University of Alberta Honors Fred Van Goor for Cystic Fibrosis Breakthrough

The University of Alberta will confer an honorary degree on Fred Van Goor, a distinguished graduate whose innovative research in treating cystic fibrosis has significantly enhanced the lives of countless patients. The award will be presented during the fall convocation ceremonies on November 18, 2025.

Chancellor Nizar Somji praised Van Goor’s contributions, stating, “Fred Van Goor exemplifies the world-changing impact that can happen when a University of Alberta education meets a purposeful passion. The lasting contributions he has made to improving the health of people worldwide living with cystic fibrosis are an inspiration for all of our graduates and a mark of distinction for the U of A. I am proud to recognize his achievements with our university’s highest honour.”

Impact on Cystic Fibrosis Treatment

Van Goor’s extensive research has led to the development of a new class of treatments that can extend the life expectancy of individuals with cystic fibrosis by decades. He earned both his bachelor of science and PhD in biological sciences from the University of Alberta, later serving as a postdoctoral fellow at the U.S. National Institutes of Health.

In 2001, Van Goor joined Vertex Pharmaceuticals, where he now serves as vice-president and head of cystic fibrosis research. Under his leadership, a team developed five licensed medicines for cystic fibrosis treatment, including Trikafta. This groundbreaking combination of three drugs addresses protein defects in approximately 90 percent of cystic fibrosis patients and is currently available in more than 50 countries.

Beyond his work on Trikafta, Van Goor is actively engaged in developing new therapies for patients who do not respond to existing treatments. His contributions extend to academia, where he has authored over 40 research articles in prestigious peer-reviewed journals and published six book chapters focusing on cystic fibrosis, ion channel drug discovery, and endocrinology.

A Mentor and Advocate

Van Goor is also recognized as a dedicated mentor and advocate, inspiring the next generation of researchers while fostering connections with patients and their families. His life-transforming work earned him the esteemed Wiley Prize in Biomedical Sciences in 2023, and he was a co-recipient of the 2024 Breakthrough Prize in Life Sciences, recognized as the world’s richest award for scientific achievements.

The honorary Doctor of Science degree awarded to Van Goor reflects not only his personal achievements but also the broader impact of his work on global health. His commitment to improving the lives of those affected by cystic fibrosis resonates throughout the medical community and beyond.