Torontos University Health Network aims to attract 100 scientists [Video]

University Health Network in Toronto is aiming to attract 100 early-career scientists, focusing on people whose research could fuel economic development.

The hospital network is calling its recruitment effort the Canada Leads 100 challenge, and is starting with an initial $15 million that it says will help bring in the first 50 scientists. The UHN Foundation and the Princess Margaret Cancer Foundation are now setting about finding matching funds.

UHN president and CEO Kevin Smith said there is an opportunity to “supercharge” the economy through investing in science and technology.

“What we’re beginning today is a seminal step in a truly science-based economic diversification,” he said Monday.

Canada is the birthplace of insulin, but today, the largest three producers of insulin are headquartered in Denmark, the United States and France, Smith said.

“That’s the opportunity in front of us today, to ensure the next global breakthroughs not only start here in Ontario, but …