For decades, Dr. Bell has been a prominent researcher and thought leader in exploring how oncolytic viruses can be multifaceted tumour killers. He’s earned an international reputation as a true pioneer in developing ways of unleashing the power of the body’s immune system to fight cancer.
A full professor at the uOttawa Faculty of Medicine and a senior scientist in cancer therapeutics at The Ottawa Hospital’s research institute, Dr. Bell’s important work has now earned him his latest high-profile recognition: Appointment as an Officer to the Order of Canada. It’s one of the country’s highest civilian honours.
Here's how the office of the Governor General of Canada describes Dr. Bell: "As an entrepreneur, principal investigator, national research network lead and professor at the University of Ottawa, he has built Canada’s foundation in the field, while driving research that shapes international progress."
“As an entrepreneur, principal investigator, national research network lead and professor at the University of Ottawa, he has built Canada’s foundation in the field, while driving research that shapes international progress.”
The Governor General of Canada's website on Dr. Bell's appointment
Asked about this appointment, Dr. Bell said he was "deeply humbled.” He described it as a “testament not only to the power of scientific collaboration, but also to the resilience and hope of people with cancer and their families.”
Over the years, Dr. Bell has done significant work ramping up Canada’s capacity to manufacture a range of biotherapeutics. Most recently, he’s been helping to lead a major initiative dubbed the Canadian Pandemic Preparedness Hub (CP2H) as scientific co-lead. With a $115 million grant, the Hub will boost Canada’s capacity to develop and manufacture life-saving biotherapeutics, including vaccines, gene therapies and cell therapies.
Read more about Dr. Bell’s honour in this article by The Ottawa Hospital.