About The Foundation

"We're dedicated to recognizing the world's most creative and accomplished biomedical scientists."

Biomedical discoveries bring hope for the future. Breakthroughs lead to new – often revolutionary – paths for diagnosis, treatment and cure.

The Canada Gairdner International Awards recognize and celebrate the work of the world’s best biomedical researchers.  

Over the past 53 years, Gairdner has gained a superb international reputation for its early recognition of medical breakthroughs that have changed the way medicine is practised. 

Established in 1959, 313 Canada Gairdner International Awards have been given to scientists from 15 countries; of these recipients, 80 have subsequently won the Nobel Prize.  In 2008 the government of Canada provided $20 million to endow the awards for future generations.

Our annual National Program is unique among major scientific prizes. Each October, the Gairdner sends current and past winners to over 20 universities across Canada, where they present lectures on their work to scientists, trainees, and high school students. 

Through this educational program, we aim to inspire young people to consider a career in the health sciences, and to increase public awareness of the value of scientific research and discovery. All Gairdner lectures are free and open to all.

The Canada Gairdner Awards are supported by the governments of Canada, Alberta and Ontario.