Dianne and Irving Kipnes Health Research Institute

Discovery. Collaboration. Impact.

We are shaping the future of health.

Improving health requires more than advancing science—it means putting patients and communities at the centre of all that we do, from prevention to therapies and interventions that improve lives and lead to better outcomes. At the ��, we’re not just imagining a healthier future. We’re building it.

With a transformational $25 million gift, the Dianne and Irving Kipnes Health Research Institute — housed in the College of Health Sciences — unites researchers, clinicians, learners, policymakers and communities. Together, we will accelerate discovery, connect research to practice and prepare the next generation of health leaders, so that every innovation translates into healthier lives for people in Alberta and beyond.

Vision

Our vision is clear: to create a learning health system where artificial intelligence enhances care, clinical trials validate breakthroughs and specialized programs demonstrate the full cycle of research from insight to impact — continuously improving outcomes for all Albertans.

Our Pillars

Health Research Translation

Creating a clear pathway from lab to life requires connecting clinical trials, implementation science and community-engaged research. Our Health Research Translation Unit moves discoveries into practice and reduces barriers to ensure Albertans gain faster access to breakthrough therapies, interventions and models of care.

Artificial Intelligence + Health

A diverse, interdisciplinary community is dedicated to turning data into solutions — responsibly, collaboratively and for all. The AI + Health Hub develops digital health tools and data-driven solutions that improve prevention, diagnosis and access to care for all populations.

Lymphedema Research + Training

Building on the Dianne and Irving Kipnes Endowed Chair in Lymphatic Disorders, the Lymphedema Research + Training Program advances research and builds awareness and skills across the health system so that more people can benefit from timely, evidence-based lymphedema management.

Why Here, Why Now

The �� is uniquely positioned to lead this transformation. We have:

AI leadership

The �� is ranked third globally in artificial intelligence research.

World-class health research

Our contributions span from the Edmonton Protocol for islet transplantation to global standards in cancer rehabilitation and long-term care.

Unparalleled data assets

Alberta’s unified provincial health system provides a foundation for unmatched health data and discovery.

Equity and impact

Longstanding partnerships with Indigenous, rural, and underserved communities, built on authentic engagement, ensure innovations improve health for all.

Strength in clinical trials

Our world-class infrastructure, experience and expertise make trials more efficient, inclusive and impactful.

Meet Dianne and Irving Kipnes

Irving and Dianne Kipnes have been part of the U of A community for decades. Irving is a graduate of the U of A Faculty of Engineering, and Dianne spent the early years of her career as a therapist at the U of A Hospital’s Psychiatric Walk-In Clinic. In 2009, both Irving and Dianne received honorary degrees for their commitments to the U of A.

In addition to the Dianne and Irving Kipnes Health Research Institute, the Kipneses have demonstrated a commitment to generating knowledge and improving patient care by supporting the Dianne and Irving Kipnes Endowed Chair in Lymphatic Disorders and a variety of other health-centred research initiatives. The breadth of their giving also includes support of Hebrew studies and projects in the faculties of engineering, business and arts. Over the years, the couple also served in a number of advisory roles with the university.

Though Dianne Kipnes passed away in December 2024, her legacy of caring continues to make a difference at the U of A and beyond.

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