The 2025 Killam Teaching Prize recognizes HLI researcher Dr. Tillie Hackett for her commitment to inclusive teaching, mentorship and research leadership.
Dr. Tillie-Louise Hackett, a Faculty of Medicine Professor and lung health researcher at the University of British Columbia, has received the 2025 Killam Teaching Prize for her outstanding contributions to teaching, mentorship and research leadership.
The award is presented annually to faculty members who demonstrate exceptional dedication to teaching. Recipients are nominated by students, colleagues and alumni across the UBC Vancouver campus, and selected within each Faculty at UBC’s Vancouver campus.
“Receiving the Killam Teaching Prize is incredibly meaningful because it reflects the value of creating inclusive, engaging learning environments where students can thrive,” said Dr. Hackett. “It reinforces my belief that education is most powerful when it is collaborative, student-centred and grounded in real-world impact.”
A Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in asthma and COPD lung pathobiology and therapeutics, Dr. Hackett leads a research program focused on chronic respiratory disease. Her research focuses on improving the health of patients living with asthma, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and idiopathic pulmonary fibrosis — people who face daily challenges with breathing. But her impact extends beyond the lab bench.
Over the past decade, Dr. Hackett has mentored dozens of trainees – six master’s and 10 doctoral students, eight postdoctoral fellows, six co-op students, 17 summer students, three clinical fellows and five BSc honours students. Her students have collectively won more than 150 awards, and many have gone on to pursue careers in medicine, academia and industry.
“What I find most meaningful is helping students connect scientific knowledge to practical, real-world applications,” she said.
“Whether it’s teaching inhaler techniques or guiding translational research projects, watching students gain confidence, ask thoughtful questions, and apply what they learn to improve patient care or push scientific boundaries is incredibly rewarding.”
— Dr. Tillie Hackett, HLI Principal Investigator
Dr. Hackett’s commitment to inclusive, student-centred teaching continues to shape the next generation of researchers.
“This award is a reflection of the vibrant, diverse community I have the privilege to teach and learn from,” she says.
“My students and trainees continuously inspire me with their dedication, curiosity and drive to make a difference. I’m proud to support them not only as learners but as future leaders in science and medicine.”
— Dr. Tillie Hackett, HLI Principal Investigator
Congratulations to Dr. Tillie Hackett on this well-deserved recognition!