Jacques Drouin, D.Sc., MSRC

The control of gene expression is essential to the development and survival of viable organisms. The molecular genetics research unit’s primary interest is the mechanisms responsible for that control function.

Dr. Drouin and his team have discovered novel genetic regulators that control the development of certain tissues, such as the pituitary gland, limb differentiation, and certain brain neurons during embryogenesis. They are also studying the mechanisms whereby hormones exert their action on gene expression. Other research projects are designed to shed light on the function of regulator genes that are active in neurons that degenerate in Parkinson’s disease, using that knowledge to develop new therapies.

Degrees and relevant experience

• D.Sc. in physiology, Université Laval
• Postdoctoral fellowship, MRC Laboratory of Molecular Biology, Cambridge, United Kingdom (1976 -1978)
• Postdoctoral fellowship, Department of Biochemistry and Biophysics, University of California, San Francisco (UCSF), USA (1979-1981)
• Research scholar, Medical Research Council of Canada (1981-1986)
• Scientist, Medical Research Council of Canada (1986-1991)
• Chair in molecular genetics, GlaxoSmithKline (1999-2004)
• Elected to the Academy of Sciences of the Royal Society of Canada (2001)