He began a career in the investment business in 1921 and soon became a successful stock broker and industrialist, admired by his associates for his ingenuity and determination. Throughout his life, James A. Gairdner showed a practical interest in clinical medicine and medical research, which led to his conviction that the achievements of medical scientists should be recognized in a tangible way. With the encouragement of the late Dr. Wallace Graham, a leading Toronto rheumatologist, he established the Gairdner Foundation which each year since 1959 has given awards to medical scientists from many countries. The purpose of these awards is the recognition of individuals whose work or contribution constitutes tangible achievement in the field of medical science. These awards recognize achievements and are not grants for the support of future research.
Winners are free to make personal use of their awards in any manner they choose.
The International Award is given to individuals from a diversity of fields for outstanding discoveries or contributions to medical science. The Wightman Award is given from time to time as determined by the Foundation to a Canadian who has demonstrated outstanding leadership in medicine and medical science. Awards are made solely at the discretion of the Foundation and will not be open to application by potential candidates. However the Foundation does encourage and accept third party nominations from knowledgeable persons and agencies who share our desire to recognize outstanding achievements. International Awards are made to residents of any country without restriction as to nationality, although they are paid in Canadian funds.