Genome Canada is pleased to welcome Pari Johnston as Vice-President, Policy and Public Affairs, effective March 23, 2020.
In this role, Pari will provide expertise and leadership that will shape and support the strategic direction of Genome Canada, while raising awareness of the organization and its vision with key stakeholders.
As a member of the executive leadership team, Pari will play a key role in putting genomics into the hands of those who are at the forefront of addressing critical challenges in human health and the economy. “I’m thrilled to be joining the Genome Canada team. Now more than ever, we need science-based solutions to the major health, social and economic issues facing Canadians and the world,” she remarked. “Working in partnership is in my DNA, and I look forward to contributing to the Team Canada research and innovation efforts in the months to come.”
Pari assumes the role with deep understanding of the research and higher education landscape in Canada, having held senior leadership positions at Universities Canada for 20 years. Most recently, she served as Vice-President, Policy and Public Affairs, providing strategic direction to the organization’s federal advocacy, policy and communications agendas. Throughout her tenure at Universities Canada, she was instrumental in shaping the organization into a highly effective national forum for Canada’s university leaders, as well as delivering on international strategies and missions.
Pari has an M.A. in International Affairs from Carleton University and a B.A. in French Literature from the University of Regina. She is a passionate community volunteer, serving several local and national initiatives in mental health and housing for Autistic youth and adults. Pari also served on the founding Board of The Conversation Canada/La Conversation Canada, the national digital media organization for academic journalism.
-30-
Media contact
Nicola Katz
Director, Communications
Genome Canada
C: 613-297-0267
nkatz@genomecanada.ca