St. Mary’s Research Centre recently announced the appointment of Ms. Christina Raneburger as Associate Director of Operations.  She is an undeniable asset who will contribute to the development of this research centre.

Ms. Raneburger is currently on vacation in Austria, her homeland, and kindly took the time to answer a few questions.

Ms. Raneburger, could you please tell us a bit about your impressive professional background?

“For the past four years I have been the Associate Director of the Administrative Excellence Centre of the Faculty of Medicine and Health Sciences at McGill University. I was responsible for managing, planning, organizing, and directing the operation of four departments, namely faculty affairs, human resources, financial resources, and graduate training programs. Concurrently, I also managed special projects and the creation of strategic partnerships, in collaboration with the clinical department directors.

Prior to that, I was the administrative director of the International Health Unit at the Université de Montréal, and the Commercial Relations Officer with the Austrian Consulate in Montréal.”

Why did you choose St. Mary’s Research Centre?

“There is no doubt in my mind that research is fundamental to the well-being of a society. It touches on everything and contributes, among other things, to identifying health remedies. The research sector is very active and brings hope, two aspects I find very stimulating.

Furthermore, I have a real admiration for Dr. Ari Meguerditchian, who is a renowned oncologist.  And better yet, I share the core values of St. Mary’s Hospital Center, which is a beautiful and culturally diverse community facility.”

What is your vision of a research centre?

“First and foremost, a research centre must be a stimulating environment for its researchers. It must therefore do everything possible to facilitate their work and be constantly attentive to their needs. More often than not research is complex, and so I want to make sure that the processes surrounding it are kept as simple, by limiting irritants as much as possible.

Our researchers are, in fact, micro-businesses. To help them flourish, they must be allowed to express themselves freely. For them to “make things happen,” they have access to the levers of success. St. Mary’s Research Centre is a diamond in the rough requiring the utmost care. I am certain that, with time, it will become a jewel that will be the envy of others!”

What do you hope to contribute to St. Mary’s Research Centre?

Without a doubt, great accessibility to our team of researchers is at the top of the list. I am very comfortable with an “open door” management approach. I like impromptu discussions, no matter the topic. We can talk about concerns, success stories, missteps, or other issues. I also want to ensure that our activities garner the best possible visibility, in particular by demystifying research, through knowledge transfer, and by highlighting our researchers. And finally, I intend to develop as many local, national, and international partnerships as possible. Such partnerships are excellent for stimulating research.”

What challenges are you looking to take on in your new role?

“For as long as I can remember, I have always liked to launch and foster projects. Sticking to the beaten path brings me little satisfaction. So I will do everything possible to leave my mark as the Associate Director of Operations at St. Mary’s Research Centre. I am certain that alongside Dr. Ari Meguerditchian and his wonderful team, there will be many opportunities for me to achieve my goals.