4.1M from BCKDF to support cosmology & quantum material projects

October 30, 2014

Three major proposals from the Department of Physics & Astronomy are funded by the BC Knowledge Development Fund (BCKDF) this year. This means an injection of 4.1 million dollars of funding support into studying our Universe, learning about quantum material behaviours, and discovering new quantum materials. The 3 projects funded are:

  • Digital Radio Telescope for CHIME – 3D mapping of the largest volume of the universe to date – $1,685,372
  • Quantum Materials and Devices in the Microkelvin Regime will help to build the coldest experimental platform for electronics measurement in Canada for ultra-low temperatures – $659,400
  • Quantum Materials Devices Foundry will contribute to training the new generation of scientists and engineers for quantum materials – $1,739,738

70 projects are funded for a total of 26.9 million dollars at UBC. These projects were profiled during a visit by Andrew Wilkinson, BC Minister of Technology, Innovation and Citizens’ Services on Monday, October 27. The BC Knowledge Development Fund was established in 1998. According to the news release from the Government of BC, its goal is "to help maintain B.C. as a leader in science and research." 

“Investment in such projects at UBC is having a transformative impact,” said UBC president, professor Arvind Gupta. “It is spurring innovation that makes B.C. a leader in areas as diverse as renewable energy and the treatment of devastating diseases. This in turn attracts more research and talent, enhancing the social and economic fabric that benefits all British Columbians.”

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Projects funded by BCKDF are also funded by equivalent funding from the Canada Foundation of Innovation. For more information regarding the projects funded, visit: