Explore how our researchers are tackling pressing health-related challenges, from Professor Lynda Collins’ efforts to improve the mental health of legal professionals, to Professor Jennifer Chandler’s leading role in advancing multidisciplinary research at the intersection of neuroscience and law, to Professor Roojin Habibi advocating for human rights in global health systems. Learn about the work of Professor Y.Y. Chen, who is sparking important conversations about access to healthcare for vulnerable populations, and explore debates about reproductive rights with Daphne Gilbert's critical insights on political promises and constitutional debates. Join us in celebrating the achievements of leading scholars like Professor Jennifer Chandler, winner of the 2024 Steven E. Hyman Award, Professor Vanessa Gruben, the new Director of the Centre for Health Law, Policy and Ethics, and postdoctoral researcher Amanda van Beinum, now an Assistant Professor at York University. These voices are paving the way for a future where health law plays a crucial role in shaping policies that prioritize justice, equality, and the well-being of all.
2023-2025: Health Law
Biennial Research Report

Health law and policy: Stories about public health research and the well-being of individuals and communities.
Expertise across a broad spectrum of health issues

VIDEO – Professor Lynda Collins is investing in the well-being of law students
Legal professionals often face intense pressure and long hours, which can take a significant toll on their mental well-being.

Jennifer Chandler awarded CRC in the Law and Ethics of Brain Technologies
Professor Jennifer Chandler is an expert in the legal and ethical dimensions of health and biomedical technologies.

Professor Roojin Habibi leads a human rights-based approach to global health
COVID-19 exposed the vulnerabilities of health care systems across the globe. Human rights were too often overlooked entirely.

Open AIR Seeks Equitable Solutions to Post-Pandemic Innovation Challenges
In 2013, Open AIR published foresight research anticipating a future shaped by shocks like a catastrophic global pandemic.

First, Do Less Harm: A new book explores harm reduction strategies in law
As the opioid crisis continues to claim lives, evidence shows that harm reduction strategies can make a crucial difference.

Daphne Gilbert: Would a Poilievre government really threaten abortion rights?
Pierre Poilievre has promised to use the notwithstanding clause to enact criminal justice reform if elected.

Access to Health Care for Irregular Migrants: Honouring Nell Toussaint
Professor Y.Y. Chen leads a discussion about Nell Toussaint, who died after being denied health care because of her irregular immigration status.
Leaders pushing boundaries

A new director for the Centre for Health Law Policy and Ethics
The Common Law Section is excited to announce that Professor Vanessa Gruben has stepped into the role of Director of the uOttawa CHLPE.

Championing ethics in neuroscience: A prestigious award for Jennifer Chandler
Professor Jennifer Chandler has been named the winner of the 2024 Steven E. Hyman Award for Distinguished Service to the Field of Neuroethics.

Habibi: As the US disavows the WHO, Canada must double down on its support
Professor Roojin Habibi writes about a new insecurity in global health brought on by the Donald Trump White House.

Postdoc Amanda van Beinum accepts faculty position at York University
Postdoctoral researcher Amanda van Beinum has been hired as an Assistant Professor at York University’s Department of Sociology.