“Dr. Burns has always been generous with his knowledge, expertise and insights. A wonderful mentor and teacher, he has contributed, and continues to contribute, enormously to the new and next generation of renal researchers.”
- Dr. Rhian M. Touyz, Canada Research Chair in Hypertension, Ottawa Hospital Research Institute

Dr. Kevin Burns, a leader in translating kidney research into patient-oriented practices and a clinician-scientist committed to training future scientists, garnered The Kidney Foundation of Canada’s 2010 Medal for Research Excellence.

Past President of the Canadian Society of Nephrology, Dr. Burns chairs the Steering Committee for the Kidney Research Scientist Core Education and National Training (KRESCENT) Program, a unique national research-training program for clinical and basic science trainees that he played a key role in founding. Dr. Marie-Josée Hébert, Shire Chair (Université de Montréal) in Nephrology, Transplantation and Renal Regeneration notes that “Dr. Burns was instrumental in making the KRESCENT Program a reality. He still shows an incredible dedication and leadership in the training of young scientists who will be optimally prepared for developing innovative and multidisciplinary research programs.”

Dr. Burns’ research work has focused on the functioning of the kidney-based hormone system that regulates blood pressure and fluid levels (renin-angiotensin system or RAS). His laboratory has revealed insights into the function of a RAS enzyme called ACE2, which may protect against kidney damage. Dr. Burns has also demonstrated a commitment to translating his studies at the basic science level to patients affected by kidney disease.

A graduate of McGill University, Dr. Burns completed his basic science research training at Vanderbilt University Medical Center (Tennessee, USA) before returning to Canada where he now wears many distinguished hats. Professor of Medicine in the Division of Nephrology at both The Ottawa Hospital and the University of Ottawa, he is also Senior Scientist and Director of the Kidney Research Centre at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, and Deputy Chair of Research in the Dept. of Medicine. Dr. Burns holds a Research Chair from the Department of Medicine. He has published 80 original contributions, many in high-impact journals, and he has authored or co-authored seven book chapters.