10 Moments That Made Gairdner Science Week 2026 Memorable

What's New

From groundbreaking discoveries and inspiring conversations to moments of celebration and connection, Gairdner Science Week 2026 brought the global scientific community together at events across Canada. 

Held October 19-23, this year's Gairdner Science Week connected world-leading researchers, students, policymakers, and curious minds through a series of free events, lectures, and celebrations in cities across Canada. The week explored how scientific discoveries move beyond the lab to shape medicine, improve lives, and address some of the world's biggest challenges. 

Missed the action? Here are 10 moments that made Gairdner Science Week 2026 memorable.

 

1. The 2026 Laureates drew a record-breaking crowd

Science was standing-room-only at this year's Laureate Lectures! All seats were filled as audiences gathered to hear the 2026 Gairdner laureates share the discoveries behind their award-winning research. The record turnout was a testament to the public's interest in science and the people behind the research shaping human health.

2. A 40-year friendship and scientific partnership took the spotlight

The 2026 John Dirks Canada Gairdner Global Health Award laureates, John D. Clemens and Jan Holmgren, have shared a friendship and scientific partnership spanning four decades. Gairdner Science Week offered an opportunity to celebrate not only their contributions to global health, but also the longstanding collaboration and personal connection behind their work. 

3. A rare gathering of proteomics pioneers

Researchers in proteomics gathered for a special breakfast hosted in partnership with the Canadian National Proteomics Network. The event offered a rare opportunity to hear from and exchange ideas with three pioneers in the field: 2026 laureates John R. Yates III, Ruedi Aebersold, and Matthias Mann, whose work has shaped modern systems proteomics. 

4. Women of Gairdner looked ahead to a more inclusive future in science

In collaboration with Women's College Hospital, this year's Women of Gairdner event brought together 2026 laureate Karen Maxwell, 2024 laureate Meghan Azad, and 2026 ECI Rajae Talbi for a conversation with students on how we can collectively shape a more inclusive scientific community.  

5. The Oscars of science returned to the ROM

The Gairdner Awards Gala brought together leaders in science, government, and philanthropy to celebrate the 2026 laureates and their contributions to human health. Hosted by CBC's Anthony Morgan, the evening featured stories, celebrations, and the beloved Gairdner tradition of laureates choosing the songs that accompany them to the stage. This year's soundtrack ranged from Frank Sinatra and Jack Johnson to Quavo and Maroon 5, showing that while they may share a passion for science, their musical tastes span just about every genre. 

6. A life-changing discovery took centre stage

At the Gairdner Awards Gala, 2026 laureate Jeffery W. Kelly gave up his acceptance speech to his friend and patient, Frank Caraglio, whose life was transformed by tafamidis, the drug developed through Dr. Kelly's research. Frank shared his personal story, bringing the impact of decades of scientific discovery into focus in one particularly moving moment. 

7. From discovery to impact on Parliament Hill

Gairdner returned to Ottawa for Gairdner on the Hill, exploring how scientific discoveries can translate into real-world impact through research-informed policy. The event featured 2026 laureate Jeffery W. Kelly and Early Career Investigator Tammy Ryan, who shared perspectives on how scientific advances can inform health policy and improve patient outcomes.

8. Canada's emerging researchers connected with their scientific heroes

The 2026 Gairdner Early Career Investigators (ECIs) travelled across the country throughout Gairdner Science Week, joining 2026 laureates for university visits, discussions, and scientific events. These opportunities brought emerging researchers face-to-face with some of the world's leading scientists, creating space to exchange ideas, ask questions, and build connections across generations of research. 

9. Students got a front-row seat to discovery

Students across Canada heard directly from the 2026 Gairdner laureates through Gairdner Connects’ university lectures. In Toronto, a student networking lunch brought emerging scientists together with laureates for conversations about research, career paths, and the discoveries shaping the future of science. These encounters offered students a chance to engage with leading researchers and see firsthand where a career in science can lead. 

10. Captured conversations revealed the stories behind the science

What drives a scientific discovery? What challenges shape a researcher's career? And what do award-winning scientists do when they’re not in the lab? During Gairdner Science Week, we filmed interviews with the 2026 Gairdner laureates and ECIs for The Curious Mindset, our video interview series with RCIScience exploring the people and stories behind the science. In the meantime, watch the 2025 interviews.

 

Why it all matters

For nearly 70 years, the Gairdner Foundation has celebrated scientific excellence and the people whose discoveries advance human health. To date, 443 researchers from more than 40 countries have received a Gairdner Award, with 105 going on to receive a Nobel Prize. 

But Gairdner's work extends beyond recognizing scientific achievement. Through Gairdner Science Week and its year-round programming, the Gairdner Foundation creates opportunities to connect researchers with students, communities, and decision-makers, bringing important scientific ideas and discoveries to wider audiences. 

As we reflect on another memorable Science Week, we're also looking ahead to the next generation of discoveries and the people who will make them possible. Explore our year-round programs and digital recordings, and stay tuned for the announcement of the 2027 Gairdner Award laureates on March 31, 2027.