Peter DeMaio

Peter DeMaio is an evidence-synthesis specialist with extensive training in both quantitative and qualitative methods and a passion for advancing the use of research evidence in health- and social-systems policy. As Scientific Lead, Evidence Synthesis and Support at the McMaster Health Forum, he leads the production of timely, demand-driven evidence syntheses – both as ‘global public goods’ and as contextualized evidence synthesis products – that respond to the requests of health and social system leaders in Canada and internationally. He also leads the development of content for the Optimal Aging Portal, translating research into accessible resources that support older adults and caregivers across Canada.

Outside of Canada, Peter has contributed to global evidence-to-policy initiatives as a consultant and rapporteur for the World Health Organization, working to develop tools to strengthen evidence-informed decision-making and supporting the WHO 2023 Global Evidence-to-Policy Summit. Fluent in Portuguese, he has worked closely with partners in Brazil, including the Veredas Institute (Instituto Veredas) to advance evidence-informed policy internationally.

Peter holds a PhD in Social Gerontology from McMaster University, an MSc in Evidence-Based Social Intervention and Policy Evaluation from the University of Oxford, and an MA in Health, Aging and Society from McMaster. His diverse methodological expertise and social policy focus reflects his commitment to finding innovative ways to mobilize the best available evidence for decision makers both in Canada and abroad.