Aug. 26, 2020

New memorandum of understanding strengthens cancer research in Calgary

Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute formally established as an institute that spans the research continuum from basic discovery science to informing best practice and patient care.

Students, trainees, faculty and staff,

We are thrilled to announce an exciting new chapter for cancer research in Calgary. On July 1, 2020, a new memorandum of understanding (MOU) took effect between Alberta Health Services (AHS) and the University of Calgary (UCalgary) concerning cancer research in Calgary. This MOU strengthens the partnership between our organizations and formally establishes the Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute as an institute that spans the research continuum from basic discovery science to informing best practice and patient care. The MOU also provides a new framework to share ideas, improve cancer care through research, and facilitate joint funding initiatives.

Highlights of the MOU

Designed by medical, research and administrative leaders at AHS and UCalgary, the MOU:

  • Identifies the Arnie Charbonneau Cancer Institute as a joint research institute of CancerControl Alberta and the Cumming School of Medicine.
  • Forms a new governance structure for the Charbonneau Institute with joint oversight and stewardship by AHS and the university.
  • Builds a foundation for collaborative cancer research fundraising by AHS and UCalgary under a unified banner with opportunities to support research in both organizations.
  • Establishes the basis for the sharing of resources for cancer research, including space and facilities, specialized equipment, personnel and staff, and gifts made in support of cancer research.
  • Expands the opportunity for AHS cancer scientists to hold appointments at UCalgary that enable their research programs to attract and directly supervise students and other trainees.

We would like to thank senior leadership at AHS and UCalgary for encouraging and supporting the creation of this MOU. We believe it will strengthen our ability to leverage the momentum of the new Calgary Cancer Centre and create an increasingly dynamic cancer research environment in Calgary and Alberta.

A working group of research leaders from AHS and UCalgary has been appointed to operationalize the Charbonneau Institute’s new mandate and structure. We anticipate that the group’s work will conclude within nine months.

We are excited to move forward together with one mission — to meet the cancer challenge by conducting research, training and education that supports the provision of the best patient care possible.   

Sincerely,

Dr. Jon Meddings
Dean, Cumming School of Medicine
University of Calgary

Dr. Matthew Parliament
Senior Medical Director, CancerControl Alberta
Alberta Health Services