Gairdner Science Week 2026

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From October 19–23, 2026, the Gairdner Foundation will host Gairdner Science Week, a week-long celebration of cutting-edge research, global health innovation, and the brilliant minds behind the 2026 Canada Gairdner Awards. Taking place across Canada and online, this national showcase is dedicated to amplifying the impact of science and its power to change lives. 

October 19:Monday, Oct 19, 2026

  • GAIRDNER CONNECTS: NATIONAL STUDENT OUTREACH

    In partnership with over 20 universities, this national tour features current and past Gairdner laureates who engage with students through dynamic presentations, interactive sessions, and digital cont...

October 21:Wednesday, Oct 21, 2026

  • 2026 Laureate Lectures

    The Laureate Lectures offer a rare opportunity to hear directly from the 2026 Canada Gairdner Award recipients as they share the stories and science behind their discoveries.

  • GAIRDNER CONNECTS STUDENT LUNCH

    High school and undergraduate students will have the chance to connect one-on-one with 2026 Gairdner laureates and other leading researchers.

October 22:Thursday, Oct 22, 2026

  • 2026 Gairdner International Symposium: After the Gairdner Award—Where Next?

    This symposium brings together 2026 Gairdner Laureates and leading researchers to explore how breakthrough discoveries evolve into transformative therapies and shape the future of medicine.

  • WOMEN OF GAIRDNER

    The program invites students, researchers, and academic leaders to explore how we can collectively shape a more inclusive scientific community.

  • Global Health Panel - Research and Response: Lessons for the future

    Hear from the 2026 John Dirks Canada Gairdner Global Health Award laureates as they discuss cholera, vaccine development, and the future of responding to emerging health crises.

  • CANADA GAIRDNER AWARDS GALA

    A gala celebrating the remarkable achievements of the 2025 Canada Gairdner Award laureates