Ian McDermott is the Head of Planning and Integration (Space Management and Capital Project Planning) for all areas of the organization, and the Senior Director of Research Facilities at the University Health Network (www.UHN.ca) in Toronto, Ontario, Canada. He is the Past-President of Sustainable Labs Canada (www.SLCan.ca).  Ian has been a member of the Senior Management Team for Research at the University Health Network for the last 23 and is also a member of the Senior Management team of UHN Facilities Maintenance – Planning, Redevelopment and Operations (FM-PRO).

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In his current roles, Ian works intimately with clinicians, educators, researchers, administrators, project managers, engineers, architects, contractors, building operators, vendors and regulators in managing space and designing academic healthcare, research and education space while also focusing on operational parameters. Ian led the UHN’s Integrated Facilities Master Planning project that was completed in 2020.  Ian and his team are project, space and clinical/scientific interpreters, translating needs and concepts between the all the users and the design/operational teams.  A major focus of his work includes managing Capital Renewal across the organization.  Additionally, he is also responsible for the Facility Maintenance and Operations of both the Princess Margaret Cancer Research Tower (MaRS) and the Krembil Discovery Tower.  Ian strives to ensure these environments continue to be leading sustainable environments meeting the needs of the UHN.  With a clear focus on the needs of the clinicians, educators, patients and researchers, Ian has been instrumental in developing effective, efficient and safe workspaces that are sustainable while continuing to meet all the regulatory guidelines. 

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Ian was the President of SLCan for 4 years and has since continued as an active member of this national organization.  Additionally he is the Vice-President of the Toronto SLCan Chapter.  Ian holds a Specialist Degree in Molecular Genetics and Molecular Biology from the University of Toronto.