Celebrating Canadian Health Research Excellence: Health Research Foundation Launches New Diversity and Equity in Research Award

Canada is becoming increasingly diverse and, therefore, it’s more important than ever to advance equitable health research that ensures better health outcomes for all Canadians, especially those facing inequities.  

As such, the Health Research Foundation (HRF) of Innovative Medicines Canada proudly announced the launch of its new Diversity and Equity in Research Award. This prestigious award seeks to honour exceptional researchers whose work demonstrates the highest quality of excellence, while advocating for equitable participation in health research and access to health care, thus improving the well-being of all Canadians. 

“It’s critical for health research and health-care delivery to represent and serve the unique needs of Canada’s diverse population,” said Mel Cappe, Chair of the HRF Board of Directors. “We’re proud to launch the Diversity and Equity in Research Award to recognize a researcher who is advancing equitable health research and promoting better outcomes for all Canadians.”  

The 2023 Diversity and Equity in Research Award celebrates the outstanding contributions of researchers who are actively promoting inclusivity, diversity, and equity in health research and care. Nominations are open to any Canadian individual or organization, and the award celebrates those who have not only demonstrated research excellence but have also worked towards creating a more inclusive research community and society.  

Their dedication to removing economic, social, and other barriers to health-care access is instrumental in improving the well-being of marginalized populations across Canada.  

“As an industry, we want all Canadians to be able to benefit from cutting-edge vaccines and treatments to live long and healthy lives,” said Pamela Fralick, President of Innovative Medicines Canada. “Health research can help advance this important objective by ensuring diverse populations have equitable access to the medicines they need, and we are honoured to recognize an individual who is helping to bring this important vision to life.” 

Do you know a researcher whose work deserves to be recognized through the Diversity and Equity in Research Award? To nominate an outstanding individual, simply complete the nomination form available at hrf-frs.com/awards. The deadline to submit a nomination is September 15, 2023.   

The recipient of the Diversity and Equity in Research Award will be honoured during the HRF Awards Reception in Montreal on November 15, 2023. This celebration will bring together various stakeholders, including academia, government officials, and members of the health-care community.  

For more information on the HRF and its various initiatives, visit hrf-frs.com.