The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC) announced Thursday a new postdoctoral fellowship program to recruit researchers from around the world.
The goal of the fellowship is to strengthen Quebec’s position as a leading force in biomedical research, both within Canada and internationally.
“Postdoctoral fellows are the driving force behind our research programs: they do more than support discovery—they propel it forward,” said Dr. Rhian Touyz, Executive Director and Chief Scientific Officer, Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre. “Through philanthropy and the Canada’s Best program, we are investing in the next generation of scientific leaders and bringing The Institute’s Vision 2030 to life by accelerating advancements in precision care and treatments tailored to each individual and grounded in the latest scientific discoveries.”
The initial investment was $20 million, including $14 million in philanthropic support. This was made possible through a collaboration between the Research Institute, the McGill University Health Centre (MUHC), and its four foundations—the MUHC Foundation, the Montreal General Hospital Foundation, the Montreal Children’s Hospital Foundation, and the Cedars Cancer Foundation.
MUHC hopes to recruit up to 100 young researchers over the coming years.
“Attracting, training and retaining top talent is at the heart of Québec’s scientific strategy,” said Rémi Quirion, Chief Scientist of Québec. “A unique program like Canada’s Best sends a clear message: here, researchers can develop ambitious ideas and fully realize their potential in an exceptional environment at the intersection of research and clinical care. This program illustrates the strength of collaboration between research institutions, foundations and public partners to accelerate innovation and address the major health challenges we face.”
Postdoctoral fellows will work alongside leading scientists across disciplines and have access to highly specialized research platforms. Canada’s Best will provide stable funding for up to four years.
“Canada’s Best isn’t limited to training scientists. It’s about positioning Québec and Canada as a hub to attract and retain the next generation of the world’s brightest minds,” said Dr. Lucie Opatrny, President and Executive Director, McGill University Health Centre. “Above all, it’s about transforming lives, transforming research, transforming patient care—everywhere in the world.”
