SFU, Fraser Health poised to become medical technology leaders

Research endowment links SFU, Fraser Health as medical technology leaders Simon Fraser University and Fraser Health Authority are poised to become leaders in medical research and technology innovation with the launch of a $5.25 million Surrey Memorial Hospital Foundation B.C. Leadership Chair in Multimodal Technology for Healthcare Innovation.

The Hon. Stephanie Cadieux, Minister of Children and Family Development, today announced the appointment of Simon Fraser University neuroscientist Dr. Ryan D'Arcy to the Leadership Chair.

With a goal of improving the lives of patients through innovation, D'Arcy will combine health research and technology by linking the Faculty of Applied Sciences at SFU with the medical expertise at Surrey Memorial Hospital and elsewhere in the Fraser Health region.

D'Arcy brings a focus on neurotechnology to further understand the brain and help patients with devastating brain illness and traumatic brain injuries. He will lead the development of a diverse and prosperous medical technology sector, starting with neurotechnologies for advanced diagnosis and treatment at Surrey Memorial Hospital.

Born and raised in B.C., D'Arcy was attracted home from his role as the head and senior research officer of the Institute for Biodiagnostics in Halifax, Nova Scotia, a world-renowned Institute that he founded in 2002.

During his time there, D'Arcy raised over $50 million in investment and established a critical mass of scientists, engineers, and clinicians focused on health technology products to help neurological patients.

He has been instrumental in leading the development of devices, including: the Halifax Consciousness Scanner, a portable scanner to evaluate brain status following trauma; brain imaging technology applications to help Captain Trevor Greene rewire his ability to walk following an attack in Afghanistan; and the world's first virtual reality rehearsal for removal of a brain tumour.

The Chair was created through a partnership with $2.25 million in funding provided by government's Leading Edge Endowment Fund (LEEF), and SFU and Surrey Memorial Hospital Foundation each contributing $1.5 million. Fraser Health Authority is developing lab space for the Chair position, and will provide access to clinical facilities and resources at Surrey Memorial Hospital, the Jim Pattison Outpatient Care and Surgery Centre, and other healthcare facilities.