Dr. Proton Rahman

2016 Distinguished Investigator Award

Professor Proton Rahman is a Rheumatologist and genetic epidemiologist from St. John’s, NL who is recognized worldwide for his research on the genomics of rheumatic diseases. After completing medical and advanced research training at Memorial University and the University of Toronto, Dr. Rahman established a research program in the genetic epidemiology of the spondyloarthropathies at Memorial University.

Over the last 15 years, Dr. Rahman has been successful in obtaining 68 million dollars in research grants and has contributed to the publication of over 200 papers, and has an impressive H-Index of 49. His research program has identified a number of genetic markers for spondyloarthritis. Dr. Rahman’s most significant contribution to the advancement of science in Canada was in developing the Newfoundland Genealogy Database, providing extended pedigree information for over 550,000 Newfoundlanders.  These extended pedigrees enable health researchers to identify relationships among individuals involved in studies or receiving a particular course of treatment, thus helping to determine where genetic links could have an effect on a disease or treatment outcome.

Dr. Rahman has also been a terrific mentor; he has supervised 18 graduate students and post-doctoral trainees, many of whom are currently faculty members in universities across Canada.

Dr. Rahman is currently a University Research Professor as well as the Associate Dean for Clinical Research at Memorial. Significant awards he has received include Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences, The Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal, Canada’s Top 40 under 40, Biotechnology Leadership Award, CRA Young Investigator, CIHR New Investigator Award, and the Arthritis Society Junior Scholar Award.

Professor Rahman has proven himself to be a brilliant researcher who has quietly developed a cutting-edge research program for understanding the genomics of rheumatic and other diseases and is making a significant impact on improving the lives of Canadians living with arthritis.