Max Cynader

Max Sigmund Cynader, born on February 24, 1947, in a displaced persons camp in Berlin, is a distinguished Canadian neuroscientist and ophthalmologist. The son of Polish Jews who fled before the Nazi invasion, he emigrated to Canada in 1951. Cynader's academic journey began with a Bachelor of Science degree from McGill University in 1967, followed by a Ph.D. from MIT in 1972. His postdoctoral training at the Max Planck Institute in Germany paved the way for a notable career in neuroscience.

In 1988, Cynader took the helm of the Ophthalmology Research Group at the University of British Columbia, later becoming the founding director of the Brain Research Centre and the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health in 1998. His pioneering research has significantly advanced our understanding of the visual system, particularly its postnatal development. He published groundbreaking studies demonstrating how visual experiences during early life shape the visual cortex, revealing critical periods for ocular dominance and the molecular mechanisms of visual plasticity.

Beyond academia, Cynader has made substantial contributions to technology and biotechnology. He co-founded NeuroVir, a company focused on gene therapy for brain diseases, and Wavemakers Research, which developed innovative noise-reducing technology. His entrepreneurial spirit continues with ventures like Primary Peptides and Synaptitude, both aimed at enhancing brain health.

As a prominent figure in public engagement, Cynader has worked tirelessly to elevate the profile of brain research. He has served as a spokesperson for various health organizations and has been actively involved in fundraising efforts, securing private and governmental support for the Djavad Mowafaghian Centre for Brain Health, which opened in 2014. This state-of-the-art facility represents a significant advancement in neuroscience research in Canada.

In his personal life, Cynader is married to Ann Lynn Langford and is a father to three daughters. He enjoys tennis, photography, and cultivating a collection of succulents in his leisure time.