Profoundly inspired by the biotechnology pioneers who developed recombinant DNA in 1973, and by its application in 1978 to produce human insulin, Dr. Bernard Massie joined NRC in 1985 with a conviction that molecular biology holds the power to unlock the mysteries of human health. He initially focused on delivering DNA inside cells to replace mutated genes with therapeutic genes, becoming one of the first researchers in Canada to tackle gene therapy. Sensing the enormous potential of biologics to treat cancer and chronic diseases, he applied his knowledge of viral vectors to biologics production. He has dedicated 30 years to developing bioprocesses needed to produce these revolutionary, targeted medicines, first as a research associate and progressing to roles such as group leader, R&D director, and leader of the Biologics and Biomanufacturing program. In December 2015, Dr. Bernard Massie was appointed General Manager (acting) of Human Health Therapeutics at NRC. Dr. Massie earned his B.Sc. and M.Sc. in biology from Université de Montréal, where he also completed his Ph.D. in microbiology. He has published over 138 peer-reviewed papers and has 12 issued patents.

Biologics and Biomanufacturing program