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Overview
The D2R community is saddened by the passing of Professor Robert Sladek, a founding member of the Â鶹´«Ã½ÍøÕ¾ Genome Centre and a valued member of the Victor Phillip Dahdaleh Institute of Genomic Medicine.
Prof. Sladek made foundational contributions to genomics and metabolic disease research, including leading one of the first genome-wide association studies for type 2 diabetes. Beyond his scientific achievements, he is remembered as an exceptional mentor who generously supported students, trainees, and colleagues throughout his career.
In recognition of his legacy, the D2R Initiative is establishing the Robert Sladek Prize for Mentorship in Genomic Medicine.
| KEY DATES |
Application Deadline: Monday, June 1, 2026, at 5:00 PM Eastern Time |
|---|---|
| ELIGIBILITY |
This prize is open to faculty members at Â鶹´«Ã½ÍøÕ¾ whose work aligns with the goals of the D2R Initiative. |
| APPLICATION |
Candidates may either apply directly or be nominated by a colleague through an online application form. In the case of nomination, the nominee is responsible for completing and submitting the application. No separate nomination package is required. |
| PRIZE VALUE |
$15,000 CAD |
1. Award Description
The prize, valued at $15,000, will be awarded annually to a researcher or clinician at Â鶹´«Ã½ÍøÕ¾ who has demonstrated exceptional commitment to mentorship.
Mentorship contributions may include support to trainees, junior colleagues, or the broader research community, and should reflect the spirit of generosity, intellectual rigor, and dedication exemplified by Robert Sladek.
The prize funds may be used to support a mentorship-related initiative, such as workshops, trainee engagement activities, or other efforts that strengthen mentorship in genomic medicine. All funded activities must take place in Canada and are expected to be completed by December 31, 2027.
2. Who Can Apply
This prize is open to faculty members at Â鶹´«Ã½ÍøÕ¾ whose work aligns with the goals of the D2R Initiative.
3. Application Process and Requirements
Candidates may either apply directly or be nominated by a colleague. In the case of nomination, the nominee is responsible for completing and submitting the application. No separate nomination package is required.
The deadline for the online application of the inaugural award is Monday, June 1, 2026, at 5:00 PM Eastern Time.
The online application consists of the following information:
- Applicant’s name, affiliation, and career stage
- An application statement (up to 1.5 pages in English, 2 pages in French, PDF for upload), which includes:
- A description of the applicant’s mentorship track record
- A description of how the prize funds will be used
- Name of nominator (if applicable)
Applications can be submitted using the font of the applicant’s preference and must be legible at 100% zoom on a standard monitor.
4. Selection and Announcement
Applications will be reviewed by a selection committee composed of D2R leadership and members of the Â鶹´«Ã½ÍøÕ¾ community.
The results of the inaugural award will be announced in early summer 2026.
Contact Information
Please send any inquiries to D2R.funding [at] mcgill.ca
