Three interdisciplinary Research Networks funded through The Institute’s inaugural Networks Competition report early scientific outputs, expanding collaborations and next steps toward long-term sustainability
SOURCE: The Institute
January 28, 2026
Three interdisciplinary Research Networks supported through The Institute’s inaugural Networks competition shared progress updates at a recent Research Day, marking one year since their launch. The presentations highlighted early scientific outputs, expanding national and international collaborations and next steps toward long-term sustainability.
Launched to foster cross-program collaboration and accelerate impactful research, the Networks competition supports teams tackling complex health challenges through shared infrastructure, expertise and patient engagement.
CARELeuko: building a national framework for leukodystrophy research
Led by Geneviève Bernard, MD, MSc, FRCP(c), Senior Scientist in the Child Health and Human Development Program, CARELeuko (Canadian Association for Research Excellence in Leukodystrophy) is addressing major knowledge gaps in rare leukodystrophies through coordinated national efforts.
Since its launch, the network has identified key unmet needs in the field and published its first manuscript, “Developing a National Network for Leukodystrophy Research and Care in Canada,” outlining the framework for a pan-Canadian research and care network.
“CARELeuko is built on collaboration, and I am deeply grateful to our members, scientific and clinical collaborators, and especially to the patients and families who so generously share their time, experiences, and trust,” explains Dr. Bernard. “This work would not be possible without the vital support and funding from The Institute, whose commitment to research excellence continues to make a profound impact.”
CARELeuko’s research program spans three core aims: identifying novel genes and genetic variants underlying unresolved leukodystrophy cases, advancing disease modeling including a scoping review of leukodystrophy stem cell models, and conducting natural history studies to better understand disease impact. Central to this work are close partnerships with patients and caregivers, along with collaboration with patient organizations across Canada. In December, the network brought researchers, clinicians and partners together for the CARELeuko 2025 Symposium, focused on advancing collaboration in leukodystrophy research and care.
Circulating biomarkers network advances liquid biopsy research across disciplines
The Circulating Biomarkers of Health and Disease Network, led by Julia Burnier, PhD, Scientist in the Cancer Research Program, is developing innovative approaches to liquid biopsy and cell-free DNA research by bringing together experts from a wide range of fields.
The network’s themes span precision oncology, viral and infectious diseases, transplant health and rejection, lifestyle and nutrition, cardiovascular health, prenatal and maternal health and autoimmunity. This interdisciplinary structure is a defining feature of the network, enabling cross-fertilization of methods and ideas across traditionally separate research areas.
"The Circulating Biomarkers Network brings together researchers across disease areas and disciplines to accelerate the development, translation and impact of liquid biopsy approaches,” says Prof. Burnier. “By building shared infrastructure, common language and collaborative pathways, the network enables discoveries in one field to inform progress across many others."
The network’s activities are coordinated by Research Associate Kyle Dickinson, PhD, whose work has been central to sustaining its interdisciplinary collaborations and overall network development. Key projects include the development of a universal MUHC liquid biopsy biobank, with an update expected in early 2026. The network will also host the Canadian Workshop on Circulating Biomarkers on June 5–6, convening national and international experts in the field.
Hypertension and Vascular Diseases Network expands scope and partnerships
Led by Stella Daskalopoulou, MD, MSc, PhD, Senior Scientist in the Cardiovascular Health Across the Lifespan Program, the Hypertension and Vascular Diseases Network is advancing research into the complex mechanisms underlying hypertension and vascular diseases with the goal of improving precision, mechanism-based management and disease-specific therapeutic targets.
Recent updates include the expansion of research to encompass pediatric hypertension and family-based studies, the development of new partnerships and the securing of additional clinical laboratory space. The network is also strengthening patient and community engagement as a core component of its work.
In a major milestone, the network has applied to the European Society of Hypertension for recognition as a Centre of Excellence. The application is progressing positively and, if successful, would position the network as the first Centre of Excellence in North America. Several grant applications, reviews and methodological publications are also currently in development.
“By integrating discovery science, clinical care and community partnership, we are building a foundation for more precise and equitable hypertension and vascular disease care across the life course,” expressed Dr. Daskalopoulou. “The strength of the network lies in collaboration, across disciplines, generations and borders, to advance excellence in hypertension and vascular disease research and care.”
Looking ahead
Together, the three Networks illustrate how targeted interdisciplinary collaboration can accelerate scientific outputs, support the development of shared research infrastructure and build momentum toward long-term sustainability. Their progress underscores the role of the Networks competition in advancing The Institute’s vision of connected, high-impact research positioned for long-term success and external funding.
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