MSFHR announces recipients of 2010/11 health research scholar and trainee funding competitions

The Michael Smith Foundation for Health Research (MSFHR) is pleased to announce the recipients of its 2010/11 research scholar and trainee funding competitions. Of the more than 300 applicants, MSFHR has funded 95 individuals working in diverse fields of health research. Thirty-two scholar awards will support researchers establishing or building research programs to address critical health issues. Awards to 63 post-doctoral fellows will provide an additional three years of advanced research training to prepare the next generation of scholars for our BC universities and hospital-based research centres.

"Through these awards, MSFHR is investing in a healthy future for British Columbia," says Dr. Bruce Clayman, MSFHR's interim President & CEO. "Providing support to the scholars helps recruit and keep these exceptional investigators in BC, enabling them to establish research programs that can attract additional funding into the province. The post-doctoral fellows hold promise to become the next generation of premier health researchers."

The Foundation, celebrating its 10th anniversary this year, is funded primarily by the BC government, with a mandate to strengthen BC's health research enterprise. "A commitment to health research is a commitment to advancing the health of BC families," says Health Minister Michael de Jong. "From seeking a cure for childhood diabetes, to HPV vaccine research, to helping patients in remote communities better manage chronic diseases at home, the Foundation supports health research that benefits thousands of families."