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Dr. Brendan Barrett

2019 Medal for Research Excellence
Memorial University of Newfoundland
Dr. Brendan Barrett has contributed generously to the Canadian kidney research landscape for over 25 years through his work in transformational research. He is currently the Chief Scientific Officer of the Translational and Personalized Medicine Initiative, funded by the Canadian Institute for Health Research (NL SUPPORT, Strategy for Patient-Oriented Research), the province of Newfoundland & Labrador, the Atlantic Canada Opportunities Agency and IBM.

“Dr. Barrett is a consummate ambassador of the best Canadian kidney investigation has to offer on the world stage,” says Elizabeth Myles, National Executive Director of The Kidney Foundation of Canada. “He serves as a valuable mentor and role model to his junior colleagues thanks to his leadership, advice and team building prowess.”

Described by his colleagues as a “gentle giant” and a “pillar” of Canadian research, Dr. Barrett is also the principal investigator for eastern Canada for the Strategy for Patient-Oriented Research (SPOR) Chronic Kidney Disease network under review by CIHR and co-investigator on the CIHR funded ACCESS trial investigating the role of fistulas versus other access for elderly patients starting dialysis. Dr Barrett has been an influential, intelligent and sensible leader in several important Canadian studies, including CanPREVENT: the Canadian Prevention of Renal and Cardiovascular Endpoints Trial which enhanced understanding of how to improve multidisciplinary care for people with chronic kidney disease.

Dr. Barrett’s key contributions in the innovative use of non-ionic contrast media to prevent contrast nephropathy have made him recognized worldwide as the foremost expert on the subject. He has advanced understanding on topics in progressive chronic kidney disease and end-stage kidney disease.

Dr. Barrett has dedicated a substantial amount of his time serving on and elevating the Canadian research community through Kidney Foundation activities. These include serving as a member of the Biomedical Scientific Committee for seven years and acting as a member of the Foundation’s Research Council, and of the National Medical Advisory Committee.