The Gairdner Foundation will host Gairdner Science Week 2026 from October 19 to 23, drawing scientists, students, healthcare professionals and the public to Toronto to celebrate the 2026 Canada Gairdner Award laureates while exploring breakthroughs that advance biomedical research and worldwide health.

This year's honored research spans new methods for imaging molecular structures within cells, novel therapies for amyloid-related conditions, core principles of modern systems proteomics, oral cholera vaccine creation, strategies against antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and techniques to restore blood pressure regulation following spinal cord injury.

Events in Toronto and online will include lectures, symposia and open discussions that link Canadians with leading experts on urgent health issues. The program continues the Gairdner Foundation's tradition of honoring scientific achievement and sharing those insights with audiences in Canada and beyond.

"Gairdner Science Week offers a chance to gather top scientists across Canadian cities and spark dialogue on discoveries that influence human health. Sharing their findings helps make advanced science more approachable and allows students, researchers and the public to connect directly with those driving progress."

- Dr. Morag Park, President and Scientific Director of the Gairdner Foundation.

"I first joined Gairdner Science Week as a graduate student, and it has inspired me throughout my career. Being named a Peter Gilgan Canada Gairdner Momentum Award laureate is a tremendous honor."

- Dr. Karen Maxwell, 2026 Peter Gilgan Canada Gairdner Momentum Award laureate

Program Highlights

Laureate Lectures (Oct 21): The public can hear directly from 2026 Gairdner Award recipients about their research paths and major discoveries.
After the Gairdner Award - Where Next? (Oct 22): Laureates and experts discuss how key findings develop into new therapies and influence medicine's future.
Research and Response: Lessons for the future (Oct 22): Laureates and researchers address urgent health crises, research capacity building, and emerging challenges for upcoming scientists.
Women of Gairdner Panel (Oct 22): A discussion on equity and leadership in science with leading women in biomedical research.
Student and Early Career Programming: Features a Lunch with Laureates session and outreach at Canadian universities.

The week ends with the Canada Gairdner Awards Gala, hosted by Anthony Morgan of The Nature of Things. The event will recognize the 2026 laureates for their contributions to biomedical research and global health.

Most events are free and open to the public, with both in-person and virtual attendance options. The full schedule and registration details are available on the Gairdner Foundation website.

About the Gairdner Foundation

The Gairdner Foundation works to celebrate, inform and inspire scientific excellence worldwide.

Founded in 1957, the organization carries forward James A. Gairdner's goal of recognizing major contributions to disease treatment and relief of human suffering. Through the annual Canada Gairdner Awards, it honors creative researchers whose work improves health globally. Since the start, 443 awards have gone to laureates from over 40 countries, and 105 of those have later received Nobel Prizes.

The Foundation promotes open science discussions to engage the public, address challenges and develop solutions. Its Gairdner Connects outreach program brings science to communities across Canada to inspire new innovators and encourage dialogue on research's role in tackling major health issues.

SOURCE Gairdner Foundation