On October 2nd, The Canadian Medical Hall of Fame (CMHF), announced the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame Class of 2026, which included the Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute’s Morag Park, PhD.
Professor Park has dedicated over three decades to advancing our understanding of cancer. An internationally recognized scientist, she has made seminal contributions spanning molecular mechanisms, cellular interactions, and the tumor microenvironment—discoveries that continue to shape precision oncology worldwide.
Her career began with the identification of the MET oncogene, a receptor tyrosine kinase that drives many aggressive cancers. She went on to build a research program of sustained excellence, uncovering key molecular mechanisms of MET and other RTK activation, while developing tools and models that have propelled both basic and translational research. Her pioneering work in breast cancer, particularly triple-negative subtypes, revealed the central role of tumor heterogeneity, stromal interactions, and immune microenvironments, paving the way for new therapeutic strategies and patient-derived models.
Prof. Park has also played a central role in building research capacity and infrastructure. She established Quebec’s first breast cancer tumor bank and, as Director of the Rosalind and Morris Goodman Cancer Institute from 2013 to 2025, guided the Institute into a hub of collaboration, mentorship, and innovation. Nationally, she has been instrumental in shaping Canada’s cancer research strategy, forging networks that unite scientists, clinicians, and industry partners to advance precision medicine.
Her leadership has been recognized through numerous honors, including the Canadian Cancer Society Robert L. Noble Prize, the Grand Prix Scientifique of the Quebec Breast Cancer Foundation, and the Armand-Frappier Prix du Québec. A Fellow of both the Royal Society of Canada and the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences, Prof Park has not only advanced scientific knowledge but also built a legacy of institutional strength, mentorship, and community impact.
Prof. Park’s career is a powerful reminder that transformative science is built not only on discovery, but also on leadership, mentorship, and vision. As we celebrate this well-deserved recognition, we look forward to the discoveries and collaborations her leadership will continue to inspire for years to come.
Learn more about her induction here