Ontario Institute for Regenerative Medicine welcomes new President and Scientific Director

May 25, 2016, Toronto, ON – The Board of Directors of the Ontario Institute for Regenerative Medicine (OIRM) announced today that Dr. Duncan Stewart, Executive Vice-President of Research at The Ottawa Hospital, has been appointed as its President and Scientific Director. Dr. Stewart will assume the role on June 1, 2016. 

 

“I am honored to have been selected as OIRM’s next President and Scientific Director. In its short history, OIRM has emerged as an organization that is dedicated to research excellence in stem cells and regenerative medicine that also fosters skill development and collaboration, and values engagement with patient groups and the public,” said Dr. Stewart. “It will be my pleasure to serve OIRM by helping the organization, its researchers, trainees and staff to fulfill their passion to make a difference for all Ontarians.” 

 

Dr. Stewart joins OIRM with significant leadership experience in his previous positions at St. Michael’s Hospital and the University of Toronto and ongoing roles at The Ottawa Hospital and also as professor at the University of Ottawa. He is a pioneering Canadian cardiovascular researcher, recognized for his many important discoveries in blood vessel biology, as well as his dedication to translating these discoveries into benefits for patients and society.

 

Dr. Stewart succeeds Dr. Janet Rossant, who launched OIRM in 2014 and who stepped down as President and Scientific Director on April 30, 2016 to assume a new role with the Canada Gairdner Foundation. Dr. Rossant will remain with OIRM as a new member of its Board of Directors.

 

“I can think of no one better to lead OIRM. Duncan’s experience both as a laboratory researcher and clinician who has shepherded numerous scientific advances into clinical trial, as well as his leadership in Ontario with The Ottawa Hospital make him the perfect choice to lead OIRM as it moves into the next phase of growth,” said Dr. Rossant.

 

In assuming this role, Dr. Stewart will strengthen OIRM’s presence in Ottawa, where he will remain to pursue his lab and clinical research activities and to continue as Executive Vice-President of Research at The Ottawa Hospital.

 

“Given the breadth of his skills, Duncan brings unique perspectives on the regenerative medicine environment, particularly in the critical area of clinical trials and the development of new treatments, which is a key part of our mission,” said Sharon Colle, Chair of the OIRM Board and President and CEO, of The Foundation Fighting Blindness. “I am excited to work with Duncan as we continue to make significant advances to bring new opportunities and better health to Ontarians.”