Dr. Mona Nemer

The nation’s new chief science advisor on creating a new science strategy and Canada’s potential as a world leader

- Michela Rosano

For the first time in nearly a decade, the federal government has appointed a chief science advisor to help support state science, make it available to the public and ensure scientists have a seat at the table when Canada makes important decisions. Dr. Mona Nemer, who is a cardiovascular scientist and the director of the Molecular Genetics and Cardiac Regeneration Laboratory at the University of Ottawa, was named to the position in September 2017, and reports to the prime minister and Kirsty Duncan, the minister of science. Now, a few months into her new role, Nemer discusses some of her priorities and how Canadian science can do better.

On identifying top priorities

We’re looking at artificial intelligence and its applications to various sectors, particularly at the intersection of technology and society, as well as its legal and ethical aspects. Clearly, the broad topics of environmental sustainability, clean technology and the Arctic are priorities. I think there’s a need for continued Canadian leadership on these fronts, so we must articulate a science and research plan for them over the next few years.

On scientists speaking freely about their work