Dr. Prato has been an integral part of the Medical Physics community at St. Joseph’s Health Care London, London Health Sciences Center, and the University of Western Ontario for over forty years. His work spans critical advancements in Nuclear Medicine and Diagnostic Radiology, notably including:

• The development of bone mineral density measurement, essential for osteoporosis management.
• Performing the first MR brain imaging in Canada, setting a national standard.
• Pioneering MR cardiac imaging techniques, enhancing the understanding of myocardial scarring and blood flow assessment.
• Introducing the first PET/CT and PET/MR scanners in Canada, revolutionizing molecular imaging and proving the economic value of advanced imaging technologies. 

“Dr. Prato's groundbreaking work in Medical Physics includes pioneering MR brain imaging when the technology first became available and leading the installation of the first PET/MR scanner in Canada, fostering a collaborative clinical and research program around this technology.

Dr. Prato exemplifies outstanding professionalism and leadership, consistently achieving significant outcomes in clinical practice and research. His contributions have advanced our field and shaped the careers of many emerging scientists. I am proud to have been his colleague for the past 36 years”- Ting-Yim Lee

Dr. Prato's leadership extends beyond his technical achievements. As the founding president of COMP, he played a crucial role in establishing the organization, advocating for Medical Physicists' independent voice and professional growth. His tenure as President and Board Member of the Canadian College of Physicists in Medicine (CCPM) was marked by significant advancements, including enhancing certification processes and establishing reciprocity with the American Board of Medical Physics.

Dr. Prato is also a dedicated mentor, having guided over 60 MSc and PhD students and Post-Doctoral Fellows, many of whom have won awards and secured prominent positions in the field. His mentorship has been instrumental in the success of numerous scientists within the Imaging Program at Lawson Health Research Institute.

In recognition of his tireless service, Dr. Prato received the Valuable Service Award from CCPM in 2002 and was named a Fellow of COMP in 2013. These accolades reflect his enduring impact on Medical Physics.

COMP extends its congratulations to Dr. Frank S. Prato on his COMP Gold Medal nomination, acknowledging his extraordinary contributions and unwavering dedication to advancing Medical Physics.

Join COMP in recognizing Frank, his achievements, and this honour, at the COMP Annual Scientific Meeting Gold Medal ceremony on Friday June 7th at 11:30 AM, in Regina, SK.