- Brain Health
- Cancer
- Cardiovascular Conditions and Diseases
- Digital Health
- Health Policy
- Immunity and Infectious Diseases
- Joint Health and Mobility
- Respiratory and Lung Health
- Spinal Cord Injury and Rehabilitation
Brain Health
A national leader in brain health, our researchers study all facets of the developing and aging brain to increase knowledge of how the brain works in an effort to prevent and treat brain diseases. This includes research on neurodegenerative diseases and neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s and Parkinson’s disease, multiple sclerosis and stroke, as well as mental health and mood disorders, including depression and bipolar disorder.
Cancer
Cancer research adds to global knowledge about how cancer starts, grows and spreads. Our researchers study all stages of cancer, from prevention and early detection to novel treatments and therapies with the aim improving the length and quality of life for those affected. This includes research on diagnostic testing, DNA sequencing technologies, treatment resistance, and the development of safe and effective medications.
Cardiovascular Conditions and Diseases
World leaders in cardiovascular research collaboration, our researchers seek a better understanding of heart events and diseases, from diagnosis to treatment and management, with a focus on improving health outcomes for individuals at risk for, or living with, cardiovascular disease. They also conduct research on the molecular biology and pathogenesis of viruses of the heart. This includes research on heart conditions such as atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease and heart attack.
Digital Health
In an increasingly digital world, our researchers are exploring the use of technology to provide the best possible care when and where it is needed. By developing cutting-edge technologies and innovative new programs, we can treat and manage illness better than ever. This includes research on technological advancements to improve health care services and delivery, such as telehealth programs, mobile apps and digital health records.
Health Policy
With a diverse range of specialties from emergency medicine to health economics, our researchers develop research methodology and provide statistical expertise and evidence-based advice for health care policy makers to advance knowledge and guide changes to policies and practices. This includes research on health policies to support a sustainable health care system that delivers safe, high quality care, and a well trained staff of health care practitioners, providers and researchers.
Immunity and Infectious Diseases
Research targeted at uncovering immune responses to infectious diseases and identifying the causes behind immune system disorders is vital to keeping our communities healthy. Our researchers work to understand the basic mechanisms of human immune responses in order to develop new treatment and prevention strategies to improve public health outcomes and enhance community health services. This includes research on auto-immune disorders, infectious diseases, such as COVID-19, and transplant rejection.
Joint Health and Mobility
With an emphasis on using research to positively influence mobility, our researchers study care interventions to prevent, detect and treat bone and joint problems to enhance mobility across the lifespan and achieve better health outcomes for people as they age. This includes research on the health and function of bones, joints, muscles and related conditions, such as osteoarthritis and hip fractures, as well as surgical solutions and injury prevention.
Respiratory and Lung Health
With the goal of helping patients breathe easier, our researchers are working to improve the prevention, diagnostics and treatment of respiratory conditions and lung diseases through collaboration and the use of cutting-edge techniques. This includes research to develop screening tests and therapies to predict and address respiratory conditions such as asthma, sleep apnea, tuberculosis and lung cancer, as well as examine the effects of air pollution.
Spinal Cord Injury and Rehabilitation
Following a brain, spinal cord or neuromuscular injury, rehabilitation is a key part of the recovery process. Our researchers are developing strategies and techniques for the prevention of injury and functional recovery after injury to realize better health outcomes and enhance quality of life for patients with complex injuries and disabilities requiring rehabilitation. This includes research on nerve function, advanced surgical techniques and new approaches to rehabilitation therapy for spinal cord injury and stroke patients.
Browse our Researcher Directory
Researchers at Vancouver Coastal Health Research Institute are generating world-class research, providing the best care and cutting-edge treatments for British Columbians.