Dr. Morag Park Takes the Helm as New President of the Gairdner Foundation, Leading Biomedical Research

Dr. Morag Park Appointed President and Scientific Director of the Gairdner Foundation

In a significant move for the future of biomedical research, Dr. Morag Park has been appointed as the new President and Scientific Director of the Gairdner Foundation effective June 1, 2026. Dr. Heather Munroe-Blum, Chair of the Foundation's Board, made the announcement following a comprehensive search to find a successor for the highly esteemed Dr. Janet Rossant, who led the Foundation with remarkable distinction for the past decade.

Dr. Park is celebrated internationally for her groundbreaking work in cancer research, specifically in breast cancer. Her innovative studies on the MET receptor have illuminated the mechanisms behind tumor growth and metastasis, forming the groundwork for targeted therapies that are now utilized globally. Dr. Park, a James McGill Professor at McGill University's Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute, also carries multiple honors, including being a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada and a Knight of the Ordre national du Québec. Her induction into the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame in 2026 marks another accolade in her distinguished career.

Beyond her scientific milestones, Dr. Park has been instrumental in shaping the research landscape in Canada. From 2008 to 2013, she served as the scientific director of the CIHR Institute of Cancer Research and spearheaded pivotal initiatives centered around personalized medicine and cancer prevention strategies. Additionally, she collaborated with over thirty funding agencies to develop Canada’s inaugural Pan-Canadian Cancer Research Strategic Plan, greatly enhancing the country’s research capabilities.

As President and Scientific Director of the Gairdner Foundation, Dr. Park will oversee the Foundation's renowned awards and educational initiatives, further promoting its mission of highlighting transformative scientific discoveries. At a time when the Foundation is looking to broaden its influence and partnerships, Dr. Park’s leadership is deemed essential in reinforcing Canada’s standing as a pioneer in scientific innovation.

"The Gairdner Foundation is dedicated to identifying the scientific advancements that will have the greatest impact on human health and to inspiring the upcoming generation of researchers. This commitment is more crucial now than ever, and I am deeply honored to direct an organization with such a profound history of recognizing excellence in science," stated Dr. Park upon her appointment.

Dr. Janet Rossant, who held the position from 2016 until recently, expressed her confidence in Dr. Park's leadership abilities, remarking on her combination of vision, energy, and a commitment to excellence. Rossant’s tenure was filled with impactful moments, and under Dr. Park’s guidance, the Gairdner Foundation is poised to continue its trajectory of success.

In statements from fellow leaders, Dr. Philip Sharp, a Nobel laureate and a former awardee of the Gairdner International Award, emphasized Dr. Park's exceptional qualifications and the promising future of the Foundation in her capable hands.

With a mission to spotlight the significance of groundbreaking research, the Gairdner Foundation stands at the cusp of an exciting new chapter under Dr. Park's direction. Her extensive background and dedication to cancer research will surely propel the Foundation into a new era of recognition and support for scientific achievement.

As the Gairdner Foundation approaches new horizons, its commitment to nurturing scientific excellence remains unwavering. The leadership of Dr. Morag Park heralds a bright future for the Foundation, the scientific community, and ultimately, the health of individuals around the globe.