Government of Canada's 2018 Budget includes historic investment to support the next generation of innovators

Federal Government invests $1m in Gairdner Foundation

OTTAWA, Feb. 27, 2018 /CNW/ - The Gairdner Foundation is pleased with the Government of Canada's historic investment of nearly $4 billion over five years in Budget 2018 to support the next generation of researchers through investments in Canada's granting councils, the Canada Research Chairs and in essential equipment and infrastructure to support innovative research discoveries. We commend the Government's recognition of the importance of fundamental research in driving innovation and improved health outcomes for Canadians. 

Gairdner is also thrilled that the government will continue to support our activities both within Canada and internationally, with a focus on expanding the diversity of our laureates, through an investment of $1 million over the next five years. Our outreach programs celebrate biomedical and global health research and also play a key role in inspiring the next generation to pursue careers in STEM.

The Government of Canada and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research have been a strong supporter of Gairdner since 2008 and we're thrilled to continue this strong partnership. Together, we have raised the profile of the Canada Gairdner Awards and the reputation of Canada as a leader in science and innovation.

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"Today's announcement from the Government of Canada to support the Gairdner Foundation's programming in Canada and around the globe is a testament to the strong partnership we have. Gairdner greatly appreciates the continued support of the Government of Canada and the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) in our shared missions to recognize research and inspire the next generation of researchers and innovators," said Dr. Lorne Tyrrell, Chair, Board of Directors, Gairdner Foundation.

"The Government of Canada's budget announcement of a major new investment in science and innovation is a great demonstration of their commitment to the broader scientific enterprise in Canada. The funding will ensure Canadian researchers can tackle problems that will drive the innovations of the future," said Dr. Janet Rossant, President & Scientific Director, Gairdner Foundation. "Gairdner is also thrilled that the government will continue to support our activities both within Canada and internationally, with a focus on expanding the diversity of our laureates, through an investment of $1 million over the next five years".

About the Canada Gairdner Awards:

Each year seven Canada Gairdner Awards are presented to honour the world's most significant biomedical and global health researchers. The Canada Gairdner International Award is given to five individuals for outstanding international biomedical research, while the Canada Gairdner Wightman Award is given to an individual leader in Canadian medicine. The John Dirks Canada Gairdner Global Health Award recognizes a contribution to health in the developing world. These seven awards both distinguish Canada as a leader in science and elevate the profile of science in Canada They are Canada's only globally known and respected international science awards. All laureates are chosen by international adjudication committees.

About the Gairdner Foundation:

The Gairdner Foundation was established in 1957 by Toronto stockbroker, James Gairdner to award annual prizes to scientists whose discoveries have had major impact on scientific progress and on human health. Since 1959 when the first awards were granted, 373 scientists have received a Canada Gairdner Award and 87 to date have gone on to receive the Nobel Prize. The Canada Gairdner Awards promote a stronger culture of research and innovation across the country through our Outreach Programs including lectures and research symposia. The programs brings current and past laureates to a minimum of 15 universities across Canada to speak with faculty, trainees and high school students to inspire the next generation of researchers. Annual research symposia and public lectures are organized across Canada to provide Canadians access to leading science through Gairdner's convening power.

SOURCE Gairdner Foundation

Sommer Wedlock, Vice President & Director of Communications, Office: [phone] ext. 202, Mobile: [phone], [email protected], www.gairdner.org