The Canada Gairdner Awards celebrate the world’s best biomedical and global health researchers through annual prestigious awards.
Annually, seven awards are given: five Canada Gairdner International Awards for biomedical research, the John Dirks Canada Gairdner Global Health Award, specifically for impact on global health issues, and the Canada Gairdner Wightman Award, reserved for a Canadian scientist showcasing scientific excellence and leadership.
Each laureate receives $100,000 CDN that they can put towards anything they wish. Laureates have put their winnings towards their labs, their research or even paid for their niece to attend medical school.
The Gairdner Foundation is committed to increasing the diversity and gender equity of our awards.
Nominations for the 2026 International and Global Health Awards are due by 11:59 pm PDT on October 1, 2025.
Nominations for the 2026 Momentum Awards are due by 11:59 pm PDT on July 15, 2025.
The Canada Gairdner International Award ($250 000 per recipient) is awarded annually to five researchers who have made original contributions resulting in an increased understanding of human biology and disease.
The John Dirks Canada Gairdner Global Health Award ($100 000 per award) is awarded annually to an individual/co-contributors whose scientifically-based research has improved the health and well-being of those facing health inequities worldwide.