Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute’s Dr. Jim Woodgett to lead Terry Fox Research Institute

A senior scientist at the Lunenfeld-Tanenbaum Research Institute (LTRI), Jim will split his time in his lab at Sinai Health with his new position at TFRI. He begins his expanded role on August 1, 2021.

Jim recently stepped down as director of the LTRI, a position he held for 15 years. In his role as director, Jim played key roles in promoting Canadian health sciences and the Fundamental Science Review. He is also an internationally-renowned biologist, conducting research in cell signalling and transduction pathways in cancer, as well as in diabetes and neurological diseases.

“Jim is a motivational leader, who has been instrumental in attracting exceptional researchers to the LTRI, both from Canada and abroad. His passion for translating the value of investing in research to the general public will continue to benefit both institutions. We join TFRI in congratulating Jim on his new appointment,” said Dr. Gary Newton, President and CEO of Sinai Health.

He succeeds TFRI’s founding president Dr. Victor Ling, O.C., O.B.C., PhD, who has led the Institute since its creation in 2007.

“Jim is an accomplished research leader and senior scientist with a track record for excellence and collaboration over several decades,” said Dr. Christopher Paige, Chair of the TFRI Board of Directors. “We are confident he is the right choice to captain our research endeavour and take us to the next level as we navigate new horizons with existing and new partners across the country — and beyond — in our shared vision to work together to accelerate precision medicine for Canadians.”

Jim will head TFRI as it implements two novel pan-Canadian projects that will change the future of cancer research and care in Canada. The Institute is expanding its mandate to accelerate precision medicine for Canadians through two new initiatives, the Marathon of Hope Cancer Centres Network (MOHCCN) and the Digital Health and Discovery Platform (DHDP).

“It’s not often that you are given the opportunity to pursue two dreams at the same time,” said Jim. “I’m truly excited to help forge the future of the amazing Terry Fox Research Institute and continue running my research group and work with my fantastic colleagues at the LTRI.”

Jim will continue to be based at the LTRI in Toronto and will lead TFRI from Vancouver.

Read the full press release here.