The U of T President Impact Awards recognize research that has led to a significant impact beyond academia. This year, two MAP scientists, Dr. Sean B. Rourke and Dr. Tara Gomes are among the recipients. Laureates are designated as members of the President’s Impact Academy, and receive a monetary award of $10,000 per year for five years to be used toward their research.

Dr. Sean Rourke, MAP scientist and professor of psychiatry in the Temerty Faculty of Medicine, is being recognized for outstanding leadership in advancing HIV/STI testing accessibility and care for underserved populations, including influential work reshaping Canada’s approach to prevention, diagnosis, and equitable healthcare.

The Ontario Drug Policy Research Network at Unity Health Toronto and the Leslie Dan Faculty of Pharmacy – led by MAP scientist Dr. Tara Gomes and Associate Professor Mina Tadrous – are being recognized for transforming real-world evidence into drug policy that improves medication access, safety, and system sustainability, shaping public decisions and health outcomes across Canada and internationally

“The University of Toronto is immensely proud of these researchers, who are advancing knowledge in critical areas,” said Barbara Fallon, U of T’s associate vice-president, research. “From accessible HIV testing and equitable drug policy to sustainable manufacturing technologies and improved care for patients with autoimmune disease, these scholars are making contributions that transcend academia and are having an impact on lives and societies.”