When Dr. Anurag Singh moved to Canada from the United Kingdom with his family more than a decade ago, he was searching for a community where he could make a difference, both as a nephrologist and as an academic researcher. Through that search he found UBC’s Northern Medical Program, and quickly fell in love with the community of Prince George.
Now serving as the inaugural Director of the Northern Centre for Clinical Research (NCCR) — a partnership between UBC’s Faculty of Medicine, the University of Northern British Columbia and Northern Health — Dr. Singh reflects on his journey to medicine and shares what inspires him about the future of research and clinical trials in northern B.C.
Who do you admire, and why?
Growing up in Amritsar in northern India, I was inspired by my uncles, who were physicians. They would talk about the patients and health conditions that they would treat — how they could fix complex medical problems. It really fascinated me, and so choosing a career in medicine came naturally.
My father has also been a lasting source of inspiration. He had such a strong purpose and passion for what he believed in, and followed with his heart. He showed me the importance of selfless dedication to a cause that is bigger than yourself.
In my current role, I’ve been really inspired by the many healthcare providers who work in rural communities here in northern B.C. They’re doing it out of their own heart, because they believe in something bigger and in making a difference. I have great respect for rural healthcare providers and the impact they make in the communities they serve.
For you, what is special about the UBC Faculty of Medicine?
In my experience, UBC has become a leader in equity, diversity and inclusion. Speaking from personal experience, as someone from a very different culture, I’ve always found UBC to be inclusive and welcoming. There was no fear in embracing my values.
Today, working in Prince George as part of the Faculty’s distributed program, I continue to see that commitment reflected in how UBC supports regional campuses and partnerships.
I’ve also been impressed by the strong connection between UBC’s Northern Medical Program and the University Hospital of Northern British Columbia. That connection has allowed me to work not as an outsider, but as part of the local community — both as a clinician and a researcher.
As the inaugural Director of the Northern Centre for Clinical Research, what is your hope for the centre?
The Northern Centre for Clinical Research (NCCR) is a partnership between the Faculty of Medicine, the University of Northern British Columbia and Northern Health. Together, we’re helping to advance health equity in the North by expanding access to and opportunities for clinical research.
Historically, clinical research has been centred around major urban areas, so it’s incredibly exciting to be a part of leading a centre helping to bring clinical research closer to home for the benefit of northern, rural, remote and Indigenous communities — such as the recent launch of the centre’s first clinical trial, in partnership with Northern Health.
As the inaugural Director, my goal is to create conditions where we are actually facilitating and undertaking research that is relevant and beneficial to the people of Northern B.C. It’s about improving the health and lives of northerners, and doing so in a way that is inclusive, collaborative, built on trust and partnership, and very much rooted in local realities and values.
What is the best piece of advice you have received?
The best piece of advice I’ve received is really to ‘know thyself’. Everything I do, or try to do, comes from my own abilities. So, knowing who I am, what limits me or triggers my fears, and how I can manage my own reactions is important. And having self-compassion when I can’t do all that I set out to do is most important of all.
What was your first job?
My grandfather was an ironmonger, and my first paid job was working in his shop to take stock inventory.
Do you have any secret talents?
I’m not sure if it’s a secret, but I grew up around music and art in my family in India and I was trained to sing classical Indian music. I can also play harmonium and tabla.
More recently, I’ve been learning classical Western vocal techniques. I take vocal lessons, sing Italian and English pieces, and have even performed at the Prince George music festival. It’s been a joy to keep music alive in my life.
What is your favourite spot in Canada?
My favourite spot, where I go back to time and time again, is Jasper, just over the B.C. border into Alberta, which sadly witnessed devastating wildfires last summer. In the past, I have loved sitting by Maligne Lake and looking out at the azure waters and the mountain peaks. There’s something incredibly spiritual about that place.
Published: September 2025