Multimillion-dollar gifts from philanthropists Marnix and Mary Heersink to UAB and McMaster University laid the foundations for a close partnership on biomedical innovation and global health initiatives. Dr. Heersink, who grew up in Burlington, is quoted as saying:

“I cannot think of better schools to partner than McMaster and UAB. They are both located in old steel towns, whose economies are now transformed around medical education and research. The universities are young and that gives them both the hunger and freedom to push boundaries.”

The collaboration includes the Health Physics Programs at both schools, which have signed a Program Agreement that includes:

• Course sharing across institutions
• Development of a joint "International Radiation Regulations" certificate
• Co-mentorship of graduate students
• Collaborative research between faculty, staff, and trainees
• Internship opportunities at McMaster nuclear facilities and the UAB Cyclotron
• Development of experiential learning opportunities (1-2-week programs)