Appointments bring broad expertise in innovation, commercialization, public policy and agriculture.
CALGARY, AB – August 25, 2026 – Genome Alberta is pleased to announce the appointment of five new members to its Board of Directors. Allison Swelin, Curtis Clarke, John Wilson, Virgil Lowe and Camille Ryan were appointed following the organization’s Annual General Meeting on June 25, 2026, each serving a three-year term.
The new Directors bring extensive experience spanning technology commercialization, public policy, governance, agriculture, research, and innovation. Their collective expertise will help guide Genome Alberta as it continues to advance genomics innovation and data leadership for the economic and societal benefit of Alberta and beyond.
“Alberta has tremendous opportunity to transform world-class research into technologies, companies and solutions that create lasting economic value. The breadth of experience our new Directors bring—from commercialization and entrepreneurship to agriculture, public policy and governance—will help Genome Alberta strengthen the pathway from discovery to impact while ensuring Alberta remains competitive in an increasingly AI-enabled economy.” – Geoff Pradella, Board Chair, Genome Alberta
Meet Genome Alberta’s New Board Members
Allison Swelin
With more than 18 years of experience in the technology sector, Allison has built and scaled high-growth ventures spanning product development, commercialization, and business strategy. She is a growth advisor, investor, and experienced board member with a strong commitment to advancing innovation, health technologies, and diverse leadership.
Camille (Cami) D. Ryan
Dr. Cami Ryan is a recognized leader in agricultural innovation, sustainability, and science communication with nearly three decades of experience spanning research, industry, governance, and public engagement. A long-time contributor to Canada’s genomics ecosystem, she is widely respected for connecting science, policy, and industry to advance innovation.
Curtis Clarke
Dr. Curtis Clarke is an accomplished public sector executive who has held senior leadership roles across Alberta’s education, advanced education, and justice systems. His extensive governance experience and expertise in strategic policy, organizational leadership, and education bring valuable perspective to Genome Alberta’s Board.
John Wilson
Dr. John Wilson has more than 20 years of experience in technology transfer, innovation, and commercialization across academia and industry. He has held leadership roles with organizations in Canada, the United Kingdom, and the United States, helping translate research into commercial success.
Virgil Lowe
Virgil Lowe has built his career at the intersection of agriculture, business, and innovation, with experience spanning law, industry leadership, entrepreneurship, and global agri-food technology. Raised on a family cattle operation in southern Alberta, he brings firsthand knowledge of the opportunities and challenges facing Canada’s livestock sector.
Genome Alberta also extends its sincere appreciation to outgoing Board members Fred Wrona and Michael Lohuis for their dedicated service and leadership. Their contributions have helped strengthen the organization and advance Genome Alberta’s mission of supporting genomics research and innovation that delivers economic, environmental and societal benefit.
Meet our full Board of Directors
About Genome Alberta
Genome Alberta is working towards a better future through genomics innovation. Our mission is to promote and support genomics solutions to create value and investment opportunities through excellent science, technology and application development, collaborations, and partnerships. We work on priority areas in health, agriculture, environment & energy, and forestry, driving growth across sectors while helping to develop Alberta’s next generation of talented innovators.
