- Brain Health
- Cancer
- Digital Health and Artificial Intelligence
- Heart Health
- Healthy Aging and Mobility
- Immune System
- Injury and Rehabilitation
- Lung Health
- Mental Health and Substance Use
Brain Health
A national leader in brain health, our researchers study all aspects of the developing and aging brain to expand our understanding of its functions to prevent and treat brain diseases. This research includes neurodegenerative diseases and neurological disorders such as Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, multiple sclerosis and stroke, as well as mood disorders such as depression and bipolar disorder.
Cancer
Cancer research contributes to the global understanding of how cancer develops, grows and spreads. Our researchers focus on all stages of cancer, from prevention and early detection to advanced treatments and therapies, to improve the quality and longevity of life for those affected. This includes research on diagnostic testing, DNA sequencing, treatment resistance, as well as the development of safe and effective medications.
Digital Health and Artificial Intelligence
In today’s increasingly digital world, our researchers are exploring how technology and AI can improve health care by delivering timely, personalized care. By developing new digital tools and programs, including telehealth programs, mobile apps and digital health records, we aim to enhance health care services. Using AI, our researchers are working to revolutionize patient care, improve outcomes and optimize health care systems.
Heart Health
Our cardiovascular research team, known globally for collaboration, aims to understand heart diseases and events from diagnosis through treatment and management. They work to improve outcomes for people at risk of or living with heart conditions and investigate viral causes of heart disease. Research topics include atrial fibrillation, coronary artery disease and heart attacks.
Healthy Aging and Mobility
With a focus on promoting healthy aging and mobility across lifespan, our researchers develop interventions to prevent, detect and treat bone and joint conditions, as well as slow down the brain decline, improving quality of life for people as they age. Research areas include bones, joints, muscles health, brain health, as well as solutions for injury prevention and surgical care.
Immune System
Our researchers focus on understanding immune responses to infectious diseases and the causes of immune system disorders to support public health. Researchers explore immune responses to develop new treatments and prevention strategies, covering areas like autoimmune diseases, infectious diseases and transplant rejection.
Injury and Rehabilitation
Rehabilitation plays a critical role in recovery from brain, spinal cord, or neuromuscular injuries. Our researchers develop strategies and therapies to prevent injury and promote functional recovery, improving quality of life for patients with complex injuries. Research includes nerve function, advanced surgical techniques and rehabilitation techniques for spinal cord and stroke patients.
Lung Health
To help patients breathe easier, our researchers work on preventing, diagnosing and treating respiratory and lung diseases. They collaborate to develop screening tests and therapies for conditions like asthma, sleep apnea, tuberculosis and lung cancer, as well as study the impact of factors like air pollution on lung health.
Mental Health and Substance Use
Our researchers are dedicated to developing new knowledge and interventions to address mental health and substance use across the lifespan. Researchers design and evaluate clinical and health service programs to improve outcomes for clients and families, aiming to create impactful, supportive care solutions.
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.