Dawn Stacey honored with the 2025 Grimes Career Achievement Award for her contributions to health research

By Faculty of Health Sciences

Camille Cottais - Communications, University of Ottawa

Dawn Stacey
Dawn Stacey, distinguished professor in nursing and Vice-dean of research in the Faculty of Health Sciences, has been awarded the prestigious Ottawa Hospital Research Institute 2025 Grimes Career Achievement Award in recognition of her outstanding research career.

An internationally renowned nurse and researcher, Dawn Stacey has devoted her career to helping patients and their loved ones make informed decisions about their treatment. Her work has enabled millions of individuals and families around the world to feel better supported and more confident when facing complex health decisions.

Dawn Stacey's research, cited in more than 120 clinical guidelines worldwide, has had a considerable impact, from the consultation room to the governance of health systems. Among her many accomplishments, she spearheaded the development of the COSTaRS symptom triage guides, now used across Canada to improve cancer symptom management and reduce emergency department visits. She also developed the Ottawa Personal Decision Guide, translated into 15 languages and used globally to help patients navigate complex choices.

“This research is so important for patients and patient care, and I’m just so happy it’s valued,” Professor Stacey said in a Q&A with The Ottawa Hospital.