
Empowering and STEM Education
Partners in Research was a Canadian charity dedicated to advancing health and STEM education from 1988 to 2020. This site serves as a tribute to the people, programs, and passions that made PIR a national leader in health research outreach — and to its visionary, Dr. Ronald G. Calhoun, whose belief in the power of one continues to inspire. Explore our legacy and discover the impactful programs that shaped young Canadian minds. Let us know if you have a story about PIR.

Our Mission & Values
Partners in Research (PIR) was committed to fostering curiosity, innovation, and health awareness among young Canadians. Our programs aimed to inspire youth, promote scientific literacy, and create a lasting impact on communities across Canada.
From classrooms to research labs, Partners In Research (PIR) was a Canadian nonprofit that brought science, health research, and innovation into the lives of students across the country. For more than three decades, PIR connected youth and teachers with real researchers through award-winning programs — most notably, the groundbreaking Virtual Researcher On Call (VROC) initiative.
“Life is a delicate balance of forging into the future while preserving and building on the past.”
– Dr. Ronald G. Calhoun, former Executive Director
“Partners In Research (PIR) was founded on the belief that connecting students with real-world researchers could spark a lifelong interest in science and a deeper appreciation for the role of research in our society. Our mission was to make science accessible, engaging, and personal — bringing it out of textbooks and into the lives of young people across Canada. It was my privilege to be involved.”
– Kevin Cougler, former Executive Director
Dr. Ronald G. Calhoun

Dr. Ronald G. Calhoun was a visionary leader whose dedication to education and health research inspired countless young Canadians. His commitment to fostering curiosity and innovation laid the foundation for Partners in Research’s impactful programs. His legacy continues to influence STEM education and community engagement across Canada.
Our Journey from 1988 to 2020
Partners in Research dedicated over three decades to educating and inspiring Canadian youth in health research and STEM fields. From humble beginnings, it grew into a national leader, launching impactful programs, fostering innovation, and building a legacy that continues to influence education and health awareness today.
Throughout its 33 year history, Partners in Research launched numerous initiatives, including hands-on workshops, health campaigns, and STEM competitions, reaching thousands of students and educators nationwide.
The organization’s impact is reflected in the thousands of students inspired, the health awareness campaigns conducted, and the innovative programs developed, all contributing to a healthier, more educated generation.
Ron Calhoun’s vision and leadership were instrumental in shaping the organization’s mission. His dedication fostered a culture of curiosity, innovation, and community engagement that left a lasting legacy.

Explore Our Impactful Programs in Health and STEM Education
Partners in Research was dedicated to advancing health research and STEM education through innovative programs. These initiatives aimed to inspire young minds, promote health awareness, and provide valuable resources for educators. Discover the programs that made a difference in communities across Canada.

STEM Education Programs

Health Awareness Campaigns

Community Outreach Initiatives

Making a Lasting Difference in Education and Health Research
Partners in Research significantly impacted Canadian education and health sectors. Through innovative programs and dedicated efforts, the organization fostered a deeper understanding of STEM and promoted healthier lifestyles among young people. Its legacy continues to inspire future generations.
- Over 100, 000 students engaged in STEM programs.
- 500+ schools benefited from educational resources.
- 20, 000+ participants in health research awareness campaigns.
- Improved health literacy among youth in 100+ communities.