OTTAWA, ONTARIO--(Marketwired - Jul 10, 2014) - The Honourable Ed Holder, Minister of State for Science and Technology and John R. McDougall, President of the National Research Council of Canada (NRC), are proud to announce the renewal of the Genomics Research and Development Initiative (GRDI).
The Government of Canada is committing $99.5 million to the initiative over the next five years to continue research in agriculture, environment, fisheries, forestry, and health. Genomics is the science that studies DNA sequences and the complex interactions of genes found in living organisms. Researchers in this field generate science-based knowledge to support the formulation of policies, standards, and regulations related to the responsible introduction and ongoing monitoring of a variety of products.
GRDI is a unique Canadian initiative that coordinates eight federal science departments and agencies in the field of genomics research: the National Research Council of Canada, Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada, Health Canada, Fisheries and Oceans, the Canada Food Inspection Agency, Environment Canada, Natural Resources Canada, and the Public Health Agency of Canada.
Quick Facts
-
Genomics research contributes to solutions of key importance to Canadians: protecting and improving human health, developing treatments for chronic and infectious diseases, protecting the environment, and managing agricultural and natural resources in a sustainable way.
-
Knowledge in genomics can be applied to various products and services such as pharmaceutical and medical devices, food commodities, environmental monitoring and remediation, and food additives and labelling.
Quotes
"Our government is committed to investing in science, technology and innovation to create jobs, strengthen the economy and improve the quality of life of Canadians. The GRDI increases our understanding of a wide range of genomic questions and supports discoveries in critical areas like health care, agriculture, forestry and fisheries to the benefit of communities at home and around the world."
Ed Holder, Minister of State for Science and Technology
"Genomics research brings solutions to issues that are of high priority to Canadians. The accomplishments of GRDI scientists support the competitive needs and economic viability of Canadian firms. GRDI results are used by government for regulatory, policy, and technology development decisions for the generation of wealth to support Canada's economy. ."
John R. McDougall, President, National Research Council of Canada
Related product
- Backgrounder - Genomics Research and Development Initiative