Arthritis Research Canada Welcomes Two New Scientists to Its Research Team

December 16, 2024 (Vancouver) Arthritis Research Canada, the largest clinical arthritis research centre in North America, is pleased to announce the addition of Dr. Hugues Allard-Chamard and Dr. Maggie Larche to its nationwide team of research scientists.

Dr. Hugues Allard-Chamard is an Associate Professor in the Division of Rheumatology at l’Université de Sherbrooke and a Clinician Scientist at the Clinical Research Centre of the Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Sherbrooke. An accomplished scientist, Dr. Allard-Chamard is engaged in a broad range of translational research to further our understanding of the underlying causes of auto-immune rheumatic diseases, predict disease progression and guide treatment. His current studies are looking into the role of certain types of inflammatory cells, called B cells, genetic factors, and other blood markers on the development of diseases such as rheumatoid arthritis, inflammatory diseases of the muscles, and other rare diseases such as IgG4-related disease and auto-inflammatory disorders.

“I am excited to join Arthritis Research Canada’s multidisciplinary team,” said Dr. Allard-Chamard. “I look forward to contributing to the impactful research being conducted here and finding innovative solutions to improve patient outcomes through evidence-based clinical approaches.”

“I am truly honored and excited to join Arthritis Research Canada’s multidisciplinary team,” said Dr. Allard-Chamard. “Joining ARC allows me to collaborate with some of the leading minds in arthritis research and contribute to groundbreaking studies aimed at transforming patient care. I look forward to applying my expertise in immunology applied to rheumatic diseases to support innovative research initiatives and to develop evidence-based clinical solutions. Together, we can work towards advancing healthcare outcomes and fostering meaningful changes in the management of these challenging diseases.”

Dr. Maggie Larche is a Professor of Medicine and the incoming Division Head for Rheumatology at the Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary. She brings extensive expertise in translational immunology research and clinical research focused on early rheumatoid arthritis, predicting who might get inflammation in their lungs, and the value of using imaging, especially ultrasound, to enhance care. Dr. Larche serves as President of the Canadian Rheumatology Ultrasound Society and has recently taken on the role of Director of the Canadian Scleroderma Research Group, a national network dedicated to studying this rare disease that causes tightening of the skin and scarring of multiple organs. In this role, she is committed to creating research opportunities for trainees and new investigators while deepening the understanding of this rare and complex disease.

“As a rheumatologist committed to improving the lives of people affected by Systemic Autoimmune Rheumatic Diseases, I am eager to collaborate with the talented team at Arthritis Research Canada,” said Dr. Larche. “This is an incredible opportunity to collaborate with leading experts in the field and advance research that will shape the future of arthritis treatment and care.”

With centers across the country, Arthritis Research Canada’s team of world-class scientists is uniquely positioned to find answers to the most pressing issues for people living with arthritis. This breadth of expertise and the critical role of patient partners in our research allows the research team to identify novel ways to help people with arthritis live well despite arthritis.

To learn more about Arthritis Research Canada’s current research, click here.

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ABOUT ARTHRITIS RESEARCH CANADA:

Arthritis Research Canada is the largest clinical arthritis research institution in North America. Our mission is to transform the lives of people impacted by arthritis through patient-centred research and engagement. Arthritis Research Canada’s scientific director, Dr. Diane Lacaille is leading a team of over 100 researchers, trainees and staff whose life-changing research is creating a future where people living with arthritis have the knowledge and tools to triumph over pain and disability. Arthritis Research Canada is now conducting arthritis research from coast to coast with centres in British Columbia, Alberta, Quebec, and Nova Scotia and scientists affiliated with eight major Canadian universities: University of British Columbia, Simon Fraser University, University of Calgary, Université Laval, McGill University, Université de Montréal, Université de Sherbrooke and Dalhousie University. Arthritis Research Canada is leading research aimed at preventing arthritis, facilitating early diagnosis, finding new and better treatments, and improving quality of life.

For more information or to arrange an interview, please contact:

Heather Caulder

Marketing and Communications Officer
Arthritis Research Canada
hcaulder@arthritisresearch.ca