SickKids CEO named Canadian Academy of Health Sciences Fellow

The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) President and CEO Dr. Ronald Cohn was formally inducted into the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences (CAHS) Fellowship, one of Canada’s highest academic honours, on September 20.  An internationally-recognized clinician-scientist, Dr. Cohn was selected for his global leadership and scientific achievements in genetic medicine.

“Dr. Cohn’s remarkable accomplishments have left an indelible mark on the fields of genetics and paediatric health research, improving the health outcomes of children here and around the world,” says Michael Salter, Chief of Research. “I congratulate him on this outstanding achievement – his leadership and dedication is an inspiration to all of his colleagues and students at SickKids.”

The CAHS is one of Canada’s national academies, and fellowship is considered one of the highest honours for members of the Canadian health sciences community. The fellows are recognized for their leadership, academic performance, scientific creativity and commitment to advancing academic health science.

Dr. Cohn first joined SickKids in 2012 and is a renowned clinician, Senior Scientist in the SickKids Research Institute, and a Professor of Paediatrics and Molecular Genetics at the University of Toronto. He has been recognized nationally and internationally for his research into developing novel therapeutic strategies using CRISPR-based genome editing for various inherited disorders. Dr. Cohn was actively engaged with the development and enactment of Canada’s Genetic Non-Discrimination Act, which became law in Canada in May 2017. As President and CEO, Dr. Cohn has developed an interest in applying a concept of “precision child health” to the care of children.

He was recognized by the Academy for his excellence in clinical care and patient advocacy, teaching of medical and biomedical research trainees at all levels, and cutting-edge research in his field. As part of their induction, fellows are also brought together to address and provide independent, evidence-based assessments and recommendations on critical health challenges facing Canadians.

Dr. Cohn was named to the CAHS Fellowship at a ceremony in Ottawa as part of the academy’s annual meeting. Learn more about the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences Fellowship.