Biography
While working on a doctorate in computer science, Sébastien Lemieux studied methods of three-dimensional computer RNA modeling. He developed a new graph-theory based representation of the molecular structures of RNA that allows a more complete analysis of known structures, and a much more effective modeling method. He also participated in the development of automated tools to identify and classify molecular interactions within the structure of RNA.
Following this work, he did his postdoctoral training at Elitra (now Merck & Co.), where he explored more conventional aspects of bioinformatics, such as sequence analysis, analysis of DNA microarray data, and computer integration of experimental data. During this period, he created a system that predicts genes in the fungal pathogen Aspergillus fumigatus. Using this system, scientists at Elitra were the first to identify a large number of essential genes in this important pathogen.
At IRIC, Sébastien Lemieux’s research revolves around the development of analysis methodologies for analyzing high-throughput data sets. Recent projects involved analysis of microarrays, next-generation sequencing with strong emphasis on RNA-seq, proteomics and high-throughput screening. His broad expertise in bioinformatics lends itself to multiple collaborations with colleagues at IRIC.