Princess Margaret Cancer Centre invites applications for its next Research Director and Ronald N. Buick Chair in Oncology Research. As part of University Health Network (UHN), Princess Margaret combines the strengths of a world-leading comprehensive cancer centre with the breadth of a major academic health sciences network. This is an opportunity for a distinguished cancer researcher and collaborative leader to shape the next era of research at one of the world’s leading comprehensive cancer centres and advance discoveries that change how cancer is understood, prevented and treated around the world.
The appointment comes at a pivotal scientific moment. The convergence of fundamental cancer biology, immunotherapy, genomics, cellular therapies and artificial intelligence is opening new possibilities for discovery, earlier detection and more effective treatment. Princess Margaret brings together the scientific depth, clinical expertise and research infrastructure to pursue these opportunities, connecting investigator-led research with clinical investigation and the needs of patients.
This scientific momentum is matched by extraordinary philanthropic ambition. The Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation has recently launched Carry The Fire, a campaign with a $2.5 billion target, the largest cancer fundraising initiative in Canadian history, supporting research, education and care. The launch creates a timely opportunity for the next Director to help shape the scientific ambitions that inspire philanthropic investment in exceptional people, ambitious research programs and new shared capabilities.
Reporting to UHN’s Executive Vice President, Science and Research, and working alongside the Cancer Centre Director and in close partnership with the Vice President, Cancer, and their teams, the Director will lead Princess Margaret’s basic, translational, clinical and supportive care research enterprise and develop an ambitious, shared scientific strategy. They will champion curiosity-driven fundamental research and build the relationships and shared commitment needed to connect scientific and clinical priorities. Working with clinical trials leaders, they will strengthen pathways through which discoveries inform clinical investigation and advances in care.
Success will depend on a leader who brings people together across disciplines, programs and institutions, builds trust and takes responsibility for turning shared ambitions into results. The Director will foster collaboration across UHN, drawing on its broader scientific and clinical strengths to bring a multidisciplinary perspective to cancer research. They will also champion productive academic, public and private sector partnerships, including with pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, to expand research capabilities and advance new approaches to cancer prevention, diagnosis and treatment.
Equally important will be creating the conditions in which researchers, staff and trainees can do exceptional work. Through recruitment, mentorship, leadership development and strategic investment in infrastructure and research support, the Director will nurture talent at every career stage and build an inclusive, cohesive scientific community. They will align resources with research priorities, empower program leaders and position Princess Margaret to lead international collaborations and contribute to the global direction of cancer research.
Based in Toronto’s Discovery District, Princess Margaret is part of University Health Network and closely connected with the University of Toronto. This setting offers a rich community spanning medicine, science, engineering and technology, with opportunities to build collaborations across disciplines and institutions. Toronto’s international outlook, diverse neighbourhoods, cultural life and waterfront make it a compelling place to build a research career and a life.
The successful candidate will bring an influential record of cancer research, a broad scientific vision and demonstrated leadership beyond their own laboratory. They will have built programs, developed people and delivered institutional priorities, combining scientific credibility with exceptional interpersonal skills, the ability to navigate complex relationships and a record of achieving results through collaboration. Experience stewarding significant resources and a commitment to rigorous, ethical and inclusive research are essential.
A PhD or MD is required, and candidates from scientific or clinical backgrounds will be considered. The Director will be expected to maintain a strong independent research program. They will embrace donor engagement and fundraising as substantive elements of the role and bring the ability to communicate a compelling scientific vision to varied audiences. Experience connecting discovery with clinical research and developing substantive industry and other external partnerships would be valuable. Candidates will bring an ability and willingness to learn and work effectively within Canada’s healthcare, research funding and innovation environment.
To apply, please submit a CV and cover letter, detailing how you fulfil the role description and personal specification quoting reference 8703. The deadline for applications is 9:00am ET on Sunday, November 15, 2026.
The role will be based in Toronto, Ontario. Salary is commensurate with experience.
UHN is an equal opportunity employer committed to an inclusive recruitment process and workplace. Requests for accommodation can be made at any stage of the recruitment process. Applicants need to make their requirements known.
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