Jacques Archambault, PhD

• Director, Molecular Virology research unit
• Full IRCM Research Professor
• Associate research professor, Department of Biochemistry, Université de Montréal
• Adjunct Professor, Department of Medicine (Division of Experimental Medicine), and adjunct member, Department of Microbiology and Immunology, McGill University
• Associate investigator, Institute for Research in Immunology and Cancer, Université de Montréal
• Associate member, Groupe de recherche universitaire sur le médicament, Université de Montréal

Dr. Archambault’s research focus is the molecular biology of human papilloma viruses (HPV), a group of viruses with DNA that causes benign and malignant lesions of the skin and mucous membranes. HPV infections are among the most prevalent sexually transmitted diseases, and infections by certain oncogenic HPV types are the cause of cervical cancer, the second most common cancer affecting women worldwide.

His laboratory uses molecular and cellular biology approaches as well as biochemical and biophysical methods to shed light on how the viral genome is maintained and replicated in infected cells. Functional genomics and proteomics approaches are also used to identify cellular factors targeted by HPV proteins and learn more about the roles they play in the viral cycle and pathogenesis. High-throughput screening of collections of chemical compounds is also used to identify small molecules with antiviral and anticancer properties. These studies will lead to new approaches to the treatment of HPV-related infections and cancers.

Degrees and relevant experience

• PhD in molecular genetics, University of Toronto
• Postdoctoral fellowship, Banting and Best Department of Medical Research, University of Toronto (1992-1996)
• Scientist and coordinator of the antiviral drug discovery program, Boehringer Ingelheim (1996-2003)