Unity Health Toronto has ranked 10th among Canada’s research hospitals for 2025, and 4th for research intensity, according to Research Infosource Inc. This prestigious annual ranking recognizes research growth and productivity that translates directly into saving lives.

“This ranking is really exciting, and shows the dedication of our scientists, researchers, trainees and staff,” says Ori Rotstein, Vice-President of Research and Innovation at Unity Health Toronto. “As we continue our growth and productivity, our research remains focused on solving complex health care problems. The research intensity ranking is a wonderful acknowledgement of how our researchers go above and beyond every day.”  

Research Infosource is a research, consulting, and publishing firm that focuses on research and development in Canada. Its rankings are a source of benchmarking information on research universities, corporate research and development spending, hospitals, and colleges.

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One research area that has stood out for us this year is our work to acknowledge and advance equity in health care. From writing the guidelines for HIV prevention medication to research on older adults to examining the opioid crisis in Canada, our research team continues to include diverse perspectives that inform our work. We aim to prioritize marginalized communities in our research so that our medical studies stay relevant, impactful, and truly aligned with patients’ values.

Research at Unity Health Toronto

The Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science (KRCBS) and the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute (LKSKI), both located at St. Michael’s Hospital, form the backbone of research at Unity Health Toronto. Our full affiliation with the University of Toronto, Canada’s largest research entity, underscores our commitment to research excellence.

The Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute runs clinical trials and specializes in research on health services and policy, population health, global health and knowledge translation. LKSKI focuses on conducting research and disseminating knowledge that significantly impacts our healthcare system and benefits our patients and communities.

The Keenan Research Centre for Biomedical Science focuses on basic science and translational research. Researchers at KRCBS aim to address common and high-burden illnesses, and strive to make discoveries that enhance patient care and improve lives.

By Christine Davidson