Ottawa, April 2 – The Health Research Foundation (HRF) of Innovative Medicines Canada (IMC) is proud to announce that nominations are now open for the 2026 HRF Medal of Honour.
Awarded annually, the Medal of Honour is one of Canada’s leading recognitions in health sciences, policy, and research, celebrating exceptional individuals whose work has significantly improved the lives of Canadians and advanced health knowledge nationally and around the world.
“The Medal of Honour recognizes leaders whose work has transformed how we understand, deliver, and improve healthcare for Canadians,” said Christine Elliott, Chair of the HRF Board of Directors. “We are excited to receive nominations that reflect the bold thinking and real-world impact needed to meet today’s health challenges.”
The 2026 recipient will receive a $20,000 donation toward a Canadian, research-based academic institution of their choice. The Medal of Honour will be presented at the HRF Awards Reception on November 17, 2026 in Toronto.
“The Medal of Honour celebrates individuals whose ideas and discoveries are not only advancing science, but also translating into meaningful improvements in patient care,” said Dr. Bettina Hamelin, President and CEO of IMC. “We are proud to recognize those driving progress and shaping the future of health.”
Since 1945, the HRF has recognized groundbreaking contributions to health research through the Medal of Honour. The inaugural recipient, Sir Alexander Fleming, was honoured for the discovery of penicillin. The following year, esteemed Canadian medical scientist Dr. Charles Best was recognized for the co-discovery of insulin. Other notable Medal of Honour winners include the Right Honourable Brian Mulroney for his contributions to the Canadian healthcare system and, most recently, Dr. Jeffrey Weitz, a globally recognized clinician-scientist and thrombosis expert.
Nominations are open until July 10, 2026. To learn more about eligibility criteria and how to submit a nomination, visit www.hrf-frs.com.
About the Health Research Foundation
The Health Research Foundation (HRF) is a Canadian non-profit organization dedicated to fostering healthcare innovation and improved patient outcomes through applied health-systems research. The HRF invests in research that reimagines how care is delivered, accessed, and experienced — focusing on bold, evidence-based solutions that drive system-wide transformation. Through strategic collaboration with leading academics, industry innovators, and partners, the HRF provides the resources and networks needed to accelerate meaningful, lasting change.
About Innovative Medicines Canada
Innovative Medicines Canada (IMC) is the national association representing Canada’s innovative pharmaceutical industry. IMC advocates for policies that enable the discovery, development, and delivery of innovative medicines and vaccines to improve the lives of all Canadians. It also champions its members’ commitment to being trusted partners in the Canadian healthcare system. IMC represents 45 member companies that invest $3.2 billion in R&D annually, fueling Canada’s knowledge-based economy and contributing $18.4 billion per year to the Canadian economy. Guided by the Code of Ethical Practices, all members work with governments, private payers, healthcare professionals, and stakeholders in a highly ethical manner.
For further information: media@imc-mnc.ca
