The University of Ottawa has awarded the title of Distinguished University Professor to the Faculty of Medicine’s Dr. Barbara Vanderhyden.
Nominees must have represented and acted as ambassadors of the University’s mission, vision and values in the various aspects of their career at the University. They must also have demonstrated remarkable scholarly achievement at the University, pre-eminence in a particular field of fields of knowledge and a solid teaching record.
As a Senior Scientist at The Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (OHRI) Dr. Vanderhyden’s research explores strategies for the prevention and early detection of ovarian cancer and the creation of models for testing novel treatments. The Vanderhyden lab studies myriad aspects of ovarian cancer, including the initiation, progression, chemo-sensitivity and prognosis of human ovarian cancer.
“This is a tremendous honour, and I am so pleased that our substantial efforts to address the challenge of ovarian cancer are being recognized,” Dr. Vanderhyden says.
Although herself the recipient if the honour, Dr. Vanderhyden credits her team for much of her success.
“My research team is truly exceptional – creative, dedicated, diligent and fun. They have my utmost respect and appreciation,” she says.
Her advocacy of science education is reflected in her 1993 spearheading of the Let’s Talk Science program, wherein graduate students speak in schools about careers in science, engaging students and inviting them to explore. In return, graduate students learn and put into practice the transferrable skills of teaching and public speaking, an opportunity not available to many students. The program has blossomed at home and abroad, helping meet the University’s objective of preparing well-rounded citizens and leaders able to contribute to society.