Philippe Gros appointed Chief Scientific Officer of D2R
Philippe Gros appointed Chief Scientific Officer of D2R
Philippe Gros has been appointed Chief Scientific Officer (CSO) of McGill’s DNA to RNA (D2R) Initiative, effective September 30, 2024. Prior to this role, he served as Deputy Vice-President (Research and Innovation) at McGill. This appointment follows a thorough international search, with the selection committee enthusiastic about their recommendation. Notably, Gros was instrumental in writing the application for the D2R Initiative, laying the groundwork for its success.
“I am excited to take on the role of CSO for D2R and lead efforts that will harness the potential of RNA therapies,” said Gros. “The work being done within D2R holds the promise to revolutionize treatment options for a wide range of diseases, and in different Canadian populations, and I look forward to collaborating with our team to accelerate this vital work.”
An internationally recognized researcher, Gros has authored more than 400 scientific publications and holds six patents. His awards include the McLaughlin Medal for Scientific Excellence and the Killam Prize in Health Sciences. A Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada and an Officer of the Order of Canada, he is widely respected for his investigations and discoveries of genes, proteins, and pathways that influence complex human diseases, including susceptibility to infections.
As CSO, Gros will leverage his extensive experience in research and innovation to advance D2R's vision of delivering genomic-based RNA therapies. He will guide the initiative’s strategic direction, focusing on supporting projects that drive scientific advancement and contribute to the development of RNA-based precision medicines to address critical health challenges. Professor Mark Lathrop will continue to serve as D2R’s Scientific Director, working closely with Gros.
“Philippe Gros’s appointment as CSO represents a significant step forward for D2R. His expertise and leadership will enhance our efforts to push the boundaries of RNA research,” stated Prof. Lathrop.
His journey at McGill began in 1980 as a PhD student in Experimental Medicine and received his degree in 1983. Since 1985, he has had various academic appointments at McGill, including Professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Associate Member in the Department of Human Genetics, Founder and Director of McGill’s Center for Complex Traits, and Vice-Dean of Life Sciences in McGill’s Faculty of Medicine. His expertise in building strategic partnerships and overseeing major research initiatives has enhanced the university’s impact in the scientific community. He will continue to be part of McGill’s Office of the Vice-President, Research and Innovation (VPRI) leadership team, reporting to the Vice-President in his new capacity.
"Prof. Gros' leadership and vision will be pivotal for D2R,” said Dominique Bérubé, Vice-President, Research and Innovation, McGill University. “His commitment to driving innovation through local and international collaborations will help D2R reach its ambitious goals, which include advancing the field of precision medicine for the benefit of all Canadians. On behalf of the McGill research community, I wish to thank him for his years of dedicated service as Deputy Vice-President, Research and Innovation, and I look forward to his continued contributions in this new role."
Please join us in welcoming Prof. Philippe Gros as the Chief Scientific Officer of D2R.
