The efforts of basic research behind the scenes hit the spotlight at the Ottawa Hospital Gala, which highlights the tireless work of outstanding scientists.

Jeremy Grimshaw was among those honoured on Saturday, he for career achievement in epidemiology.

"I think in general we all like to have a pat on the back every now and again," he said.

"In general, research is not something where you get lots of pats on the back. You work over a long period of time, on a project that might take five years."

The event also raised money for the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, which is affiliated with the University of Ottawa.