AUGUST 2026

CHTP User is a Finalist in NSERC 2026 Science Exposed Image Contest

An image acquired by CHTP user Connor Thompson was selected as a finalist in the NSERC 2026 Science Exposed image contest. Acquired using the FEI Helios NanoLab 650 FIB-SEM at the CHTP and false-coloured by Connor, the image depicts an influenza viral attack on human nasal tissue. Cilia, tiny hair-like structures that move and help clear mucus and trapped pathogens from the nasal passage, appear in cyan. Viral particles attaching to and invading these cells appear in red. Microvilli, finger-like projections on the cell surface, are shown in dark blue. Shorter cilia appear in tan. As it spreads, the virus drives changes in the size and number of these structures.

Connor is a PhD student working under the supervision of Dr. Francois Jean in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology in the Faculty of Science. His PhD research focuses on developing broad-spectrum antiviral therapies against respiratory viruses of pandemic concern such as SARS-CoV-2 and influenza A virus. Rather than targeting the viruses themselves, his work investigates host cell pathways that these viruses rely on to infect human cells, with the goal of developing treatments that remain effective as viruses evolve. Using advanced microscopy and high-content imaging, he studies how viruses interact with host cells and how natural-product-derived antivirals disrupt these processes. These approaches are helping to uncover new strategies for preparing against current and future respiratory virus outbreaks.

Support Connor’s entry by using the link below to vote. Follow the link to the finalist webpage and click on the vote button under Connor’s image. Voting is open until September 29, 2026, so there is still time to cast your vote!

Vote for Connor’s image

Connor’s work at the CHTP was supported through a Characterization@UBC micro access grant. Learn more about the program and how to apply at characterization.ubc.ca/micro-grants/micro-access

Equipment Update

The LMIS for the FEI Helios NanoLab 650 FIB-SEM FIB is being replaced. In the interim, FIB work will not be possible on this system. The electron column is unaffected by the FIB source, so users seeking regular imaging are not affected. We expect to replace the LMIS within a week.

The in vivo micro-CT machine blew the X-ray source at the beginning of July. The X-ray source replacement took longer than expected because the wrong part was sent. However, the machine is now fully functional again, and we will clear the backlog of missed scans by August 20th.

Looking into the micro-CT machine (left) and a new X-ray tube (right).

CHTP Lab Tours for seed2STEM

This summer, the CHTP participated in ICORD's seed2STEM program. Seed2STEM is a summer research program for Indigenous high school students in Metro Vancouver and Kelowna that aims to increase Indigenous participation in STEM by introducing Indigenous youth to STEM fields in a fun, supportive environment.

A group of eight students in the program, along with a chaperone, toured the CHTP and watched live imaging demonstrations using fluorescence and electron microscopes. They also learned about Dr. Nancy Ford's research and how she uses micro-CT scanners to study lung injury.

Corporate Sponsors

The CHTP is grateful to the following corporate sponsors for their significant in-kind Canada Foundation for Innovation support:

We acknowledge that the UBC Vancouver campus is situated on the traditional, ancestral, and unceded territory of the xʷməθkʷəy̓əm (Musqueam).