Elena Kuzmin becomes the first Concordia researcher to be named to the Global Young Academy
Elena Kuzmin, assistant professor of biology and Canada Research Chair in Synthetic and Functional Genomics, has been named a member of the Global Young Academy (GYA) — a first for Concordia.
The GYA, an international network of early-career researchers, recognizes outstanding scientists and provides a platform for global collaboration on key research and policy issues. Membership is highly competitive, with only a select number of scholars admitted each year.
Kuzmin says she is honoured to join this prestigious community: “Being part of the Global Young Academy is an incredible opportunity to contribute to international discussions on science and research while collaborating with top scholars from around the world.”
For Tim Evans, vice-president of research, innovation and impact at Concordia, Kuzmin's membership in the GYA is a proud milestone for the university.
“Elena’s groundbreaking work in functional genomics exemplifies the kind of research that drives impact. She richly deserves this recognition, and I am sure this opportunity to connect with the best and brightest researchers in the world will greatly complement her work,” he says.
Mapping the complexities of genetics
Kuzmin’s research focuses on complex genetic interactions — the way mutations in multiple genes combine to influence biological processes, health conditions and disease predisposition.
Much of genetic research has traditionally examined how single gene mutations cause diseases. Kuzmin’s work, however, explores how multiple genetic variations interact in unpredictable ways, sometimes producing effects that cannot be inferred from studying individual genes alone.
Her team’s work in yeast and human cells has revealed how certain gene combinations can trigger unexpected biological outcomes. A well-known example is synthetic lethality, where two gene mutations that are harmless on their own become deadly when combined. Understanding these interactions is crucial for fields like cancer research, where targeting specific genetic combinations could lead to more effective treatments.
“Every person carries thousands of genetic variants and understanding how these variants interact is key to unlocking new strategies for disease prevention and treatment,” Kuzmin explains.
Her findings have significant implications for precision medicine. By mapping genetic interactions, researchers can better predict how an individual might respond to treatments, such as cancer therapies, antibiotics or immunotherapies.
Kuzmin is also advocating for greater diversity in genetic research. Most studies to date have focused on European populations, but genetic diversity across different ethnic groups is crucial for fully understanding genetic interactions. She says she hopes to see more large-scale sequencing projects that include underrepresented populations and genetic interaction mapping projects.
“This is about building a more complete and accurate picture of human genetics,” she says. “The more we understand about genetic interactions, the better equipped we are to improve health outcomes for people worldwide.”
Learn more about research at Concordia’s Faculty of Arts and Science.
