Dr. Simard earned both his Bachelor of Science in Biochemistry and his Master of Science in Chemistry from Laurentian University. He then completed his PhD in Physiology-Endocrinology at the Université Laval and held post-doctoral fellowships in the United States.
"I am pleased to return to Laurentian University as Dean of Graduate Studies and International," said Dr. Simard. "I believe that Laurentian offers students an ideal environment for advanced learning and I look forward to working collaboratively with faculty, staff, and students to foster an environment where all feel supported and empowered to achieve their full potential."
Prior to returning to Northern Ontario, he served as assistant professor and later associate professor at the Université de Moncton in New Brunswick from 2011 to 2017, where he contributed to the Département de Chimie et Biochimie and the Centre de Formation Médicale du Nouveau-Brunswick. Dr. Simard then accepted an associate professor position at NOSM University in the Division of Medical Sciences in 2017. Since 2020, he has been the Assistant Dean of Graduate Studies at NOSM University and was promoted to full professor on July 1st, 2024.
Dr. Simard has been actively involved on several committees over the years and is a member of the Ontario Council of Graduate Studies. He serves as chair of the Graduate Studies Committee and chair of Masters of Medical Studies Program Committee at NOSM University. He also served as a member of the Research Committee at NOSM University and previously the Graduate Studies Council at Laurentian University and the Graduate studies committee, PhD in Life Sciences at Université de Moncton.
With over 35 published refereed papers since 2001 and supervision of more than 30 students at all academic levels, Dr. Simard has demonstrated dedication to scholarly pursuits and student mentorship. He is also a strong advocate for developing strong international partnerships that promote opportunities for graduate students, research collaborations and serve to enrich learning and understanding.
Dr. Simard’s understanding of the graduate studies landscape in Ontario, his solution driven approach, collaborative demeanor, and commitment to Laurentian University’s tri-cultural mandate will position him well to successfully lead this new portfolio.
Dr. Simard will assume his new role as Dean of Graduate Studies and International on September 1, 2024.