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John Dirks Canada Gairdner Global Health Award 2027
The John Dirks Canada Gairdner Global Health Award recognizes global research leaders who have used rational, scientifically based research to improve the wellbeing of those facing health inequities worldwide.
Successful nominees can be from any field of research that impacts global health and health inequity. The award may be given for a single significant discovery, or in recognition of outstanding researchers who apply rational scientific approaches to successful implementation, evaluation, and policy interventions. It may be shared by multiple recipients in any given year.
The value of the award is $100,000 for the personal use of the recipient(s). An award citation and a medal will also be presented.
Eligibility
Eligible nominees can be from any field of research impacting global health and health inequity.
Nominees must have produced a distinct body of scientific research contributions by applying rational scientific approaches to discovery, implementation, evaluation or policy interventions.
Successful nominees are not primarily involved in administrative or advocacy roles.
Scholars may not apply for the Canada Gairdner Global Health Award; they must be nominated by an expert in their field.
Nomination Process
A nominator is required for a valid nomination submission.
A complete nomination includes the following required information:
- Nominee details (contact and professional information);
- Citation (max 150 words, 1-2 sentences);
- Research Summary - impact and key contributions to global health (max 1,000 words);
- List of Top 5 Publications or other material related to the research summary with a brief outline of the impact of each and citation count/source;
- Short CV (10-20 pages);
- Nominee in Context (max 1,000 words)
- Impact on the trajectory or foundational understanding of their field;
- Other significant contributors or potential co-nominees for the work highlighted in the nomination;
- Clarification of their individual contributions within collaborative projects and publications;
- Letters of reference (max 3 pages each).
- Provide 3-5 letters with objective evaluations of the candidate and their body of work.
Institutional Coordination & Support
Nominations supported by Awards & Distinctions will receive the following:
- Assistance with identifying suitable referees.
- Support for developing all written materials, and providing feedback and review (including access to templates, frameworks, and other resources).
- Assistance with navigating and completing required forms and documents.
- Document management: collecting and compiling all letters, forms, and written documents for submission to the Gairdner Foundation.
Program Resources
EDID Supports
Western Research offers support and resources for knowledge mobilization, Indigenous Research, and Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Decolonization. You can complete a request for support form to receive more information or request additional support. If you are unsure if your project involves Indigenous research, it is recommended that you contact Western Research early for determination and support.
Submission
Please submit nominations through the Gairdner Nominations Portal.
Deadline(s)
| Date | Required Steps |
|---|---|
|
July 6, 2026 |
Notice of Intent to Apply – email rwprizes@uwo.ca if you wish to have Research Awards & Distinctions support and coordination of your application. |
|
September 17, 2026 |
If you are receiving institutional coordination and support on your nomination, submit drafts (Word version) of all of your required nomination documents noted above to rwprizes@uwo.ca. |
|
October 1, 2026 |
Nomination submission deadline. |
Contact Us
Potential nominators and nominees are encouraged to contact Research Awards & Distinctions at rwprizes@uwo.ca regarding Western Research support and coordination of your nomination.