UBC Medicine researchers Drs. Robert Olson and Bernie Eigl have been honoured by Clinical Trials BC, part of Michael Smith Health Research BC, for their outstanding contributions to clinical trials and research in British Columbia and beyond.
The annual awards recognize individuals and organizations who have made significant contributions to strengthening B.C.’s clinical trials ecosystem. Recipients exemplify excellence in leadership, advocacy for clinical trials and outstanding service and support to advance clinical trials research and improve the health of people across British Columbia.
“We’re thrilled to recognize the exceptional achievements of this year’s recipients,” says Alison Orth, portfolio director, research programs, Health Research BC. “Their dedication and impactful contributions have enriched the research and clinical trials community, inspiring us all to enable transformational change for better health.”
Learn more about this year’s award recipients, who were celebrated at a ceremony on May 9:
Leadership & Advocacy Award
Dr. Robert Olson, professor and head, division of radiation oncology, department of surgery, UBC Faculty of Medicine
Dr. Robert Olson received the 2024 Leadership & Advocacy Award for his longstanding leadership in the clinical trials and research community.
Dr. Olson has led clinical trials that have transformed practice and continue to push the clinical trials boundary. Based in Prince George, he is a persistent advocate for clinical trial success in rural and remote communities. He has worked to increase clinical trial infrastructure in northern BC, opening some of the first clinical trials in the north.
Dr. Olson also has made significant contributions to the advancement of clinical trials through education activities that address challenges in the area. Through ongoing professional development and education, he inspires and mentors the next generation of clinical research teams and professionals.
Service & Support Award
Dr. Bernie Eigl, clinical associate professor, division of medical oncology, department of medicine, UBC Faculty of Medicine
Dr. Bernie Eigl received the Service & Support Award for his dedication to supporting clinical trials and enhancing trial participation and efficiency.
Dr. Eigl has a positive impact in the research and clinical trials community through support activities related to the Canadian Remote Access Framework for Clinical Trials (CRAFT) project and its implementation in British Columbia. He sits on the steering committee for the project, which is leading the development of decentralized clinical trials across Canada. As a committee member, Dr. Eigl has helped address barriers for using satellite sites. His involvement in the creation of the CRAFT framework reflects his commitment to the role that clinical trials play in the everyday care of patients with cancer.
He has also been instrumental in developing a structure and supporting documentation to enable larger clinical trial centres to bring on satellite sites in remote areas of B.C., bringing the research to patients and improving trial participation.
This story is adapted from a news release on the Clinical Trials BC website.