Singer, Zlotkin honored by CIHR Researchers recognized for contributions to healthcare

November 23, 2006

Source: University of Toronto
http://www.news.utoronto.ca/bin6/061123-2759.asp

Two of U of T’s leading health researchers were honoured by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) at its annual awards celebration Nov. 23.

Professor Peter Singer was honoured as the finalist for the CIHR Michael Smith Prize in Health Research -- Canada’s Health Researcher of the Year (the first prize went to Dr. Robert Hancock of the University of British Columbia). Professor Stanley Zlotkin won the CIHR Knowledge Translation Award.

"We’re honouring those individuals who have exemplified excellence and contributed to the health of Canadians and of people throughout the world," said Tony Clement, federal minister of health. "They have demonstrated, through their achievements and their commitment, the strong link between health research and improved health care delivery, improved treatment and prevention of disease. Their work has and will have a major impact."

The ceremony was held at the National Gallery of Canada and was hosted by CIHR in collaboration with the Health Charities Coalition of Canada, Research Canada -- An Alliance for Health Discovery and Canada’s provincial health research organizations.

Singer is professor of medicine in the Faculty of Medicine at U of T, senior scientist, McLaughlin-Rotman Centre, University Health Network and a CIHR distinguished investigator. His contributions have included improvements in quality end-of-life care, fair priority setting in healthcare organizations, pandemic influenza planning and bioethics. An acclaimed leader in global health, Singer is a member of a U of T team that is working with the Grand Challenges in Global Health initiative, funded by the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, Wellcome Trust and CIHR, to address crucial issues in global health. The team has received a $12-million Grand Challenges grant -- arguably the largest-ever single bioethics grant in the world.

Zlotkin is a professor in the Departments of Pediatrics, Nutritional Sciences and Public Health Sciences in U of T’s Faculty of Medicine. Through his Sprinkles Global Health Initiative, he is ensuring that children with anemia in rural areas of the developing world receive Sprinkles, a dry, tasteless, single serving packet that includes all the nutrients a child or adult needs to fight anemia.

"Congratulations to both Peter and Stan. They are marvelous examples of the brilliant health scholars we have at U of T. Their work proves that university research really does make a profound impact on people around the world. We’re very proud of them," said Professor John Challis, vice-president (research) and associate provost.

Visit www.cihr-irsc.gc.ca for the full list of award winners.