Pediatrics Research – University of British Columbia
- The Department of Pediatrics at the University of British Columbia (UBC) and BC Children’s Hospital (BCCH) is celebrating the dedication of its staff and faculty, while also navigating...
- The Department of Pediatrics mourns the passing of February 8, 2026, of Dr.
- Alimenti for her elegance, warmth, and love of travel and salsa dancing, as well as her ability to find balance in her life.
The Department of Pediatrics at the University of British Columbia (UBC) and BC Children’s Hospital (BCCH) is celebrating the dedication of its staff and faculty, while also navigating a period of loss and recognizing the achievements of its residents and researchers. Recent announcements highlight both the community spirit and the ongoing commitment to advancing pediatric care and research.
Remembering Dr. Ariane Alimenti
The Department of Pediatrics mourns the passing of , of Dr. Ariane Alimenti, a pivotal figure in the care of women and children living with HIV. Dr. Alimenti, who joined the department in , dedicated her career to pioneering compassionate care at the Oak Tree Clinic and contributed significantly to national perinatal HIV research and education.
Colleagues remember Dr. Alimenti for her elegance, warmth, and love of travel and salsa dancing, as well as her ability to find balance in her life. Her legacy extends to the communities she uplifted and the countless families she supported with unwavering commitment. She is survived by her husband, Dr. Jean‑Pierre Chanoine, her daughters Manuelle and Camille, and her grandchildren.
Resident Doctors Appreciation Week
From to , the Department of Pediatrics celebrated Resident Doctors Appreciation Week, acknowledging the essential role UBC pediatric residents and fellows play in the pediatric community. The department expressed gratitude for their dedication, long hours, and the exceptional care they provide across the province.
Recognizing Excellence in Health Research Mentorship
Dr. Bruce Vallance was recently honored with the John McNeill Excellence in Health Research Mentorship Award from UBC. This prestigious award recognizes Dr. Vallance’s contributions to mentoring in health research.
The Importance of Pediatric Research
Research is a cornerstone of the Department of Pediatrics’ mission, integral to providing high-quality, evidence-based practice. Clinical research within the department spans a wide range, from basic science to clinical observations, and is strongly supported by the Child and Family Research Institute (CFRI). This commitment to research not only advances medical knowledge but also enhances the quality of care provided at UBC and BCCH.
Investigator Spotlight: Advancing Pediatric Infectious Diseases and Child Development
The BC Children’s Hospital Research Institute (BCCHRI) is home to numerous investigators dedicated to improving child health. Dr. Manish Sadarangani, Director of the Vaccine Evaluation Center (VEC) and Sauder Family Chair in Pediatric Infectious Diseases at UBC, leads research linking clinical trials with basic microbiology, immunology, and epidemiology to address vaccine-preventable diseases. His work encompasses bacterial vaccines, vaccine-induced immunity, maternal immunization, antibiotic resistance, and central nervous system infections.
Dr. Julie Bettinger, a Professor at the VEC, focuses her research on vaccine safety, vaccine-preventable diseases, and public attitudes towards immunization. She serves as the data center director for the Canadian Immunization Monitoring Program, Active (IMPACT), a network monitoring vaccine safety across Canada, and leads the CANVAS investigation.
Dr. Hana Mitchell, an infectious disease pediatrician and investigator at BCCH, specializes in the care of immunocompromised patients. Her research focuses on optimizing vaccination strategies for this vulnerable population.
Dr. Magdalena Janus has been named the Sunny Hill BC Leadership Chair in Child Development, further bolstering research efforts in this critical area.
A Commitment to Comprehensive Pediatric Care
These recent events underscore the Department of Pediatrics’ dedication to a multifaceted approach to child health. From groundbreaking research and mentorship to compassionate patient care and community support, the department continues to strive for excellence in all its endeavors. The combined efforts of its faculty, staff, residents, and researchers ensure that children and families in British Columbia receive the highest standard of care.