/EINPresswire.com/ -- OTTAWA, ONTARIO -- (Marketwired) -- 07/28/16 -- The Honourable Kirsty Duncan, Minister of Science, made the following announcement today:

"I am pleased to announce the appointment of Mr. Iain Stewart as President of the National Research Council of Canada (NRC), effective August 24, 2016.

"Mr. Stewart brings substantial management experience and knowledge related to science, innovation and economic development policies and programs, as well as a keen interest in supporting science-based research.

"Mr. Stewart comes from the Treasury Board of Canada Secretariat, where he held several senior positions, most recently Associate Secretary. He has also served in a number of leadership positions in the Innovation, Science and Economic Development portfolio. Previously, he was the Assistant Vice-President of Research at Dalhousie University.

"To continue building on the NRC's long and proud history of fundamental science and industry-facing applied research, I have tasked Mr. Stewart to lead the organization in an assessment of how it can continue to support science excellence, business innovation and key technology clusters as part of the Government of Canada's Innovation Agenda.

"Mr. Stewart replaces outgoing President Mr. John McDougall, who has decided to retire from the public service. Ms. Maria Aubrey will continue acting as President of the NRC until Mr. Stewart begins in late August. I want to thank her for her valuable contributions during this time of transition and wish her well when she returns to her substantive position as the NRC's Vice-President, Business and Professional Services.

"I am looking forward to working with Mr. Stewart and the NRC team in their 100th anniversary year as they continue to advance Canadian science and innovation into the 21st century.

"Please join me in congratulating Mr. Stewart on his appointment."

Follow Minister Duncan on social media.

Twitter: @ScienceMin

Instagram: sciencemin

Contacts:
Veronique Perron
Press Secretary
Office of the Minister of Science
343-291-2600

Media Relations
Innovation, Science and Economic Development Canada
343-291-1777
ic.mediarelations-mediasrelations.ic@canada.ca