Who is Fraser Mustard

Dr J. Fraser Mustard is a world leader in early childhood development, and the socio-economic determinants of human development and health. 

His diverse career spans health sciences, research and the public sector. In 1982 he created and established the Canadian Institute for Advanced Research (CIAR). An innovative cross-disciplinary network, CIAR focuses on science, technology, and the effects of economic change on the wellbeing of individuals and societies.

Fraser Mustard’s current work is driven by the need to emphasise to Governments and communities the enormous importance to society of early childhood development in creating competent, productive and healthy populations for the future.

The growing body of research on the brain and Dr Mustard’s own work shows that the experiences of very young children determine brain development affecting their ability to speak and learn, their temperament, behaviour and health, as well as their vulnerability to certain diseases as adults, including addiction and mental illness. 

Dr Mustard is involved with governments in Canada and Australia, with the World Bank, the Inter-American Development Bank, UNICEF and the Aga Khan University In Pakistan.  He also leads The Founders Network, a virtual research organisation that proposes practical solutions to the complex problems facing society and seeks to put research findings and ideas into action in communities worldwide.

Dr Mustard has received numerous awards for his work including the Companion of the Order of Canada. Most recently he was inducted into the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame.