Nicolas Pineault

Dr. Nicolas Pineault is an Adjunct Professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology at the University of Ottawa’s Faculty of Medicine, as well as a Senior Scientist at Canadian Blood Services’ Centre for Innovation. He holds a BSc in Biochemistry from Laval University (1995) and a PhD in Genetics from the University of British Columbia (2001), followed by postdoctoral training in experimental hemato-oncology at the Terry Fox Laboratory, BC Cancer Agency.

• BSc, Biochemistry (Laval University)
• PhD, Genetics (University of British Columbia)
• Postdoctoral Fellowship, Terry Fox Laboratory, BC Cancer Agency

Dr. Pineault’s research focuses on hematopoietic stem cell (HSC) biology, emphasizing their molecular regulation, ex vivo expansion, and cryopreservation. His work includes developing novel cryosolutions, optimizing stem cell grafts, and employing xenotransplantation models to study HSC engraftment and gene delivery methods. His contributions span cellular engineering, stem cell transplantation, and translational studies in regenerative medicine.

His 15 most recent publications highlight trends in stem cell cryobiology, culture optimization, and platelet engraftment. Key themes include CRISPR/Cas9 gene editing in HSCs, DMSO-free cryosolutions, cytokine-driven expansion protocols, and osteoblast-secreted paracrine factors enhancing platelet recovery. Subfields span ice recrystallization inhibition, CD34+ cell enumeration standardization, and leukemogenic mechanisms via NUP98-HOX fusions.

Scientific awards include the National Blood Foundation Scholar (2009–2011), Berlex Canadian Research Awards (2000, 2003), and multiple travel awards from the American Society of Hematology. He has served as a grant reviewer for NSERC, CFI, and Mitacs, and as an Ambassador at the Centre for Commercialization of Regenerative Medicine (2020–present).

Dr. Pineault supports trainee education (undergraduate to postdoctoral) and contributes to clinical translation through stem cell manufacturing and protocol development for cord blood processing. His work bridges basic research in HSC regulation with applied cellular therapies and bioprocessing innovations.