A great physician, an inspiring teacher and an unwavering advocate for medical research
Dr. Ray Farquharson is widely remembered as a strong role model and source of inspiration for hundreds of medical students and colleagues. His research with tracking the thyroid’s secretory activity led him to discover the "Farquharson Phenomenon". This phenomenon explains that when administering external hormones, the natural production of that hormone is suppressed, causing a temporary atrophy of the associated endocrine gland. The ‘Farquharson Phenomenon’ became of the fundamental principles of endocrinology. Beyond his own research, Farquharson is remembered for contributions to the Canadian medical research landscape. An inquisitive mind and belief in research led Farquharson to play an instrumental role in the formation of the Medical Research Council of Canada.