SickKids thanks federal government for investment in the future of Canada’s research

The Government of Canada’s announcement of support for research personnel across the country is applauded by The Hospital for Sick Children (SickKids) Research Institute.   

As with other Canadian research institutes, SickKids relies on non-government sources for research funding and faced a significant shortfall for research personnel and activities during the COVID-19 pandemic. This investment from the federal government will ensure crucial research can continue at SickKids now and well into the future. 

“It is incredible to see the commitment to Canadian research from our federal government,” says Dr. Ronald Cohn, President and CEO of SickKids. “Research is the foundation for discoveries that bring new treatments to patients. On behalf of my fellow scientists, thank you for supporting researchers across the country.” 

SickKids has been at the forefront of Canadian research for over 60 years and has been at the centre of many significant scientific discoveries. When the pandemic began, several SickKids scientists took quick and focused action to start solving the mysteries surrounding COVID-19. From sequencing the genomes of COVID-19 survivors to antibody testing among health-care workers to monitoring the mental health impacts of the pandemic, SickKids researchers are involved in 64 COVID-19 related studies, of which 50 are SickKids-led. 

“Today’s announcement comes at a crucial time. Never before have we seen the importance of research than during COVID-19,” says Dr. Michael Salter, Chief of Research at SickKids. “We are immensely grateful for the government’s support and recognition that Canadian research must continue to thrive.”   

In line with other research institutes, SickKids will soon begin restarting some suspended activities. For the most up-to-date information about the COVID-19 situation at SickKids, visit our COVID-19 Information Hub.