The Terry Fox Research Institute and the Marathon of Hope Cancer Centres Network congratulate Dr. Morag Park on her appointment as President and Scientific Director of the Gairdner Foundation

The Terry Fox Research Institute (TFRI) and the Marathon of Hope Cancer Centres Network (MOHCCN) are proud to congratulate Dr. Morag Park on her appointment as President and Scientific Director of the Gairdner Foundation. 

An internationally recognized cancer researcher, scientific leader, and long-time member of the Terry Fox Research Institute’s community, Dr. Park has made pioneering contributions to our understanding of cancer biology and precision oncology, especially in breast cancer. Her research on the MET receptor helped lay the foundation for targeted cancer therapies that have improved outcomes for patients around the world. 

Dr. Park currently serves as co-lead for the Marathon of Hope – Quebec Consortium and is a member of the MOHCCN’s Network Council. She previously led a Terry Fox New Frontiers Program Project Grant and received funding through a TFRI-MOHCCN Technology Development Award. Throughout her career, she has played a leading role in shaping Canada's cancer research landscape, including serving as Scientific Director of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research Institute of Cancer Research, the Director of Research at the Goodman Cancer Centre at McGill University and co-chairing the Canadian Cancer Research Alliance. To top off these accomplishments, on June 18th, Dr. Park will be inducted into the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame. 

As President and Scientific Director of the Gairdner Foundation, Dr. Park will oversee the Foundation's internationally renowned awards program, “Canada’s Nobel Prizes” and educational initiatives, helping recognize transformative scientific discoveries and inspiring the next generation of researchers. 

"Morag has been a driving force in Canadian cancer research throughout her career," said Dr. Jim Woodgett, President and Scientific Director of TFRI. "Her scientific achievements are extraordinary, but equally important is her commitment to building research communities, mentoring future leaders and advancing collaboration across the country. We are delighted to see her take on this important role and know that the Gairdner Foundation will benefit greatly from her vision, leadership, and unwavering commitment to research excellence." 

“Morag has been instrumental in shaping the Marathon of Hope Cancer Centres Network since its inception,” said Dr. Andre Veillette, Executive Director, MOHCCN. “Her commitment to collaboration, scientific excellence, and improving patient outcomes has left a lasting mark on our Network, and we are thrilled to see her take on this important leadership role with the Gairdner Foundation." 

Dr. Park succeeds Dr. Janet Rossant, who led the Gairdner Foundation for the past decade and introduced innovative new awards. On behalf of the Terry Fox Research Institute, the Marathon of Hope Cancer Centres Network and the broader TFRI community, we extend our sincere congratulations to Dr. Park and wish her every success in this new role.