BioHuMS NSERC CREATE program

Training the Next Generation of Bioengineering Innovators

The BioHuMS (Biodevices and Human Model Systems) NSERC CREATE program is an interdisciplinary training initiative designed to develop future leaders at the interface of bioengineering, human model systems, and translational therapeutics. BioHuMS focuses on cutting-edge technologies for the prototyping, fabrication, and scaling of biodevices, alongside the development of complex, physiologically relevant human-based model systems. These platforms will be leveraged to advance next-generation therapeutic products, including vaccines and cell-based therapies. Trainees will gain hands-on experience while addressing key challenges such as patient-specific diversity, scalability, standardization, regulatory validation, and ethical considerations.

New CREATE Program Led by Sarah Hedtrich and Govind Kaigala

Call for Applications

Call for Applications

The BioHuMS (Biodevices and Human Model Systems) NSERC CREATE Program invites
applications for its first cohort of trainees. BioHuMS is an interdisciplinary training initiative designed to develop future leaders at the interface of bioengineering, human model systems, and translational therapeutics.

Program Vision
BioHuMS focuses on cutting-edge technologies for the prototyping, fabrication, and scaling of biodevices, alongside the development of complex, physiologically relevant human-based model systems. These platforms will be leveraged to advance next-generation therapeutic products,including vaccines and cell-based therapies. Trainees will gain hands-on experience while addressing key challenges such as patient-specific diversity, scalability, standardization, regulatory validation, and ethical considerations.

Eligibility

For our inaugural cohort, we are welcoming applications from graduate students (Master’s and
PhD) and postdoctoral fellows.Applicants must be affiliated with or accepted into a participating BioHuMS institution or supervisor by September 1, 2026.

Funding and Duration

Successful applicants will receive competitive stipends and access to program resources.
For each year that they participate in the program:

Master’s students will receive a $12,500 stipend.
Doctoral trainees will receive a $20,000 stipend.
Postdoctoral fellows will receive a $15,000 stipend.

Each trainee is eligible for up to $1,000 support to participate in a conference to present their work during their time in BioHuMS program. If an admitted trainee secures another major award/fellowship (e.g., NSERC CGS, CSC, etc), BioHuMS will provide a reduced stipend as top up. Details of the exact number are still being
finalized.

Stipend amounts from BioHuMS are subject to change based on updates to UBC and NSERC
regulations.

Complete Program Requirements

The complete program requirements can be found here.

We acknowledge the support of the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).

Nous remercions le Conseil de recherches en sciences naturelles et en génie du Canada (CRSNG) de son soutien.