St. Joe’s researcher Dr. Lehana Thabane has been elected to the World Academy of Sciences' (TWAS) 2026 class of fellows. He joins an elite group of 61 scientists from around the world working to address issues in areas like healthcare, food systems and climate change. Election to the Academy is a lifetime honour. 

A leader at two prominent partner organizations, Dr. Thabane is vice president of research at St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton, scientific director at The Research Institute of St. Joe’s Hamilton and a professor with McMaster University's Department of Health Research Methods, Evidence, and Impact (HEI). 

"I am deeply honoured to be elected as a Fellow of The World Academy of Sciences and humbled to be only the third person from McMaster University to receive this distinction,” said Dr. Thabane. “This moment is not a reflection of personal achievement, but a recognition of what becomes possible when rigour meets generosity – a testament to the collaborative spirit and cutting-edge research fostered by McMaster and St. Joseph’s Healthcare Hamilton. I am grateful to my colleagues, collaborators, and students whose dedication has made this achievement possible. I look forward to contributing to the Academy's mission of promoting scientific excellence and its application to pressing global issues.” 

A globally-recognized biostatistician and clinical trial methodologist, Dr. Thabane’s expansive career has led to innovative studies that help other scientists perform more effective research. His work focuses on improving how clinical trials are designed and conducted, which helps determine if treatments are safe and effective for patients. His compassion-led research is leading to better treatments, patient care and quality of life, especially for older people and those who experience serious health problems like stroke.  

“St. Joe’s is proud of Dr. Thabane’s global recognition of his immense accomplishments,” said Mike Heenan, President and CEO of St. Joseph’s Health System. “As an affiliated hospital with McMaster University and its medical school, we share the same mission, values and unwavering commitment to discovery.  Dr. Thabane is a shining example of leaders using compassionate research to advance care to some of the most marginalized communities around the world.”