The Health Research Foundation has awarded both of this year’s prestigious individual awards to McMaster University professors.
Jeffrey Weitz, from the departments of Medicine, Bioengineering, and Biochemistry and Biomedical Sciences in the Faculty of Health Sciences, received the foundation’s Medal of Honour in recognition of his internationally acclaimed research and contributions to public policies that have significantly advanced health sciences, therapeutics and health care.
Biologist Juliet Daniel from the Faculty of Science received the HRF’s Diversity & Equity in Research Award, in recognition of her outstanding scientific contributions and unwavering commitment to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in Canadian health research.
Weitz, who is an officer of the Order of Canada, is a world-leading expert who has transformed how we understand and treat thrombosis — the formation of blood clots that block normal blood flow.
One in four people globally will die due to blood clots, with a thrombosis-related death occurring every six seconds.
Through his research, Weitz has helped establish the oral anticoagulants Apixaban and Rivaroxaban as safe, life-saving therapies for the prevention and treatment of blood clotting disorders, transforming care for millions of people worldwide.
“It is a great privilege to receive this Medal of Honour,” Weitz said.
“This recognition reflects the dedication of my colleagues, collaborators, and students who have worked tirelessly to advance research and improve care for people affected by thrombosis.”
Weitz will donate his $20,000 prize to the bursary fund he established last year 2024 to support equitable medical education. Click here to learn more about Weitz’s award.
Both Weitz and Daniel were appointed Distinguished University Professors earlier this year. It is the highest honour bestowed on faculty members for their significant and lasting impact on McMaster and their respective fields and society at large.
Daniel’s scientific work includes her discovery of Kaiso, a gene implicated in aggressive cancers such as triple negative breast cancer (TNBC), a subtype that disproportionately affects young Black women.
Daniel is also known for her advocacy for equitable health care, and has worked with community organizations to raise awareness about breast cancer in underserved populations. She co-founded the Canadian Black Scientists Network, mentors emerging scholars, and plays a key leadership role in numerous national equity-focused initiatives.
“This recognition affirms the importance of research that addresses health inequities and supports the next generation of scientists and physicians from underrepresented communities,” Daniel said.
“I share this award with the students, colleagues, and community partners who inspire and guide my work every day.”