Celebrating Dr. Lynn McIntyre’s leadership in the O’Brien Institute Internal Peer Review Program
After nine years of extraordinary dedication, Dr. Lynn McIntyre has stepped down as the lead of the O’Brien Institute for Public Health’s Internal Peer Review (IPR) program. Though Dr. McIntyre retired from formal academic life years ago, her commitment to fostering excellence in public health research endured through her impactful leadership in this crucial role.
As IPR Lead, Lynn provided incisive feedback on countless funding applications and shaped the Institute’s overarching strategies for peer review success. Her profound knowledge of health research, honed through years as a health faculty dean and chair of the Canadian Public Health Association, paired seamlessly with her voracious curiosity and unparalleled collegial generosity. Serving on external panels and boards, she gained insider knowledge of funding priorities and trends, which she generously shared with our community.
Lynn's influence is best captured through a sports lens—her approach akin to that of a high-performance coach. With a "tough love" ethos, she pushed researchers to sharpen their skills, and deliver their best. Her eye for academic talent, innovative research, and impactful potential not only strengthened individual grant applications but also elevated the overall competitive edge of the Institute.
Under her leadership, the Institute experienced a significant rise in Tri-Council funding success—a testament to her ability to foster an atmosphere of excellence. Her contributions have been deeply felt by many and will continue to resonate within the Institute for years to come.
Here are a few personal messages from colleagues who benefited from Lynn's mentorship and wisdom:
Dr. Pamela Roach, acting scientific director, O’Brien Institute for Public Health
“On behalf of the O’Brien Institute, it is an honour to thank Lynn for her years of outstanding service. I recall having Lynn review my grant—specifically, my CRC application—and her feedback on that grant has continued to shape all my subsequent applications. I hear similar stories from many of our members. Lynn is universally appreciated for her depth of knowledge, her unwavering commitment to developing others, and her dedication to the success of the Institute. Thank you, Lynn, for everything you’ve done to advance health research here at the University of Calgary and the O’Brien Institute!”
Dr. Aleem Bharwani, academic director, UCalgary pluralism initiative, Office of Vice-President Research); director, public policy and strategic partnerships, Cumming School of Medicine)
“You taught me to step into the biggest ring, stand in the centre, and start throwing punches – not to timidly stand at the periphery hoping to be invited in. Your boldness, kindness, and intelligence will be missed but never forgotten because you have shaped our institution and so many of us for so long.”
Dr. Andrew McRae, current lead, O’Brien Institute internal peer review program
“Thank you, Lynn, for sharing your steadfast commitment to excellence with the OIPH community. I benefited immensely from your wise advice on my own grant applications and learned a great deal as I prepared to take over the Institute’s IPR program. You will be missed. Best wishes in your new adventures!”
Dr. Braden Manns, senior associate dean, clinical research, Cumming School of Medicine; associate vice-president, health research, UCalgary
“Lynn, I’m sad for the O’Brien Institute and its researchers, but happy for you as you move on to new experiences. I’m so thankful for your contributions to getting O’Brien Institute researchers closer to the ‘center of the ring.’ Your discerning eye for importance, impactful methods, and fundable projects elevated us all. Many thanks, Lynn—take care and enjoy whatever comes next!”
Dr. Marcello Tonelli, professor, Department of Medicine, past senior associate dean, clinical research, Cumming School of Medicine; associate vice-president, health research, UCalgary
“You have made amazing contributions to the O’Brien Institute and the CSM, Lynn. Your tireless efforts to review and improve grant applications helped many of us achieve success. Personally, your insights contributed to my own achievements, including a Foundation Grant and a recent project grant. Thank you so much! Enjoy this next chapter—you will be missed.”
Dr. Hude Quan, director of the World Health Organization Collaborating Centre in Classification, Terminology and Standards, Cumming School of Medicine, co-lead for Alberta’s Strategies for Patient Oriented Research SUPPORT Unit Data and Research Services Platform
“Lynn, your encouragement and insightful feedback during my foundation grant application process made all the difference. Your advice to focus on the ‘big picture’ was transformative. I GOT the grant and have since been pursuing those objectives, thanks to you. Wishing you all the best in this next stage of life—you have my deepest gratitude!”
Lynn, on behalf of everyone at the O’Brien Institute for Public Health, thank you for your tireless dedication and the indelible mark you have left on our community. Your leadership has been invaluable, and your legacy will continue to inspire excellence.