The DNA to RNA (D2R) Initiative is launching a new Strategic Initiative on Cancer Vaccines to accelerate the development of innovative cancer vaccine therapies and bring promising discoveries closer to patients.

The DNA to RNA (D2R) Initiative is launching a new Strategic Initiative on Cancer Vaccines to accelerate the development of innovative cancer vaccine therapies and bring promising discoveries closer to patients.

In the photo: Prof. Geneviève Bernard speaking at the D2R Research Symposium 2026

Montreal, June 19, 2026 — McGill University’s DNA to RNA (D2R) initiative has announced two new international research projects aimed at accelerating personalized genomic medicine and RNA-based therapies. Funded through D2R’s International Partnerships Program (IPP), each project receives $600,000 and brings together leading institutions across North America, Europe, and Asia.


This event is open to everyone who wants to contribute to creating accessible research environments.
In honour of Quebec’s Week for Persons with Disabilities, D2R - in collaboration with the Quebec Interuniversity Network in Equity, Diversity and Inclusion with and the Equity Team at McGill University - invites you to a Lunch & Learn to present the new Practical Toolkit for Research Teams to foster Accessibility in Research Labs.
During this event we will present a few key elements of this toolkit, including:
DNA to RNA (D2R) is seeking an Associate Director, Indigenous Health Research to lead the development and implementation of its Indigenous Strategy and Research Plan.
Reporting to the D2R Director of Administration, this role will support Indigenous-led health research, foster strong partnerships with Indigenous communities and organizations, and ensure the integration of Indigenous knowledge across all aspects of research and training.
The position also oversees funding initiatives, training programs, and a team dedicated to community engagement.

Montreal – November 6, 2025 | The DNA to RNA (D2R) initiative at McGill University is proud to announce the recipients of the second cycle of the Foundational and Research in Motion (RIM) funding programs.
From common diseases affecting millions, such as lung cancer, to rare disorders like lipodystrophy, this investment of over 5.3 million dollars reflects D2R’s commitment to advancing bold ideas and fostering interdisciplinary collaboration across the discovery-to-implementation spectrum.

Join D2R for this hybrid seminar with Professor Eric Westhof from University of Strasbourg

D2R | DNA to RNA is launching the next round of funding for the Translational Impact Research (TIR) program. This program supports a select few large-scale translational research projects in RNA-based therapeutics which are expected to have a measurable impact on the health of Canadians. Projects must address the D2R Initiative’s strategic priorities and priority disease areas: oncology, rare diseases, infectious diseases, cardiovascular and cardiometabolic diseases.
This competition is open to:

D2R | DNA to RNA is launching the International Partnerships Program (IPP) to strengthen large-scale, multi-institutional collaborations with leading global organizations. This strategic funding program supports partnerships that align with D2R’s mission, offer complementary expertise, and provide enriched, multidisciplinary training environments. The program will prioritize initiatives with strong institutional commitment, alignment with D2R’s research priorities, and potential for high global impact.