Genome Canada announces departure of president and CEO

Ottawa, ON – Genome Canada, which funds genomics and related areas of science and technology, says that president and CEO Dr. Pierre Meulien, is to step down from his position on July 17, 2015. Dr. Meulien has led the organization since October 2010.

“I have enjoyed immensely my time at Genome Canada and have appreciated the support and vision that the government of Canada has provided in the area of science, technology and innovation, particularly as it relates to investments in genomics, which truly is the foundation of Canada’s growing bioeconomy,” said Dr. Meulein. “I have no doubt Canada will remain a key global player in this cutting-edge field given the immense research talent, world-class infrastructure and visionary leaders who form part of this nation’s thriving genomics enterprise.”

He has accepted a new position as executive director of the Innovative Medicines Initiative (IMI) in Brussels, Belgium, a public-private partnership initiative in the life sciences arena.

“During his five years at the helm of Genome Canada, Dr. Meulien has put in place an action plan that has made Canada a powerhouse in genomics, recognized internationally for our contributions to advancing research, innovation and applications in key areas including personalized health, agriculture and the environment,” said Lorne Hepworth, chair of Genome Canada’s board of directors. “As a leader and a visionary, he continuously promoted the foundational role of genomics as a driver of the bioeconomy and made significant progress in promoting the uptake of genomics by multiple sectors vital to Canada’s economic strength and social wellbeing.”

A global search has been initiated to find the organization’s next president and CEO. In the meantime, the board has appointed Dr. Cindy Bell, who is a long-serving member of Genome Canada’s executive management team, as president and CEO on an interim basis.