Vancouver, B.C. — snəw̓eyəɬ leləm Langara College has received $250,000 in funding from Genome BC for “Biodiversity on Tap,” a joint Langara–UBC project that explores the potential for British Columbia’s wild yeasts to unlock innovation for local brewers.
“We are pleased to add Langara College to our roster of B.C.-based researchers, innovators, and institutions that are poised to deliver positive change to the province,” says Dr. Zsuzsanna Hollander, Interim Vice President, Research and Innovation, Genome BC.
The project addresses a key challenge. “The brewing industry relies on a relatively narrow range of commercial yeast strains, many purchased from outside Canada. By developing a locally characterized collection of wild yeasts, we're creating a new resource that B.C. breweries can use to develop distinctive beers with a genuine local identity,” says Stephanie Cheung, principal investigator and Langara Biology instructor.
This project, supported by Langara’s Applied Research Centre (ARC), connects faculty, students, and partners to research potential benefits for brewers across the province.
“Genome BC’s funding is a major milestone for Langara’s applied research capacity, strengthening our reputation as a college that can deliver industry-relevant science,” says Nathan Jones, director of the Applied Research Centre. “Just as importantly, it creates real opportunities for students to work on hands-on research alongside faculty and partners, building practical skills and experience they can carry into careers across B.C.’s life sciences and brewing sectors.”
Made-in-B.C. flavour
By studying the genetic make-up of wild yeast strains, researchers can see how genetic differences shape distinct flavour and aroma profiles.
Cheung adds, “British Columbia is incredibly rich in microbial biodiversity, yet we've only begun to understand its potential. This project is about uncovering that hidden diversity and building the knowledge needed to support future innovation in brewing and industrial biotechnology.”
A core aim of “Biodiversity on Tap” is to leverage wild yeasts more effectively. The project explores pathways that will help showcase B.C.’s biodiversity while supporting more locally grounded brewing choices.
“The work that Dr. Cheung and her team are doing highlights British Columbia and its natural resources in multiple ways. It is a good example of how genomics can add value to something that a lot of people can directly experience, hopefully in the near future,” says Dr. Hollander. “Collaboration is essential to the science community and we look forward to seeing what Langara researchers will continue to achieve.”
There are over 200 craft breweries in B.C. supporting more than 6,000 jobs across 70 communities, with roughly $340 million a year contributing to the provincial economy. “Biodiversity on Tap” supports an applied research pathway that can help brewers diversify ingredients and explore new flavour possibilities grounded in B.C.-sourced biodiversity.
About Genome BC
Genome BC is a not-for-profit organization that has advanced genomics research and innovation for 25 years, growing a world-class life sciences sector in BC and delivering sustainable benefits for British Columbia, Canada and beyond. Genome BC has attracted over $1.1 billion in direct co-investment to the province, which has contributed to funding more than 600 genomics research and innovation projects. These initiatives enhance healthcare and address environmental and natural resource challenges, improving the lives of British Columbians. Genome BC also integrates genomics into society by supporting responsible research and innovation and fostering an understanding and appreciation of the life sciences among educators, students and the public.
