Message from the President

Institute of Genetics Scientific Director to step down

At the end of April 2010, Dr. Roderick McInnes, founding Scientific Director of the CIHR Institute of Genetics (IG), will conclude his term. Dr. McInnes has a well-earned reputation for his dedication and enthusiasm for health research, his professional and inclusive approach, as well as his stalwart commitment to the field.

Although his departure is still several months away, I would like to thank Dr. McInnes for his leadership and vision in establishing the CIHR Institute of Genetics. In his role as Scientific Director, and with the support of IG's Institute Advisory Board, Dr. McInnes has brought drive and foresight to Canadian genetic research. Since the creation of the Institute, both national and international attention has turned increasingly towards the use of stem cells, molecular medicine and genome sequencing in the fight against a host of diseases including leukemia, Alzheimer's, congestive heart failure, and renal degeneration. Dr. McInnes also established numerous regional, national and international partnerships and collaborations to further the study and application of research into genetics.

Over the coming months, Institute staff in Toronto and Ottawa, the Institute's Advisory Board, and senior CIHR management will continue to work together to ensure that this leadership transition proceeds as efficiently and smoothly as possible.

CIHR will soon begin looking for a new Scientific Director for the Institute. I am confident we will once again succeed in recruiting an outstanding individual who will continue to build on the Institute's successes.

Sincerely,

Alain Beaudet, M.D., Ph.D.
President
Canadian Institutes of Health Research