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 our team
Dr. Iain Begg
Managing Director, Innovation Partnerships
- Innovation Partnership Models and Engagements
- Large Networks and Clusters
- Campus Infrastructure as a Research Resource
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
Tina Lee
Engagement Manager, Innovation Partnerships
- Innovation Ecosystem Navigation and Connection
- Collaborative Funding Programs
- Talent Engagement Pathways
Tina plays a vital role in connecting partners to UBC’s research and innovation ecosystem, helping to align resources and expertise for impactful collaborations.
778-522-1265
tina.lee@ubc.ca
Dr. Karen Chu
Manager, Innovation Partnerships – Life Sciences
- Healthier Humans (health management, diagnostics, therapeutics)
- Protected Communities (vaccines, mental health, health systems and informatics)
- Thriving Planet (terrestrial and marine biodiversity)
Karen specializes in advancing life sciences and health-related innovations through strategic partnerships.
672-999-3016
karen.k.chu@ubc.ca
Dr. Sabrina Hauser
Manager, Innovation Partnerships – Digital
- Human-Computer Interaction (HCI) and Human-Centered Design
- Strategic product development: physical technologies, information systems, digital applications
- Creative practices and design-oriented research
Sabrina brings expertise in technology design, research and development, and human-centered approaches to innovation.
604-561-4124
sabrina.hauser@ubc.ca
Robbin Simão
Manager, Innovation Partnerships – Sustainability & Natural Resources
- Sustainability and Climate Change (clean technology, circular economy, biodiversity)
- Natural Resources (healthy forests, carbon capture, mining)
- Land, Food, and Aquatic Systems (food, soil, water, agriculture technology)
Robbin focuses on fostering partnerships that address critical sustainability challenges and advance natural resource solutions.
778-874-9769
robbin.simao@ubc.ca
