OTTAWA, January 21, 2025 — The University of Ottawa has appointed Heart Institute scientist Dr. Emilio I. Alarcón as a University Research Chair in Peptide-based Materials for Tissue and Organ Repair.
The University Research Chairs (URC) Program recognizes exceptional researchers who have made significant contributions to their field or who show great promise for future breakthroughs. The program also aims to promote inclusion, diversity, equity, and excellence in research, while providing additional financial support for research programs.
“This recognition is testament to the collective work my team has conducted over the years,” said Dr. Alarcón, director of the Bio-nanomaterials Chemistry and Engineering Laboratory at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute and associate professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Ottawa. “This University Research Chair will allow us to accelerate the discovery pipeline of peptides in the regenerative medicine space.”
Dr. Alarcón is at the forefront of developing innovative peptide-based materials—short chains of amino acids that make up proteins—to help repair damaged tissues and organs. His work focuses on creating solutions that address the growing need for advanced medical treatments, particularly in an aging population. Unlike traditional biomaterials, Dr. Alarcón’s innovations are designed to be scalable and ready for clinical use. His research has the potential to improve healing processes and strengthen Canada’s biotechnology sector, bringing new treatments closer to patients in need.
Additional information
- For more information about the URC Program and the 2025 chairholders, please read the announcement as published on the uOttawa website.
- To schedule an interview with Dr. Emilio Alarcón, please contact the media liaison below.
Media contact
Leigh B. Morris
Communications Officer
University of Ottawa Heart Institute
613-316-6409 (cell)
lmorris@ottawaheart.ca