Support & Expertise

Our Innovation Partnerships team brings a unique blend of expertise, sector knowledge, research backgrounds, and a commitment to fostering impactful collaborations. 

We bridge the gap between external partners and UBC researchers, ensuring that innovative ideas and cutting-edge research translate into meaningful social and economic benefits.

Guided by our commitment to expertise, curiosity and a holistic perspective, we approach each partnership with enthusiasm for research and a deep understanding of the UBC ecosystem. Our flexibility and creativity allow us to adapt to changing needs and solve challenges effectively, while our empathy ensures we understand and address the unique goals of our partners. We care deeply about the impact of our work, focusing on delivering meaningful outcomes that align with societal and organizational priorities.

Operating from a campus-agnostic perspective, we leverage UBC’s extensive resources, infrastructure, and talent to create tailored partnerships. Our team’s central position within the Office of the Vice-President, Research & Innovation enables us to maintain a comprehensive view of UBC’s innovation ecosystem, connecting collaborators to the right opportunities, people and programs.

 

Meet the Innovation Partnerships Team

Iain Begg

Dr. Iain Begg

Managing Director, Innovation Partnerships

Iain leads the team with extensive experience in managing complex partnerships and providing strategic support for large-scale initiatives and innovation clusters.

778-855-1757
iain.begg@ubc.ca 

 

 

karen chu

Dr. Karen Chu

Partnerships Manager – Life Sciences

Karen specializes in advancing life sciences and health-related innovations through strategic partnerships.

672-999-3016
karen.k.chu@ubc.ca

 

 

sabrina hauser

Dr. Sabrina Hauser

Partnerships Manager – Digital

Sabrina brings expertise in technology design, research and development and human-centered approaches to innovation.

604-561-4124 
sabrina.hauser@ubc.ca 
 

 

 

robbin simao

Robbin Simão

Partnerships Manager – SUSTAINABILITY & NATURAL RESOURCES 

Robbin focuses on fostering partnerships that address critical sustainability challenges and advance natural resource solutions.

 

tina lee

Tina Lee

Engagement Manager

Tina plays a role in connecting partners to UBC’s research and innovation ecosystem, helping to align resources and expertise for impactful collaborations.

 

 

 
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