Genomic Medicine and Indigenous Health Award: Celebrating Excellence in Research
On October 23, at the 2025 Rendez-Vous Génome Québec in Montréal, Professor Treena Wasonti:io Delormier was announced as the recipient of the D2R Genomic Medicine and Indigenous Health Award.
Prof. Delormier is an Associate Professor in the School of Human Nutrition at McGill University, Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Indigenous Food Sovereignty and Nutrition and Nominated Principal Applicant of Tahatikonhsontóntie’ Quebec Network Environment for Indigenous Health Research (QcNEIHR). Prof. Delormier, a Kanien’kehá:ka (Mohawk) scholar from the community of Kahnawà:ke, is a professional dietitian, established as a public health nutrition researcher, and a leader in the methodological and ethical aspects of conducting research with Indigenous Peoples’ and in enhancing health research capacity of academic and Indigenous researchers, in partnership research and co-learning knowledge sharing.
Prof. Delormier was recognized for her project, “From Guidelines to Practice – assessing the translation of the Cultural Safety Roundtable guidelines in research practices in Quebec.” The study examines how the adoption of culturally safe research practices can help redress colonial legacies in health research with Indigenous Peoples, fostering more respectful and inclusive approaches across Quebec’s research institutions.
Established to mark Génome Québec’s 25th anniversary, this $25,000 award was created by D2R | DNA to RNA Initiative as one of the key strategic objectives of D2R is to champion Indigenous-Led Research Initiatives, prioritizing the integration of Indigenous knowledge by actively promoting co-creation and ensuring that all engagements are culturally safe and respectful. This commitment involves building substantial partnerships that support the autonomy and leadership of Indigenous researchers and communities in directing research agendas and this award marks the first of many initiatives to support Indigenous Health Research by D2R.
By highlighting projects that center Indigenous perspectives on health and wellbeing, the award reinforces the importance of reconciliation, inclusion, and community engagement in advancing research. It also acknowledges that the type of work Treena leads will serve as a foundation for how D2R collaborates with Indigenous partners to co-develop health research projects.
“At D2R, we believe that genomics research must reflect the diversity of the communities it aims to serve,” said Giovanna Sebastiani, Director of Administration at D2R. “This award allows us to recognize and amplify the voices of Indigenous scholars who are redefining how genomic science can be practiced in a way that is culturally safe.”
“At Génome Québec, we are deeply committed to fostering equitable and inclusive research practices that reflect the diversity of Québec’s population," said Stéphanie Lord-Fontaine, Vice-President, Scientific Affairs, Génome Québec. "This collaboration with D2R highlights the importance of supporting Indigenous leadership in health research and recognizing projects that transform how science is done, with respect, partnership and reciprocity.”
Through this recognition, D2R reaffirms their shared commitment to supporting innovative, community-driven research that benefits Indigenous and non-Indigenous communities across Quebec and beyond.
