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Gold Medal Award

About the Gold Medal Award

The Gold Medal Award is PIPSC’s most prestigious honour, established in 1937. It recognizes professional public servants whose outstanding work in pure or applied science has had a lasting impact on public well-being in Canada
and beyond.

Our Latest Recipient

2021 – Xuguang ‘Sean’ Li

Field of Pure or Applied Science – For his pioneering work in the field of vaccine research that has been instrumental in the international fight against viruses and pandemics, including COVID-19. Dr. Li developed the world’s first universal antibody-based test for the detection of antigens of influenza viruses. He also evaluates the factors that explain the development of immunization effects in vaccines and the risks of unwanted reactions. His expertise is sought by the World Health Organization, the U.S. Food and Drug Administration, and regulatory agencies and pharmaceutical industries around the world.

Click here to see all past recipients

Guidelines

The Gold Medal Award honours members whose contributions clearly set them apart from their peers.

To be eligible for this distinguished award, nominees must be Canadian citizens who are scientific, professional or technical employees of federal, provincial, territorial, municipal, regional, or aboriginal government services of Canada. They must be individuals who have made a significant contribution in the field of public administration. The candidate must have performed the work during his or her tenure in the public service. Any eligible person or persons may be nominated by any individual, institute or organization in Canada. Previous nominations for a Professional Institute Gold Medal may be resubmitted. This award will not be made posthumously.

Eligibility Criteria

Before submitting, please review these key requirements:

Must be Canadian citizens who are scientific, professional or technical employees of federal, provincial, territorial, municipal, regional, or aboriginal government services of Canada. The candidate must have performed the work during his or her tenure in the public service. Made a significant contribution in the field of public administration.
  • a concise summary, in non-technical language, of the nominee’s achievements, indicating the significance and value to society
  • a complete curriculum vitae (including education and work history)
  • Include two professional references (with name, role, and contact info).
  • a list of publications (if applicable)
  • any other pertinent information (do not send original works)
  • Nominations no longer than 10 pages, 8-1 / 2 x 11 double-spaced
  • Incomplete submissions may be disqualified.
  • Previous nominations can be re-submitted
An independent selection panel of individuals not eligible for the award will evaluate the nominations. This panel will select the winner and provide a rationale for its decision. A medal will not be awarded if, in the opinion of the selection panel, no submission worthy of an award has been received.