Dr. Benoit Cousineau

Associate Professor

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Biography

Benoit Cousineau is an Associate Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology at McGill University. His research focuses on the mechanisms and applications of group II introns, which are mobile ribozymes that play a critical role in splicing pre-mRNA. Cousineau's work investigates the evolutionary aspects of these introns, their mobility, and their use as gene delivery vectors. By employing Lactococcus lactis as a model system, he explores the unique properties of group II introns in bacterial conjugation and trans-splicing. In particular, his laboratory is dedicated to understanding the complex mechanisms that underlie the function of group II introns, including their role in the dissemination among bacterial species. Moreover, Cousineau is also developing innovative vaccination strategies using Lactococcus lactis as a safe antigen carrier for live recombinant vaccines. This research aims to address the challenges associated with traditional vaccination methods by utilizing food-grade bacteria that have been recognized as safe for human use.

Research Interests

Requirements for McGill University

Master Program
Requirements
GPA Requirement
Required:3.2
TOEFL
Listening
Required:20
Reading
Required:20
Writing
Required:20
Speaking
Required:20
Total
Required:86
IELTS
Overall
Required:6.5
Prerequisites
B.Sc. degree or equivalent M.D. degree
Application Checklist
  • Transcripts
  • 2 Letters of Reference
  • CV
  • Personal Statement
  • Confirmation of Supervision
  • Research Project Proposal
Specialization Notes

Department: Department of Medicine. Program: Experimental Medicine.