Schimmer brings extensive experience as scientist, clinician and research leader.

Toronto, ON, August 4, 2026 — Dr. Aaron Schimmer officially steps into his role as President and Scientific Director of the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR) today, marking a new chapter for cancer research in the province.

Schimmer brings a wealth of scientific, clinical, strategic and operational expertise to lead OICR. An internationally recognized hematologist, blood cancer scientist and research leader, he most recently served as Director of Research at University Health Network’s (UHN) Princess Margaret Cancer Centre, where he is also a longtime clinician-scientist.

As President and Scientific Director of OICR, Schimmer will lead the Institute and deliver on OICR’s provincial mandate to accelerate cancer research in Ontario for better health and a stronger economy.

“After years of close collaboration with OICR, I can attest to the transformative impact the Institute has had on cancer research in Ontario and around the world,” Schimmer says. “I am honoured and humbled to help lead this outstanding organization as we deliver life-changing solutions to the biggest challenges in cancer.”

Schimmer is one of Canada’s preeminent leukemia researchers, with more than 320 peer‑reviewed publications and 27,000 citations. He is also a Professor in the Departments of Medicine, Medical Biophysics, and Institute of Medical Sciences at the University of Toronto, Past President of the Canadian Hematology Society and a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada. 

Schimmer’s appointment comes at an exciting time for OICR, which is launching its Strategic Plan 2026-2031 this year. As a highly respected Ontario research leader with connections across the province, Schimmer is perfectly positioned to deliver on the plan’s promise of a stronger, healthier future for Ontarians.

Schimmer says cancer research is at a watershed moment, full of unprecedented opportunities to transform how cancers are detected, diagnosed and treated. With world-class research talent, infrastructure and collaborations led by OICR, and the strong support of the Provincial Government, he says Ontario is poised to lead the next generation of cancer innovations.

“OICR has the unique ability to accelerate cancer research across the province that improves the health of Ontarians and people around the world, while producing economic benefits for the province of Ontario,” Schimmer says. “I look forward to working with everyone in the OICR community to write the next chapter for OICR and for cancer research in this province.”

OICR is funded by the Government of Ontario. As the province’s cancer research institute, we take on the biggest challenges in cancer research and deliver real-world solutions to find cancer earlier and treat it more effectively. We are committed to helping people living with cancer, as well as future generations, live longer and healthier lives. For more information visit http://www.oicr.on.ca.

The views expressed are those of OICR and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Province of Ontario.