Profile: Manjeet Sethi

Putting science to practical use

Science solves real-life problems at the Canadian Food Inspection Agency (CFIA), says Dr. Manjeet Sethi. And that’s what makes his job so exciting.

As Director of Research and Development in the Science Branch, Manjeet sees first-hand how leading-edge science is put to practical use in such areas as food safety, and plant and animal health. Ultimately that research is making the world a better place, he says.

Furious paddling

“Certainly, the public knows the Agency mainly for its food recalls and emergency responses,” Manjeet says. “But like a duck swimming calmly up a river, there’s a lot of furious paddling below the surface.” That unseen furious paddling is the Science Branch at work.

The Science Branch develops new scientific methods, tests and evidence to support the Agency’s work. It also provides scientific advice and conducts laboratory testing in the areas of food safety and plant and animal health.

Breaking ground with new research

Manjeet’s own work focuses on two areas: overseeing the approval of new research and working with partners outside the Agency on joint research projects. And some of those projects involve international partnerships.

“I’ve always been interested in research, in learning and discovering new things. I’m very lucky that I’ve been able to put that interest to work,” he says.

Manjeet’s science career began in India, with a degree in veterinary sciences and a master’s in Veterinary Public Health. He earned his doctorate in Canada in veterinary immunology.

His public service career began in Ottawa, but his career path has taken him to other parts of the country before returning him to Ottawa to his current job, one he relishes.

Leading-edge science

“I really enjoy learning whatever I can about leading-edge science,” he says, and then seeing those findings used. In fact, Manjeet says that one of the biggest changes for him has been gaining a better understanding of how to translate research findings into practical applications.

“It’s about taking something theoretical and making it practical, putting it to use. To me, that’s what science at the CFIA is all about—finding solutions to real-life problems and having a positive impact on people, not just in Canada but around the world.”

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