Michael J. Strong, MD, FRCP(C), FANN, FCAHS
Professor of Neurology and President of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research
Office: London Health Sciences Centre, University Hospital C7-120, CSB 3700
Phone: 519-663-3874
Secretary: Sherry Conrad
Bio Sketch
Dr. Michael J. Strong became the President of the Canadian Institutes of Health Research in October, 2018. Prior to this, he served as the Dean of the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry at Western University where he continues to hold an appointment as a Distinguished University Professor in the Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences, and as a Scientist at the Robarts Research Institute. He was co-chair of the Department of Clinical Neurological Sciences and Chief of Neurology from 2001 – 2010. He undertook his medical training at Queens University in Kingston (1976 – 1982), neurology training at Western University (1982 – 1987), and postgraduate training at the Laboratory of Central Nervous System Studies (director - D. Carleton Gadjusek, Nobel Laureate) at the National Institutes of Health, Bethesda, Maryland under the supervision of Ralph M. Garruto, PhD (1987 - 1990).
He has published over 200 peer-reviewed articles and 29 chapters, edited 4 textbooks and given over 170 invited lectures nationally and internationally related to his research in ALS. Dr. Strong was awarded the Sheila Essay Award in 2005 and the Forbes Norris Award in 2008, and is the only Canadian to have received both international awards for ALS research. He was elected as a fellow of the American Academy of Neurology in 2008. In 2009, he was elected a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences.
His research has focused on understanding the cellular biology of ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) including the role of altered RNA metabolism in the genesis of neuronal cytoplasmic inclusions and in the clinicopathological correlates of the frontotemporal spectrum disorder that can be associated with ALS. The latter has led to an appreciation for the role of alterations in tau protein metabolism in ALS.
Research
Dr. Strong's research has focused on understanding the cellular biology of ALS (Lou Gehrig’s disease) and has led to an understanding of the mechanisms by which intracellular deposits of protein (composed primarily of neurofilament) are formed, and how these aggregates contribute to the disease process of ALS. His research has also contributed to the understanding of neuropsychological deficits in ALS, both clinically and at the cellular level.
Medical Interests
Lou Gehrig's Disease (ALS: degeneration of motor neurons), Motor Neuron Diseases, Neurotoxicity
Honours and Awards
- 2012, Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal
- 2012, Excellence in teaching Award, Western University Students' Council
- 2012, Teaching Honour Roll Certificate, Western University
- 2009, Distinguished University Professorhsip Award, Western University
- 2008, Excellence in Teaching Award, Western University
- 2007, Excellence in Teaching Award, Western University
- 2006, Faculty scholar, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
- 2006, Excellence in Teaching Award, Western University
- 2005, Excellence in Teaching Award, Western University
- 2004, Excellence in Teaching Award, Western University
Publications
News
- Researchers close in on drugs for severe head injury, ALS - CBC London
- London Medical Network announces $6.8 million 3D printing partnership with Western U and Renishaw PLC - Global News
- Freeze on ALS research progress continues - The Varsity
- Rowan's Law: Committee will examine dangers of youth concussions - CBC News
- Our ticket? Health care - London Free Press
- Robarts Clinical Trials moving downtown - The Londoner
- Western University reversing the brain drain in London - London Free Press
- Concussion research and education gets stronger at Western - The Londoner
Social Media Coverage
Background on the research of @WesternU’s Dr. Strong, speaking at the Virtual Research Forum https://t.co/8p5SvuWe06 pic.twitter.com/UHF0dysyc8
— ALS Canada (@ALSCanada) August 2, 2017