Distinguished Professor Dhalla inducted into Canadian Medical Hall of Fame
Cardiovascular science pioneer Dr. Naranjan S. Dhalla, from the University of Manitoba and St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre, was inducted into the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame (CMHF), in recognition of extraordinary contributions to health.
The ceremony took place May 2 in Montreal.
Dr. Dhalla, a Distinguished Professor in the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, is a founding leader of two worldwide organizations of cardiovascular science – the International Society of Heart Research and the International Academy of Cardiovascular Sciences.
“Dr. Dhalla’s career of teaching and research is to be commended,” said Dr. Digvir Jayas, vice-president (research and international) and Distinguished Professor. “His influence on the field of cardiovascular science has been transformative globally as a result of his numerous contributions. He is a true visionary leader and most deserving of this prestigious recognition.”
In a career spanning more than 50 years, his work has helped to ensure that the benefits of scientific knowledge are shared globally.
In 2001, Dr. Dhalla was instrumental in drawing more than 2,000 professionals to Winnipeg for a meeting of the World Heart Congress, helping to establish Canada as a centre of cardiovascular science and research.
Dr. Dhalla was Director of the Institute of Cardiovascular Science at St. Boniface Hospital Albrechtsen Research Centre in Winnipeg for 19 years, trained more than 150 graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, edited/authored more than 50 books and has presented at more than 500 conferences worldwide. He also served as editor-in-chief of the journal Molecular and Cellular Biochemistry.
Dr. Dhalla was one of six individuals inducted into the CMHF at the May 2 ceremony in Montreal.
“The Canadian Medical Hall of Fame is proud to welcome these six individuals whose outstanding contributions to health have made Canada, and the world, a better place,” said Dr. Bryce Taylor, chair of the CMHF.
Research at the University of Manitoba is partially supported by funding from the Government of Canada Research Support Fund.