October 2, 2024 -- Cancer is the leading cause of death in Canada. According to the Canadian Cancer Society, more than 100 different types of cancer-related diseases are diagnosed annually.

The University of Waterloo — renowned for its innovative research and academic excellence in artificial intelligence, quantum computing and machine learning — has announced the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Princess Margaret Cancer Centre (PM), at University Health Network (UHN). The agreement will lay the groundwork for collaborative opportunities and taking a significant step forward in cancer research.

“This MOU is not just a formal agreement, but a pivotal step towards advancing medical technology and improving health care outcomes through collaboration and innovation,” said Dr. Vivek Goel, president and vice-chancellor of Waterloo, during his remarks at the MOU signing ceremony with PM on September 30.

Dr. Goel expressed optimism about the partnership’s potential to reshape cancer research and treatment. He mentioned how Waterloo had been selected as the site for the new regional hospital earlier this year. Developing a new hospital also signifies the deepening of Waterloo’s collaboration with local health-care institutions.

Leaders and delegations from both institutions gathered in person and virtually to formally launch the initiative between Waterloo and PM, at a time when AI is transforming cancer care. The MOU fosters an environment where researchers and medical professionals can collaborate on AI-driven projects focused on disease detection, treatment and integration with existing health systems, ensuring more precise and personalized patient care.

PM, Canada’s largest comprehensive cancer centre, cares for 91,500 patients annually. The collaboration will harness PM’s oncology expertise alongside Waterloo’s research capabilities. Together, they aim to enhance health-care delivery and make quality care accessible for all. Both institutions aim to offer equal opportunities to utilize their combined resources for innovative solutions in cancer treatment.

Stewart explained how PM has previously used artificial intelligence to improve patient matching for clinical trials. Further, PM has invested in developing AI models for radiation therapy planning, which helped enhance accuracy and efficiency in patient care.

The partnership will also facilitate future educational opportunities for students, integrating Waterloo’s existing co-operative program. Collaborative scholarship grants will support future projects addressing health-care challenges and enhancing outcomes in cancer care.

The University’s investment in AI technology is evident through the Waterloo Data and Artificial Intelligence Institute, its labs, researchers and a thriving community of startups and research initiatives. The Institute for Quantum Computing further enriches this partnership, focusing on breakthroughs in quantum communication, cryptography and sensing, which have significant implications for health care applications.

As the landscape of health care continues to evolve, this MOU sets the stage for groundbreaking initiatives that will push the boundaries of technology and improve patient experiences. Together, Waterloo and PM are committed to driving meaningful change in health care through research, innovation and collaboration.