McGill scientists unveil “Alenomers,” a new molecular platform that could rival antibodies
Montreal, May 6, 2026 – Researchers from McGill University have introduced a groundbreaking new class of molecules that could significantly reshape drug discovery and development. The technology, called Aptamer‑Like ENcoded OligoMERs (Alenomers), combines the advantages of antibodies and DNA‑based therapeutics while overcoming key limitations of both.
D2R awards $5.74 million in Translational Impact Research funding
Montreal – April 29, 2026 | McGill University’s DNA to RNA Initiative (D2R) has invested nearly $6 million in funding to support four groundbreaking research projects that will advance RNA-based therapies for cancer and rare genetic diseases. The awards were initially announced at the D2R Research Symposium on April 23-24, 2026.
EDI Workshop | EDI Missteps: Solutions, Strategies and Successful Practices
In an effort to support researchers in incorporating the principles of Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) into their work as RNA research, the D2R EDI Community of Practice is organizing an event to discuss and problem solve through common EDI mistakes in the context of RNA research. In this event, two speakers will share anecdotes on major EDI pitfalls they have encountered and strategies others can use to prevent them in the future.
D2R x Lavery | Patenting Your Invention: A Guide for Researchers
Have an innovative idea and not sure how the patenting process works? Join D2R and Lavery to learn how patent strategy supports scientific impact and how early choices impact downstream commercialization value when bringing life science innovations to market.
Event | Free AReNA Series of Webinars
AReNA is launching a series of free webinars dedicated to RNA therapies, spotlighting leading international companies to fuel innovation, inspire the local ecosystem, and create tangible collaboration opportunities. The first webinar in this series focuses on one of the field’s most critical challenges: biomanufacturing.
Call for Applications: Robert Sladek Prize for Mentorship in Genomic Medicine
The D2R community is saddened by the passing of Professor Robert Sladek, a founding member of the McGill Genome Centre and a valued member of the Victor Phillip Dahdaleh Institute of Genomic Medicine.
Available Position | D2R seeks Associate Director, Indigenous Health Research
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.
Event | Nucleic Acids Seminar with Byron Purse
Fluorescent Nucleoside Analogues for Live-Cell Imaging of RNA Biology and Single-Molecule StudiesThis Wednesday, March 18 at 11:00am-12:00pm, the Department of Chemistry is hosting a seminar on Nucleic Acids with Professor Byron Purse.
Call for Applicants: Summer 2026 Internship
The HeDS-D2R Platform is seeking two interdisciplinary interns passionate about the intersection of biology, data science, and RNA therapeutics to join the team and contribute to a project that makes a real difference in the genomics and research community.
Two Project Tracks:
Strengthening Global Capacity Through a New Partnership with the PATH RNA Cooperative and support from the Gates Foundation
Montreal, QC, February 25, 2026 - McGill’s DNA to RNA (D2R) Initiative - a $165M initiative funded by the Government of Canada through the Canada First Research Excellence Fund to turn genomic discoveries into RNA-based treatments - is expanding its global health impact.
D2R X Norton Rose Fulbright | Protecting Your Ideas: A Guide for Innovators
“Innovation” is everywhere these days—but beyond the buzzword, what does it really mean for a young company, and how can you turn it into a concrete competitive advantage? This presentation demystifies intellectual property (IP) and shows why it matters far more than many founders think.
D2R X NRC Biomanufacturing Collaboration Event
A half day showcase of D2R and the National Research Council’s shared biomanufacturing and bioengineering research priorities.
McGill University and Moderna Launch Breakthrough RNA Project Through D2R to Advance Made-in-Canada Innovation
Montreal, QC, February 5, 2026 — McGill University researchers, supported by the DNA to RNA (D2R) initiative and Moderna, are launching a pioneering research project that aims to further the fundamentals of ribonucleic acid (RNA) medicines by enhancing our understanding of the three-dimensional structure of full-length messenger RNA (mRNA).
D2R invests over $1.2 million for Postdoctoral Scholars
Montreal, January 21, 2026 – The D2R | DNA to RNA Initiative at McGill University proudly announces the recipients of the inaugural Postdoctoral Scholar Awards. Alongside the Master’s and Doctoral Scholar awards, this funding program recognizes outstanding trainees working on diverse D2R-aligned research projects and brings outstanding postdoctoral researchers from across Canada and abroad to the D2R Initiative.
Interview with Thomas Duchaine: a vaccine that fights COVID-19… and cancer!
D2R's funded-researcher Thomas Duchaine recently sat down with Radio-Canada to discuss emerging research suggesting that RNA vaccines developed for COVID-19 may also enhance the effectiveness of certain cancer treatments.
