STEVEN W. SCHERER
Senior Scientist and Assistant Professor
University of Waterloo Hons B.Sc. 1987 Biology/Chemistry
University of Toronto M.Sc. 1991 Medical Biophysics
University of Toronto Ph.D. 1995 Molecular & Medical Genetics
| 1997-present | Scientist, Dept. of Genetics and Genomic Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children |
| 1998-present | Assistant Professor, Dept. of Molecular and Medical Genetics, University of Toronto |
| 1998-present | Associate Director, The Centre for Applied Genomics, The Hospital for Sick Children |
| 2000-present | Assistant Professor, Institute of Medical Sciences, University of Toronto |
| 2001-present | Senior Scientist, Dept. of Genetics and Genomic Biology, The Hospital for Sick Children |
AWARDS, HONORS, & APPPOINTMENTS: (examples)
| 1997 | Ranney Award, Etobicoke General Hospital, for contributions to genetics |
| 1997-present | Appointed Senior Editor for the International Genome DataBase (GDB) |
| 1997-present | Appointed member of the Canadian Genetic Diseases Network (CGDN) and Director of the CGDN DNA Sequencing Core Facility |
| 1998-2003 | Scholar, The Medical Research Council of Canada |
| 1998-2003 | Canadian Foundation for Innovation Researcher Award |
| 1999-2002 | Premier's Research Excellence Award |
| 1999 | Canadian International Development Agency (CIDA) Biotechnology Award |
| 2000 | Chair, International Human Genome Organization's (HUGO) Genome Mapping Committee (HGMC) |
| 2000 | Appointed Rett’s Syndrome Scientific Advisory Board |
| 2000 | Recipient of Canada's 'Top 40 Under 40 Award' for scientific excellence in genetic research |
| 2000 | Cure Autism Now Young Scientist Award |
| 2001 | Editor, Pediatric Research |
| 2002 | Honorary Doctorate of Science Degree, University of Windsor (to be awarded June 9th, 2001) |
| 2002 | Canadian Institue for Advanced Research, (CIAR) Young Explorer Award |
| 2002 | Genetics Society of Canada Gold Medal |
RESEARCH PROJECTS:
Currently working to construct a complete gene map of human chromosome 7 as part of the international Human Genome Project. The information is used to identify genes involved in disease. The laboratory has also focused on identifying genes that contribute to brain function and behavioural development, and in particular those that cause epilepsy and autism. In 1998, as part of an international group the gene causing Progressive Myoclonus Epilepsy was identified.
CAREER GOALS:
To continue to supervise an active research laboratory involved in genetic disease and human genome studies. To become a full-Professor at the University of Toronto. Eventually to direct a research institute.
CAREER CHOICE:
In grade 12 read the ‘Double Helix’ by James D. Watson and knew that my future was in the study of DNA and therefore made any sacrifice necessary to get involved in this field (this was just around the same year that I realized I was too small to play in the NHL and my inability to hit to the opposite field would limit aspiration for a career in the Major Leagues).
CAREERS IN SCIENCE:
The future of Canada will depend on the development of a ‘knowledge-based’ work force driven by the availability of highly qualified scientists. Therefore there will be a demand for scientists now and in the future. A successful career as a scientist requires a long investment of time and training and development of a strong discipline and motivation to succeed. The rewards can be life-long career in a field where you are continually challenged and stimulated, surrounded by intelligent people, and always wanting to solve a more difficult problem than the last one. To be successful you will have to work hard, have focus, and often be incredibly stubborn because mother nature does not like to give up her secrets easily.