CIHR Scientific Directors – Term Extensions
February 26, 2026
Since CIHR was created in 2000, we have recruited world-leading researchers to guide our 13 Institutes. The Scientific Directors play a pivotal role as members of CIHR’s leadership team by shaping CIHR’s health research priorities, developing impactful health research initiatives, forging national and international collaborations, and nurturing their communities.
Scientific Directors are appointed by CIHR’s Governing Council for a four-year term, which may be renewed once. Under exceptional circumstances, the term of a Scientific Director may be adjusted to ensure that CIHR maintains leadership continuity. Over the past 3 years, CIHR has recruited 7 Scientific Directors. To ensure that an appropriate balance of senior leadership experience is maintained across the cohort of Scientific Directors, Governing Council has extended the terms of the following Scientific Directors by 12 months:
- Dr. Christopher McMaster, Scientific Director, CIHR Institute of Genetics – extended to June 30, 2027
- Dr. Rick Glazier, Scientific Director, CIHR Institute of Health Services and Policy Research – extended to December 31, 2027
- Dr. Jane Rylett, Scientific Director, CIHR Institute of Aging – extended to July 31, 2028
- Dr. Christine Chambers, Scientific Director, CIHR Institute of Human Development, Child and Youth Health – extended to December 31, 2028.
These Scientific Directors were identified based on the current term end dates and their ability to continue in the role. By staggering the terms, CIHR has rebalanced the distribution of expertise across first- and second-term Scientific Directors. To review the terms of all Scientific Directors, please visit the Scientific Directors webpage.
We wish to thank these four Scientific Directors for their ongoing leadership and commitment to maintaining a strong leadership cadre at CIHR. They have all made exceptional contributions throughout their terms to date and the extra time will allow them to continue to make an impact on the health, well-being and prosperity of Canadians.
Sincerely,
Dr. Paul Hébert
President
Canadian Institutes of Health Research
Dr. Marie-Josée Hébert
Chair, Governing Council
Canadian Institutes of Health Research
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