H.L. Holmes Awards for Post-Doctoral Studies

How to Apply

Interested individuals may apply directly, or may be nominated by recognized universities or research organizations that are willing to help the candidates conduct their proposed research.

The call for applications begins in November 2012. The deadline for application is February 28, 2013, with a view to begin funding by the Fall of 2013.

See additional information for applicants.

The H.L. Holmes Award has been established by the National Research Council of Canada (NRC) in honour of the late Dr. R.H.L. Holmes, a chemist who spent most of his research career in Alberta.

Bequeathed by the late Dr. Holmes, in recognition of NRC's commitment to promote research excellence, the award gives recipients the opportunity to conduct post-doctoral studies under outstanding researchers at world famous graduate schools or research institutes. Research must be undertaken in chemistry, physics, biology or mathematics as they relate to medical and biological processes.

Financial Support

Awards cover a one or two-year period, depending on available funding and the research proposal, and can have a monetary value of up to $100,000 CDN per year.

Role of the Host Organization

Host organizations are expected to provide support to award recipients. This could be in the form of facilities, equipment and/or operating resources, and by administering the Award funds.

The H.L. Holmes Award Selection Committee

The H.L. Holmes Award Selection Committee is chaired by NRC's Vice-President, Life Sciences. Members include two NRC Directors General or Directors, and two external reviewers.

Past Recipients

  • 2011 — Dr. Adam Shlien, Recipient of Prestigious H.L. Holmes Award
  • 2009 — Dr. Bryan Davies, Recipient of Prestigious H.L. Holmes Award
  • 2007 — Dr. Jennifer Estall, Recipient of Prestigious H.L. Holmes Award
  • 2005 — Dr. Cowan, a post-doctoral fellow at the University of Toronto
  • 2003 — Dr. Alison Allan, Recipient of Prestigious H.L. Holmes Award
  • 1997 — Dr. Suzanne Demczuk, a post-doctoral fellow at the Montreal Children's Hospital
  • 1994 — Dr. Carol Dallaire, a supramolecular chemistry post-doctoral fellow at the University of Texas and first Holmes Award recipient

Contact Information

For additional information, please contact the Secretary of the Selection Committee:

Holmes Award Secretariat
Executive Office, Life Sciences
National Research Council Canada
100 Sussex Drive, Room 1009
Ottawa, ON
K1A 0R6
Phone: (613) 998-9469
Fax: (613) 990-0213
Email: Holmes.Award@nrc-cnrc.gc.ca