The Gairdner Foundation was established in 1957 with the main goal of recognizing andrewarding international excellence in fundamental research that impacts human health. 395 awards have been given to laureates from 35 countries and of those awardees, 92 have gone onto receive Nobel Prizes. We also engage in outreach programs across Canada and act as aconvener with the public, policymakers and other stakeholders on the impact of science on oureveryday lives.

The Canada Gairdner International Award recognizes outstanding researchers whose unique scientific contributions have increased the understanding of human biology and disease and contributed to the relief of human suffering. Nominations in the field of translational research are welcome. 

The awards are intended for seminal bodies of work, not cumulative lifetime achievement. Self-nominations are not accepted.

The John Dirks Canada Gairdner Global Health Award recognizes the world’s leading researchers who have used rational, scientifically based research to improve the wellbeing of those facing health inequalities worldwide. While a single significant scientific discovery would continue to be sufficient evidence to select a nominee, the Award will also recognize outstanding researchers who apply rational scientific approaches to successful implementation, evaluation and policy interventions.

Gairdner invites nominations from any field of research impacting global health and health inequity. The award is intended for research-focused candidates, not those primarily involved in administrative or advocacy roles. This award can be shared by multiple recipients at the discretion of the Foundation. Self-nominations are not accepted.

Learn more about the Gairdner Foundation, our awards and how to nominate at bit​.ly/​c​g​a​n​o​m​i​n​a​tions