Global neurology leader makes The Neuro world's first open science institute

MONTREAL, Quebec, Canada, 4 March 2025 - In a comprehensive Genomic Press Interview, distinguished neurologist and geneticist Dr. Guy A. Rouleau, OC, OQ, FRCPC, FRSC, FAAN, outlines his transformative vision for accelerating neurological disease research through open science principles. As Director of The Neuro (Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital) and Chair of McGill University's Department of Neurology and Neurosurgery, Dr. Rouleau is spearheading a revolutionary approach to scientific collaboration that could fundamentally change how brain disease research is conducted worldwide.

"We must be honest and generous and freely share our data and reagents in a timely manner," Dr. Rouleau emphasizes in the interview. "Competition has value, but it must be done in an open manner." This philosophy has driven his establishment of The Neuro as the world's first academic institution fully committed to open science principles through the Tanenbaum Open Science Institute.

With nearly 1,000 peer-reviewed publications cited over 110,000 times, Dr. Rouleau's research has identified dozens of disease-causing genes in conditions including ALS, hereditary neuropathies, epilepsy, schizophrenia, and autism. His current work focuses on understanding and developing treatments for prevalent but often overlooked conditions that significantly impact quality of life, including essential tremor and restless legs syndrome.

The interview reveals how Dr. Rouleau's passion for science began with childhood chemistry experiments - and one memorable explosion at age 12. This early fascination led to a distinguished career combining clinical care with groundbreaking genetic research. "When I started working as a postdoc at Harvard, I discovered the field of genetics. It was absolutely fascinating, and I loved learning as much about genetics as I could," he shares.

Dr. Rouleau's vision extends beyond his own research to transforming how science is conducted. "I have come to believe that science must be done in an open fashion," he states. This commitment to open science raises intriguing questions about how increased data sharing and collaboration could accelerate discoveries in neurological disease research. Could this model be adapted by other institutions globally?

As First Vice-President of the World Federation of Neurology, Dr. Rouleau is well-positioned to influence international research practices. His leadership at The Neuro has already demonstrated the potential of open science, with the institute recruiting over 50 professors and establishing itself as a global neuroscience leader.

The Genomic Press Interview also explores Dr. Rouleau's dedication to mentoring the next generation of scientists, his love of sailing, and his guiding philosophy, borrowed from Marcus Aurelius: "If it is not right, do not do it, if it is not true, do not say it."

Published in the Innovators and Ideas section of Brain Medicine, this interview provides unique insights into the mind of a scientist working to revolutionize both our understanding of neurological diseases and the way research is conducted.

Dr. Guy Rouleau's Genomic Press interview is part of a larger series that highlights the people behind today’s most influential scientific ideas. Each interview in the series offers a blend of cutting-edge research and personal reflections, providing readers with a comprehensive view of the scientists shaping the future. By combining a focus on professional achievements with personal insights, this interview style invites a richer narrative that both engages and educates readers. This format provides an ideal starting point for profiles that delve into the scientist’s impact on the field, while also touching on broader human themes. More information on the research leaders and research rising stars featured by Genomic Press can be found in our publication website: https://genomicpress.kglmeridian.com/.

The full Genomic Press Interview, titled “Guy A. Rouleau: What genetic factors predispose to brain diseases, and how do these genetic variants lead to disease?,” is available on 4 March 2025 in Brain Medicine, offering readers an unparalleled opportunity to explore the thoughts and experiences of one of the most influential minds in neuroscience and neurobiology of brain disorders. The article is freely available online at  https://doi.org/10.61373/bm025k.0014.

About Brain Medicine: Brain Medicine (ISSN: 2997-2639) is a peer-reviewed medical research journal published by Genomic Press, New York. Brain Medicine is a new home for the cross-disciplinary pathway from innovation in fundamental neuroscience to translational initiatives in brain medicine. The journal’s scope includes the underlying science, causes, outcomes, treatments, and societal impact of brain disorders, across all clinical disciplines and their interface.