Research centres & entities

UVic research centres and entities promote collaboration on research, ranging from fundamental sciences to societal innovation. Through dynamic knowledge transfer, training and community engagement, UVic’s research centres and entities are central to our research enterprise.

Astronomy Research Centre

The Astronomy Research Centre (ARC) brings together world-renowned experts in astrophysics, engineering, computation and instrumentation. ARC works to answer many important questions about our universe. They form one of the largest concentrations of astronomy-related talent in Canada.

Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research

The Canadian Institute for Substance Use Research (CISUR) researches substance use and addiction. Their work supports community-wide efforts to promote health and reduce harm.

CanAssist

CanAssist is dedicated to helping people who experience physical or cognitive barriers. They provide innovative technologies, programs and services to address unmet needs. Their collaboration with UVic researchers and students increases independence, inclusion and well-being.

Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technology

The Centre for Advanced Materials and Related Technology (CAMTEC) conducts interdisciplinary work spanning a wide spectrum of research. CAMTEC members work closely with scientists and engineers from the private and public sectors.

Centre for Asia-Pacific Initiatives

The Centre for Asia-Pacific Initiatives (CAPI) researches the academic and policy issues of the Asia-Pacific region. CAPI serves as a bridge between UVic and the wider community on both sides of the Pacific. They offer a suite of dedicated research projects, events programming, student internships, scholar mobility and training programs.

Centre for Forest Biology

The Centre for Forest Biology (FORB) carries out research in forest biology. Their experts’ research interests emphasize tree-environment interactions and adaptation. They also train graduate students and post-doctoral fellows in this field.

Centre for Global Studies

The Centre for Global Studies (CFGS) promotes collaborative, multidisciplinary, and cross-regional research. They connect research in global studies to local, national and international communities.

Centre for Indigenous Research and Community-Led Engagement

The Centre for Indigenous Research and Community-Led Engagement (CIRCLE) expands well-being by building on strengths of Indigenous peoples. CIRCLE promotes, facilitates and leads research that improves Indigenous peoples' wellbeing.

Centre for Social and Sustainable Innovation

The Centre for Social and Sustainable Innovation (CSSI) is part of the Gustavson School of Business. They bring sustainability and social responsibility into all of Gustavson's operations.

Centre for Studies in Religion and Society

The Centre for Studies in Religion and Society (CSRS) is a community of academics dedicated to the study of religion. They explore how religion relates to all aspects of human society.

Institute on Aging and Lifelong Health

The Institute on Aging and Lifelong Health (IALH) promotes and conducts research to improve health and quality of life. Their work applies to individuals across their entire life course.

Institute for Integrated Energy Systems

The Institute for Integrated Energy Systems (IESVic) charts pathways to sustainable energy systems. Their work focuses on the development of new technologies, processes and systems.

Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions

The Pacific Institute for Climate Solutions (PICS) develops innovative, evidence-based climate solutions knowledge. This knowledge is used by decision-makers within BC, across Canada and internationally.

Victoria Subatomic Physics and Accelerator research centre

The Victoria Subatomic Physics and Accelerator research centre (VISPA) conducts research in subatomic physics. Their research is done on a global scale in large, international collaborative efforts.

Corporate entities

UVic has two corporate entities related to research. Each has a board of directors with representation from government, industry and other institutions.

• Ocean Networks Canada (ONC) monitors the west and east coasts of Canada and the Arctic. Their data helps communities, governments and industry make informed decisions about the future. ONC enables evidence-based decision-making on ocean management, disaster mitigation and environmental protection. Their work supports research on complex processes in ways that weren’t previously possible.
• Pacific Climate Impacts Consortium (PCIC) is a regional climate service centre. They investigate the impacts of climate change and climate variability in the Pacific and Yukon region. Their work gives regional stakeholders the information they need to reduce the risks associated with climate variability and change. PCIC helps bridge the gap between climate research and the practical application of that knowledge.

Networks of Centres of Excellence

Networks of Centres of Excellence of Canada are large-scale virtual research centres. They bring together multiple partners from universities, industry, government and not-for-profit organizations.

UVic faculty take part in a variety of research programs associated with the Networks of Centres of Excellence:

• Biotherapeutics for Cancer Treatment (BioCanRx)
• Canadian Frailty Network (CFN)
• Canadian Glycomics Network (GlycoNet)
• Green Aviation Research and Development Network (GARDN)
• India - Canada Centre for Innovative Multidisciplinary Partnerships to Accelerate Community Transformation and Sustainability (IC-Impacts)
• Kids Brain Health Network (KBHN)
• Marine Environmental, Observation, Prediction and Response Network (MEOPAR)