school also unveiled a mural by biomedical artist Jen Ma and launched new professorships to deepen research into tissue regeneration and organ engineering. Leaders say the building isn’t just an educational space—it’s a catalyst for biotech breakthroughs, new startups, and global health solutions.

UBC says the new space will help incubate up to 10 spin-off ventures annually through SBME Innovates, contributing to a growing ecosystem of biomedical startups like ScopeSys and SeraGene. “This building is more than just bricks and mortar—it’s a launchpad for innovation,” said Dr. James Olson, Dean of Applied Science. With its opening, UBC cements its role as a national leader in biomedical research and a driver of healthcare transformation in Canada and beyond.