What is RIOT?

The Research Information Outreach Team (RIOT) is a passionate volunteer group within the Canadian Cancer Society (CCS) dedicated to bridging the gap between cancer research and the public. 

Established in 2010, RIOT was born out of the desire to share groundbreaking advancements in cancer research with the community. Composed of research trainees, RIOT communicates the progress and promise of cancer research through community outreach, youth engagement, and CCS event support.

RIOT Chapters Across Canada

The Research Information Outreach Team (RIOT) at the Canadian Cancer Society is gaining traction and influence across Canada. Found in diverse locations from coast to coast, RIOT chapters are found at renowned universities, academic institutions and research laboratories. 

RIOT is committed to creating cancer awareness with a focus on community involvement and engagement, making cancer research and resources more accessible. 

Members of the 2024–2025 RIOT Chapter Lead cohort during the annual leadership retreat held by the Canadian Cancer Society.

Find the RIOT Chapter Closest to You!

  • Calgary, AB

  • Halifax, NS

  • Hamilton, ON

  • London, ON

  • Montreal, QC

  • Ottawa, ON

  • Toronto, ON

  • Vancouver, BC

  • Windsor, ON

  • Winnipeg, MB

Learn More

Upcoming events

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  • “RIOT gave me an outlet to use my scientific training in direct service of my community. Cancer research outreach bridges the gap between academia and those who have been impacted by cancer, empowering us all with understanding, a sense of shared humanity and hope for the future.’’

    – Brandon Ramchatesingh (RIOT Montreal Lead, 2023-2025)

  • “Being co-lead of Halifax RIOT has allowed me to understand cancer from a new perspective. I have been fortunate to connect with a broad cancer network in my community and collaborate with like-minded peers from across Canada. The RIOT program has provided me with the tools, mentorship and networks necessary to have an impact in the fight against cancer.”

    – Chloe Cyr (RIOT Halifax Lead, 2024-2025)

  • “[RIOT] offers a very unique way to enrich our views and aspirations when we think about our science, knowing there’s someone at the end of that tunnel that can benefit from our work. Witnessing curiosity and awe when we talk to our community and the general public, and even patients and their caregivers alike, really invigorates our drive to work smarter and do better. This program brings us out of our Ivory Tower and humanizes our science. It helps us become better communicators, better researchers, and better people. I’m very lucky to be a part of RIOT!”

    – Zaid Taha (RIOT Ottawa Lead, 2023-2025)

  • “Within RIOT, I have been privileged to meet some of the most passionate, empathetic and altruistic individuals dedicated to communicating cancer research … Aiming to improve cancer literacy among underrepresented populations while bridging the gap between what is known from research and its active translation into community practice, RIOT delivers a form of community engagement that is sincere and impactful. Serving as RIOT Co-Chair has been among the greatest privileges of my cancer research career.”

    – Shreya Gandhi (RIOT Toronto Lead, 2023-2025) 

  • My career and academic interests developed from extracurricular science education and outreach initiatives that I was fortunate to participate in during high school. Being a member of RIOT allows me to provide similar opportunities to youth in my community and hopefully inspire the next generation of cancer researchers and caregivers. I am fortunate to work with a passionate team, both at our local chapter in London, and our colleagues across Canada.”

    – Edward Wang (RIOT London Lead, 2023-2025)  

  • “As a researcher, I find being a part of the RIOT program rewarding because I get to share the science behind cancer treatments with the public in a way that is engaging and accessible. It’s also a fantastic opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals who are passionate about science communication and advocacy!”

    – Amal Aziz (RIOT London Lead, 2024-2025)