The Institute’s new Chief Operating Officer reflects on his early impressions and outlines his priorities for improving operations, building partnerships and enabling research impact
Source: Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (The Institute)
January 27, 2026
Pierre-Albert Coubat joined the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (The Institute) as Chief Operating Officer (COO) on September 15, 2025, bringing more than 20 years of senior leadership experience across Quebec’s health and research ecosystem. As he passes the 100-day mark in his new role, it is a timely moment to take stock of early impressions, emerging priorities and what lies ahead.
In a recent conversation, Pierre-Albert shared what has stood out so far, where he has focused his attention and how his role can help advance research across The Institute.
First impressions: Warmth, vision and a broad mandate
From his first days at The Institute, Pierre-Albert was struck by the strength of the community, not only in its expertise but also in its openness. “What impressed me most was the warm welcome I received from the whole community,” he said. “Everyone was eager to share their knowledge with me, talk about their projects and discuss plans for the future.”
For Pierre-Albert, that openness of spirit reflected a community conducting exceptional work and actively working toward shared goals. “Seeing the 2030 Vision in action was inspiring. It was wonderful to observe the whole community mobilizing to bring that vision to life.”
Just as striking to Pierre-Albert was the remarkable breadth of research underway across The Institute. “Given the variety and scope of our interventions, it became clear that we had many opportunities to seize,” he said. “However, we also have to make thoughtful choices,” he continued, explaining that having a clearly defined focus and setting clear priorities would prove essential to supporting research impact.
A culture of excellence and an opportunity to build bridges
When asked to describe The Institute’s culture in one word, Pierre-Albert chose “excellence.” “Excellence is everywhere at The Institute,” he said. “It’s something you see consistently, across teams and roles.”
Looking ahead, Pierre-Albert described collaboration as an important driver of future impact. “We need to cultivate new ways to build bridges with our wider community,” he said, pointing to the important relationships with the MUHC, McGill University, four foundations and The Institute’s many external partners across Quebec, Canada and internationally.
Supporting researchers by strengthening operations
For Pierre-Albert, the COO’s role is to enable research by strengthening operations and simplifying processes, allowing researchers to stay focused on discovery.
Recently, several research teams had successfully secured funding but were delayed by complex administrative agreements. Drawing on his experience working with complex governmental structures, Pierre-Albert was able to help move the dossier forward and resolve challenging bottlenecks. “It can be discouraging to work so hard to obtain funding in a highly competitive environment and then face long delays,” he said. “I aim to help teams navigate complexity and identify solutions.”
He also emphasized the importance of strong collaboration between the research community and administrative services—including People & Culture, Finance, IT, Legal, Technical Services, Communications, and more. “Effective operations are critical in a world-class research environment,” he said.
Visibility, integration and The Institute’s unique DNA
One theme has often arisen in Pierre-Albert’s conversations across The Institute and with partners beyond: tremendous pride in The Institute’s impact on patients, families, and communities. He highlighted The Institute’s integration of research and clinical care as one of its defining strengths. “This close relationship helps ensure that our work remains grounded in real-world health needs.”
He also highlighted the importance of visibility. “We do exceptional work, and increasing awareness of that work will help support partnerships, recruitment and long-term impact,” he said.
Equity, diversity and inclusion are also a distinguishing quality of The Institute. “The principles of equity, diversity and inclusion are embedded in The Institute’s DNA,” he said. “We understand that the richer the foundation from which our teams are built, the richer the research.”
The next 100 days: priorities and momentum
Looking ahead, Pierre-Albert has identified practical priorities that align with his focus on bridge-building and enabling research. These priorities include strengthening partnerships across the MUHC ecosystem, deepening collaboration with McGill University and working with partners to attract and retain talent.
Operational improvements through technology will also be a focus, with efforts currently underway to modernize administrative systems.
In addition, Pierre-Albert is working with foundations and donors to ensure essential institutional services —such as Research Services, People & Culture, Finance, IT, Legal, Technical Services and Communications —are appropriately considered in project planning and budgets.
Beyond The Institute, he discussed a timely opportunity for healthcare research institutions across Quebec to align more strategically. “Together, we have a real opportunity to speak with one voice and build a unique Quebec strategy for innovative healthcare research,” he said.
A message to the community: keep building bridges
Pierre-Albert’s message to the community at The Institute is rooted in gratitude. “Thank you for the tremendous welcome,” he says, reflecting on how much he has learned from people across The Institute.
Looking ahead, he hopes the collaborative spirit that shaped his early impressions continues to grow across teams and with partners. “Please keep building bridges. Keep innovating with our partners, especially with the MUHC and with McGill,” he says. “We have some of the best minds in the world, and if we work together, there’s no stopping us.”