Mark's leadership over the past 6 years, and indeed, also in the years immediately preceding the creation of CIHR, has been a key ingredient in CIHR's ability to deliver on its mandate. As stated in the Report of the International Review Panel, which will be released this week, "Together, these changes have all occurred in a remarkably short time frame, evidence of the commitment and success of the management team."
Mark has rightfully earned the fondness and respect of all the staff at CIHR, the hundreds of members of CIHR's Grants and Awards Panels, the research community, and our partners in government, the provinces, the health charities and industry.
Mark's penchant for hard work is legendary. An email at any time, day or night, enquiring about virtually any issue, was guaranteed to produce a perfect briefing note within hours, with all the facts, options and recommendations. More importantly, one could always count on his advice as being the very best for health research and for CIHR, uncontaminated by any other considerations.
I know I speak for the literally thousands of investigators, trainees, staff, members of the Governing Council, the Scientific Directors and all our committees and our partners who have been touched by Mark's dedication, abilities and integrity.
In honour of Dr. Bisby's contribution to health research, CIHR will be launching a Fellowship program in his name by designating the top ranking fellows in each year's competitions as Bisby Fellows. Details will be announced shortly.
On a personal level, I would just end by noting that our work lives are enriched by our colleagues, who we come to appreciate for their humanity, their friendship, their sense of humour, and their loyalty. I quickly learned to appreciate Mark, not just for the quality of his work and advice, but for these other human attributes.
Mark, all of us wish you and your family well in this next phase of your life. I hope you leave CIHR with great satisfaction for what you have accomplished for health research and for Canada.
Dr. Alan Bernstein, O.C., FRSC
President, Canadian Institutes of Health Research
