The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre unveils its bold new 2030 Vision with a landmark event and the rollout of a refreshed visual identity
SOURCE: Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (The Institute)
November 26, 2024
Last week, the Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (The Institute) launched its ambitious new strategic framework, 2030 Vision: Precision Health Throughout the Life Course. Shaped by extensive consultations with the internal community and international advisors, this transformative initiative positions The Institute as a leader in precision health—an approach that personalizes prevention, diagnosis, and treatment for individuals at every stage of life.
The November 22 launch event brought together researchers, trainees, staff, partners, and invited guests for a full day of activities. Keynote presentations by distinguished experts, engaging poster sessions, and oral presentations showcased cutting-edge research and interdisciplinary collaboration—hallmarks of the 2030 Vision.
Shaping the future: 2030 Vision
The 2030 Vision outlines a comprehensive plan to advance precision health by focusing on five transformative research priorities, supported by four operational pillars. These efforts include expanding fundamental research, adopting data-driven methods, leveraging new technologies, advancing clinical trials, and addressing health disparities. Enhancing capabilities, fostering partnerships, and creating an inclusive work environment remain central to achieving these goals.
Developed through extensive consultations, the plan reflects insights from The Institute’s community, a dedicated task force, and the External Scientific Advisory Board.
An inspiring launch event
The November 22 launch event opened with remarks from Dr. Rhian Touyz, Executive Director and Chief Scientific Officer of The Institute. She introduced Vision 2030 as a transformative approach that emphasizes precision medicine tailored to individuals’ unique health needs. Dr. Touyz highlighted that Vision 2030 is not only about advancing science, but also about ensuring that research impacts real-world healthcare by providing “the right care, to the right person, at the right time.”
The event featured keynote addresses from Dr. Dan Roden of Vanderbilt University and Dr. Victor Dzau, President of the National Academy of Medicine in the United States. Topics ranged from realizing the potential of precision health to addressing global healthcare disparities. Dr. Touyz, with Susan James, Director of Research Services, presented the 2030 Vision’s transformative priorities and implementation plan. Comments followed from Dr. Lucy Opatrny, President and Executive Director of the McGill University Health Centre, Prof. Shari Baum, Vice Dean, Research, Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences, McGill University, and Dr. Sarah Prichard, Chair of The Institute's Board of Directors.
The day also celebrated research from The Institute’s eight programs, as leading scientists and clinician-researchers presented their work.
- Alex Baldwin, Brain Repair and Integrative Neuroscience Program (BRaIN), Digital approaches to measuring and treating amblyopia
- Ahmad Haidar, Metabolic Disorders and Complications Program (MeDiC), Novel technologies and therapeutics for type 1 diabetes
- Sampath Loganathan, Cancer Research Program (CRP), The challenge of tumor heterogeneity: Developing and utilizing gene editing methods in immune competent mouse models to study cancer
- Deborah Assayag, Translational Research in Respiratory Diseases Program (RESP), A personalized approach to interstitial lung diseases: An interdisciplinary collaborative effort
- Matthias Friedrich, Cardiovascular Health Across the Lifespan Program (CHAL), Oxygenation-Sensitive Cardiovascular MR of Coronary Vascular Function as a Novel Biomarker for Managing Cardiovascular Health
- Anie Philip, Surgical and Interventional Sciences (SIS), CD109: A Double-Edged Sword- Ally in Fibrosis, Foe in Cancer!
- Andréanne Lupien, Infectious Diseases and Immunity in Global Health Program (IDIGH), Accelerating Tuberculosis Prevention: Assessing Novel TB Preventive Treatments in a Preclinical Infection Model
- Annette Majnemer, Child Health and Human Development Program (CHHD), Partnering with purpose: Shaping vision 2030 by promoting patient-oriented research
A poster competition featured work by Master’s, PhD, and postdoctoral trainees who demonstrated the innovation and dedication that drive The Institute forward.
A bold new identity
The 2030 Vision launch introduced a refreshed visual identity for The Institute. This bold design highlights The Institute’s status as a leading research powerhouse—ranked #3 in Canada and #1 in Quebec for research spending. It reflects a dynamic, patient-centred approach and serves as a symbol of The Institute’s dedication to advancing healthcare locally, nationally, and globally.
For those who missed the live event, a recording of the keynote presentations and research highlights is available. Recording Part I. Recording Part II.
The 2030 Vision plan marks the beginning of a transformative journey, advancing discovery and innovation to shape a healthier future. Every member of the community has a role to play in achieving these ambitious goals.
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The Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre unveils bold new 2030 Vision
Learn more about the 2030 Vision on The Institute’s website.
