Wednesday, September 25, 2024 Dr Branton was a dear friend of CCTG and a pioneer in the study of viral oncogenesis. His work has had far-reaching implications for cancer therapies and remain influential in the development of novel treatments. He played a pivotal role in shaping cancer research in Canada, serving as the inaugural Scientific Director of the Institute of Cancer Research at the Canadian Institutes of Health Research as well as spearheading the formation of the Canadian Cancer Research Alliance.“I served on the inaugural Institute of Cancer Research Advisory Board with Phil Branton and will always remember and be grateful for, how, with a relatively small budget, but with great powers of persuasion, he managed to kick-start initiatives across the spectrum of cancer research, including at NCIC CTG (now CCTG),” says Dr. Joseph Pater inaugural Director of CCTG.Throughout his career, Phil was honored with numerous prestigious awards, including the R.M. Taylor Medal from the Canadian Cancer Society, McGill University's Medal for Exceptional Academic Achievement, and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal in 2013. He was appointed an Officer of the Order of Canada in 2014, recognizing his exceptional contributions to science and leadership. His fellowship with the Royal Society of Canada, awarded in 2002, further attests to his distinguished academic legacy.
