Genomics researchers partner with industry to further innovation in health, agriculture and environment sectors

Government of Canada and partners invest more than $24 million in genomics research projects to improve cancer treatments and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

HAMILTON, ON, Dec. 1, 2017 /CNW/ - When scientists work with their counterparts in industry, they're able to invent life-saving therapies and clean technologies that improve the lives of Canadians. That's why the Government of Canada is committed to supporting collaborative research led by scientists across the country.

Today, Parliamentary Secretary for Science, Kate Young, on behalf of the Minister of Science, the Honourable Kirsty Duncan, announced $8.1 million in federal funding for five new projects under Genome Canada's Genomic Applications Partnership Program (GAPP). An additional $16.4 million is being invested by provincial governments, businesses and research partners for a total of $24.5 million in support of cutting-edge research projects.

The Parliamentary Secretary made the announcement at McMaster University, one of the five research institutions receiving funding in today's announcement. While there, she highlighted the work of Dr. Jonathan Bramson, a GAPP award recipient who is partnering with Triumvira Immunologics Inc., a Canadian biotechnology company, to develop novel immunotherapies that harness the body's own cellular defense system to attack cancers.

This project illustrates the success of Genome Canada's GAPP program, which translates Canadian knowledge and expertise in genomics into valuable applications that support a strong economy, healthy communities and a growing middle class.

Quotes

"Whether it is new treatments, new technologies or new ways of understanding the world around us, our government understands that it all starts with science. We are pleased to support these exceptional applied genomic partnership projects that encourage strong partnerships between researchers and innovators in Canada. Their collaborations will help create jobs, improve the health of Canadians, and further our understanding of the power of genomics."
? The Honourable Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science

"Our government is proud to support scientists whose hard work leads to new discoveries, technologies, and services that support a stronger, healthier and more vibrant middle class. I commend the researchers at the heart of these five collaborative projects who are using genomics to make a difference in the lives of Canadians, in our economy and in our environment."
? Kate Young, Parliamentary Secretary for Science

"Applied research and development projects such as these are effectively harnessing the power of genomics to benefit Canadians. Problems are defined by the end-user, which ensures genomic solutions are geared toward concrete outcomes including improved healthcare and better products and services that give Canadian businesses a competitive edge in global markets."  
? Mr. Marc LePage, President and CEO, Genome Canada

Related Links
GAPP Round 8 ? Backgrounder list of projects funded

Genome Canada is a not-for-profit organization that acts as a catalyst for developing and applying genomics and genomic-based technologies, to create economic and social benefits for Canadians. Genome Canada connects ideas and people across public and private sectors to find new uses for genomics, invests in large-scale science and technology to fuel innovation, and translates discoveries into applications and solutions across key sectors of national importance, including health, agriculture, forestry, fisheries & aquaculture, energy, mining, and the environment.

Twitter: @ScienceMin; @GenomeCanada

SOURCE Genome Canada