About Defence R&D Canada

Dr. Marc Fortin, Assistant Deputy Minister (Science & Technology) and Chief Executive Officer, Defence R&D Canada – Short Biography

Dr. Marc Fortin is the Assistant Deputy Minister (Science and Technology) of the Department of National Defence and the Chief Executive Officer of Defence R&D Canada.

In his capacity as Assistant Deputy Minister (Science and Technology), Dr. Fortin oversees the Department of National Defence's S&T investment and provides leadership in national issues in defence and security science and technology.

In his capacity as CEO, he leads Defence R&D Canada, which consists of a national network of seven defence research centres with an annual budget of $350 million and a staff of 1700 people in programs addressing a broad range of defence technologies. Defence R&D Canada provides national leadership in defence and security science, and provides scientific advice and products to the Canadian Forces and the Department of National Defence. The defence S&T network extends beyond the Defence Research Centres to encompass partnerships with Canadian industry, universities, and allied defence S&T organizations.

Prior to joining DND and DRDC in 2011, Dr. Fortin has led several research organizations at the national or regional levels, both in academia and government. He was Assistant Deputy Minister (Research) at Agriculture and AgriFood Canada, which is the largest national science and innovation organization in the sector in Canada. There, he spearheaded the creation of a new dialogue with partner organizations that allowed the transition to a state where the clientele has increased capacity for innovation. He has led the development of innovative programs to generate increased engagement of the sector in developing investments and engagement in innovation activities. Prior to joining the Public Service, he led research teams in molecular genetics and biotechnology with national and international partnerships. He was a William Dawson Scholar at McGill University. Dr. Fortin is a graduate of McGill University and of Université Laval, and also conducted research at The University of Chicago and at The University of California at Davis.