Ongoing research into ovarian cancer is absolutely vital if we are to find ways of preventing and curing this disease. In 1998, Ovarian Cancer Canada established The Corinne Boyer Chair In Ovarian Cancer Research at the University of Ottawa with a million-dollar donation.

In October of 2000, a Canadian scientist, Dr. Barbara Vanderhyden, was appointed to the chair.

The objective of the chair is to develop a strong and productive research program into ovarian cancer. Recognizing the importance of these efforts, The University Of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine matched the contribution made by Ovarian Cancer Canada.

Ovarian cancer has been a neglected topic of research. I believe that our initiative will begin to change that and to increase our ability to help women survive this devastating disease. - Dr. Barbara Vanderhyden

About Dr. Barbara Vanderhyden

Dr. Vanderhyden has been conducting research on ovarian cancer since joining the Ottawa Regional Cancer Centre in 1995, focusing on communication between ovarian cells and how this communication may be disrupted, possibly preventing the development of ovarian cancers. She has also been involved as the Ottawa leader of development of the Ovarian Cancer Tissue Bank.

On June 1, 2009, Dr. Barbara Vanderhyden was the first recipient of the Rx&D Health Science Research Award at the YMCA-YWCA Women of Distinction Awards for the National Capital Region. The award recognizes enrichment to the community through excellent and significant contributions in research or the application of research in the area of health science. Dr. Vanderhyden was also honoured as a mentor and leader whose work significantly contributed to the health of the community

Dr. Vanderhyden has made a unique and remarkable contribution to ovarian cancer research in Canada and the advancement of women in science. She has brought together the ovarian cancer scientific and clinical communities, and has galvanized and energized the Canadian ovarian cancer landscape, says Elisabeth Ross, CEO of Ovarian Cancer Canada.

Email Dr. Vanderhyden at bvanderhyden@ohri.ca