News
News: Outreach Pilot Project comes to life
May 24, 2022
Fourth-year dentistry students headed off campus to experience the delivery of dental care in multi-faceted community clinics working with vulnerable populations.
Announcement: Dr. Vladimir Hachinski honoured with 2022 Potamkin Prize
May 20, 2022
Often described as the “Nobel Prize of Alzheimer's research," the Potamkin Prize recognizes the achievements of scientific researchers who do innovative work, find groundbreaking discoveries, and push forward the field of study in Pick’s, Alzheimer’s, and related brain degenerative diseases.
Feature: The path to sustainable dentistry
May 19, 2022
Dr. Les Kalman recently contributed to the Consensus on Environmentally Sustainable Oral Healthcare, an international, industry-wide statement outlining the challenges and solutions to improving sustainability in dentistry.
Announcement: Dr. Jeffrey Turnbull named honorary degree recipient
May 19, 2022
Dr. Turnbull is a physician leader, advocate and a humanitarian who has dedicated much of his career to caring for vulnerable populations.
Research: New study shows significant gains from computer-based depression treatment
May 18, 2022
A new international study has found computer-based cognitive behavioural therapy (CCBT) has significantly greater impact in treating depression among adults than treatment as usual (TAU).
Research: How far can we push MRI to characterize tissue microscopic properties?
May 18, 2022
Corey Baron, PhD, Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Diffusion Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is developing imaging biomarkers for ultra-high field MRI to learn more about the brain and improve disease diagnosis.
Announcement: Second iteration of CaRMS results released
May 17, 2022
All students who entered the second iteration were successfully matched.
Neuroscience initiative will focus on biotherapeutics and Parkinson's disease
May 12, 2022
Lisa Saksida, Canada Research Chair and Ravi Menon, PhD hope to move brain research from the lab to the real-world, benefitting patients as quickly as possible.
News: Researchers use social network analysis to model virus evolution
May 11, 2022
New research led by Art Poon, PhD suggests some viruses evolve more like a dynamic social network – recombining with one another to create a web of intersecting subtypes.
Call for Applications: Academy of Educators
May 10, 2022
The MD Program is seeking 20 faculty to join the Academy of Educators starting with the upcoming academic year, starting July 1st, 2022.
Announcement: Angela Huynh receives 2022 CMA Award
May 09, 2022
The third-year medical student is being recognized for her outstanding research contributions focused on guidelines for COVID-19 vaccine administration.
Announcement: Dr. David Litchfield appointed Director, Research Infrastructure
May 06, 2022
This new position is critical to our School’s research enterprise and will play a pivotal role in implementing our new five-year Strategic Plan.
New census report offers first-time insight on gender diversity
May 05, 2022
Greta Bauer, PhD, weighs in on the historic report that enabled people to distinguish their lived gender from their sex at birth.
Research: Study targets illusive staph bacteria
May 04, 2022
A team of researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry have discovered how the bacteria Staphylococcus aureus produces bloodstream infections by manipulating the immune system.
Research: Unraveling the mysteries of cancer and neurodegeneration
May 02, 2022
Scientists Drs. Kun Ping Lu and Xiao Zhen Zhou are studying a stress response enzyme involved in a puzzling inverse relationship between cancer and Alzheimer’s disease.
Research: New imaging technique an early indicator of treatment response
April 29, 2022
Ting-Yim Lee, PhD pioneered the methods and software used for CT-perfusion imaging to measure blood flow in various tissues including the brain, tumors and the heart.
Feature: Bringing world perspectives to research
April 27, 2022
Dr. Saverio Stranges is committed to creating an equitable and inclusive environment, as well as championing research with global impact, as he begins his second term as Chair, Epidemiology and Biostatistics.
Feature: State-of-the-art equipment to advance translational research
April 27, 2022
New imaging equipment mirrors what’s found in clinical settings and will support collaborative, multidisciplinary research that bridges from bench to bedside.
News: Students bring home prize for health tech go-to market pitch
April 26, 2022
A cross-faculty team of students was among the winners at the recent Proteus Innovation Competition, an event that brings students together to propose viable paths to market for novel technologies.
News: Inaugural neuroscience fellows looking to make a difference
April 25, 2022
Kathleen Lyons and Roberto Budzinski are two of three newly named inaugural research fellows of the Western Institute of Neuroscience who will be exploring novel ways to study the brain.
Learner Perspectives: Dental student Delainey Mattern on building cultural sensitivities and awareness
April 22, 2022
Having recently discovered her Métis identity, Mattern is on a journey of exploration and hopes to inspire her classmates to learn about and support Indigenous communities.
Funding: Designing frugal medical devices among projects receiving Western strategic grants
April 22, 2022
An interdisciplinary group of scientists is developing ways to redress inequities in Canadian and global health - one of 24 change-making projects awarded grants totalling $13.3 million.
Feature: Driving randomized trials for global impact
April 21, 2022
Dr. Amit Garg is leading a new initiative at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and Western University that will support and enable researchers to conduct randomized trials that directly influence health care.
Commentary: Researchers urge legislation to end organ donation anonymity
April 21, 2022
A team of researchers is calling for an end to a long-held, strict policy of anonymity in organ donations, pushing for new legislation that will allow donor families to connect with organ recipients, if they choose to.
Feature: Multidisciplinary research takes centre stage
April 20, 2022
Schulich Dentistry Research Day featured 22 student oral presentations tackling oral health problems and offering solutions from a range of disciplines.
Feature: Championing peer support
April 19, 2022
Meet six faculty leaders serving as champions and Wellbeing Leads for Schulich Medicine & Dentistry’s Peers for Peers program. Learn about their experiences providing emotional support and resources to clinical colleagues across the School.
Announcement: Dr. David Hess re-appointed as Sheldon H. Weinstein Endowed Chair in Diabetes Research
April 19, 2022
Dr. David Hess has been re-appointed as the Sheldon H. Weinstein Endowed Chair in Diabetes Research at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective February 1, 2022 to January 31, 2027.
Research: New research targets faster diagnosis for Parkinson’s patients
April 18, 2022
Dr. Penny MacDonald and Ali Khan, PhD, are part of the McGill-Western Initiative for Translational Neuroscience research project investigating the use of biomarkers for faster diagnosis of Parkinson's disease.
Research: Changing lives at home and abroad
April 14, 2022
The long-standing epilepsy program led by Drs. Jorge Burneo and David Steven is gaining international attention for innovative patient care, research and clinical training.
Research: Finding treatments for brain diseases
April 13, 2022
Multidisciplinary teams of researchers are exploring innovative ways to develop breakthrough treatments for neurodegenerative diseases.
Announcement: 2022 CaRMS Match Results
April 13, 2022
The first iteration results are a testament to the resilience of the Class completing their training in highly uncertain times.
Research: Researcher turns to big data in hunt for HIV cure
April 11, 2022
Roux-Cil Ferreira, PhD, is using bioinformatics to unlock the mystery of the ‘disappearing’ virus.
Awards: Western honours outstanding educators
April 08, 2022
The 2021-2022 Western Awards for Excellence in Teaching have been announced recognizing faculty for actively engaging and inspiring students. Congratulations to Sarah McLean, PhD, Cheryle Séguin, PhD, and the Anatomy Education Team.
News: 2022 Alumni of Distinction Award recipients
April 07, 2022
The 2022 Alumni of Distinction Award recipients are international leaders, accomplished scholars, community advocates and trailblazers in their fields.
News: Western crew preps Space Station-bound astronaut for Ax-1 mission
April 06, 2022
Dr. Adam Sirek and researchers at Western's Institute for Earth and Space Exploration are working with entrepreneur and philanthropist Mark Pathy to help him fulfill his 10-day mission to space.
Funding: Seed funding advances new research collaborations
April 05, 2022
Seven research teams have received funding through the School’s Collaborative Research Seed Grants program.
Commentary: Proposed dental program benefits Canadian health care
April 04, 2022
Dr. Noha Gomaa says the proposed national dental program under the new Liberal-NDP agreement will make dental care accessible to those most in need and its impact will reach far beyond dental health.
Announcement: Celebrating the 2022 Awards of Excellence recipients
March 31, 2022
The 2022 Awards of Excellence recipients enrich life and learning at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry each and every day. Their commitment to the School’s mission, their innovative approaches to their work, and their leadership distinguishes them. It is with great pride that we recognize and honour their achievements.
Research: Preventing the long-term consequences of mental illness
March 31, 2022
Dr. Elizabeth Osuch works with young people experiencing mood and anxiety disorders, aiming to identify and treat the disorders early to improve recovery and prevent long-term consequences.
Feature: Inspiring youth in Southwestern Ontario
March 30, 2022
A student leader with Discovery Healthcare, Valerie Steckle is helping revamp the summer camp experience for high schoolers across the region.
News: Indigenous graduation 'a day of celebration'
March 30, 2022
Medical student Ryan Brooks is among 20 Western students participating in a special graduation ceremony for Indigenous students on April 1.
Feature: Kick-starting education research
March 24, 2022
The Faculty Support for Research in Education grants serve as a catalyst for new and innovative research projects.
Feature: Study looks at brain lesions as early predictors of dementia
March 23, 2022
Researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry have identified how specific lesions in the brain could be used as early predictors of cognitive decline and identify those who are at high risk of developing dementia.
News: LUC3 winds down operations after two years of supporting COVID-19 patients
March 23, 2022
After two years of successfully supporting COVID-19 patients and the Southwestern Ontario health care network during the pandemic, the London Urgent COVID-19 Care Clinic (LUC3) is wrapping up its operations in late March 2022.
Feature: New Western specialization links AI and health research
March 21, 2022
A new specialization at Western University will offer graduate students expertise in artificial intelligence, machine learning and health care and medicine. Ali Khan, Assistant Professor, Medical Biophysics and Medical Imaging, will act as director of the new specialization.
In Memoriam: Dr. John Sangster
March 21, 2022
It is with great sadness that we share the news of the sudden passing of Dr. John Sangster, Professor Emeritus, Family Medicine.
Feature: Scholarships strengthen support for promising, diverse students
March 18, 2022
Two new scholarships are improving student access for under-represented and equity-deserving groups.
News: Dr. Subrata Chakrabarti named Distinguished University Professor
March 17, 2022
Dr. Subrata Chakrabarti will be named a Distinguished University Professor next month, an honour accorded to Western University faculty members with outstanding careers in teaching, research and leadership.
Announcement: Dr. Maria Jacinta Santos extended appointment as Assistant Dean, Learner Experience (Dentistry)
March 17, 2022
We are pleased to announce that Dr. Maria Jacinta Santos has agreed to an extension of her appointment as the Assistant Dean, Learner Experience (Dentistry), at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective March 1, 2022, to June 30, 2022.
Funding: Clinical researchers awarded $2.7 million to fund innovative projects
March 16, 2022
More than $2.7 million has been awarded to clinical researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry through AMOSO.
Feature: A service-oriented approach to leadership
March 14, 2022
As the new Vice Dean and Director of Schulich Dentistry, Dr. Carlos Quiñonez is looking forward to learning, engaging with the School community and building relationships. “I’m here to be of service.”
Announcement: 2022 Awards of Excellence - Windsor Campus Recipients
March 14, 2022
The Awards of Excellence – Windsor Campus celebrate the commitment and dedication of faculty, staff and learners. The recipients are being recognized for their leadership, dedication and their support of their colleagues across the School.
Commentary: ‘We’re not better now’: Canada’s health care providers need well-being supports, stat
March 11, 2022
It's been two years since the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic. Drs. Andrea Lum and Laura Foxcroft write that now, more than ever, robust well-being supports are needed for Canada’s health care providers.
News: Student-led STEM conference promotes diversity
March 11, 2022
Students at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and Western University are hosting the two-day Inspiring Diversity in STEM conference on March 12 and 13. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will deliver the closing remarks, joining 17 other speakers and presenters.
‘Because of COVID’: Western experts weigh in on two years of pandemic
March 10, 2022
On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic. Two years later, experts from Western University and Schulich Medicine & Dentistry reflect on the lessons we've learned amid the COVID-19 crisis.
Research: Deer likely transmitted coronavirus to a human
March 09, 2022
A new study, co-authored by Jennifer Guthrie, PhD, found white-tailed deer in Ontario likely passed the SARS-CoV-2 virus on to a human.
Announcement: Dr. Carlos Quiñonez appointed Vice Dean and Director, Schulich Dentistry
March 04, 2022
Dr. Carlos Quiñonez, DMD, MSc, PhD, FRCD(C), has been appointed to the position of Vice Dean and Director, Dentistry at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective June 1, 2022 to May 31, 2027.
Research: Understanding the correlation between HIV and oral health
March 03, 2022
With a passion for public health dentistry, Dr. Abbas Jessani aims to improve the oral health of underserved populations.
Feature: On the frontlines of health care assessment and improvement
March 02, 2022
An expert in the mathematical modelling of infectious disease, Lauren Cipriano, PhD, is working on a several critical research projects, including COVID-19, antimicrobial resistance and health technology.
Feature: Peer program supports wellness
March 01, 2022
A new peer support program created by dentistry and medicine students has become part of the comprehensive wellness delivery program at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry.
Feature: Physical activity reduces risks of severe COVID-19 outcomes, study shows
March 01, 2022
Moderate physical activity in adults is associated with significant protective effects from severe COVID-19 outcomes, a new international study shows.
Learner Perspectives: Dr. Curtis Van Doormaal on the inspiration and influence of family
February 28, 2022
When Dr. Curtis Van Doormaal was 11, his mother died from cancer. He says this big and very specific moment in his life had a profound impact on him and his future.
In Memoriam: Dr. Robert Murray
February 28, 2022
It is with great sadness that we announce the passing of Dr. Robert Murray, former Head, Department of Bacteriology and Immunology.
Announcement: Drs. Keith Sequeira and Robert Teasell appointed interim Co-Chair/Chiefs, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
February 25, 2022
Dr. Keith Sequeira and Robert Teasell have been re-appointed as interim Co-Chair/Chiefs of the Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, and its teaching hospitals, London Health Sciences Centre and St. Joseph's Health Care London, effective February 1, 2022, to June 30, 2022, or until or until a new Chair is appointed.
Research: Concussion blood test begins pivotal clinical trial
February 24, 2022
Leveraging biomarkers and artificial intelligence, the test could be a game changer for concussion diagnosis and management.
Research: Investigating the causes of osteoarthritis
February 24, 2022
Frank Beier, PhD, Canada Research Chair (Tier 1) in Musculoskeletal Research, is investigating the mechanisms that cause and drive osteoarthritis.
Awards: Dr. Noha Gomaa receives Colgate Award for Research Excellence
February 24, 2022
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry’s Dr. Noha Gomaa, Assistant Professor, Oral Medicine and Associate Director for Dentistry Research, is a recipient of the Colgate Award for Research Excellence.
Feature: Thinking big
February 23, 2022
As Chair/Chief of the Department of Otolaryngology – Head & Neck Surgery, Dr. Kevin Fung isn’t so much its leader as the conductor of an orchestra. And the music his department makes is being heard around the world.
Feature: Researchers receive CFI funding to develop suite of molecular profiles for chronic diseases
February 23, 2022
A new project led by Drs. Tom Appleton, Geoffrey Pickering and Samuel Asfaha has received more than $531,000 in federal funding through the Canada Foundation for Innovation’s John R. Evans Leaders Fund.
Expert Explainer: How new COVID-19 variants evolve and emerge
February 18, 2022
Michael Clarke, PhD, explains natural selection and its role in the evolution of SARS-CoV-2.
Feature: Bell-Western 5G network enabling solutions to real-world challenges
February 17, 2022
Paul Frewen, PhD, is working to test real-time, 360-degree virtual teaching – allowing students to virtually attend classes or labs – as part of eight new Western-funded projects utilizing the University’s unique Bell-Western 5G network.
Feature: Nurturing leadership in postgraduate medical education
February 15, 2022
Faculty, staff and learners in Postgraduate Medical Education are creating unique learning opportunities and contributing to the knowledge of practice at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry.
Feature: Study provides new insight into brain’s attempts at psychosis recovery
February 15, 2022
A new study from Dr. Lena Palaniyappan is challenging long-held notions about brain deterioration in patients with psychotic disorders, and may help improve treatment protocols.
Faculty Profile: Innovating in neuroscience and engineering
February 14, 2022
Dr. Victor Yang, an innovative neuroscientist and biomedical engineer, is bringing the next phase of his research to Schulich Medicine & Dentistry.
Research: Over-the-counter meds offer same level of pain relief as opioids
February 11, 2022
Joy McDermid, PhD, is co-author of a new North American study that found over-the-counter medications are just as effective as opioids for patient pain management following carpal tunnel surgery.
Expert Explainer: The art and science of enjoying exercise in the cold
February 08, 2022
Dr. Jane Thornton offers insight into embracing your inner Winter Olympian and the science behind winter activity.
Feature: Enabling the changemakers of tomorrow
February 08, 2022
A new award increases equitable access to MD+ for all students.
Feature: Social contact key to overcoming mental health stigma
February 07, 2022
A new Western University-led study, involving Schulich Medicine & Dentistry professors, offers promising next steps in changing public perceptions around mental health.
Funding: CIHR announces Project Grant recipients
February 04, 2022
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) have announced more than $7.7 million in research funding through their project grants competition for 10 projects at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry.
Feature: Purple Hands reach out to help London’s vulnerable populations
February 04, 2022
A group of students at Western University, including some from Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, are helping tackle homelessness through engagement and education.
Feature: Empowering dentistry students for career success
February 03, 2022
Donor-funded clinic upgrades bring a new level of professionalism and innovation to clinical training.
Feature: Addressing the barriers in medical school admissions
February 02, 2022
A new partnership comes to life, enriching support for under-represented students in medicine.
Feature: Global vaccine equity key to ending COVID-19 pandemic
February 02, 2022
As the COVID-19 crisis continues around the world, public health and infectious disease experts at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry are pushing for global vaccine equity to end the pandemic.
Announcement: Dr. Scott McKay appointed Chair/Chief of the Department of Family Medicine
February 01, 2022
Dr. Scott McKay has been appointed as the Chair/Chief of the Department of Family Medicine at the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, Western University effective February 1, 2022 to March 31, 2027.
Feature: Alzheimer support leads to $1.3B in health-care savings
February 01, 2022
Lisa Saksida, Scientific Director of BrainsCAN and Scientist at Robarts Research Institute, was involved in a new survey report that found Alzheimer’s Society of Ontario programs and services deliver savings of $1.3 billion to the province’s health care system.
Announcement: Dr. John Fuller appointed interim Chair/Chief, Department of Anesthesia & Perioperative Medicine
February 01, 2022
Dr. John Fuller has been appointed interim Chair/Chief of the Department of Anesthesia & Perioperative Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective December 16, 2021 to December 31, 2022 or until a permanent Chair/Chief is appointed.
Feature: Treating dementia before it happens
January 31, 2022
Dr. Vladimir Hachinski is taking a unique approach to identifying dementia risk factors and developing strategies for prevention.
Learner Perspectives: Public health student Amani Hamadi on removing cultural barriers and shattering the stigma for women pursuing education
January 28, 2022
With a passion for education, Hamadi hopes to one day become the person she says she needed and wanted when she was younger – a mentor and a role model.
News: Schulich Dentistry set to launch new oral health community outreach pilot project
January 27, 2022
The project was created to provide dentistry students with a more robust and person-centred education and training experience while improving access to care for underserved communities.
Announcement: Dr. Luciano Sposato re-appointed as The Kathleen & Dr. Henry Barnett Chair in Stroke Research
January 27, 2022
Dr. Luciano Sposato has been re-appointed as The Kathleen & Dr. Henry Barnett Chair in Stroke Research, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective February 1, 2022 to January 31, 2027.
Research: How can we improve mental health at the population level?
January 26, 2022
Kelly Anderson, PhD, Canada Research Chair (Tier 2) in Public Mental Health Research, is using population data to better understand the distribution of mental health disorders and patterns of service use.
Feature: Collaborating for teaching and research success
January 25, 2022
A ‘human first' approach to leadership enables Alison Allan, PhD, to succeed in her role as Chair of the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology.
News: Dental clinic changes enrich training and care
January 25, 2022
Recent developments in Dentistry are making an impact, as the Dentistry Surgical Care Unit re-opens to patients and clinic upgrades enhance training and patient care.
Research: Study examines new forms of treatment for those suffering from post-traumatic stress disorder
January 25, 2022
In a new study, Dr. Ruth Lanius is looking at a form of treatment called deep brain reorienting for those suffering from PTSD.
Feature: Strengthening peer support for clinical faculty
January 24, 2022
The Peers for Peers program developed at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry continues to strengthen faculty well-being and is now making an impact nationally as the pandemic wears on.
Alumni: Dr. Roberta Bondar, MSc’71, DSc’95, trailblazer in space, explorer on Earth
January 21, 2022
Thirty years after her historic flight, Canada’s first female astronaut inspires wonder in our natural world.
Feature: Splitting or sprouting? Researchers shed new light on blood vessel regeneration
January 20, 2022
Novel findings by Dr. Geoffrey Pickering are providing new insight into how damaged blood vessels regenerate.
Feature: Leading the way in digital health
January 18, 2022
The Cardiac Arrhythmia Network of Canada is expanding its digital health platform with the goal of transforming care and empowering patients.
Frank Beier renewed as Canada Research Chair in Musculoskeletal Research
January 14, 2022
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry professor Frank Beier, PhD, has been renewed as the Canada Research Chair in Musculoskeletal Research (Tier 1).
Research: Western-trained Egyptologist ‘unwraps’ mummy mystery
January 13, 2022
Paleoradiologist Sahar Saleem, PhD, uses CT scans to reveal Amenhoptep I secrets .
Feature: Blocking a gene pathway could be key to curbing obesity
January 11, 2022
A lab led by Silvia Penuela, PhD, has discovered deleting a specific gene in male mice results in a reduction in fat and an increase in muscle mass equivalent to working out one hour per day, five days a week for six weeks.
Research: Developing low-cost microscopes for early malaria detection
January 10, 2022
Ian Cunningham, PhD, is working to help people in Uganda have better access to life-saving testing and early diagnosis of malaria.
In Memoriam: Dr. Martin Hollenberg
January 07, 2022
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry is mourning the death of Dr. Martin Hollenberg, who served as Dean of the School from 1978 to 1985.
Awards: Faculty, learners honoured with CAME Awards
January 06, 2022
Drs. Bertha Garcia and Patricia Valcke were named recipients of CAME 2022 Certificate of Merit Awards. Learners Max Stone, Olivia Ghosh-Swaby and Dr. Beatrice Preti were also named CAME Rising Star Certificate of Excellence recipients.
Announcement: Dr. Michael Ott appointed interim Chair/Chief, Department of Oncology
January 06, 2022
Dr. Michael Ott has been appointed interim Chair/Chief, Department of Oncology effective January 1, 2022.
Dr. Caitlin Symonette named to London Inc.’s 20 under 40
January 05, 2022
Assistant Professor Dr. Caitlin Symonette has been named to London Inc.’s 20 Under 40 Class of 2021. The program celebrates younger Londoners who are moving the city forward.
Feature: Tackling London’s health challenges through community-engaged learning
December 21, 2021
A community-engaged learning course for undergraduate medical science students is connecting learners with the London community to address some of the Forest City’s pressing health issues.
Honour: Dr. Vladimir Hachinski acknowledged at T.S. Srinivasan Knowledge Conclave in India
December 21, 2021
Dr. Vladimir Hachinski was recently honoured at the T.S. Srinivasan Knowledge Conclave in India in recognition of his contributions to neuroscience research.
Feature: Novel approach to COVID-19 vaccine shows early promise
December 20, 2021
Early studies in mice show a potential vaccine developed by Schulich Medicine & Dentistry researchers could produce stronger and longer lasting immunity to fight against variants.
News: Staff recognized for going ‘above and beyond’
December 17, 2021
Melanie Katsivo Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Specialist, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, is a 2021 recipient of the annual Western Award of Excellence.
Announcement: Dr. Michael Motolko’s appointment as Chair/Chief, Department of Ophthalmology extended
December 17, 2021
Dr. Michael Motolko’s appointment as Chair/Chief, Department of Ophthalmology in the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University and London Health Sciences Centre and St. Joseph's Health Care London has been extended. The additional term is effective December 1, 2021, to June 30, 2022, or until a new Chair is appointed, whichever is sooner.
Honour: Dr. Michael Rieder named British Pharmacological Society Fellow
December 17, 2021
Dr. Michael Rieder has been named a Fellow by the British Pharmacological Society for his contributions to pharmacology research.
Learner Perspectives: Medical student Ziad Sabaa-Ayoun on the power of conversation
December 16, 2021
As Ziad Sabaa-Ayoun completes his fourth year of the Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, he’s reflecting on the power of conversation that he’s enjoyed through his podcast, Multipotent MD, through patient care, and with his mentors and colleagues.
Announcement: Dr. David Driman appointed Chair/Chief of the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
December 16, 2021
We are pleased to announce that Dr. David Driman has been appointed as the Chair/Chief of the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective December 1, 2021 to November 30, 2026.
Feature: Contributing to a mental health-informed community
December 15, 2021
Dr. Jennifer Grbevski, PGY4 and Psychiatry Chief Resident, is passionate about improving mental health care in her hometown of Windsor.
Honour: Bridget Ryan named AMS Fellow in Compassion and Artificial Intelligence
December 15, 2021
Bridget Ryan, PhD, was named a 2021 Research Fellow in Compassion and Artificial Intelligence by AMS Healthcare.
Feature: Adding layers of understanding
December 14, 2021
Sasha Dowhayko, Medicine Class of 2022, draws on his experiences in nursing, psychiatric care and community health outreach on his journey to becoming a physician.
Feature: Facilitating a collaborative learning process
December 13, 2021
Dr. Nicole Hugel’s passion for medical education has led her back to Schulich Medicine & Dentistry as a faculty member and a student in the Master of Health Professions Education program.
Feature: Study dispels harmful gender dysphoria myth
December 09, 2021
A first-of-its-kind study by Greta Bauer, PhD, and her team at Trans Youth CAN! dispels a controversial gender dysphoria theory that activists and experts have called inaccurate and harmful to transgender people.
Funding: Drs. Glenn Bauman, Richard Kim awarded funding from the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research
December 09, 2021
Researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry are among the recipients of new funding from the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR).
Feature: Artificial intelligence helps improve outcomes for depression treatment
December 08, 2021
Shehzad Ali, PhD, was the lead health economist on a first-of-its-kind clinical trial that shows the benefits of AI for mental health care.
Feature: SEED grows education capacity at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry
December 08, 2021
The Schulich Education Enhancement Division is building capacity to create high-impact, innovative and student-centred learning experiences so students can thrive and grow.
News: Researchers receive Arthritis Society funding
December 07, 2021
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry Professors Joy MacDermid, PhD, and David Holdsworth, PhD, have been awarded research funding through the Arthritis Society's Ignite Research Grant.
Schulich Medicine alumna named among Canada’s Top 40 Under 40
December 03, 2021
Dr. Teresa Purzner, MD’09, was recognized for her impact in paediatric cancer research and neurosurgery, and her achievements in business.
Research: New study led by Jason Gilliland reveals pandemic impact on Canadian youth
December 03, 2021
Positive coping strategies saved teens during COVID-19 first wave,
News: Saumik Biswas pitching business at Western Angels’ Demo Day
December 02, 2021
Saumik Biswas, PhD, is pitching his medical technology company, Tenomix, to potential investors as part of Western Angels’ Demo Day.
World AIDS Day: Jessica Prodger, PhD, helps bring HIV cure within reach
December 01, 2021
Prodger, a professor of immunology and microbiology at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, is a co-lead investigator in Weill Cornell Medicine’s new five-year, US $28.5 million Martin Delaney Collaboratory grant from the NIH.
Award: Alumni receive recognition from College of Family Physicians of Canada
November 26, 2021
Dr. Rick Glazier, MD’79, received the Lifetime Achievement in Family Medicine Research Award and Dr. Jane Philpott, MD’84, was presented with the W. Victor Johnston Award.
Funding: Researchers awarded $2M to study genetic links between diabetes and osteoarthritis
November 25, 2021
Matthew Grol, PhD, and co-investigators will study the genetic causes behind sarcopenia, a condition associated with Type 2 diabetes and osteoarthritis, thanks to a Diabetes Mechanisms and Translational Solutions Team Grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research.
Feature: Building strong relationships
November 25, 2021
Dr. Ali Tassi is committed to supporting learners and championing forward-thinking educational initiatives as a faculty member, mentor and leader.
Award: Ontario College of Family Physicians celebrates outstanding physicians
November 24, 2021
Dr. Laura Lyons was recognized with the Regional Family Physician of the Year award and Drs. Sharon Bal and Andrea Chittle received the 2021 Award of Excellence.
Feature: Lost in translation
November 24, 2021
Researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry are expanding the genetic code to better understand disease.
Expert explainer: COVID-19 vaccines for kids
November 19, 2021
Dr. Michelle Barton-Forbes offers facts and insights about vaccinating children against COVID-19.
Feature: A place to thrive
November 17, 2021
Pam Bere helps learners at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry thrive. A long-time staff member at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, she has been counselling medicine and dentistry learners for the past 14 years.
Research News: Global study offers new insight on heart valve surgery
November 16, 2021
Researchers at Western University and Lawson Health Research Institute played a leading role in a new global study that will change the way surgeons repair leaky valves in the heart.
Learner Perspectives: Dental student Vlad Podskalniy on improving access to oral health care
November 16, 2021
Through research, Vlad Podskalniy is trying to capture a fuller picture of the specific barriers to dental care faced by different population groups in London.
News: New award increases access to MD+
November 12, 2021
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry is launching a new award for MD+ students to support them in enriching their medical education with interdisciplinary, experiential learning.
Learner Perspectives: BMSc student Pam Dorjee on vaccine manufacturing
November 10, 2021
Inspired by the experiences of her family members working in health care during the COVID-19 pandemic, BMSc student Pam Dorjee is pursuing an internship placement with Sanofi Pasteur focused on vaccine manufacturing.
Feature: Seeking answers about COVID-19 and its impact on Black communities in Canada
November 10, 2021
Feeling the burden to better understand COVID-19 and the devastating effect it is having on Black communities in Canada, Dr. Michelle Barton-Forbes partnered with colleagues on the seroMARK research study.
Award: Medical students recognized for summer research achievements
November 08, 2021
Outstanding student researchers received Summer Research Training Program awards for projects in molecular oncology, psychiatric assessment and quality improvement in paediatric cardiology.
News: Significant funding enables learning opportunities abroad for students from under-represented groups
November 08, 2021
The program will enable Indigenous and racialized students, those with disabilities, from minority religions and from low-income backgrounds with unique international learning experiences.
Feature: Imaging the long-term effects of COVID-19
November 03, 2021
Sophisticated technology and key collaborations have propelled important research forward that seeks to answer questions about the devastating impact of the disease on human health.
Feature: Holding ourselves accountable
October 27, 2021
At Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) is more than a moral aspiration. It’s a foundational building block in the mission to educate socially responsible leaders in human health.
Announcement: Dr. Amit Garg appointed Associate Dean, Clinical Research
October 27, 2021
Dr. Amit Garg has been appointed as Associate Dean, Clinical Research, at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective October 1, 2021 to September 30, 2026.
Feature: Learning that sticks
October 27, 2021
As Vice Dean, Undergraduate Medical Education, Dr. Shannon Venance plans to shift the focus of medical education and empower students to take charge of their own learning.
Award: Jelena Poleksic, Medicine Class of 2022, receives international scholarship to study abroad
October 27, 2021
Poleksic was named a Chevening Scholar and will be pursuing a master’s degree in History in the UK as part of the School’s new MD+ track.
Feature: New beginnings, bright futures
October 26, 2021
In September, Schulich Medicine & Dentistry welcomed a new cohort of medical and dental students. Meet eight of the students at the start of their professional journeys, and learn about the issues that are important to them as future health care professionals.
News: Faculty inducted into the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences
October 26, 2021
In recognition of their notable contributions to promoting the health sciences, Tim Bussey, Western Research Chair in Cognitive Neuroscience, and Michelle Mottola, Chair of the Division of Maternal, Fetal & Newborn Health were inducted as CAHS Fellows.
News: Western grads receive prestigious medal
October 25, 2021
Jacqueline Dron, PhD’20, is among the recipients of the 2021 Governor General’s Gold Medal, awarded for academic excellence at the graduate level.
Honour: Van Lu, PhD, recognized by Gairdner Foundation for early career excellence
October 22, 2021
Lu, an Assistant Professor in Physiology and Pharmacology, is one of five Canadians to receive an Early Career Investigator Award.
MD+: A medical education innovation
October 20, 2021
Medical students are embracing the recently launched MD+ as a new opportunity to build their skills and broaden their horizons.
News: Global Health Systems graduates reflect on national case competition win
October 20, 2021
The five-student team credits the transformative master’s program for their success.
Announcement: Gray Centre for Mobility and Activity launches new initiatives
October 20, 2021
The Gray Centre for Mobility and Activity announces new research innovations and education opportunities thanks to academic and clinical collaborations.
Research News: Does moral injury change the brain?
October 20, 2021
Dr. Ruth Lanius, Professor in the Department of Psychiatry is using MRI scans to pinpoint moral injury effects in the brains of health care workers.
Feature: Research leads to new insights on spinal disc degeneration
October 19, 2021
Cheryle Séguin, PhD, is tackling one of the most common and costly clinical problems in North America – back pain. In a recent collaborative study, her research team examined the connection between obesity, back pain and disc degeneration.
Feature: Pandemic offers real-world lessons for public health grad
October 19, 2021
For Alexandra Romanski, pursuing a master’s degree in public health during a global pandemic offered a once-in-a-lifetime learning experience. Graduating this month, she is the recipient of the MPH Class of 2014 Award, recognized by her peers for her care, compassion and leadership.
Award: Gregor Reid recognized for ground-breaking probiotic research
October 19, 2021
Reid, Distinguished Professor Emeritus, was named a co-recipient of the Dr. Rogers Prize for Excellence in for Excellence in Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Funding: Two new grants to support suicide prevention
October 19, 2021
Dr. Marnin Heisel, Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry will focus his work on the mental health of vulnerable populations thanks to two new grants from CIHR and Movember
Announcement: New five-year Strategic Plan launched today
October 14, 2021
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry embraces the future with a bold, new five-year Strategic Plan.
Feature: A plan to produce the best pre-clinical science
October 14, 2021
As the new Assistant Dean, Pre-Clinical Research, Timothy Regnault, PhD, is focused on improving the School’s experimental research environment, ensuring the right supports, services and facilities are in place for scientists.
Feature: Meeting the challenge of the climate crisis
October 12, 2021
Dr. Anna Gunz is tackling the ‘biggest health crisis of our lifetime,’ in a forward-thinking way.
Announcement: Dr. Gary Tithecott appointed Acting Associate Dean, Admissions
October 12, 2021
Dr. Tithecott has been appointed Acting Associate Dean, Admissions at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, effective September 1, 2021.
Commentary: Adding a ‘plus’ to medical school training
October 08, 2021
"We wanted to re-think how we educate the physicians of tomorrow; to give medical students the space and support to dive deeper into their personal interests or discover new passions outside of medicine," writes Dean Dr. John Yoo in this op-ed about the new MD+ track, via University Affairs.
Research News: New study explores transgender youth experiences in Canada
October 07, 2021
First-of-its kind research led by Greta Bauer, PhD, Professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, aims to help inform gender-affirming care.
Feature: ‘Once in a lifetime’ opportunity
October 06, 2021
Andrew Nguyen took part in an immersive summer learning experience at a Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation treatment centre.
Research News: New global study shows ‘collateral impact’ of COVID-19
October 06, 2021
Janet Martin and co-investigators find cancer patients missed scheduled surgeries due to lockdowns.
Feature: Channeling the power of communication
October 05, 2021
From storytelling to social media, Dr. Magbule Doko finds ways to forge connections with students, colleagues and patients alike.
Honour: Saumik Biswas, PhD’20, named in Business London’s top 20 twenty-somethings
October 05, 2021
PhD alumnus Saumik Biswas made the annual list of top young leaders and innovators in London.
Feature: Paving a new way for student advocacy
October 04, 2021
Accel Labs is a social entrepreneurship incubator founded by students, for students, to enrich community health initiatives.
Honour: Alumnus inducted into Canadian Medical Hall of Fame
October 01, 2021
Dr. Jonathon L. Meakins, MD'66, DSc'18, has been honoured as a Canadian Medical Hall of Fame inductee for 2022. Dr. Meakins has transformed surgical thinking and practice, improving outcomes for patients worldwide.
News: Innovator caps year with top Vanguard award
October 01, 2021
Dr. Douglas Fraser is recognized for breakthroughs in COVID and brain injury research with Innovator of the Year Award from WORLDiscoveries.
In Memoriam: Dr. Warren Blume
October 01, 2021
The Western community mourns the passing of Dr. Warren Blume, a pioneer in epilepsy care.
News: Summer program gives undergrads immersive research feel
September 27, 2021
The BrainsCAN internship provides undergraduate students who self-identify as members of visible minorities, Indigenous, LGBTQ2S+, with a disability, or as a woman, an opportunity to have an immersive neuroscience research experience.
Funding: Dr. Ana Lohmann awarded $400K for breast cancer research
September 24, 2021
The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation’s Career Catalyst Research Grant will support Dr. Lohmann’s research investigating the use of liquid biopsies for predicting breast cancer recurrence.
Learner Perspectives: Jing Wen (Jenny) Liu, PhD, on changing the narrative about resilience
September 22, 2021
Jenny Liu's scholarship bridges research in stress and resilience with community-based applications. She is the creator and lead author of the Multi-System Model of Resilience. "“When it comes to resilience, we tend to think of it as an end goal. When really, we should honour the process and the journey that we take."
Announcement: Alumnus Dr. Kevin Pottie returns to Western as the Ian McWhinney Chair of Family Medicine Studies
September 16, 2021
Dr. Kevin Pottie has been appointed as the Ian McWhinney Chair of Family Medicine Studies at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective September 7, 2021 to September 6, 2026.
Feature: Human versus machine: Investigating the impact of AI technologies on compassionate care
September 15, 2021
Dr. Ben Chin-Yee is an AMS Healthcare Fellowship in Compassion and Artificial Intelligence investigating the use of genomic algorithms to predict oncology patient outcomes, and their impact on compassionate and equitable patient care.
President Shepard on community safety
September 14, 2021
In light of disturbing allegations of sexual violence and the unrelated, devastating death of a first-year student over the weekend, President Alan Shepard shared this message with the campus community on Sept. 13.
Funding: 2021 NSERC competition results in more than $1M for research initiatives
September 09, 2021
Zia Khan, PhD, Marco Prado, PhD, Lisa Cameron, PhD, Parisa Shoostari, PhD, Lisa Hoffman, PhD, Daniel Hardy, PhD and Brian Corneil, PhD, were awarded funding through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada 2021 Discovery Grant Competition.
News: Western welcomes first National Indigenous Scholarship recipients
September 08, 2021
Among the recipients of the inaugural National Indigenous Scholarships is Delainey Mattern, Dentistry Class of 2025.
News: From Cholera to COVID: New course melds past with present
September 07, 2021
Shelley McKellar, PhD, Hannah Chair in the History of Medicine at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, has developed a new course: From Cholera to COVID: How Epidemics Change the Way We Live. By studying outbreaks of previous centuries, students gain context around uncertainty and change amidst major epidemiological events.
Feature: Tracing the root of vaccine-induced blood clots
September 07, 2021
Angela Huynh, Medicine Class of 2023, focused her PhD studies on one specific protein, only to discover that it is the same one implicated in the blood clotting that occurs in rare circumstances after the Astra Zeneca vaccine.
Feature: Collaborative research explores cannabis use in pregnancy
September 01, 2021
Animal studies are beginning to show that using cannabis while pregnant may pose a risk to the health of the baby.
Announcement: Dr. Dale Laird appointed Assistant Dean, Research Chairs & Awards
August 27, 2021
Dr. Dale Laird has been appointed to the position of Assistant Dean, Research Chairs & Awards, at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective September 1, 2021 to August 31, 2024.
Award: Taylor Prize celebrates trailblazer in paediatric endocrinology
August 25, 2021
Dr. Heather Dean, Professor Emeritus at the University of Manitoba, is among the very first and most impactful researchers of youth-onset type 2 diabetes, particularly within the context of Indigenous youth in Canada.
News: Western strengthens COVID-19 vaccine policy
August 25, 2021
Latest step further supports increased vaccination rates
Award: Student global health leader receives Canadian Medical Hall of Fame’s top honour for medical students
August 25, 2021
Khalidha Nasiri, Medicine Class of 2023, is the 2021 CMHF Award for Medical Students recipient, in recognition of her research, mentorship and social development work, at the School and on a national level.
Announcement: Robert Bartha, PhD, re-appointed Acting Director, Strategy and Scientific Integration, Robarts Research Institute
August 24, 2021
Robert Bartha, PhD, has been re-appointed as Acting Director, Strategy and Scientific Integration at Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, effective July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, or until such time as a Director is appointed.
Learner Perspectives: MD/PhD Candidate Kara Ruicci on the connection between the arts, research and medicine
August 20, 2021
In her sixth year of the MD/PhD program at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, Kara Ruicci is at an exciting point in her training. As she looks toward residency, she draws inspiration from the artistic process – a unique combination of vision, intuition, critical thinking and collaboration.
Research News: Tracking COVID-19 and variants of concern in wastewater around the globe
August 17, 2021
International researchers are investigating how wastewater can provide an accurate picture of COVID-19 cases in a population and detect emerging variants of concern
News: Western to require proof of vaccination for campus community
August 12, 2021
Western University is requiring proof of COVID-19 vaccination for students, staff and faculty, as part of a new policy to further protect the campus community. Those without proof of vaccination must be tested twice a week in order to be on campus.
Funding: Nine innovative research infrastructure projects at Western receive federal grant
August 11, 2021
Through the John R. Evans Leadership Fund, the Canadian Foundation for Innovation is supporting Gary Shaw, PhD, Jimmy Dikeakos, PhD and Peter Stathopulos, PhD in their work with nuclear magnetic resonance instrumentation, while Matthew Teeter, PhD, received funding for a device to measure wear of orthopaedic implants.
Funding: Feds invest $10M in regional health-tech hub
August 10, 2021
Waterloo and Western Universities are teaming up to help drive health innovation and job creation. A $10 million grant from from FedDev Ontario is investing in research and hospital-based strengths of London and Waterloo’s strengths in digital technology.
Honours: Outstanding graduate students recognized with top honours
August 10, 2021
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry is pleased to announce the results of the Internal Graduate Awards, including the including the the Collip Medal Award, the Drs. Madge and Charles Macklin Fellowships and more, which recognize excellence in research and academics among exceptional graduate students.
Feature: Walking two paths
August 09, 2021
Jessica Hill, MPH’19, is deeply connected to her home community of Six Nations of the Grand River. She recently joined a panel discussion hosted by Schulich Medicine & Dentistry in partnership with the Six Nations Polytechnic STEAM Academy aimed at inspiring young people to pursue careers in health care.
Research News: New study explores resident perspectives on the pandemic
July 30, 2021
New research explores how resident physicians perceived moral distress as it relates to the care of structurally stigmatized patients during the pandemic.
Funding: Nearly $10 million awarded in CIHR grants
July 30, 2021
13 Schulich Medicine & Dentistry researchers secured grant funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. The successful projects showcase the extraordinary research taking place at the School and include investigations into magnetic particle imaging for cell therapy tracking, psychiatric assessments in long-term care homes, and a treatment for COVID-19.
Announcement: Dr. Shannon Venance appointed Vice Dean, Undergraduate Medical Education
July 29, 2021
Dr. Shannon Venance has been appointed to the position of Vice Dean, Undergraduate Medical Education, at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective August 1, 2021 to July 31, 2026.
Commentary: How the COVID-19 delay of the Tokyo Olympics helped some athletes break records
July 23, 2021
"After an unprecedented delay due to a once-in-a-century global health crisis, the Tokyo Games are finally ready to begin. Yet the athletes, like the Games themselves, have changed," writes Dr. Jane Thornton, Assistant Professor at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and Canada Research Chair in Injury Prevention and Physical Activity for Health.
Research News: Unfolding the hippocampus
July 22, 2021
A technique developed by researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and the Faculty of Social Sciences visually irons out brain wrinkles in the hippocampus for a more accurate picture of brain disorders.
Funding: Ontario Research Fund backs research in multi-modality imaging and precision medicine
July 20, 2021
Principal investigator, Aaron Fenster, PhD, is investigating imaging systems that will combine ultrasound with radionuclide imaging to provide an effective approach to three distinct unmet clinical needs.
Commentary: The Tokyo Olympics will be the Games of all mothers
July 20, 2021
The 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games highlighted barriers faced by mothers and mothers-to-be as they vie for coveted spots on the Olympic roster. “It is critical sport policies evolve to support the health and well-being of all athletes,” writes Dr. Jane Thornton.
Announcement: Schulich Education Enhancement Division names inaugural Director
July 16, 2021
Sarah McLean, PhD, will be leading the School’s newly-established instructional design hub, supporting faculty in e-learning, experiential learning and case-based learning innovation.
Awards: Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship recipients announced
July 15, 2021
PhD candidates Samir Hamadache, Olivia Ghosh-Swaby and Peter Zeng are among the 166 nationwide recipients of the 2021-2022 Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships.
News: Western invests $6 million to support new EDI initiatives
July 09, 2021
Continuing its commitment in response to the final report of the Anti-Racism Working Group, Western is investing a total of $6 million to support new equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) initiatives.
News: Improving antiepileptic drug delivery
July 08, 2021
Engineering professor Kibret Mequanint and his team, including Dr. Jorge Burneo, Professor of Neurology, Biostatistics and Epidemiology and co-director of Western’s epilepsy program, received the New Frontiers in Research Fund 2020 Exploration Award to support their research into optimized dosing for epilepsy drug delivery.
Funding: Weston Family Foundation awards for collaborative research in dementia prevention
July 05, 2021
Dr. Vladimir Hachinski is leading 25 co-investigators from across Western University, Canada and four other counties to investigate factors associated with dementia and strategies for prevention.
News: Western offers deepest sympathies to Indigenous communities
June 24, 2021
The Western community continues to mourn, acknowledging the unfathomable loss of 751 Indigenous lives at the site of the former Marieval Indian Residential School in Saskatchewan.
In Memoriam: Dr. Catherine Yanchula
June 23, 2021
It is with great sadness that we share the news about the sudden passing of Dr. Catherine Yanchula. Dr. Yanchula was a Windsor family physician and Adjunct Professor at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry – Windsor Campus.
Feature: Improving training in Indigenous health is a journey not a check-box
June 21, 2021
New research from Schulich Medicine & Dentistry shows cultural training programs need more than just filling knowledge gaps.
Award: Douglas Bocking Award recipients announced
June 18, 2021
Dr. Robert Stein was named the recipient of the 2020 Bocking Award, while this year’s recipient is Charys Martin, PhD.
Celebrating the BMSc Class of 2021 with Matthew Shammas-Toma
June 17, 2021
For Matthew Shammas-Toma, the many opportunities to explore professional and personal interests during his undergraduate degree have developed into life-long passions.
Research News: ImPaKT team expands COVID-19 research to target variants of concern
June 17, 2021
As variants of concern continue to drive COVID-19 transmission around the globe, teams of researchers inside the world-class ImPaKT facility focus toward understanding how to target these variants and others that may emerge.
Research News: Study examines pandemic’s impact on mothers and new babies
June 16, 2021
Researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry are using a holistic perspective to study how the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced stress, mood and pregnancy outcomes for pregnant mothers.
Celebrating the Dentistry Class of 2021 with Eibhlin Storey
June 15, 2021
For Eibhlin Storey, it’s the in-between moments, added up, that have made her dental education so special – the unexpected moments sandwiched between the bigger, structured tasks. She says the community at Schulich Dentistry – professors, mentors and classmates – played a key role in her success.
News: 12 Western scientists and scholars named Canada Research Chairs
June 15, 2021
From the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Dr. Jane Thorton, Jessica Prodger, PhD, Matthew Grol, PhD and Lauren Cipriano, PhD have been announced as new chair holders.
Celebrating the Class of 2021 with Laura Russell, PhD
June 11, 2021
Already months into an industry job in California, Laura Russell, PhD, has a deep interest in understanding how things work, but she says she is most proud of the fact that she’s always followed a path of curiosity and finds time to pursue the things that bring her joy.
Funding: New Frontiers in Research Fund competition results announced
June 10, 2021
The New Frontiers in Research Fund 2020 Exploration Competition supported two projects involving Schulich Medicine & Dentistry researchers Justin Hicks, PhD, Shehzad Ali, PhD, Leonard Luyt, PhD and Dr. Jorge Burneo.
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry stands with the Muslim community
June 08, 2021
We at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry join colleagues across Western University in shock and profound sadness in response to the racist, Islamophobic attack on a London family. This was an unspeakable and senseless act of hatred against members of the Muslim community.
National media: The best lesson in bedside manner came from one of my patients
June 07, 2021
"What we don't talk about enough is the emotional healing physicians receive providing care to patients. In a world divided by politics, distance, paper and plastic, this beautiful symbiosis was just the medicine I needed," Dr. Larry Jacobs reflects on the power of the doctor-patient relationship in this piece published in The Globe and Mail.
Announcement: Dr. Lakshman Gunaratnam appointed as the Dr. Robert Zhong Chair in Translational Transplant Research
June 07, 2021
Dr. Lakshman Gunaratnam has been appointed as the Dr. Robert Zhong Chair in Translational Transplant Research, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective April 1, 2021 to March 31, 2026.
Celebrating the Medicine Class of 2021 with Erik Mandawe
June 04, 2021
From the beginning of his medical school studies, Mandawe lived his truth. He knew that medical school was going to be a different way of relating to others around him. He also knew that he was on the right path to using his gifts as an artist and his identity as a Bush Cree person in his role as a doctor.
Feature: Medical student-led conference critically examines decolonization
June 03, 2021
Medical students Divya Santhanam, Amy Woolsey and Gopika Punchhi worked together to create a virtual conference on decolonization in global health and within the Canadian context, attracting 300 interdisciplinary participants from around the world.
Feature: Maintaining momentum
June 03, 2021
Two student council positions, virtual fundraising in a pandemic, or international research: whatever the challenge, Angela Fan, Medicine Class of 2022, wants to tackle it head-on.
Expert Explainer: Dr. Arlene MacDougall on managing mental health in the next phase of the pandemic
June 03, 2021
As vaccination rates rise, Canadians are starting to anticipate an end to the pandemic and a gradual return to work, school and social activities. With that comes some relief, but also anxiousness and trepidation. Dr. Arlene MacDougall, Assistant Professor in Psychiatry and Epidemiology and Biostatistics provides strategies on how to support one another in this next phase of the pandemic.
Feature: Fostering a shared dialogue
June 02, 2021
Between running Windsor Regional Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, teaching learners and supervising research projects, Dr. Sajit Augustine is eager to make a difference in the Department of Paediatrics.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Kyle DeMars, Family Medicine
June 02, 2021
Dr. Kyle DeMars, PGY1, reflects on the lessons learned from his work on the Windsor Campus impact study and his journey into the medical profession.
Feature: Medical students help with vaccination effort
June 02, 2021
Medical students Rutik Patel, Kelsey Ambrose, James Colapinto, John Kelly, Tajdeep Brar and Sarah MacDonald recently lent a helping hand at Dr. Magbule Doko’s Windsor-based vaccine clinic.
Announcement: 2021 CaRMS Match results complete
June 01, 2021
On May 20, the second iteration of the CaRMS match results were released, bringing this year’s process to a close. Building on the first iteration results, a total of 40% of Schulich Medicine matched to programs at Western, and 48.2% matched to Family Medicine. More than 75% matched to an Ontario postgraduate medical education program.
Flags lowered to half-mast to honour residential school victims
May 31, 2021
Western University’s flags will be at half-mast for 215 hours to recognize the tragic loss of 215 children whose remains were found on the site of the former Indian Residential School in Kamloops, BC.
Learner Perspectives: Dental student Erik Tamberg on student leadership
May 31, 2021
Erik Tamberg, BMSc’15, Dentistry Class of 2021, believes students can have a big impact on their campus and community, as champions for positive change. During his time in dental school, he has volunteered with community outreach initiatives, participated in summer research projects and serves in student government, most recently as President of the University of Western Ontario Dental Student Society (UWODSS).
Award: Schulich Dentistry student - Natalie Rubinger named 2021 recipient of dentalcorp Academic Excellence Award
May 31, 2021
Rubinger, Class of 2021, will receive a full reimbursement of tuition for the DDS program, as well as a two-year contract at a dentalcorp practice.
Feature: Pitch perfect - New tool helps to ‘tune’ cochlear implants to improve hearing
May 27, 2021
With the aim of improving hearing for patients with cochlear implants, a team of researchers has designed a mathematical tool to help program the implants with precision for each patient’s unique anatomy.
Award: Canadian Resident Matching Service recognizes exceptional student leader
May 26, 2021
In recognition of his experience and potential as a leader, David Zheng, Medicine Class of 2022, received the CaRMS Sandra Banner Student Award for Leadership.
Feature: Enhancing care for patients with multiple chronic conditions
May 26, 2021
Patients with multiple chronic conditions are often seeing multiple medical specialists, taking a handful of medications and are balancing important and sometimes conflicting health advice. In an effort to improve care, Dr. Moira Stewart and a team of researchers at the Centre for Studies in Family Medicine tested a multi-provider case conference as part of their care.
News: Roy Butler, PhD announced as President and CEO of St. Joseph’s Health Care London
May 25, 2021
St. Joseph's Health Care London announced alumnus Roy Butler, PhD'02, will be stepping into the role of CEO and President, effective August 3, 2021. Butler is currently the Vice President, Patient Care and Risk Management.
Research News: Research collaboration shows critically ill COVID-19 patients have normal antibody production
May 25, 2021
Researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and Lawson Health Research Institute have teamed up with local biotech company, Diagnostics Biochem Canada Inc. (DBC), to help better understand COVID-19 and the body’s immune response to the infection.
Award: Dr. Amit Garg conferred Kidney Foundation’s Medal for Research Excellence
May 24, 2021
In recognition of his research contributions to furthering understanding of kidney health and their positive impacts on patient care, Dr. Amit Garg, PhD has received the 2021 Medal for Research Excellence.
Feature: Promoting success beyond the classroom
May 19, 2021
As Assistant Dean, Learner Experience (Dentistry), Dr. Maria Jacinta Santos hopes to bring a dentistry-specific perspective to existing learner supports and identify more opportunities to promote student success in the first two years of the DDS program.
Expert Explainer: Steven Kerfoot, PhD, on how vaccines work in our bodies
May 19, 2021
What exactly happens inside your body after you receive a COVID-19 vaccination? Will our immunity to COVID-19 eventually wane? As vaccine eligibility expands in Canada, Steven Kerfoot, PhD, Associate Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, provides a clear picture of how our immune systems respond to the COVID-19 vaccine.
Announcement: MD+ expands
May 18, 2021
Two months since its launch, the School’s new MD+ track has expanded program offerings. Students with interests in business, public administration, science management and music performance now have several new degree and diploma opportunities to explore.
Honour: Paula Foster, PhD, honoured with Senior Fellowship from the International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
May 18, 2021
Foster is the first Canadian to become an ISMRM Senior Fellow, and only the third imaging scientist from the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry to ever receive the honour.
News: Western attracts $1 million to advance virtual learning
May 18, 2021
Ten Western initiatives have been awarded a total of $1 million in funding as part of the eCampusOntario Virtual Learning Strategy, including a suite of skills-based resources to support learners and promote equitable education developed by Nicole Campbell, a repository of medical education assets led by Danielle Dilkes and gamified simulation training for faculty development led by Michael Brock.
Feature: Mentorship Program enriches medical school experience for LGBTQ+ students
May 14, 2021
In their second year of medical school, Drs. Rachelle Beanlands and Lily Robinson formed a mentorship program for LGBTQ+ medical students at the School. Now in its fourth year, it has continued to provide hope, reassurance and a safe environment for self-expression.
News: Dr. Amit Garg awarded Western’s top research honour
May 13, 2021
Dr. Amit X. Garg, Professor of Medicine, has been awarded a 2021 Hellmuth Prize for Achievement in Research in recognition of his sustained excellence in his contributions to the field of nephrology.
In Memoriam: Louis Charland, PhD
May 13, 2021
The Western community lost a beloved member on Sunday, May 9, 2021, with the passing of Professor Louis Charland.
Feature: Not all head and neck cancers are the same
May 12, 2021
How might the site of a cancer in the mouth or throat influence its molecular makeup and how it’s treated? Medical student Hugh Kim and Dr. Anthony Nichols are diving into a massive database of information to find answers to these questions.
Feature: Engaging the community in cancer research
May 12, 2021
A group of graduate trainees is contributing to a new blog that showcases cancer research in the London region as part of the Canadian Cancer Society’s Research Information Outreach Team (RIOT).
Announcement: First Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences graduate program cohort begins studies
May 12, 2021
The Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences (IMS) program welcomed its first cohort of 18 learners, ready to take on medical sciences’ greatest ‘wicked problems’.
Announcement: 2021 Awards of Excellence – Windsor Campus recipients
May 09, 2021
The Awards of Excellence – Windsor Campus celebrate the commitment and dedication of faculty, residents, staff and students. As mentors and role models, the recipients are distinguished by their leadership skills and embodiment of the School’s values. Congratulations to the 2021 recipients.
Funding: Researchers receive Royal College grant to study bias and equity training in specialty education
May 07, 2021
With support from a Strategic Initiative Grant, researchers with the Centre for Education Research & Innovation will explore how professional context influences the cycle of feedback, facilitation and behaviour change, with the goal of informing future EDI training, policy and organizational practice.
News: Indigenous Graduation Ceremony marks shared milestone
May 07, 2021
More than 60 Indigenous students will be celebrated at the Indigenous Student Graduation Ceremony, including four medical students sharing a special bond.
Research News: Air pollution exposure contributes to childhood asthma, population-based study shows
May 04, 2021
New findings from Ontario have shown that children born in Sarnia have a higher risk of developing asthma compared to neighbouring cities. A research team found that higher air pollution exposure in the first year of life very likely contributed to this higher risk.
Feature: Training infectious disease research leaders
May 03, 2021
The ImPaKT Facility is ground zero for training research leaders to tackle the next pandemic. Mariya Goncheva, PhD, and Corby Fink, PhD are two postdoctoral trainees unravelling the mysteries of COVID-19 through their work on campus.
Announcement: Celebrating the 2021 Awards of Excellence recipients
April 29, 2021
As educators, researchers, innovators and leaders, the 2021 Awards of Excellence recipients are making a difference at the School. It is with great pride that we recognize and honour their achievements.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Rahul Verma, Paediatrics
April 29, 2021
For Dr. Rahul Verma, PGY2, Paediatrics, working with children and their families is a feeling like no other. “Children are a unique population of patients where early interventions and timely care can change their life trajectory for decades and decades to come.”
Feature: History of Medicine events – a virtual success
April 29, 2021
Schulich medicine explored history of medicine topics and were recognized for their unique approaches they applied their historical research at School and national events.
Honour: Dr. Bertha Garcia named an Honorary Fellow of the American College of Dentists
April 28, 2021
Acting Vice Dean & Director of Dentistry, Dr. Bertha Garcia, was awarded an Honorary Fellowship from the American College of Dentists, a special recognition for non-dentists who have had a significant impact on the profession.
News: Western neuroscience spinoff sees growth in remote-care world
April 28, 2021
Adrian Owen, PhD, Adjunct Professor, Anatomy and Cell Biology, developed electronic cognitive assessments that are now commercially licensed by Cambridge Brain Sciences, offering a database of more than 12 million assessment tasks for researchers and clinicians.
Announcement: Dr. Tisha Joy steps down as Associate Dean, Admissions
April 27, 2021
Dr. Tisha Joy, Associate Dean, Admissions, will be stepping down from her role effective June 15, 2021.
Feature: 900,000+ COVID-19 tests processed by PaLM Microbiology Division
April 27, 2021
From overcoming supply shortages to an ever-growing demand for tests, the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Microbiology lab has met the challenge of providing COVID-19 testing for all of Southwestern Ontario, processing more tests than they would in 150 years of regular flu seasons.
Announcement: 2021 CaRMS Match Results
April 27, 2021
On April 20, medical students from across Canada learned their residency match results, as the first iteration of the 2021 Canadian Resident Matching Service process became available.
Award: Dr. Andrea Lum receives Gold Medal Award from the Canadian Association of Radiologists
April 27, 2021
In recognition of her contributions to the Canadian Association of Radiologists (CAR) and her commitment to furthering the profession of radiology, Dr. Andrea Lum has received the CAR’s highest honour – the Gold Medal Award.
News: Western announces Distinguished University Professorships and Faculty Scholars
April 22, 2021
Dr. Glenn Bauman is one of three recipients of the 2021 Distinguished University Professor Award, which recognizes sustained excellence in scholarship over a substantial career at Western University. John MacCormick and Brad Urquhart received the 2021 Faculty Scholar Award.
Funding: CIHR invests $3.3 million for a collaborative national oral health survey
April 22, 2021
Dr. Sharat Pani is a principal co-investigator on a collaborative research project, which will establish a national survey of Canadians’ oral health in partnership with Statistics Canada.
Announcement: Dr. Davy Cheng to be first-ever Dean of Medicine at The Chinese University of Hong Kong – Shenzhen
April 15, 2021
Dr. Davy Cheng, former Acting Dean, has accepted a position as Dean of Medicine at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, where he will lead the establishment of the medical school and teaching medical centre.
Feature: Exploring space medicine
April 15, 2021
A summer research internship with Western’s Institute for Earth and Space Exploration offered medical students Shozab Ahmed and Mohsyn Malik the perfect opportunity to combine their interests in space and medicine, while delving into the world of extreme environments health care.
Announcement: Dr. Saverio Stranges re-appointed as Chair of Epidemiology and Biostatistics
April 15, 2021
Dr. Saverio Stranges has been re-appointed as Chair of the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective October 1, 2021 to September 30, 2026.
Award: Dr. Chris Watling receives CAME recognition for excellence in mentorship
April 14, 2021
Dr. Watling, Acting Vice Dean, Education Scholarship and Strategy, is the recipient of the 2021 Mentors Award from the Canadian Association for Medical Education - Early Career Medical Educators.
Research News: Study shows how chronic stress may inhibit the body’s cancer-fighting ability
April 14, 2021
Hormones triggered by chronic emotional and psychological stress impair the ability of the immune system’s ‘emergency responders’ to fight cancer, researchers in the Departments of Microbiology and Immunology and Surgery have found.
Announcement: Drs. Ram Singh and Craig Campbell re-appointed as Interim Co-Chair/Chiefs of Paediatrics
April 14, 2021
Drs. Ram Singh and Craig Campbell have been re-appointed as Interim Co-Chair/Chiefs of the Department of Paediatrics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University and its teaching hospitals, effective June 30, 2021 to June 30, 2022.
Announcement: Dr. Karin Hahn re-appointed as Interim Chair/Chief of the Department of Oncology
April 14, 2021
Dr. Karin Hahn has been re-appointed as the Interim Chair/Chief of the Department of Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University and its teaching hospitals, effective March 31, 2021 to December 31, 2021.
Funding: More than $3.2 million awarded to clinical researchers
April 13, 2021
More than $3.2 million was awarded to clinical researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry through the Academic Health Science Centre (AHSC) Alternative Funding Plan (AFP) Innovation Fund and the Academic Medical Organization of Southwestern Ontario (AMOSO) Opportunities Fund.
News: Trainees awarded at Imaging Network of Ontario Symposium
April 13, 2021
Fifteen trainees received research awards at the annual Imaging Network of Ontario Symposium in March.
Announcement: Dr. Emil Schemitsch elected to Orthopaedic Trauma Association leadership
April 13, 2021
Dr. Schemitsch has been appointed as the second President-Elect of the Orthopaedic Trauma Association, beginning a five-year term as part of the association’s leadership team in October 2021.
Announcement: Dr. Timothy Regnault appointed Assistant Dean, Pre-Clinical Research
April 09, 2021
Dr. Timothy Regnault has been appointed to the position of Assistant Dean, Pre-Clinical Research, at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2024.
News: Summer internship programs aim to help students and faculty
April 08, 2021
The Western Summer 2021 Student Internship and the Undergraduate Student Research Internship programs will offer 16-week placements for up to 400 students from May 1 to Aug. 31.
Research News: Fighting infection by harnessing the competitive nature of bacteria
April 08, 2021
Researchers in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology have discovered a compound that can inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, a deadly bacterium that has become resistant to most antibiotics. The discovery opens the door for new drug development.
Student Perspectives: Lena Schreyer on community outreach and youth mental health
April 07, 2021
Every year, one in five Canadian youth will struggle with a mental health concern and only 20 per cent will receive the support they need. Lena Schreyer, a fourth-year Neuroscience student, is working to address this gap as the Founder and Director of Beecuz, a non-profit organization that develops proactive and positive wellness education programs for children and youth.
News: 2021 Alumni of Distinction Award recipients
April 07, 2021
The 2021 Alumni of Distinction Award recipients are research leaders, accomplished scholars, community advocates and trailblazers in their fields. Congratulations to Karl Cuddy, Irene Hramiak, Philip Marsden, Ayden Scheim, Andrea Sereda and Nathan Stall.
News: ‘World’s Challenge Challenge’ winners from Western moving on to the next round
April 07, 2021
A team of students, including Colette Benko, BMSc Class of 2022, are moving on to the global finals the World's Challenge Challenge with their innovative proposal for Project Lightbulb, a virtual, hands-on science education program.
Feature: Taking a systems-thinking approach to anti-Black racism
April 06, 2021
A team of Schulich Medicine & Dentistry alumni have channeled the frustration and outrage the felt after the 2020 death of George Floyd, into an actionable report to address anti-Black racism in Ontario.
Feature: A personal challenge to do more
April 05, 2021
Growing up in the 70s, Dr. Dorian Lo was profoundly influenced by the socio-political issues of the day. His social consciousness, later nurtured in medical school, inspired a desire to do more. Combining his medical and business education, he’s now one of Canada’s leading health care business leaders.
News: An early warning system: Testing wastewater for COVID-19
April 05, 2021
An engineer-led, interdisciplinary study in collaboration with researcher Eric Arts collected wastewater samples from a number of strategic locations in London, Ont. to analyze at Western’s ImPaKT Facility as a method of mapping COVID-19 infection rates.
Feature: Turning hope into reality for a pain-free future
April 04, 2021
Dr. Tom Appleton is a clinician-scientist collaborating with experts in orthopedics, sports medicine, physiotherapy and skeletal biology. He is leading a translational early osteoarthritis research program focused on understanding the role that the immune system plays in osteoarthritis to contribute to a future where people with osteoarthritis live a life free of pain and disability.
Important COVID-19 Update: Changes to classes, exams, residences
April 01, 2021
As COVID-19 variants fuel transmission in the region, and with further restrictions expected in Ontario, Western University is moving the majority of in-person classes and final exams online, effective April 5.
Announcement: Dr. Maria Jacinta Santos appointed as Assistant Dean, Learner Experience (Dentistry)
April 01, 2021
Dr. Maria Jacinta Santos has been appointed as the Assistant Dean, Learner Experience (Dentistry), at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective March 1, 2021 to February 28, 2022.
News: Western implements additional measures to prevent spread of COVID-19
March 31, 2021
As the Middlesex-London region moves from orange to red in the face of rising case counts, and with variants of concern making up more than half of Ontario’s new COVID-19 cases, Western University is implementing additional precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the virus.
Feature: Trans PULSE Canada highlights diverse experiences of trans and non-binary Canadians
March 30, 2021
Trans PULSE Canada is the first research survey to collect all-ages data on trans and non-binary health across Canada. Spearheaded by Ayden Scheim, PhD, and Greta Bauer, PhD, from the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, the results of the survey are pinpointing the unique experiences of diverse groups within the trans and non-binary community, including Indigenous people, sex workers and immigrants and newcomers.
Feature: Creating culturally safe, accessible health care
March 29, 2021
Working with partners and communities with lived experience, medical students Claire Dong, Dilini Kekulawala and Brintha Sivajohan founded The BIPOC Women’s Health Network, a national, student-led organization focused on improving health care experiences and reducing disparities for BIPOC women.
Funding: Dr. Lakshman Gunaratnam awarded two Kidney Foundation grants
March 29, 2021
Dr. Gunaratnam's research projects, supported by the Kidney Foundation of Canada, will investigate acute kidney injury and determinants of recovery from the condition, as well as a potential therapeutic agent to improve outcomes of kidney transplantation.
Feature: Hockey FIT program reaches fans from coast to coast
March 29, 2021
Hockey FIT, a program that uses fan culture to encourage Canadian men to get fit, has expanded to 32 communities across the Canada. Despite the shuttering of hockey arenas across the country, men in cities from Chilliwack B.C. to Kingston, Ont. have accessed the 12-week program developed in the Department of Family Medicine at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry.
News: School to open Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
March 26, 2021
The new Office, including an Associate Dean, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and a Specialist, will direct and implement all matters related to equity, diversity, inclusion, bias, anti-racism and Indigenous initiatives at the School.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Danielle Kelton, Emergency Medicine
March 25, 2021
Dr. Danielle Kelton, PGY4, Emergency Medicine, enjoys the variety of her chosen specialty and says that the residency program’s biggest strength is its supportive, collaborative and inclusive culture.
News: Safe Ride Home Program for residents
March 25, 2021
A new program is providing safe transportation home for resident doctors who are experiencing fatigue after long or difficult shifts. The Safe Ride Home Program is free and available 24/7 for residents.
Research News: Global study shows elective surgery patients should be prioritized for COVID-19 vaccines
March 25, 2021
A new global modelling study shows patients waiting for elective surgery should be prioritized for COVID-19 vaccines. An international team of researchers, including Janet Martin from the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, estimates that global prioritization of vaccination for elective surgery patients could prevent close to 60,000 COVID-19-related deaths in one year.
Feature: Creating connections: Western’s complexity science research hub
March 24, 2021
The Complex Adaptive Systems lab is an interdisciplinary network encouraging cross-campus collaboration, including the work of Schulich Medicine & Dentistry researcher Sayra Cristancho.
Feature: Feeling the rain
March 24, 2021
Shreya Gandhi’s mother showed strength, recovery, and resilience as a brain tumour survivor, and now she serves as a point of inspiration for her own journey to become the citizen she aspires to be.
Feature: Taking action on wellness
March 23, 2021
A member of the Clinical Faculty Affairs team, Dr. Laura Foxcroft is putting her focus on wellbeing - a major undertaking in the midst of the pandemic.
Award: 2021 PARO award recipients announced
March 23, 2021
Dr. Karin Hahn received the Professional Association of Resident of Ontario’s Excellence in Clinical Teaching Award, Dr. Shane Freeman was awarded the Resident Teaching Award and Sarah Luciw received the Citizenship Award for Medical Students.
Commentary: Experts call for research transparency on human challenge studies for COVID-19
March 23, 2021
A week after the world’s first COVID-19 human challenge trial began in London, UK, in which volunteers are deliberately exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, Dr. Charles Weijer, Professor and bioethicist at Western University, and Josh Morrison, Executive Director of 1Day Sooner are calling for the publication of the trial’s protocol.
Feature: Interprofessional Education Day puts focus on Indigenous health and medicine
March 18, 2021
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry students joined nearly 1,000 of their peers from across the education health care spectrum for a day of interprofessional teamwork, listening and learning.
Announcement: MD+ to offer graduate training opportunities for MD students
March 16, 2021
Schulich Medicine students can now pursue professional and graduate training while completing their Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. They will be able to explore space medicine, non-medical interests, public health or law, get hands-on research-intensive experience in the basic sciences, pursue work in Africa, or dig into the history of medicine to understand its impact on care today,
Feature: Powerful brain imaging creates new insights on neurological symptoms of COVID-19
March 16, 2021
A multidisciplinary team of scientists and clinicians is combining powerful brain imaging tools at Robarts Research Institute with expertise on brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and epilepsy to better understand COVID-19’s neurological symptoms.
Research News: A more plant-based diet may improve cardiovascular health: experts
March 15, 2021
Dr. David Spence has long promoted the role of a more plant-based diet in reducing risk of cardiovascular disease. While it is well known that egg yolks have a high content of cholesterol and meat contains both cholesterol and saturated fat, he points out that lesser-known culprits in eggs and red meat could be increasing the levels of toxic metabolites produced by the intestinal microbiome, that negatively impact cardiovascular health.
Feature: Looking for clues: Using artificial intelligence to uncover mental health, addiction issues
March 14, 2021
A new social media search tool, developed by Dan Lizotte, PhD and PhD candidate Brent Davis, could help public health experts reach more people struggling with substance abuse.
Feature: New software provides detailed picture of COVID-19 virus variants
March 11, 2021
Genomic surveillance programs around the world are collecting data on how the virus that causes COVID-19 is mutating and changing as it moves through the population. Globally, more than 300,000 unique genetic versions of the virus have been identified. Visually representing that in a way that is accessible and easy to understand is at the core of a software application called CoVizu developed by a team in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine.
Celebrating Canadian Women Physicians Day
March 11, 2021
In 1875, Dr. Jennie Trout became the first woman in Canada to be licensed to practise medicine. 146 years later, we are celebrating the first-ever Canadian Women Physicians Day (March 11). Five physician leaders share their inspirations, personal experiences and hopes for the future of the profession.
Feature: London startup raises the bar on spinal implants
March 11, 2021
London-based startup A-Line Orthopaedics, co-founded by Dr. Parham Rasoulinejad, Professor, Orthopedic Surgery, has developed a new spinal implant that could revolutionize an invasive treatment for upper cervical spine fractures.
Feature: Pandemic provides real-time, case-based learning for MPH students
March 10, 2021
For this year’s Masters of Public Health cohort, the backdrop of the pandemic is presenting unique opportunities for learning and analysis.
Feature: Using your genes to detect arrhythmias
March 10, 2021
Julieta Lazarte, MD/PhD Candidate, was awarded a Frederick Banting and Charles Best Canada Graduate Scholarship to support her research on the underlying genetic causes of atrial fibrillation.
Funding: Six interdisciplinary teams receive Collaborative Research Seed Grant funding
March 09, 2021
The program provides seed funding for the formation and development of new interdisciplinary and collaborative research teams. Researchers will explore a range of health topics, from a potential new therapy to treat SARS-CoV2 infection to sudden unexpected death in epilepsy.
Learner Perspectives: Dr. Natasha Holder on mentorship in oral and maxillofacial surgery
March 08, 2021
Dr. Natasha Holder is a second-year resident in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. She believes mentorship is key in making change in the field and is mentoring female students in dentistry with an interest in surgery. “They can’t be us, if they can’t see us.”
Funding: CIHR Project Grant recipients announced
March 05, 2021
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) have announced the results of their October 2020 grants competition. Schulich Medicine & Dentistry research teams in the areas of primary care reform, breast cancer, COVID-19 and more received more than $7.4 million in grant funding.
Announcement: Dr. Mark Awuku appointed as Chair of Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons subcommittee
March 04, 2021
Dr. Mark Awuku has been appointed as Chair of the Continuing Professional Development Accreditation Committee for the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
Feature: On the frontlines and in the headlines: Dr. Jessica Summerfield
March 04, 2021
Dr. Jessica Summerfield has had a remarkable year, balancing clinical commitments as a COVID-19 front-line physician and her advocacy role as the President of the Essex County Medical Society.
Feature: Student researchers win big at cancer research conference
March 04, 2021
Sarang Upneja,Vanessa Montemurri and Nathan Doupnik placed first, second and third at the Windsor Cancer Research Group’s Biennial Cancer Research Conference
Feature: A place to call their own
March 03, 2021
Dr. Paris Lai, PGY4, secured PARO funding to create a resident-designated space at Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare to facilitate resident wellness and resiliency.
News: Medical device to manage blood loss approved by Health Canada
March 01, 2021
After a traumatic injury from an event such as a car crash or industrial accident, many patients die from blood loss before they ever enter the operating room. In order to improve survival, Asha Parekh, PhD, and Dr. Adam Power have used their ingenuity to develop a medical device that can keep blood flowing to the heart and the brain in a way that is fast, simple and safe.
Feature: Supporting wellness in meaningful ways
February 25, 2021
As Assistant Dean, Postgraduate Learner Experience, Dr. Michelle Marlborough supports the psychological and physical wellbeing of residents and fellows at the School. In the role, she hopes to address some of the larger systemic issues that keep learners and physicians unwell.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Stephanie Lammers, Obstetrics and Gynaecology
February 24, 2021
As a fifth-year resident in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Dr. Stephanie Lammers enjoys the surgical aspects of the program, as well as the special moments with patients that energize and refuel her.
News: Information breaks barriers for prospective medical students
February 24, 2021
A group of Black medical students have created the Unofficial Guide to Canadian Medical School – a valuable resource providing information about applying to medical school with the hopes to break down barriers to students who don’t have access to mentors and academic networks.
Funding: Centre for Functional and Metabolic Mapping receives $2.85 million grant
February 24, 2021
Ravi Menon, PhD, along with his research team, have received Brain Canada’s 2019 Platform Support Grant, to support the Centre for Functional and Metabolic Mapping (CFMM) at Robarts Research Institute.
Research News: Understanding antibodies at play in long-lasting COVID-19 immunity
February 23, 2021
A team of researchers across Canada, including collaborators from Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, is shedding light on how our bodies develop immunity to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, and may help to assess how effectively current vaccines are at conferring long-term immunity.
Research News: Pinpointing the role of language disruptions in psychosis
February 18, 2021
Difficulties with communication are some of the earliest symptoms of psychosis. A new study has found that this may be because, like a small airport trying to handle all the air traffic from a big international airport, parts of the brain not meant to process language are trying to perform this complex job in patients with psychosis.
Announcement: Jefferson Frisbee, PhD, re-appointed as Chair, Department of Medical Biophysics
February 18, 2021
Jefferson Frisbee, PhD, has been re-appointed as Chair, Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2026.
Learner Perspectives: Dr. Sondos Zayed on research and representation in radiation oncology
February 17, 2021
Dr. Sondos Zayed is a third-year resident in Radiation Oncology. She is looking at female authorship in the field and has created an online community for Muslim women in medicine through her blog, Medicine Unveiled, to share experiences and advice.
Research News: Difference in walking pattern can predict type of cognitive decline
February 16, 2021
A new study by a Canadian research team evaluated the walking patterns and brain function of 500 older adults and found that patterns in the way they walk can more accurately diagnose different types of dementia and identify Alzheimer’s disease.
Announcement: Gregory Dekaban, PhD, appointed as Chair, Department of Microbiology & Immunology
February 16, 2021
Gregory Dekaban, PhD, has been reappointed as Chair, Microbiology and Immunology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective February 1, 2021 to January 31, 2026.
Funding: Three research teams receive funding for education research
February 11, 2021
Three research teams have received funding from the Faculty Support for Research in Education (FRSE) program. Congratulations to Greta Bauer, PhD, Dr. Robin Mackin and Mary Ott, PhD, Postdoctoral Fellow.
Award: Schulich Dentistry student earns coveted spot at international competition
February 11, 2021
Vladyslav Podskalniy has received the CADR-NCOHR Student Research Presentation Award and was selected as the Canadian representative to present his research at the International Association for Dental Research Undergraduate Hatton Competition.
Research News: Dialysis patients at greater risk of dying from COVID-19 infection
February 11, 2021
Patients in Ontario with chronic kidney conditions who require dialysis have a significantly increased likelihood of contracting and dying from COVID-19, new research has shown. Study author Dr. Peter Blake says the research emphasizes the need to prioritize dialysis patients for vaccination.
Feature: Bats may hold the key to vaccines for future pandemics
February 10, 2021
In their quest to develop a bank of vaccines that could be at the ready for the next pandemic, Western University researchers are hunting for coronaviruses that have the potential for animal-to-human transmission. To do so, they’ve teamed up with bat biologists at the Royal Ontario Museum, which holds thousands of frozen bat tissue samples from around the world.
World Cancer Day: Using cancer cells to treat cancer
February 04, 2021
John Ronald, PhD, is rethinking cell therapy for cancer. He is using cancer cells engineered in the lab and injected back into the circulation to deliver therapeutics right to the site of the cancer.
Research News: Most instructions for inserting COVID-19 nasopharyngeal swabs don't go deep enough
February 03, 2021
There are wide discrepancies in the instructions for how deep the nasopharyngeal swabs used to test for COVID-19 are to be inserted up Canadian noses, new research has found. As an otolaryngologist, Dr. Leigh Sowerby is an expert in the anatomy of the head, neck and inside of the nose. He and his colleagues examined testing instructions provided by provincial and territorial authorities and found wide variations.
Expert Explainer: Art Poon, PhD, on coronavirus ‘variants of concern’
February 02, 2021
As new coronavirus variants emerge, scientists are keeping a close eye on how the virus continues to evolve. According to Art Poon, PhD, unless we can mitigate the spread of the virus, there is a greater chance it will continue to mutate and produce more "variants of concern."
Feature: Medical software licence underlines WORLDiscoveries success
February 01, 2021
Ting-Yim Lee, PhD, Professor of Medical Biophysics at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, has developed cutting-edge imaging software that measures blood flow in bodily tissues, helping to guide treatment for stroke patients.
Research News: Alternate type of surgery may prevent total knee replacement
February 01, 2021
A team of researchers including Dr. Robert Giffin, have shown that an underused type of knee surgery in younger patients, called high tibial osteotomy, may reduce the need for total knee replacement.
Feature: Structural stigma against mental illness ‘baked into’ system
February 01, 2021
Dr. Javeed Sukhera, Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, writes about mental health stigma on individual and structural levels and its effect on health care.
Feature: Rebuilding resiliency - Peers-for-Peers program offers support for physicians
January 27, 2021
As the pandemic wears on, resilience is slowly being chipped away and peer support systems are needed now more than ever. A unique program at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry that is focused on peer-to-peer support, emphasizes the wellbeing of clinical faculty.
Feature: Bringing comfort through connection
January 27, 2021
Forty Schulich Medicine students have found unexpected friendships with senior members of the local community during the past year through the Student-Senior Isolation Prevention Program.
Announcement: Hematology fellow earns AMS Fellowship in Compassion and Artificial Intelligence
January 26, 2021
Dr. Ben Chin-Yee, Clinical Fellow in the Division of Hematology, was announced as part of the inaugural group of AMS Healthcare Fellows in Compassion and Artificial Intelligence.
Research News: ‘Brain training’ may be an effective treatment for PTSD
January 26, 2021
In a new study from Western University and Lawson Health Research Institute, neurofeedback, or 'brain training' was found to reduce symptoms and lead to remission in PTSD patients.
Funding: Collaborative research into COVID-19 impact on dental schools receives $1.44 million grant
January 25, 2021
Schulich Dentistry researcher Dr. Sharat Pani, along with 12 researchers across ten Canadian institutions, received COVID-19 Immunity Task Force funding to support research into COVID-19 experiences at Canadian dental school.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Lorenzo Madrazo, Internal Medicine
January 22, 2021
Before going into medicine, Dr. Lorenzo Madrazo trained to be a music teacher. From patient education to working with junior learners, teaching is one of his favourite aspects of residency.
Research News: More evidence needed to inform policy around sending kids back to class
January 21, 2021
Are kids in schools driving community transmission of COVID-19, or is it the other way around? This uncertainty could be clarified by conducting cluster randomized trials when students return to class, according to a new publication from an international team of experts co-led by Dr. Charles Weijer.
Announcement: Dr. Tracey Crumley appointed Chair/Chief Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
January 21, 2021
Dr. Tracey Crumley has been appointed as Chair/Chief, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) and St. Joseph’s Health Care London effective January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2025.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Kriti Kumar, Paediatrics
January 20, 2021
For Dr. Kriti Kumar, working with children brings positivity and inspiration to her residency training experience. As a second-year resident in Paediatrics, she works with a range of patient populations, from infants to adolescents.
Feature: Contributing to a better future
January 18, 2021
As three of 10 inaugural recipients of the Dean’s Research Scholarship, graduate trainees Surim Son, Fabio Salerno and Mila Uzelac are working on translational research projects that aim to improve care for dementia, cancer and kidney disease patients.
Research News: Incentive payments to physicians may reduce non-urgent ED visits
January 18, 2021
New research shows that providing primary care physicians with incentives to see patients after hours may result in fewer visits to the emergency department for non-urgent issues, potentially helping to reducing emergency department overcrowding and lowering health care costs.
Feature: Rapid COVID-19 antibody test can check immune response
January 15, 2021
Shawn Li and his colleagues at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and the University of Toronto, have developed a simple test – faster and more accurate than any approved thus far in Canada – to determine who has developed COVID-19 antibodies.
Research News: How do social media and loss of sleep affect young people's mental health?
January 14, 2021
How exactly does sleep influence mental health and how does social media play a role? Researchers in the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics are working to understand the relationship in two recently published papers.
Award: CAME Certificate of Merit Award recipients announced
January 08, 2021
Dr. Alice Tsui and Dr. Yiannis Iordanous received the Canadian Association for Medical Education’s 2021 Certificate of Merit Award for their valuable contributions to enhancing medical education at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry.
Honour: Celebrating 25 Years of Service
January 08, 2021
Congratulations to Schulich Medicine & Dentistry staff and faculty who were honoured with a Western University long-term service award in 2020.
Announcement: Jimmy Dikeakos selected as President of the Canadian Society for Virology
January 06, 2021
Associate Professor of Microbiology and Immunology, Jimmy Dikeakos, PhD, will be leading the executive committee of the Canadian Society for Virology, effective January 1, 2021.
Announcement: Dr. Emil Schemitsch re-appointed as Chair/Chief of the Department of Surgery
January 06, 2021
Dr. Emil Schemitsch has been re-appointed as Chair/Chief of the Department of Surgery, effective January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2025.
Honour: Marlys Koschinsky honoured with Order of Ontario appointment
January 05, 2021
Marlys L. Koschinsky, PhD, was named one of the 2019 appointees to the Order of Ontario, in recognition of her achievements as an internationally recognized researcher and a leader in education and mentorship.
Feature: ImPaKT researchers show high-tech lighting solution can kill COVID-19 on surfaces
January 05, 2021
Working together with researchers at the ImPaKT Facility at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, two Western Alumni have shown that a UVC LED light system they developed can effectively kill SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. The system is now being used in a variety of applications including in conveyors that can decontaminate packages and as part of a system designed specifically to clean casino chips.
Honour: Renowned military surgeon receives Order of Canada
January 04, 2021
Dr. Vivian McAlister has received the title of Officer of the Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest civilian honours.
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry Update: Province-wide shutdown
December 22, 2020
Further to the communication from Western’s Provost and VP Operations outlining the University’s planned response to the province-wide lockdown, we want to confirm details as it relates to Schulich Medicine & Dentistry programs.
Student Perspectives: PhD Candidate Olivia Ghosh-Swaby on football and women in sport
December 21, 2020
Olivia Ghosh-Swaby, PhD Candidate in Neuroscience, is a strong advocate for equity, diversity and inclusion in academia and sport. "Football is another chance to provide continued athletic competition and to build a community for women."
Feature: Western students supply stroke rehabilitation kits for patients feeling the absence of in-person care
December 18, 2020
Ganathyashan Chelliahpillai and Varunaavee Sivashanmugathas, BMSc Class of 2021, launched StrokeSMaRT to mitigate the loss of in-person stroke rehabilitation programs.
Research News: New research underscores the importance of the measles vaccine
December 17, 2020
Researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry have shown that the measles virus can infect and kill a type of white blood cell known as MAIT cells, potentially compromising a person’s ability to fight other infections. The research underscores the importance of vaccination against the measles virus.
Announcement: Four new Canada Research Chairs named at Western, one renewed
December 16, 2020
Kelly Anderson has been selected as the Canada Research Chair in Public Mental Health Research at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry. Joy MacDermid was named as the CRC in Musculoskeletal Health Outcomes and Knowledge Translation. Andrew Pruszynski was also renewed as the CRC in Sensorimotor Neuroscience.
Award: Honouring exceptional commitment in a year of change
December 15, 2020
The 2020 Western Award of Excellence represents the highest honour for staff achievement at the university. Richard Gibson, Director of Operations at The Imaging Pathogens for Knowledge Translation (ImPaKT) Facility, has been selected as one of this year's recipients.
Research News: Exploring the experiences of trans and non-binary Canadians during the COVID-19 pandemic
December 15, 2020
A new survey led by researchers at Western University is exploring the experiences of trans and non-binary Canadians during the COVID-19 pandemic – statistics that until now were largely invisible in the Canadian data. The first reports shown that during the pandemic, more than 30 per cent of trans and non-binary Canadians had interruptions to health care and one in ten avoided COVID-19 testing/care.
Research News: Improving quality of life for patients with Frontotemporal Dementia
December 11, 2020
Dr. Elizabeth Finger is working to test behavioural and pharmacologic treatments for patients with Frontotemporal Dementia with the hope of reversing deficits in emotional processing and empathy.
Announcement: Drs. Ram Singh and Craig Campbell re-appointed as Interim Co-Chair/Chiefs of the Department of Paediatrics
December 10, 2020
Drs. Ram Singh and Craig Campbell will continue to serve as Co-Chairs/Chiefs of the Department of Paediatrics from January 1, 2021 to June 30, 2021, or until a permanent Chair/Chief is appointed.
Award: 2020 Lawson Impact Awards announced
December 09, 2020
Drs. Chris McIntyre, Cheryl Forchuk and Bekim Sadikovic were named among this year’s recipients of the Impact Awards from Lawson Health Research Institute.
Award: Trainee wins top oral presentation from Clinician Investigator Trainee Association
December 09, 2020
Kara Ruicci, MD/PhD, Class of 2022, received the Top Oral Presentation Award at the Clinician Investigator Trainee Association 2020 general meeting.
Announcement: Inaugural Neil McKenzie Chair in Cardiac Care appointed
December 03, 2020
Dr. Geoffrey Pickering has been appointed as the inaugural Neil McKenzie Chair in Cardiac Care, effective January 1, 2021 until December 31, 2025.
Research News: Molecule found in green tea may block negative effects of chronic cannabis use
December 02, 2020
Steven Laviolette, PhD, and his team have found a compound called L-theanine, derived from green tea leaves, protected rats against the negative psychiatric side-effects of THC.
Feature: A shared journey, a shared dream
December 02, 2020
Born just thirteen months apart, brothers John and Zayya Zendo, Medicine Class of 2024, have always had a close bond. As they embark on their first year of medical school at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry together, their bond is strengthened over their shared dream.
Award: Dual honours for a remarkable physician
December 02, 2020
Dr. Michael Silverman, Assistant Professor of Medicine and Infectious Diseases and Chair of the Infectious Diseases Division at the Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, is the recipient of both the Joint Medical Advisory Committee (MAC) Award and the St. Joseph’s MAC Award. It’s the first time an individual has won two MAC awards in the same year.
Feature: Enriching the trainee experience
December 02, 2020
Dr. Ian Brown is passionate about helping students excel in their journey between the classroom and clinical practise.
Feature: Medical training leaves a lasting impact in Windsor
December 01, 2020
A new research study shows that the Windsor community is feeling the positive impacts of the Schulich Medicine Windsor Campus in many ways – from civic pride to improved health care.
Q&A: Lisa Saksida honoured as a powerful advocate for women in STEM
December 01, 2020
Lisa Saksida, BrainsCAN co-scientific director, has been recognized by the Women's Executive Netowrk (WXN) as a powerful advocate for women in STEM and a leader in neuroscience research.
Feature: Patient-inspired care and research
December 01, 2020
Resident alumna Dr. Heather MacKenzie cares for patients living with brain and spinal cord injuries. She is developing a tool that will accurately predict who is at risk of long-term concussion symptoms, so patients receive the right treatment at the right time.
Honour: Dr. Carol Herbert appointed to Order of Canada
December 01, 2020
Former Dean of Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, Dr. Carol Herbert, has been awarded Canada's highest civilian honour for her contributions to clinical and academic medicine.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Andrew Bridgen, Psychiatry
November 30, 2020
As a former paramedic, Dr. Andrew Bridgen, PGY4, brings a unique perspective to his medical training. He reflects on his role as Psychiatry Chief Resident.
Feature: LUC3 brings care home
November 30, 2020
A brainchild of Department of Medicine physicians, the patient-centred LHSC Urgent COVID-19 Care Clinic has become an invaluable part of the COVID-19 care process in London and is an example of rapid quality improvement implementation in the face of a pandemic.
Announcement: Dr. Julio Martinez-Trujillo re-appointed as Provincial Endowed Academic Chair in Autism
November 26, 2020
Dr. Julio Martinez-Trujillo has been re-appointed to his position as the Provincial Endowed Academic Chair in Autism, effective October 1, 2020 to December 31, 2024.
Feature: ImPaKT researchers help industry develop anti-viral products
November 26, 2020
Working in the ImPaKT Facility, researchers are helping industry partners test and launch new products that make our daily environments safer during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Student Perspectives: Medical student Adrean Angles on sustainable housing
November 25, 2020
With a passion for housing sustainability, Adrean Angles, MPH’15, Medicine Class of 2023, converted a tobacco kiln into a 400-square-foot, off-grid home on Oneida Nation of the Thames.
Announcement: Dr. Donald Welsh re-appointed as the Chair in Molecular Neuroscience and Vascular Biology
November 25, 2020
Dr. Donald Welsh has been re-appointed as the Cecil and Linda Rorabeck Chair in Molecular Neuroscience and Vascular Biology, effective October 1, 2020 to March 31, 2025.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Rachel Kyle, Geriatric Medicine
November 24, 2020
Dr. Rachel Kyle, PGY5, Geriatric Medicine, enjoys working with older adults, as she discovers their stories, learns what matters to them and tailors their health care needs.
Research News: Men with common genetic disorder are at higher risk for liver cancer
November 24, 2020
Men who have haemochromatosis, one of the most common genetic disorders in North America, are ten times more likely to develop liver cancer, according to a new study. Led by a team at the University of Exeter in collaboration with Dr. Paul Adams from Western University, the research has led to renewed calls for routine early testing for the condition which causes iron overload.
Feature: A proactive approach to professional affairs
November 23, 2020
Dr. Bill McCauley, the School’s new Assistant Dean, Professional Affairs, believes that cooperation and education are paramount when it comes to effectively managing challenging professional relationships.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Rongbo Zhu, Clinical Immunology and Allergy
November 23, 2020
As a resident in Clinical Immunology and Allergy, Dr. Rongbo Zhu, PGY5, works with patients of all ages, from children to adults. He says the subspecialty program at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry provides extensive hands-on experience in allergy and food immunotherapy.
Expert Explainer: Dr. Nitin Mohan on circuit breaker lockdowns
November 20, 2020
Some experts in Canada are considering a ‘circuit breaker lockdown’ to help control the surging case counts of COVID-19. Dr. Nitin Mohan, Assistant Professor, is a physician epidemiologist and explains the pros and cons of circuit breaker lockdowns.
In Memoriam: Dr. Wesley John Dunn
November 18, 2020
The Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry is mourning the passing of Dr. Wesley John Dunn, the founding dean of Dentistry, and a pillar of the Canadian dentistry community.
Research News: Racialized trans and non-binary Canadians report increased harassment and violence
November 16, 2020
A new report from Trans PULSE Canada provides insight on the unique experiences of racialized trans and non-binary Canadians. Principal investigator Greta Bauer, PhD, says the findings show this group faces increased levels of physical violence, harassment and sexual assault.
Research News: Global study on preoperative testing adds to evidence on safe surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic
November 13, 2020
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry researcher Janet Martin says new evidence about how to continue with safe surgery during the pandemic has led to the launch of a dedicated toolkit to guide hospitals in keeping elective surgery up and running safely.
Expert Explainer for World Diabetes Day: Dr. Irene Hramiak on advances in diabetes care
November 13, 2020
Dr. Irene Hramiak is an endocrinologist and a professor and renowned researcher specializing in diabetes. She explains how diabetes care has evolved over the past 100 years and how research continues to provide better quality of life for patients.
Commentary: What Canada learned (and didn’t learn) from the SARS pandemic
November 13, 2020
As the second wave of the COVID-19 pandemic takes hold across the country, Schulich Medicine & Dentistry experts say while Canadian officials implemented improvements to public health organization and in-hospital infection prevention and control after the SARS pandemic in 2003, vulnerabilities remained in the long-term care sector and the supply-chain for Personal Protective Equipment (PPE).
Feature: Chasing their dream
November 11, 2020
Curious, passionate and driven, Drs. Natasha Holder and Ji Hyun Han are embracing their six-year journey to become Oral and Maxillofacial Surgeons as they complete their surgical residency and MSc and MD degrees.
Announcement: Point-of-Care Ultrasound fellowship program receives special designation from Royal College
November 06, 2020
The Division of Emergency Medicine received accreditation from the Royal College of Surgeons and Physicians for a focused area of specialized training within the Point-of-Care Ultrasound fellowship program. This is one of only two such designations granted to a Canadian institution.
Announcement: Gastroenterology and Hepatology program ranked in top 25 globally
November 05, 2020
The Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry’s Gastroenterology and Hepatology program is 22nd among comparable programs worldwide based in a ranking conducted by US News’ Best Global Universities.
Announcement: Doctor of Medicine program successful in all accreditation categories
November 04, 2020
The Committee on Accreditation of Canadian Medical Schools and the Liaison Committee on Medical Education have officially informed Schulich Medicine & Dentistry that the MD program and School have now met all accreditation standards and elements from the 2015 review when we were granted full accreditation status.
Award: Vanguard innovator may have found first-ever sepsis treatment
November 04, 2020
Dr. Qingping Feng, Professor of Physiology and Pharmacology and Richard & Jean Ivey Chair in Molecular Toxicology, has been named the 2020 WORLDiscoveries Vanguard Innovator of the Year, an honor which celebrates market-ready research.
Award: Dr. Irene Hramiak receives Mastership from the American College of Physicians
November 03, 2020
Dr. Irene Hramiak, Professor of Medicine at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, has been awarded a 2020 Mastership from the American College of Physicians.
A look back: Insulin's centenary - the birth of an idea
October 30, 2020
At 2:00 a.m. on October 31, 1920, Dr. Frederick Banting, a surgeon practising in London, Ontario, conceived of an idea to isolate the internal secretion of the pancreas - an idea that culminated in the discovery and clinical use of insulin. Dr. Rob Hegele takes a look back at this important moment in a new publication for The Lancet Diabetes & Endocrinology.
Award: Summer Research Training Program students recognized for their strong research projects
October 29, 2020
Five medical students received internal and national awards for their outstanding research projects. Congratulations to Delaney Cosma who was awarded the Morrison Finlayson at the 2020 Canadian Association of Neuropathologists conference, and to Jacob Houpt, Lisa Liu, Ziad Sabaa-Ayoun and Kelsey Ambrose who received annual School awards.
News: From one Dean to another
October 29, 2020
In recognition of his contributions and service as Acting Dean, Dr. John Yoo recently presented Dr. Davy Cheng with a small token of appreciation.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Nadine Khalil, Infectious Diseases
October 29, 2020
As a resident in Infectious Diseases, Dr. Nadine Khalil, PGY5, is helping lead education initiatives for fellow residents and medical students at the School.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Gordon Ngo, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
October 29, 2020
Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation resident Dr. Gordon Ngo, PGY3, is pursuing his passion for bridging technological innovation and medicine through Western’s Medical Innovation Fellowship.
Announcement: Dr. Elizabeth Osuch re-appointed as the Dr. Joseph Rea Chair in Mood Disorders
October 27, 2020
Dr. Elizabeth Osuch has been re-appointed as the Dr. Joseph Rea Chair in Mood Disorders at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective August 1, 2020 to July 31, 2025.
Research News: Biomarkers could be used in a quick, inexpensive COVID-19 blood screening tool
October 27, 2020
A new study suggests that COVID-19 affects the human body’s blood concentration levels of specific metabolites which could one day be measured through an inexpensive blood test to quickly screen patients for the disease and predict which patients will become most critically ill.
Expert Explainer: Greta Bauer, PhD, on celebrating a COVID-19-safe Halloween
October 26, 2020
As cases of COVID-19 continue to rise across Ontario, parents are grappling with how and if they can continue with Halloween traditions in a safe way. Greta Bauer, PhD, explains how we can enjoy this annual tradition in a way that keeps the health of our kids and each other in mind.
Feature: Online course on mindful social innovation aims to build pandemic resilience
October 26, 2020
To help educate and inspire the leaders of tomorrow to make meaningful change to improve global mental health, Dr. Arlene MacDougall has developed a unique six-week online course on mindful social innovation as part of the Global MINDS Collective.
Feature: BMSc graduate reflects on lessons learned beyond the classroom
October 24, 2020
Jocelyn Kerr, BMSc’20, reflects on her undergraduate experience at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, from finding her professional passions to her efforts in kidney health advocacy to the impact of her work with residence life at Western.
In the Media: Taking action on physician wellbeing
October 23, 2020
"It quickly became apparent to me that while it was important to explore and understand the emotional distress faced by physicians and healthcare workers, a solutions-focused approach was an immediate priority," writes Dr. Andrea Lum in this article for Healthy Debate.
Feature: Paving the way for change
October 22, 2020
In their roles as special advisors on anti-racism, Dr. Bertha Garcia and Nicole Kaniki, PhD are laying the foundation for an interim advisory council on equity, diversity and inclusion at Western.
In Memoriam: Dr. John (Jack) McLister
October 16, 2020
The Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry is saddened by the passing of Dr. Jack McLister, remembered for his commitment to teaching and his impact on organized dentistry.
News: New graduate program in Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences prepares students to solve wicked problems
October 14, 2020
The Ontario Universities Council on Quality Assurance has approved the new Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences program at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry. The one-year, course-based program uses a multi-faceted approach by integrating various fields of study.
News: Lorelei Lingard named Honorary Fellow of the Royal College
October 14, 2020
Lorelei Lingard, PhD, has been awarded an Honorary Fellowship with the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada in recognition of her pioneering and transformative research on communication in medical practice.
Feature: Preparing trainees for life after graduation
October 14, 2020
Thomas Drysdale, PhD, started his term as Associate Dean, Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, on July 1. In this role, he is focused on opportunities for career preparation and networking.
Announcement: Dr. Karin Hahn appointed Interim Chair/Chief of the Department of Oncology
October 14, 2020
Dr. Karin Hahn has been appointed as the Interim Chair/Chief of the Department of Oncology effective October 1, 2020 until March 31, 2021, pending appointment of a permanent Chair/Chief.
Feature: Exploring fantastic life forms
October 13, 2020
With a mission to “investigate some of nature’s coolest organisms,” a newly established outreach initiative is inspiring high school students to consider STEM disciplines.
Announcement: Dr. Michelle Marlborough appointed Assistant Dean, Postgraduate Learner Experience
October 13, 2020
Dr. Michelle Marlborough has been appointed as the Assistant Dean, Postgraduate Learner Experience, effective November 1, 2020 to October 31, 2025.
Feature: Public health graduate focuses on big picture
October 12, 2020
“Suddenly everything we were learning was unfolding in real life.” Shabi Ullah and her classmates were thrust into a global pandemic while completing their master’s degrees in public health – an experience she says helped her appreciate the importance of big picture thinking.
Feature: Research a ‘safe haven’ for PhD graduate
October 10, 2020
Faced with major health challenges, Steven Gameiro, PhD’20, had to pivot his research focus with only two years remaining in his PhD studies. He says research helped him through the dark days
Research News: Global study finds ‘COVID-19 free’ hospital areas could save lives after surgery
October 07, 2020
As the second wave peak approaches, a new global study suggests hospitals should set up ‘COVID-19 free’ areas for surgical patients – and that doing so could reduce the risk of serious complications and death from lung infections associated with coronavirus
Feature: Pandemic adds new dimensions to health systems research
October 07, 2020
Dr. Faiza Rab is completing her PhD focused on the fragility of health systems. Experiencing the pandemic and applying an epidemiological lens has provided her with an unprecedented learning opportunity.
Announcement: Learner Equity & Wellness Office changes name to serve learners
October 07, 2020
Effective October 2, the Learner Equity & Wellness (LEW) Office at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry will be renamed to Learner Experience. The decision to change the Office name comes after consultation and feedback from faculty, staff, students and School leadership.
Feature: The forgotten ones: Untold and unseen consequences of COVID-19
October 06, 2020
As he continues work on a COVID-19 vaccine, Eric Arts, PhD, is concerned about the virus’ consequences for developing countries and their ability to treat other infectious diseases. His long-term research on HIV/AIDS informed him of the deep inequalities in health care and disease prevention – issues he and other Western researchers say remain significant barriers during the pandemic.
Feature: ‘Inside-the-box’ technology solves organ and vaccine transport issue
October 05, 2020
A team of researchers has designed, developed and constructed a new portable temperature regulating device, which can be used to transport a wide array of temperature-sensitive items including organs, vaccines and pharmaceuticals.
Announcement: New School leadership structure announced
October 02, 2020
An important step to achieving excellence and differentiation at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry is the creation of a new leadership structure, which expands focus on research, scholarship, education and wellness.
Announcement: Dr. Gary Tithecott appointed as Acting Vice Dean, Undergraduate Medical Education
October 02, 2020
Dr. Gary Tithecott has been appointed as the Acting Vice Dean of Undergraduate Medical Education at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, effective September 1, 2020 for a one-year period.
Announcement: Dr. Chris Watling appointed as Acting Vice Dean, Education Scholarship and Strategy
October 02, 2020
Dr. Chris Watling has been appointed as the Acting Vice Dean, Education Scholarship and Strategy at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, effective September 1, 2020 for a one-year period.
Feature: Global epidemiologist sounds cautious note on COVID-19
October 01, 2020
Dr. Gabriel Leung, MD'96, Dean of Medicine at Hong Kong University, is one of the world's leading epidemiology and global health experts. He provided early and accurate predictions on the initial trajectory of COVID-19, and says we need to plan for the worst, and hope for the best.
Expert Explainer: Dr. Nitin Mohan on the Second Wave
October 01, 2020
“With the weather getting colder and now with schools and other sectors reopening, it’s predictable to see a second wave. What we really watch for is how high that wave gets - we want to keep that peak of the wave lower than the first time,” explains Dr. Nitin Mohan.
In Memoriam: Dr. Paul Harding
October 01, 2020
The Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry mourns the loss of Dr. Paul Harding, MD’85, remembered as a pioneer of neonatal research in Canada.
Research News: Gut microbiome may influence how cancer patients respond to oral therapy
September 29, 2020
“Research is beginning to uncover the ways in which the human microbiome influences cancer development, progression and treatment,” explained Brendan Daisley, PhD candidate. He was involved in a study that illustrates how the gut microbiome interacts with an oral medication in prostate cancer patients.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Diana Cuckovic
September 26, 2020
There was a time where Dr. Diana Cuckovic, PGY2, Family Medicine, considered dance might be her calling, but her interest for life sciences and desire to help others encouraged her to pursue a different path.
Feature: Student initiative reaches out to seniors in isolation
September 25, 2020
Erika Haberfellner, Medicine Class of 2021, is helping lead the Student Senior Isolation Prevention Partnership, pairing medical students with seniors in the Windsor community with the goal of forging social connections and combatting loneliness among seniors.
Research News: Evaluating the process for living kidney donation to improve outcomes
September 24, 2020
A study by researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and Lawson Health Research Institute engaged patient partners in order to determine objective measures to evaluate the process of becoming a living kidney donor. The aim is to create national guidelines that will increase donation rates and improve outcomes.
Feature: From professional athlete to medical student
September 24, 2020
Former CFL player Mark Mackie retired from the league to pursue medical school. A few weeks into his experience at Schulich Medicine, he continues to draw on many of the skills he developed as a professional athlete.
Feature: The knowledge multiplier - creating an online clinical learning experience
September 24, 2020
This summer, 76 dental students participated in a pilot program for a new blended learning model in paediatric dentistry. Developed by Drs. Sharat Pani and Liliani Vieira, the model delivers clinical instruction using online and in-person components. A recent report on their work has garnered national interest.
Feature: Passion for teaching fuels student success
September 24, 2020
Dr. Tyceer Abouhassan combines his passions of education and medicine as a faculty member at the School's Windsor Campus. Throughout the years, his engaging and award-winning approach to teaching has garnered consistent praise from students.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Rachel Liu, General Surgery
September 23, 2020
As a General Surgery resident, Dr. Rachel Liu, PGY4, enjoys the wide range of cases and patient populations the specialty covers. For her, the personalized approach to residency training at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry is a big advantage.
News: Schulich Dentistry reinvents structure and model of clinical education to optimize learning
September 23, 2020
The education team at Schulich Dentistry’s main goal has been to bring third- and fourth-year students safely back to the clinics. They spent the summer months planning and developing new processes and procedures to prepare for the realities of providing clinical education and care during a pandemic.
News: Preparing for the future at Robarts Research Institute
September 22, 2020
In his role as Acting Director, Strategy and Scientific Integration at Robarts Research Institute, Robert Bartha, PhD, will be facilitating an Institute review and developing the strategic plan used to guide the Institute into the future.
Research News: Microbiome study first step in personalized care for patients with ureteral stents
September 22, 2020
Researchers at Lawson Health Research Institute and Western University conducted a novel microbiome study to examine bacteria associated with ureteral stents. They found that nearly all the stents had unique bacterial profiles that were most associated with a patient’s medical condition rather than antibiotic use. For patients with ureteral stents, they may benefit from a personalized approach to care and antibiotic treatment.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Ryan Instrum, Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery
September 21, 2020
Otolaryngology – Head and Neck Surgery is a fast-paced and dynamic surgical specialty. For Dr. Ryan Instrum, PGY3, the specialty’s expanding scope of practice makes it an exciting time to be completing his residency training at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry.
Award: Western ranks first in global undergrad competition
September 21, 2020
Hailey Dall-Proud, BMSc'20, was the global winner of the Undergraduate Awards in the Medical Sciences category. Schulich Medicine & Dentistry student Prisca Hsu was named regional award winner in the Education category. Submissions by Praneet Gill, Sanghun Kim, Selvi Sert, Michael Wang, Steven Zhang and Fang Zhou Ge were also highly commended.
Honours: Six Western researchers named Canadian Academy of Health Sciences Fellows
September 21, 2020
The Canadian Academy of Health Sciences selected 77 new fellows this year, among them are Schulich Medicine & Dentistry faculty members Marlys Koschinsky, PhD, Dr. Amit Garg, Grace Parraga, PhD, Dr. Michael Rieder and Lisa Saksida, PhD.
Feature: A shared commitment to Indigenous health advocacy
September 20, 2020
Sisters Kristin and Cassie Poole hope to become family physicians to improve access, safe and culturally sensitive health care for rural and Indigenous communities.
News: Medical students help deliver medical gowns to health care workers
September 20, 2020
A team of medical students is helping deliver medical gowns to health care workers in the London area. With volunteers from Canada Sews, the gowns are made from donated fabric. More than 800 gowns, along with notes of encouragement, have been delivered to local clinics, long-term care homes, pharmacies and emergency shelters.
Research News: Stroke can be the first presenting symptom in younger patients with COVID-19
September 15, 2020
A research team led by Dr. Luciano Sposato found that approximately two in every 100 patients admitted to hospital with COVID-19 will suffer a stroke, and 35 per cent will die as a result. In younger patients, nearly 50 per cent had no other visible symptoms of the virus at the time of the stroke.
Funding: Researchers receive a multi-million dollar injection of funding through CIHR
September 15, 2020
Eight Schulich Medicine & Dentistry researchers targeting a wide range of health issues were recipients of nearly $4.9 million through the spring 2020 competition.
Announcement: Dr. Laura Foxcroft appointed as Assistant Dean, Faculty Wellbeing
September 14, 2020
Dr. Laura Foxcroft, Associate Professor in Emergency Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, has been appointed as the Assistant Dean, Faculty Wellbeing effective October 1, 2020 to September 30, 2025.
Announcement: Dr. Robert Stein re-appointed Assistant Dean, Undergraduate Equity and Wellbeing
September 11, 2020
Dr. Robert Stein, Associate Professor in the Department of Paediatrics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, has been re-appointed to Assistant Dean, Undergraduate Equity and Wellbeing, effective October 1, 2020 to September 30, 2022.
Funding: New funding allows researchers to investigate long-term effects of COVID-19 on the lungs
September 10, 2020
Funding from the Ontario COVID-19 Rapid Research Fund is enabling a team of researchers across Ontario led by Grace Parraga, PhD, to use novel lung-imaging techniques to better understand the long-term effects of COVID-19 and plan health care and societal resources for survivors, post-infection.
Funding: Research into blood testing for antibody-virus complexes receives federal COVID-19 grant
September 10, 2020
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), in partnership with the federal government’s COVID-19 Immunity Task Force, granted just over $150,000 in funding to a research project led by Ryan Troyer, PhD, Assistant Professor of Microbiology and Immunology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry.
Feature: Finding new ways to treat leukemia after relapse
September 09, 2020
Cure rates for acute lymphoblastic leukemia, a common childhood cancer, are poor in cases where the disease relapses or comes back after treatment. A research team led by Rodney Dekoter, PhD, is working to understand why and to pinpoint more effective treatments.
Honours: Royal Society celebrates five Western scholars
September 08, 2020
For many Canadian scholars, being elected into the Royal Society of Canada is a crowning achievement of their careers. To Lisa Saksida, PhD, – newly honoured into the into RSC, along with four other Western scholars – it is also a reminder of the teamwork that takes place in any successful research program, and that their collective work has only just started.
Feature: Alumni-led consulting firm hosts practicum placements disrupted by COVID-19
September 06, 2020
When the COVID-19 pandemic disrupted international practicum placements for students in the Master of Public Health and Global Health Systems programs, three alumni stepped in to help, hosting 19 students at their public health consulting firm this summer.
News: Collaborating for success in Basic Medical Sciences
September 05, 2020
Susanne Schmid, PhD, started her term as Vice Dean, Basic Medical Sciences, on July 1. In this new leadership role, she is focusing on interdisciplinary collaboration, support for trainees and faculty mentorship.
Award: PhD candidates receive CIHR recognition at the Canadian Student Health Research Forum
September 04, 2020
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry doctoral trainees Jeremy Lant, Saumik Biswas, Kaela Scott and Tian Duo Wang won the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Silver Award for their poster presentations at the 2020 Canadian Student Health Research Forum. Yodit Tesragiorgis, Shelby Oke and Mohamed Gatie received the CIHR Honourable Mention.
Feature: Peer program supports clinician well-being
September 02, 2020
The new Peers for Peers Program at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry provides one-on-one peer support for clinical faculty, emphasizing empathetic listening and shared experience.
Announcement: Nicole Campbell, PhD, appointed as Director of Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences
September 02, 2020
Nicole Campbell, PhD, has been appointed as the Director for undergraduate and graduate programs in Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences, effective September 1, 2020 to August 31, 2023.
Announcement: Jessica Prodger, PhD, appointed Co-Director, Collaborative Graduate Program in Global Health Systems
September 01, 2020
Jessica Prodger, Assistant Professor of Microbiology and Immunology, has been appointed as Co-Director of the Global Health Systems graduate program, effective July 1, 2020 to August 31, 2023.
Pandemic-era course shift fuels students’ academic and personal growth
September 01, 2020
Nicole Campbell, Assistant Professor of Physiology and Pharmacology, spoke with Western News about how she has adapted her approach to teaching for this upcoming school year.
In Memoriam: Dr. Donald Killinger
August 28, 2020
The Schulich Medicine & Dentistry community is saddened by the passing of Dr. Donald W. Killinger, Professor Emeritus and former Chief of Medicine.
Funding: Researchers using modelling techniques to improve pandemic outcomes
August 28, 2020
How might COVID-19 policy decisions change based on understanding social determinants of health? How important are community-tailored solutions when making plans for reopening? These two questions will be addressed by Ava John Baptiste, PhD, Shehzad Ali, PhD, and Lauren Cipriano, PhD, thanks to new funding from the Society for Medical Decision Making (SMDM).
Feature: Incoming medical school class represents increased diversity
August 27, 2020
Changes to the medical school admissions process during the past two years have mitigated barriers for underrepresented populations resulting in a more diverse class in terms of race, ethnicity, sexual orientation, socioeconomic background, as well as rural versus urban and whether or not parents had attended medical school or university.
Award: Medical student Gali Katznelson receives Canadian Medical Hall of Fame award
August 27, 2020
Class president Gali Katznelson, Medicine Class of 2022, is being awarded the 2020 Canadian Medical Hall of Fame Award for Medical Students.
Research News: Researchers unravel two mysteries of COVID-19
August 26, 2020
A team of researchers led by Dr. Douglas Fraser has identified six molecules that can be used as biomarkers to predict how severely ill a COVID-19 patient will become, and are also the first to reveal a new mechanism causing blood clots in COVID-19 patients and potential ways to treat them.
Announcement: Dr. Les Kalman appointed Academic Lead, Continuing Dental Education
August 25, 2020
Dr. Les Kalman has been appointed as the Academic Lead for Continuing Dental Education at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, effective July 1, 2020 to July 1, 2021.
In Memoriam: Western mourns death of medical sciences student
August 21, 2020
The Western community is mourning the death of Jocelyn McGlynn, a fourth-year medical sciences student whose two-year battle against leukemia inspired her classmates, instructors and all who knew her.
Funding: Feds fund innovative Western research
August 19, 2020
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry's Marco Prado, Gilles Lajoie and Lauren Flynn received research funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation’s John R. Evans Leaders Fund.
Funding: Research to understand working memory receives new funding
August 19, 2020
Julio Martinez-Trujillo, Lyle Muller, Wataru Inoue and Stefan Everling will share in $10 million of funding from the National Science Foundation to advance their research.
Award: Emergency medicine chief recognized as “local hero” for leadership in pandemic response
August 13, 2020
Dr. Christie MacDonald, Interim Chair and City-Wide Chief, Emergency Medicine, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, London Health Sciences Centre and St. Joseph’s Health Care is being celebrated by the Canadian Association of Emergency Physicians (CAEP) for her exceptional leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic.
News: New Parr Centre for Thriving at Western bolsters proactive support for student mental health
August 12, 2020
A $9.2-million gift from Jeff and Shelley Parr has helped Western University launch a unique centre dedicated to providing collaborative and innovative approaches to proactive student mental health and well-being.
In the Media: Volunteers Want To Be Infected With Coronavirus To Help Find A Vaccine. But It Isn’t That Simple.
August 11, 2020
Dr. Charles Weijer discusses the ethics of Human Challenge Studies for COVID-19 in this article for FiveThirtyEight. "“We traced a pretty clear line in the sand saying that you couldn’t do challenge studies if participants would be exposed to risk of irreversible, incurable or possibly fatal infections,” said Weijer.
Announcement: Postgraduate Medical Education accreditation results
August 11, 2020
In November 2019, 53 of the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry’s residency and area-of-focused-competence programs participated in an accreditation site visit. All Schulich Medicine postgraduate medical education programs that took part in the review and the institution as a whole are accredited.
Award: Dr. Vladimir Hachinski earns CMA’s top honour for ground-breaking stroke rehabilitation research
August 10, 2020
Congratulations to Dr. Vladimir Hachinski, Distinguished University Professor in Clinical Neurological Sciences and Epidemiology & Biostatistics who has received the F.N.G. Starr Award in recognition of his achievements in innovative stroke intervention and treatment, and furthering public awareness of the condition.
Announcement: Four new Canada Research Chairs for Western, two renewed
August 07, 2020
Western is home to four new Canada Research Chairs, professors whose work will have global impact on autism, data science and children’s learning. Two chairs, in business sustainability and neuroscience, have been renewed.
Feature: Trailblazing student wins gold
August 07, 2020
Daniel Nucifora, the first-ever graduate of the Honours Specialization in Synthetic Biology, was honoured with the Western Gold Medal while pursuing his passion.
Announcement: Nicole Kaniki and Bertha Garcia named special advisors on anti-racism
August 06, 2020
Dr. Nicole Kaniki and Dr. Bertha Garcia will help Western lay the foundation for a sustained strategy to combat racism on campus.
Funding: Youth vaping problem nets research dollars
August 05, 2020
Vaping among teenaged Canadians has doubled in the past two years – a troubling trend that three Western researchers will examine in depth with new funding through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR.) The researchers are working to understand the rapid rise of vaping in Canada and measure its health effects.
Funding: Experiential Learning grants brew innovative courses
August 05, 2020
The Experiential Learning Innovation Scholars Program program provides $20,000 across two years in each of the four participating projects, to help professors design novel courses with their students.
Honours: Medical Innovation Fellows to generate new solutions
July 31, 2020
Congratulations to Schulich Medicine & Dentistry learners, Sheyla Abdic, Saumik Biswas and Gordon Ngo, who were named as be part of the sixth cohort of Western's Medical Innovation Fellowship (MIF) program.
Feature: Learning the art of tackling the wicked
July 29, 2020
During her studies in the MPH Program, Prtha Kudesia has been given the tools, space and support to hone her skills to become a leader and take on the most significant public health issues.
Research News: Poor sleep linked to multiple chronic conditions
July 29, 2020
Researchers have shown that how well you sleep and for how long is linked to increased odds of living with multiple chronic conditions, and argue that promotion of good sleep habits should be given greater focus in clinical practice and public health.
Feature: Dental student helps children practise physical distancing through creative fundraising initiative
July 28, 2020
Azin Orumchi, Dentistry Class of 2021, and her family launched Little Wings for Little Beings, selling wearable, handmade wings for kids, to help parents teach physical distancing habits while also raising funds for local children’s hospitals.
Research News: Improving outcomes for patients with sciatica
July 27, 2020
In an effort to improve outcomes in patients experiencing chronic sciatica, Dr. Christopher Bailey and co-authors demonstrated through a randomized controlled trial that undergoing spine surgery improved their experience of pain versus non-operative treatment.
Announcement: Robert Bartha, PhD, appointed Acting Director, Strategy and Scientific Integration, Robarts Research Institute
July 23, 2020
Robert Bartha, PhD, has been appointed as Acting Director, Strategy and Scientific Integration at Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry effective July 27, 2020 to June 30, 2021.
Research News: Alzheimer’s researcher goes back in time to move forward in diagnosis
July 23, 2020
Shawn Whitehead, PhD, was recently awarded an Alzheimer Foundation London and Middlesex Premier Research Grant 2020 (to study brain inflammation as a potential predictor of cognitive impairment.
Research News: Exposure to chronic stress changes neurons in the brain
July 16, 2020
Wataru Inoue, PhD, studies the effect of chronic stress on the brain. His latest paper shows that the neurons in the brain actually change their size and microstructure, and become desensitized to stress signals over time.
Announcement: Dr. Ali Tassi is appointed Assistant Dean, Postgraduate Dental Education
July 13, 2020
Dr. Ali Tassi has been appointed as Assistant Dean, Postgraduate Dental Education, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2023.
Feature: Study uses Twitter to reveal our mental-health state
July 09, 2020
An international research team led by Daniel Lizotte, PhD, hopes that tweet you just posted – and the millions of others posted to the popular social media site – will provide insights into our collective mental health during the COVID-19 pandemic.
Research News: Researchers make first steps toward a cure for HIV
July 09, 2020
Researchers at Western University have developed a way to pull HIV out of the latent reservoir making the virus visible to the immune system and providing the potential to be killed by treatment. Part of what has made HIV infection so difficult to cure, is that once the virus enters the body, some of it hides dormant inside of the cells, making it essentially invisible to both the immune system and antiretroviral drugs. This hiding virus is known as the ‘latent reservoir.'
Awards: Cheryl Forchuk among 2020 Hellmuth Prize winners
July 07, 2020
Cheryl Forchuk, PhD, who is cross-appointed at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, along with Biology professor Jeremy McNeil, PhD, have been awarded the 2020 Hellmuth Prize for Achievement in Research. The honour recognizes faculty members with outstanding international reputations for their contributions in research – one of the defining hallmarks of a university.
Funding: CIHR funding for COVID-19 enables two additional projects
June 26, 2020
Two projects led by Maria Mathews, PhD, and Dr. Leigh Sowerby will address virus transmission during surgery and pandemic planning for COVID-19, thanks to new funding announced by the Government of Canada, through the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), along with provincial partners.
Research News: Studying the body’s immune response to COVID-19, researchers discover potential therapeutic targets
June 25, 2020
A team from Lawson Health Research Institute and Western University are the first in the world to profile the body’s immune response to COVID-19. By studying blood samples from critically ill patients at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), the research team identified a unique pattern of six molecules that could be used as therapeutic targets to treat the virus.
Announcement: Dr. Kyle Carter awarded PARO Clinical Teaching Award
June 25, 2020
Dr. Carter is being recognized for his training of young medical professionals and his leadership with the development of point-of-care ultrasound training for family medicine residents and physicians at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry.
Announcement: 10 graduate trainees become first recipients of Dean’s Research Scholarship program
June 23, 2020
In mid-May, Dr. John Yoo announced the launch of the Dean’s Research Scholarship program. The goal of the program is to enhance collaborative research at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry. Congratulations to the 2020/21 recipients.
Feature: Brain Study explores lasting impacts of COVID-19
June 23, 2020
The COVID-19 Brain Study looks to recruit 50,000 individuals who received a confirmed positive diagnosis of the virus in order to answer pressing questions about the disease’s direct and indirect effects on the brain.
Awards: Banting Fellowship puts postdoc’s work in motion
June 22, 2020
Postdoctoral scholar Jonathan Michaels has been awarded a Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship to continue his work around brain activity during reach control.
Feature: Even mild hits to the head in contact sports show obvious changes in the brain
June 17, 2020
New research from Ravi Menon, PhD, shows that mild impacts during a season of contact sports are causing subtle brain changes, even in the brains of otherwise, healthy symptom-free athletes. “Even with no concussions, the repetitive impact experienced by players clearly had effects on the brain,” he said.
Awards: Honouring excellence in the History of Medicine
June 16, 2020
Congratulations to Schulich Medicine & Dentistry students, Kishor Johnson, Melissa Chopcian, Jelena Poleksic and Jacob Wihlidal, recipients of the 2020 prizes honouring their contributions to the study of the History of Medicine.
Statement: Responding to acts of racism
June 03, 2020
As researchers, health care providers and teachers, whose careers and lives are focused on making this world better, safer and healthier, we have a responsibility to actively engage in anti-racist work. We need to listen, to learn, to check in, to step in, and to use our voices to make change in our own environments and those around us each and every day.
Awards: Internal Graduate Award recipients announced
June 03, 2020
Congratulations to the 13 recipients of the Internal Graduate Awards for 2020, recognizing research strength, innovation and excellence.
Opinion: COVID-19 mental health threats to vulnerable populations
June 03, 2020
To-date, COVID-19 pandemic responses have focused on reducing the risk of spread of infection, treating severely ill, and sustaining healthcare system capacity. In this call to action, the Association of Chairs of Psychiatry of Canada, including Dr. Chandlee Dickey, addresses COVID-19-related threats to mental health in people with serious mental illnesses or addictions, vulnerable populations in violent living situations, and healthcare providers.
Feature: What strategies need to be implemented in order to curb the spread early for future outbreaks?
June 03, 2020
Epidemiologist and public health physician Dr. Saverio Stranges has been watching the COVID-19 pandemic unfold across the globe – he is using the evidence to demonstrate what strategies need to be implemented in order to curb the spread early for future outbreaks.
Feature: Fecal transplants show promise as treatment for non-alcoholic fatty liver disease
June 03, 2020
New research has shown that fecal transplants for patients with non-alcoholic fatty liver disease result in a reduction in how easily pathogens and other unwanted molecules pass through the human gut and into circulation. The results could have implications for the treatment of numerous conditions including metabolic syndrome and autoimmune diseases.
Feature: Antioxidants in the brain linked to improved treatment results for psychosis
June 03, 2020
Patients who experience their first episode of psychosis will have better overall outcomes if they respond early to treatment. A research team led by Dr. Lena Palaniyappan studied antioxidant levels in the brain, and found that these chemicals may improve outcomes of early intervention in psychosis.
Announcement: Alumni team tops Proteus Innovation Competition
June 02, 2020
Jamie Ching, BMSc’17, MSc’19, and Sophia Lu, BMSc’18, helped develop a winning business plan and pitch for a neonatal laryngoscope, a medical device for the safe and effective intubation of premature babies.
Funding: New Frontiers in Research Fund - Exploration Stream
June 01, 2020
Congratulations to Dr. Tom Appleton and David Holdsworth, PhD, who have received funding from the New Frontiers in Research Fund - Exploration Stream to support high-risk, high-reward and interdisciplinary research.
Media Release: COVID-19 patients who undergo surgery are at increased risk of postoperative mortality
June 01, 2020
Western University Associate Professor Janet Martin is part of the CovidSurg Collaborative whose new study in The Lancet show that COVID-19 patients who undergo surgery experience substantially worse postoperative outcomes than would be expected for similar patients who do not have COVID-19.
Honours: Dr. Tarek Loubani awarded Bassel Khartabil Fellowship
May 29, 2020
In recognition of his dedication to using the concepts of open access to design and distribute low-cost medical supplies, Fabricatorz Foundation, Creative Commons, and Mozilla have awarded the prestigious Bassel Khartabil Fellowship to Dr. Tarek Loubani, Associate Professor at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry.
Announcement: Centre for Quality, Innovation and Safety opens at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry
May 27, 2020
The Centre for Quality, Innovation and Safety at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry’s Department of Medicine aims to improve patient care through research in quality improvement, innovation and patient safety.
Announcement: Thomas Drysdale, PhD has been appointed as the Associate Dean, Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies
May 27, 2020
Thomas Drysdale, PhD has been appointed as the Associate Dean, Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2025.
Feature: Music sparks virtual connections with the community’s most vulnerable
May 26, 2020
Second year medical student David Zheng has organized more than 100 student volunteers from medical schools across Ontario to play live musical performances over video chat for residents in long term care homes and other health care facilities who may be feeling isolated as a result of the pandemic.
Funding News: COVID-19 research projects supported by AMOSO Innovation Funds
May 26, 2020
New rapid grants through the AMOSO Innovation Fund are enabling researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry to explore important COVID-19 research projects. The funding will help support six studies from improving diagnostic and epidemiologic detection of the virus, to testing whether administration of surfactant will improve outcomes for COVID-19 patients.
Announcement: Dr. Bertha Garcia has been extended as Acting Vice Dean & Director, Dentistry
May 25, 2020
Dr. Bertha Garcia has been extended as Acting Vice Dean & Director, Dentistry at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective June 1, 2020 until May 31, 2021 or upon recruitment of a new Vice Dean & Director, Dentistry, whichever occurs first.
Feature: Exploring the ethics of human challenge studies for COVID-19
May 22, 2020
As part of The Working Group for Guidance on Human Challenge Studies, Dr. Charles Weijer along with 13 other international experts were tasked with developing guidance for the World Health Organization on the ethical permissibility of purposefully infecting informed and willing healthy volunteers with COVID-19 in order to test a vaccine.
News: Dr. Mithu Sen completes Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine fellowship
May 22, 2020
Dr. Mithu Sen graduated from the Hedwig van Ameringen Executive Leadership in Academic Medicine (ELAM) Program at Drexel University College of Medicine, as part of the Program’s 25th anniversary class of fellows.
Award: Dental student receives inaugural national scholarship
May 21, 2020
Congratulations to Jona Szakacs, Dentistry Class of 2020, who has received the inaugural dentalcorp Academic Excellence Award. Only one scholarship is awarded each year to a graduating dental student in Canada.
Funding: Rapid Research Fund backs Western-led ideas
May 21, 2020
Two Schulich Medicine & Dentistry research projects have been named among 15 initiatives province-wide as part of the government’s $20-million Ontario COVID-19 Rapid Research Fund. Congratulations to Shawn Li, PhD, and Jason Gilliland, PhD.
Feature: Prototype uses firefighter’s mask to increase capacity of ventilators in hospitals
May 21, 2020
In light of a continuing global concern about the shortage of ventilators, a research team including Associate Professor Dr. Tarek Loubani, designed a prototype that uses this protective gear meant for firefighters in order to modify existing non-invasive ventilators to make them safe to use for COVID-19 patients.
Funding: University investment pushes pandemic research forward
May 19, 2020
The “Research Western Catalyst Grant: Surviving Pandemics” supports interdisciplinary projects at the University that will contribute to a broad range of evidence, tools and guidelines into disease outbreaks. Five research projects at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry received funding through the initiative.
Media Release: COVID-19 disruption will likely lead to 28 million surgeries being cancelled worldwide
May 15, 2020
Western University Associate Professor Janet Martin is part of the CovidSurg Collaborative which has projected that, based on a 12-week period of peak disruption to hospital services due to COVID-19, 28.4 million elective surgeries worldwide could be cancelled or postponed in 2020.
In Memoriam: Dr. Douglas Bocking
May 15, 2020
Western University is mourning the death of Dr. Douglas Bocking, medical education pioneer and former Dean. Dr. Bocking oversaw the implementation of new programs in medicine, including physical and occupational therapy, speech pathology and audiology. He also led the creation of the country’s first academic department in family medicine, helping to establish Canada as a leader in the field.
Feature: NOVID-20 Virtual Run supports coronavirus research
May 14, 2020
A Canadian charity is ensuring runners across the globe can still enjoy the camaraderie of a running club, all while pounding the pavement in support of coronavirus vaccine research at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry.
Announcement: Greta Bauer, PhD, named CIHR Sex and Gender Science Chair
May 13, 2020
Congratulations to Greta Bauer, PhD, who was named one of 15 CIHR Sex and Gender Science Chairs. The Chairs will investigate sex and/or gender as a primary research question, while also building capacity and sharing findings within and outside of their research communities.
Award: Two researchers named Young Innovators
May 13, 2020
Silvia Penuela, PhD, and Matthew Teeter, PhD, have been named as recipients of the Petro-Canada Young Innovator Awards. The program provides awards to new researchers to recognize and support innovative work that not only impacts positively the learning environment in their department, but society at large.
Announcement: New Scholarship opportunity for graduate students
May 13, 2020
With a goal of enhancing collaborative research, Dr. John Yoo has announced the introduction of the Dean’s Research Scholarship program.
Feature: Dr. Daniel Pepe helps to shield the health care system, one virtual visit at a time
May 12, 2020
Dr. Daniel Pepe was the brains behind an online COVID-19 triage tool designed to protect health care workers while providing rapid care for patients. It’s the only tool that uses on-call providers as part of the process in order to connect patients directly with a nurse or doctor.
News: Future signaled in combined PhD candidacy
May 11, 2020
Jacqueline Kueper, MSC’17, did not intend to be a pioneer. But the more she thought about the possibilities, the more she realized becoming Western’s first combined PhD candidate made sense. She is pursuing a doctorate in Epidemiology & Biostatistics and Computer Science – the first Western student to study two different fields for one PhD.
Announcement: Researchers receive more than $4 million in NSERC funding
May 08, 2020
Researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry have received more than $4 million in funding from the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC).
Research News: Team first in world to treat COVID-19 with specialized dialysis
May 07, 2020
As part of a randomized controlled trial, a London-based team is the first in the world to treat a patient with COVID-19 using a modified dialysis device. The device gently removes a patient's blood, modifies white blood cells and returns them to fight hyperinflammation. It is being tested with critically ill patients at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC).
Research News: Class of medication used for overactive bladder linked to new onset of dementia
May 06, 2020
A study from researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, Lawson Health Research Institute and ICES provides further evidence of a link between a common class of medications called anticholinergics and the onset of dementia.
Announcement: Interdisciplinary research teams receive seed funding
May 06, 2020
Five new interdisciplinary research teams have received funding from the Collaborative Research Seed Grants (CRSG) program at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry.
News: Researcher, expert combat conspiracies with facts
May 05, 2020
Sajjad Fazel, MPH’18, is a researcher at Alberta Health Services in Calgary and a social media influencer and health promoter in Tanzania. He is part of a national study mapping the type, content and context of COVID-19 misinformation and how to make accurate information more palatable than the myths.
News: Medical students explore mental-health peer support
May 04, 2020
A group of medical students are emphasizing the value of peer support in promoting mental health and wellness with an initiative they hope will change the way medical students help each other.
Announcement: Dr. Ram Singh and Dr. Craig Campbell have been appointed Interim Co-Chair/Chiefs of the Department of Paediatrics
May 04, 2020
Dr. Ram Singh and Dr. Craig Campbell have been appointed Interim Co-Chair/Chiefs of the Department of Paediatrics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University and its teaching hospitals, London Health Sciences Centre and St. Joseph's Health Care London, effective May 1, 2020 to December 31, 2020 or until a permanent Chair/Chief is appointed.
Feature: Student effort offers lifeline to isolated seniors
May 03, 2020
Three Western students, along with their community partners, are offering a little joy to seniors isolating alone during the COVID-19 pandemic. The Stay in Touch initiative brings messages of hope – and perhaps a few smiles – to doorsteps and computer screens across the community.
Feature: New Schulich dean finds lessons in crisis
May 01, 2020
On May 1, Dr. John Yoo stepped into his new role as Dean of the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry during an unprecedented moment in human history.
News: Dr. John Yoo begins his term as Dean
May 01, 2020
Dr. John Yoo, the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry’s 20th Dean, begins his first term effective May 1, 2020 to June 30, 2025.
In the Media: Is it safe to go to the ER during COVID-19?
April 30, 2020
Adjunct faculty member and Emergency Physician Dr. Ken Milne speaks to Dr. Brian Goldman on CBC's podcast, The Dose, about the reasons why he thinks patients are avoiding the ER during this pandemic, and when patients should definitely be coming in to the hospital.
Feature: Exploring better way back for mental-health patients
April 30, 2020
A new model for individuals facing mental-health challenges offers smoother transitions back into the community following hospitalization – all while saving the health-care system millions of dollars annually, according to a Western researcher.
Award: Nicole Campbell, PhD, recognized provincially for teaching excellence
April 29, 2020
Congratulations to Nicole Campbell, PhD, Assistant Professor, who has received a 2020 Teaching Excellence Award from the Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance (OUSA). The Teaching Excellence Award recognizes educators who excel at unlocking the potential of Ontario’s young people.
Feature: Western Researchers using algae to help quickly produce COVID-19 test kits
April 29, 2020
Thanks to new funding from Mitacs, Schulich Medicine & Dentistry researchers are collaborating with Suncor to rapidly develop serological test kits for COVID-19 that would determine if someone has been previously infected and has the antibodies for the virus. They are employing a method that uses algae as a way to produce the testing reagent.
Feature: Study backs shelter space as housing solution
April 28, 2020
A program to convert emergency shelter space into long-term affordable housing showed incredible benefits for the community’s most vulnerable, prompting a call from Western researchers to push for additional permanent housing solutions in emergency shelters nationwide.
Announcement: Gregory Dekaban, PhD, has been extended as Acting Chair, Department of Microbiology & Immunology
April 28, 2020
Gregory Dekaban, PhD, has been extended as Acting Chair, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective from July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2021 or until a new Chair is appointed.
Announcement: Western names Lesley Rigg as Vice-President (Research)
April 27, 2020
Internationally recognized academic leader Lesley Rigg will join Western as Vice-President (Research) on August 1. Western’s Board of Governors approved a five-year term for Professor Rigg at its meeting on April 23. Currently, Rigg is dean of the Faculty of Science at the University of Calgary where she leads 250 faculty, 300 staff and 6,000 students spanning six departments and five multidisciplinary programs.
Feature: Researchers explore the possibility of using geostatistics to track COVID-19 transmission hot spots
April 24, 2020
Peter Rogan, PhD, demonstrated that geostatistical analysis could be accurately used to pinpoint the location of a radiation plume in the event of a nuclear accident. He is exploring how this decades-old method, used by miners to determine where to dig for gold, might be used to help understand emerging hot spots in the COVID-19 pandemic.
Media Release: London researchers join global initiative to study loss of smell in COVID-19 patients
April 24, 2020
As part of an initiative called the Global Consortium for Chemosensory Research (GCCR), Dr. Leigh Sowerby is studying the sudden loss of smell in COVID-19 patients. He and team of researchers are asking individuals with confirmed or presumptive cases of COVID-19 worldwide to participate in a survey to better understand this symptom.
Announcement: Joy MacDermid named Distinguished University Professor
April 22, 2020
Professor Joy MacDermid, PhD, cross-appointed to the Departments of Surgery and Epidemiology and Biostatistics, has been named a Distinguished University Professor. She is a global leader in preventing, assessing and treating hand and upper-limb injuries and an award-winning educator.
Honours: Faculty Scholars recognized for achievements in teaching and research
April 22, 2020
Congratulations to Hanif Ladak, PhD, Dr. Manuel Montero-Odasso, Cheryle Séguin, PhD, and Dr. Chris Watling, selected among 16 new Faculty Scholars at Western. The recipients are considered all-around scholars and will hold the title for two years and receive $7,000 each year for scholarly activities.
Media Release: CIHR awards $1M to study treatment for first responders with PTSD
April 21, 2020
A study co-led by researchers at Western and McMaster universities on a new approach to treating public safety personnel (PSP) with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) is receiving close to $1 million in funding.
Announcement: Dr. Terri Paul appointed Interim Assistant Dean, Resident Wellbeing
April 21, 2020
Dr. Terri Paul has been appointed Interim Assistant Dean, Resident Wellbeing, Learner Equity & Wellness for a six-month term from April 9, 2020 to September 30, 2020. This is in addition to her role as Interim Assistant Dean, Faculty Equity Wellbeing.
News: Dental students give back, support community members during COVID-19
April 17, 2020
Amid the evolving COVID-19 pandemic, dental students from Schulich Medicine & Dentistry have directed their focus to helping their local communities.
Feature: Pandemic provides real-time case study for public health students
April 17, 2020
As a future public health professional, Yun (Cherry) Lee is paying close attention to how Canada is managing the COVID-19 pandemic. Along with her classmates in the Master of Public Health program, Lee is analyzing the global response to the virus and exploring short- and long-term impacts.
Announcement: Students find success in second iteration of 2020 CaRMS process
April 16, 2020
Schulich Medicine students were successful in the second iteration of the 2020 CaRMS process, which was released on April 15.
Announcement: Celebrating the 2020 Awards of Excellence recipients
April 15, 2020
As educators, researchers, innovators and leaders, the 2020 Awards of Excellence recipients are making a difference at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry. This year, we celebrate 42 award recipients. It is with great pride that we recognize and honour their achievements.
In the Media: The multi-pronged search for the Holy Grail of the pandemic - a vaccine
April 15, 2020
Researchers across the country are working tirelessly and collaborating on various approaches. In this article for University Affairs, Stephen Barr, PhD, explains the work being done at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and how they are collaborating globally to develop a vaccine for COVID-19.
Feature: Simulation improves care, confidence during COVID-19
April 14, 2020
Faculty members are engaged in creating and delivering interprofessional simulation experiences, with the goal of helping health care providers learn, adapt and prepare for the COVID-19 cases they may encounter.
Opinion: What is the ‘COVID-ified’ future for dentists?
April 14, 2020
From patient management to staffing to supply chains, COVID-19 is significantly impacting the dental profession. Puneet Bhatnagar, a student with the Internationally Trained Dentists program, explores the current issues and long-term implications in an article for Dentistry IQ.
Media Release: ‘Cough chamber’ shows six-feet may not be far enough for physical distancing
April 14, 2020
Collaborating with Eric Arts, PhD, an interdisciplinary research team is using a 'Cough Chamber' to examine the pathways of COVID-19 droplets through the air and analyze different material surfaces in order to verify its survivability under different temperature and humidity conditions.
News: Researchers donate critical protective equipment to health care workers
April 14, 2020
When researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry learned that their colleagues in health care on the frontline of the COVID-19 pandemic were in need of donations of critical personal protective equipment (PPE) and medical supplies, they didn’t hesitate to contribute.
News: Faculty wellbeing program launches amidst COVID-19 pandemic
April 09, 2020
Based on a Peers for Peers model, the Schulich Wellbeing Program will provide support for clinical and dentistry faculty in London and Windsor. Drs. Terri Paul, Bill McCauley and Andrea Lum are the faculty leads for the Program.
Alumni News: Dr. Margaret Chan appointed inaugural Dean of Tsinghua University’s new public health school
April 09, 2020
Dr. Margaret Chan, BA'73, MD’77, DSc'99, has been appointed the inaugural Dean of the Vanke School of Public Health at Tsinghua University in Beijing.
Opinion: Seven Reasons Your ‘Coronavirus Party’ Is a Bad Idea
April 08, 2020
In this Opinion Piece for the New York Times, Greta Bauer, PhD, discusses the idea of people considering intentionally infecting themselves with COVID-19. "As an epidemiologist, I can confirm that’s a horrible idea," she writes.
Feature: Researchers assessing risks of surgery during COVID-19 pandemic
April 07, 2020
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry researchers Dr. Davy Cheng and Associate Professor Janet Martin are collaborating with the WHO and global organizations to assess risks of surgery during the COVID-19 pandemic and other viral epidemics.
Announcement: Dr. Terri Paul has been appointed Interim Assistant Dean, Faculty Equity Wellbeing
April 07, 2020
Dr. Terri Paul, has been appointed Interim Assistant Dean, Faculty Equity Wellbeing for a six-month period from March 27 to September 30, 2020.
News: Web resource supports emergency staff
April 03, 2020
First-year medical student Max Stone has helped create a web resource for emergency staff at a Toronto hospital that will support their essential work on the frontlines of the COVID-19 pandemic.
News: Collaboration with Faculty of Engineering results in protective face shields for health care workers
March 31, 2020
A collaboration between the Faculty of Engineering and Schulich Medicine & Dentistry has led to the production of low-cost, substantively effective medical face shields that could be in hospitals for healthcare workers (HCW) within days if not hours.
COVID-19 Travel Reimbursement Policy
March 30, 2020
Due to the changing nature and rapid spread of COVID-19 and the recently communicated Western University travel restrictions where it is required that all travel be cancelled, the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry has adopted a new travel reimbursement policy.
Feature: Learning from echoes of past plagues, poxes, flus
March 30, 2020
The worldwide COVID-19 outbreak is both familiar and concerning to Shelley McKellar, PhD, Schulich Medicine & Dentistry's Hannah Chair in the History of Medicine. She sees parallels in the current pandemic with the trajectory of history’s other fast-moving diseases, including the Black Death of the 1300s; the cholera outbreak of the 18th century; the 1918 Spanish flu epidemic; polio’s apex in the 1950s; and modern-day viruses such as HIV, SARS, MERS, H1N1 and Zika.
To our alumni - thank you
March 29, 2020
As you support your hospital, university and community, we want to say thank you. Schulich Medicine & Dentistry alumni have long been leaders in their fields and you continue to demonstrate thoughtful leadership through the COVID-19 global pandemic.
Volunteering during COVID-19 - a message from Dr. Cheng
March 27, 2020
As you may know, there is an increasing number of requests from government, professional bodies, and private and public entities to medical schools, student leaders, student organizations and individual students to volunteer in a variety of roles that are rapidly evolving from the COVID-19 pandemic.
Media Release: Study to examine inflammatory response in patients with COVID-19
March 27, 2020
Researchers at Lawson Health Research Institute and Schulich Medicine & Dentistry have launched a new study to help us better understand how the body’s immune system responds to COVID-19.
Feature: Athlete mental health in the wake of COVID-19
March 26, 2020
This week athletes experienced a roller coaster of emotions when the International Olympic Committee made the decision to postpone the Summer Olympics. In response, Dr. Jane Thornton, a Sports Medicine Physician at Fowler Kennedy Sports Medicine Clinic co-created a resource for athlete mental wellness in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Feature: From the frontlines of Italy’s COVID-19 fight
March 25, 2020
Dr. Fabio Salerno, a nephrologist and PhD Candidate at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, has returned to his home country of Italy to help care for patients during the COVID-19 outbreak. He is sending updates from Monza San Gerardo Hospital in the country’s northern Lombardy region.
Funding Opportunity: CIHR Operating Grant for COVID-19 Clinical Epidemiology Research Rapid Response
March 25, 2020
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) has just announced a grant opportunity with an application deadline of Friday, March 27, 2020. The purpose of this funding opportunity is to develop and deploy a clinical epidemiology research protocol to a number of surveillance network sites in order to enable rapid implementation in the event of an outbreak of COVID-19 in Canada.
Feature: Using technology and ingenuity to protect health care workers
March 24, 2020
Dr. Tarek Loubani is using his experiences as an emergency physician in Gaza and here at home in London to help supply personal protective equipment to health care workers Canada. As the COVID-19 outbreak progresses, there is concern about the adequate supply of personal protective equipment like masks, gowns, and face shields.
News: Medical students helping efforts to supply protective gear
March 23, 2020
Medical students at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry are helping a local effort to supply Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) to primary care teams across the London region.
Announcement: Funding backs Western COVID-19 vaccine efforts
March 19, 2020
Western efforts to develop a COVID-19 vaccine received a major jolt thanks to million-dollar investment by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), federal officials announced today.
Education and Research Program Changes – COVID-19
March 18, 2020
The health and safety of faculty, staff and learners is always a top priority. Western has cancelled classes from Friday, March 13 up-to and including Tuesday, March 17, 2020 to provide instructors and academic support staff adequate time to prepare to deliver course content in alternative ways.
COVID-19 Travel, Education and Visitor Policy
March 18, 2020
Due to the changing nature and spread of COVID-19, and in an effort to minimize the potential risk to patients in our care, the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry has adopted a new travel policy relating to all Schulich Medicine & Dentistry clinical/dental faculty, staff, and learners and for those who work in a clinical care environment. The policy oversees travel for international residents, fellows, and visitors who are scheduled to come to Western University for training and or guest lectures. It outlines the process for faculty, staff and learners who are not engaged in clinical or dental care or who don’t work in a hospital or clinical environment, or a research lab in a hospital or clinical care environment.
News: Medical students providing support during COVID-19 containment effort
March 15, 2020
Medical students at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry are rallying to support their health care colleagues during the COVID-19 containment efforts. Through a student-led initiative, they are offering free childcare, errand running and volunteering services while Ontario schools are closed.
Western President’s statement on COVID-19 effort
March 12, 2020
Classes are cancelled starting Friday, March 13 up-to and including Tuesday, March 17. Any exams scheduled during this time period will be rescheduled. Starting Wednesday, March 18, classes will be online through to the end of term.
Generation Vape: The new era of lung injury
March 10, 2020
On March 10, community members learned the latest about vaping research and policy from a panel of experts at a special event hosted by Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and Lawson Health Research Institute.
News: Fifth annual IPE Day biggest event yet
March 10, 2020
This year’s Interprofessional Education (IPE) Day united health care learners from across the region to improve their skills in collaborative patient care. The 2020 event centred around refugee and newcomer health, and the role of various practitioners in providing care.
Media Release: Trans and non-binary Canadians report having unmet health care needs
March 10, 2020
Nearly half of transgender and non-binary Canadians who responded to a national survey say they faced one or more unmet health care needs in the past year – with about 1-in-10 saying they avoided an emergency room visit completely, according to a Western University-led project.
Feature: The same vertical line
March 06, 2020
Drs. Ally Istl, Martina Mudri, Elaine Tang and Lucy Yang will be the Division of General Surgery’s first all-female graduating year this spring. From clinical experiences to conference travels to family gatherings, the four co-residents have grown to be more than just peers.
News: Researchers receive CIHR funding to study COVID-19
March 06, 2020
Two researchers with ties to Schulich Medicine & Dentistry received CIHR funding to study COVID-19. Anita Kothari, PhD, is developing a social media toolkit for public health agencies to use. Maxwell Smith, PhD, is proposing ethical pathways to expedite treatment and vaccine research for COVID-19.
News: Schulich Medicine students signal strong sense of social responsibility with CaRMS match results
March 05, 2020
The first iteration of the 2020 Canadian Resident Matching Services (CaRMS) residency match was released on March 3.
News: Eight Schulich Medicine & Dentistry graduate trainees make Western 3MT finals
March 04, 2020
Eight graduate trainees from Schulich Medicine & Dentistry are among the 20 Western finalists at this year’s Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition. The Western 3MT Finals take place on March 12 at the Wolf Performance Hall.
Award: Dr. J. David Spence receives American Heart Association's William Feinberg Award
March 02, 2020
Dr. J. David Spence received the William M. Feinberg Award for Excellence in Clinical Stroke from the American Stroke Association, a division of the American Heart Association. The Award recognizes significant contributions to the investigation and management of clinical research in stroke.
Media Release: Molecule found in oranges could reverse obesity
March 02, 2020
Researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry are studying a molecule found in sweet oranges and tangerines called nobiletin, which they have shown to drastically reduce obesity and reverse its negative side-effects. But why it works remains a mystery.
Coronavirus information students, faculty and staff
February 28, 2020
Information for Western students, faculty and staff regarding Novel Coronavirus.
Announcement: Dr. William (Bill) McCauley has been appointed as the Assistant Dean, Professional Affairs
February 28, 2020
Dr. William (Bill) McCauley, has been appointed as the Assistant Dean, Professional Affairs, at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective March 1, 2020 to February 28, 2025.
Award: Aaron Fenster, PhD, named to Order of Ontario
February 27, 2020
Aaron Fenster, PhD, has been named to the Order of Ontario. The province’s highest honour, the Order of Ontario honours individuals who have made exceptional achievements and left a lasting legacy on the province, Canada, and beyond.
News: Rapid test kit for Listeria improves food safety
February 25, 2020
A team led by Dr. Michael Rieder has created a Listeria rapid testing kit that helps improve food safety. The new kit builds on the success of a test kit previously developed by Dr. Rieder’s lab that detects E. coli.
Award: Dr. Davy Cheng receives Society of Perioperative Research and Care Distinguished Service Award
February 24, 2020
Dr. Davy Cheng is the recipient of the Distinguished Service Award from the Society of Perioperative Research and Care.
Award: Dr. Manuel Montero-Odasso named one of the 10 Most Influential Hispanic Canadians of 2019
February 18, 2020
Dr. Manuel Montero-Odasso was named one of the 10 Most Influential Hispanic Canadians of 2019 by TD Bank. The award acknowledges Dr. Montero-Odasso’s world-renowned work in dementia and gait.
Media release: Online tool aims to improve experiences of youth in mental health system
February 13, 2020
A joint venture between Western University researcher Dr. Javeed Sukhera and mindyourmind, the project includes an online module for youth called Shared Humanity. The goal is to help youth learn about the mental health care system and be better prepared to build a trusting relationship with their health care provider.
News: Novel coronavirus forum offers topical education for learners
February 11, 2020
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry students learned from an expert panel of researchers and clinicians about the 2019 novel coronavirus epidemic in the context of virology, infectious disease medicine and past outbreaks.
Announcement: Cheryle Séguin, PhD, will be serving as Interim Chair for the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology
February 10, 2020
Cheryle Séguin, PhD, will be serving as Interim Chair for the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University.
Coronavirus information students, faculty and staff
February 10, 2020
Read the latest update from the Middlesex-London Health Unit and recommendations for travellers returning from Hubei province and other parts of mainland China.
Announcement: Susanne Schmid, PhD, has been appointed as the Vice Dean, Basic Medical Sciences
February 06, 2020
Susanne Schmid, PhD, has been appointed as the Vice Dean, Basic Medical Sciences, at Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective July 1, 2020 to June 30, 2025.
Announcement: Dr. Dervla Connaughton has been appointed as the inaugural Eugen Drewlo Chair in Kidney Research and Innovation
February 04, 2020
Dr. Dervla Connaughton, has been appointed as the inaugural Eugen Drewlo Chair in Kidney Research and Innovation, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2024.
Announcement: Danielle Alcock, PhD, appointed as Indigenous Leader in Residence
February 04, 2020
Danielle Alcock, PhD, has been appointed as the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry’s Indigenous Leader in Residence effective February 11.
Announcement: Dr. Steven MacDonald has been re-appointed as Chair/Chief, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery and as the J.C. Kennedy Chair in Orthopaedic Surgery
February 04, 2020
Dr. Steven MacDonald has been re-appointed as Chair/Chief, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery and as the J.C. Kennedy Chair in Orthopaedic Surgery effective January 1, 2020 to June 30, 2024.
Coronavirus information students, faculty and staff
January 31, 2020
Information for Western students, faculty and staff regarding Novel Coronavirus.
Bell Let's Talk: How digital technology can reduce mental illness stigma
January 29, 2020
Dr. Javeed Sukhera says digital technology makes stigma-reduction education freely available to everyone. By putting knowledge about stigma in the hands of patients and caregivers, technology democratizes expertise.
Funding: CIHR Project Grant recipients announced
January 23, 2020
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research announced more than $11.9 million in research funding through their project grants competition for 17 projects across Western University.
In Memoriam: Dr. Samuel Ludwin
January 23, 2020
It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dr. Samuel Ludwin. Dr. Ludwin was the Chair of Pathology at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry from 1992-1993. He passed away peacefully at his home in Kingston on January 21, 2020.
Award: Dr. Peeyush Lala honoured with American Association for Anatomy Henry Gray Scientific Achievement Award
January 23, 2020
Dr. Peeyush Lala is the recipient of the 2020 Henry Gray Scientific Achievement Award from the American Association for Anatomy (AAA). The acknowledgement is the AAA’s highest scientific award. Dr. Lala is being recognized for his novel discoveries relating to reproduction and cancer.
Award: Ornela Kljakic awarded Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers
January 22, 2020
PhD Candidate Ornela Kljakic has been awarded the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers from the Governor General of Canada. The award is one of the country’s highest honours for volunteerism.
Media Release: Research points to early detection for Alzheimer’s disease
January 20, 2020
By looking specifically at an area of the brain responsible for remembering past personal experiences, the research team was able to show specific changes even during the earliest phases of memory loss in patients
Media Release: Stroke ups risks of heart complications
January 15, 2020
Led by Dr. Luciano Sposato, the Kathleen and Henry Barnett Chair in Stroke at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, a Western-led study showed that women and men with no underlying heart disease are more than 20 times more likely to have their first heart attack, chest pain, or even cardiac death following a stroke.
Award: Dr. Achal Dhir receives Canadian Anesthesiologists’ Society Humanitarian Award
January 13, 2020
Congratulations to Dr. Achal Dhir, Associate Professor, recipient of a Canadian Anesthesiologists’ Society (CAS) Humanitarian Award. The CAS Honour Awards recognize individuals who have advanced anesthesiology through innovative leadership and excellence.
Western mourns loss of students on Flight PS752
January 08, 2020
Western is grieving the lives lost on Flight PS752, including members of the Western campus community. Immediate supports are available.
Announcement: New Dean Chosen for Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
January 06, 2020
On behalf of Western University's Board of Governors, President Alan Shepard, and the Schulich Medicine & Dentistry Decanal Selection Committee, Andy Hrymak is very pleased to announce that Dr. John Yoo has been appointed as the next Dean of the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, beginning May 1, 2020 through June 30, 2025.
Feature: Relationships and collaboration are central to the philosophy of the new Dean
January 06, 2020
“If there is anything I have learned during my life, it’s that relationships matter. As colleagues and leaders our job is to help identify mutual interests, foster collaborations, and forge partnerships,” said Dr. John Yoo. It’s a philosophy that Dr. Yoo will bring with him to his first term as the new dean of Western University’s Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry.
Honour: Dr. Mary Lee Myers named Member of the Order of Canada
January 05, 2020
Congratulations to Associate Professor Dr. Mary Lee Myers, MD’77, who was named a Member of the Order of Canada. Dr. Myers was acknowledged for her leadership and volunteerism as a board member of the Stratford Festival and the London Community Foundation.
News: Postgraduate Medical Education Accreditation site visit
December 23, 2019
In November 2019, 53 of the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry’s 55 medical residency and area of focused competence programs participated in an accreditation site visit. Volunteer faculty from medical schools in Canada representing the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada and the College of Family Physicians of Canada spent one week at the School meeting with all the programs and medical leadership teams.
Announcement: Dr. Davy Cheng, extended appointment as Acting Dean of the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
December 20, 2019
Dr. Davy Cheng has agreed to an extension of his appointment as the Acting Dean of the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry for an additional four-month period, concluding on April 30, 2020.
Feature: Team Broken Earth London Spine Team reflects on trip to Haiti
December 20, 2019
Marjorie Johnson and a team of nurses and doctors from London travelled to Haiti last fall as part of Team Broken Earth (TBE). She reflects on their trip as they prepare to travel again in January. “We realized that good things happen in small steps through persistent efforts by ordinary people.”
Awards: Three Faculty members receive Canadian Association for Medical Education Certificate of Merit Awards
December 19, 2019
Drs. Daniel Grushka and Sandra Northcott, and Teresa Van Deven, PhD, have been recognized by the Canadian Association for Medical Education with Certificate of Merit Awards.
Award: Cheryle Séguin, PhD, awarded two Arthritis Society grants
December 19, 2019
Cheryle Séguin, PhD, is the recipient of two grants from the Arthritis Society, a Strategic Operating Grant and a Stars Careers Development Award – Mid Career. The grants support her promising new research into back pain and arthritis. Her research will study the biology of disc degeneration and common spine disorders and test new treatments.
Honour: Bekim Sadikovic recognized among National Human Genome Research Institute's Top 10 of 2019
December 19, 2019
Research by Bekim Sadikovic, PhD, has been acknowledged by the National Human Genome Research Institute (NHGRI) as one of the 10 most significant advances in genomic medicine in 2019.
News: Schulich Medicine & Dentistry to host the Canadian Federation of Medical Students 2020 Annual General Meeting
December 16, 2019
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry has been selected as the host site for the 2020 Annual General Meeting (AGM) of the Canadian Federation of Medical Students (CFMS), taking place September 18 to 20, 2020.
Honours: Researchers celebrated on Arthritis Society’s Top 10 Research Advances of 2019 list
December 16, 2019
Two researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry were among those named to the Arthritis Society’s Top 10 Research Advances of 2019 list. Frank Beier, PhD, along with PhD trainee Ian Villamagna, were acknowledged for their work in developing a new delivery method for an anti-inflammatory drug. Matthew Teeter, PhD, was honoured for his research into wearable technology being used as a pre- and post-operative assessment tool for knee replacement surgery.
Media Release: Partnership with Siemens Healthineers will create a centre of excellence in advanced diagnostic imaging and therapeutics
December 10, 2019
Continuing to build on the established excellence in medical imaging, London’s academic teaching hospitals, London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC), and St. Joseph’s Health Care London, and Western University’s Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry announced today a partnership with Siemens Healthineers in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), interventional angiography, cardiology and cardiac surgery that will create a centre of excellence in advanced diagnostic imaging and therapeutics in southwestern Ontario.
Award: PEPP Physician Team wins President’s Award for Physician Leadership
December 06, 2019
A team of Schulich Medicine & Dentistry faculty were honoured for their work with the Prevention and Early Intervention Program for Psychoses. They received the 2019 London Health Sciences Centre President’s Award for Physician Leadership.
Media Release: Lung images of twins with asthma add to understanding of the disease
December 04, 2019
In a case study published today, researchers used a specialized MRI technique in a set of twins with asthma. While the twins are non-identical, the researchers found that they actually had identical ventilation defects in the same upper left lung segment, which stayed the same over the duration of the seven year study.
Announcement: Dr. Lois Champion has been appointed as Associate Dean, Postgraduate Medical Education
December 02, 2019
Dr. Lois Champion, has been appointed as Associate Dean, Postgraduate Medical Education, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective from January 1, 2020 – December 31, 2024.
News: Office of Military Academic Medicine opens
December 02, 2019
With the aim of becoming a world leader in military medicine, the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry at Western University announced the establishment of the Office of Military Academic Medicine.
News: Postgraduate Accreditation site visit concludes
December 01, 2019
Dr. Chris Watling shares a message of gratitude for the commitment and dedication of program directors, program administrators, and teaching faculty, both for their efforts in preparing for this accreditation visit, and for their year-round support for residency training.
World AIDS Day: Fighting HIV from all fronts
November 27, 2019
Jessica Prodger, PhD, is on the forefront of HIV research. On World AIDS Day, we recognize the work of researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry in preventing and treating HIV, and their enduring search for a cure.
Award: Parisa Shooshtari receives Ontario Institute for Cancer Research Investigator Award
November 26, 2019
Parisa Shooshtari, PhD, was the recipient of the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research Investigator I Award. The Investigator Awards support world-class cancer researchers across the province.
Research News: New promise in fighting staph infections
November 25, 2019
A team of researchers from Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and McMaster University have demonstrated a potent antimicrobial can work against the toughest infectious disease strains. The find could be the beginning of developing new therapeutics to combat drug-resistant infections.
Awards: Recognizing student excellence at the Dentistry Fall Awards Reception
November 25, 2019
More than 20 awards were presented to students at the annual Schulich Dentistry Fall Awards Reception this month. Congratulations to the recipients.
News: Case report describes new type of vaping lung injury
November 21, 2019
A team of authors including Schulich Medicine & Dentistry faculty members have released details on Canada’s first published case of suspected vaping-related lung injury. Published today in CMAJ, the case study may be the first to describe a new type of injury from vaping products.
Honour: Dr. Robert Hegele named George Lyman Duff Memorial Lecturer
November 19, 2019
Dr. Robert Hegele was honoured by the American Heart Association for more than three decades studying human genetics. He was named the 2019 George Lyman Duff Memorial Lecturer.
Award: Dr. David Palma wins Canadian Cancer Society Award of Excellence
November 17, 2019
Dr. David Palma was honoured at the Canadian Cancer Society Awards of Excellence in Cancer Research. He is the co-recipient of the William Rawls Prize for his work in radiation oncology.
Announcement: Dr. Sonja Reichert has been appointed as the Dr. Brian W. Gilbert Canada Research Chair
November 11, 2019
Dr. Sonja Reichert, has been appointed as the endowed Dr. Brian W. Gilbert Canada Research Chair, effective July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2024.
Honour: Dr. Davy Cheng receives Honorary Diploma from Fanshawe College
November 06, 2019
Acting Dean Dr. Davy Cheng was the recipient of an Honorary Diploma at Fanshawe College’s fall graduation ceremony. The acknowledgement recognizes Dr. Cheng’s contributions to enhancing health care research, practice, policy and education.
Media Release: Community-driven project improves patient outcomes for diabetes in Indigenous communities
November 04, 2019
In total, nine Indigenous communities from coast to coast completed the FORGE AHEAD program, each with their own set of goals and interventions. At the program level, the researchers saw significant improvements in important clinical indicators for diabetes, including blood glucose control, blood pressure and LDL cholesterol for high risk patients.
Announcement: Acting Chief Administrative Officer appointment
November 01, 2019
Paul Paolatto, has agreed to serve as Acting Chief Administrative Officer for the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, reporting to me, effective November 1, 2019.
Stipends available for Summer Research Training Program
October 31, 2019
The Summer Research Training Program (SRTP) enables medical students to pursue research interests by working under the supervision of a faculty member during the summer months. Proposals for clinical or basic science research projects are due to the School’s Research Office by December 9.
In Memoriam: Dr. Gerald Zanvil Wright
October 30, 2019
It is with sadness that we share news that Dr. Gerald (Gerry) Zanvil Wright – professor emeritus at Schulich Dentistry and a passionate local and international advocate of dental training in pediatric practice – has died.
Media Release: Using probiotics to protect honey bees against fatal disease
October 30, 2019
A group of researchers at Western and Lawson combined their expertise in probiotics and bee biology to supplement honey bee food with probiotics, in the form a BioPatty, in their experimental apiaries. The aim was to see what effect probiotics would have on honey bee health.
Award: Dr. Vivian McAlister wins lifetime achievement award in transplantation
October 29, 2019
Congratulations to Dr. Vivian McAlister, recipient of the 2019 Canadian Society of Transplantation Lifetime Achievement Award. He’s being honoured for outstanding contributions to developing transplantation activities in Canada.
In Memoriam: Dr. Paul Polak, MD’58, DSc’08
October 25, 2019
Dr. Paul Polak, MD’58, DSc’08, 2018 awardee of an Alumni of Distinction Award at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, reinvented himself in his late 40s into what would now be called a social entrepreneur. His modest ambition: to eradicate rural poverty from Belize to Bangladesh. Dr. Polak, died of heart disease Oct. 10 in Denver at age 86. (Via the Wall Street Journal)
Award: Dr. Ruth Lanius touted for military health research
October 24, 2019
Dr. Ruth Lanius is the recipient of the 2019 Banting Award for Military Health Research from the Canadian Institute for Military and Veteran Health Research. Her research uses advanced imaging technology to study brain activity and neural connections in post-traumatic stress disorder.
Awards: Researchers honoured for innovation milestones
October 23, 2019
Several researchers from Schulich Medicine & Dentistry were acknowledged at the annual WORLDiscoveries Vanguard Awards. The awards highlight business achievements related to innovative discoveries, including securing patents or having technology licensed by industry partners.
Announcement: Dr. Sandra Northcott has been appointed as Associate Dean, Learner Equity & Wellness
October 22, 2019
Dr. Sandra Northcott, has been appointed as Associate Dean, Learner Equity & Wellness, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective from December 1, 2019 – November 30, 2024.
Honours: MD/PhD student Kara Ruicci named to Business London’s 20 in Their 20s List
October 21, 2019
Congratulations to MD/PhD student Kara Ruicci on being named to Business London’s Twenty in Their 20s List for 2019. The acknowledgement honours young people across the city who are leaders and changemakers in their respective industries.
Research: Involuntary admission for psychosis higher among some first-generation ethnic minority groups
October 15, 2019
A new study by Kelly Anderson, PhD, and her team demonstrates that involuntary admission due to first-time diagnosis of psychosis is higher among some first-generation ethnic minority groups, particularly African and Caribbean migrants.
Announcement: Dr. Amit Garg has been re-appointed as the Dr. Adam Linton Chair in Kidney Health Analytics
October 11, 2019
Dr. Amit Garg, has been re-appointed as the Dr. Adam Linton Chair in Kidney Health Analytics at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective October 1, 2019 – September 30, 2024.
Award: Michael Iacocca, MSc'19, honoured with Governor General's Gold Medal
October 10, 2019
Congratulations to Michael Iacocca, MSc'19, who was awarded a Governor General's Gold Medal. The Gold Medals recognize outstanding scholarly achievement and are awarded to students who receive the highest academic standing at the graduate level.
Media Release: New study advances quest to better understand consciousness
October 10, 2019
In a new study published today by Nature Communications, Adrian Owen, PhD, and his colleagues at the University of Cambridge compared the brain states of patients who are in a vegetative state with those of healthy participants who were anaesthetized. The aim is to identifying a specific brain state that is associated with consciousness and conversely, a specific brain state that is indicative on unconsciousness.
News: Western to kickoff United Way campaign
October 08, 2019
Western will kick off its 2019 United Way campaign with a little chili and cornbread. Show Your Local Love Fest is scheduled for 11:30 a.m.-1:30 p.m. Thursday on Concrete Beach where for a $5 donation you can grab lunch and enjoy some music.
Honours: Drs. Heather MacKenzie and Javeed Sukhera named Top 20 Under 40
October 07, 2019
Congratulations to Dr. Heather MacKenzie and Dr. Javeed Sukhera for being named to London’s Top 20 Under 40 for 2019, as identified by London Inc. magazine. The honour is given to young leaders who are making a difference in the community.
Announcement: Dr. P. Andrea Lum has been appointed as Vice Dean, Faculty Affairs
October 07, 2019
Dr. P. Andrea Lum, has been appointed as Vice Dean, Faculty Affairs, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University for a five-year term effective January 1, 2020 to December 31, 2024.
Funding: Ontario Research Fund supports early researchers and infrastructure at Western
October 04, 2019
Today, the Ontario government announced $2.2 million in support of research at Western University. The funds support important health research projects at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry through the Early Researcher Awards and the Ontario Research Fund (ORF) Infrastructure Fund.
Media Release: Researchers unlock potential to use CRISPR to alter the microbiome
October 04, 2019
Researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry have developed a new way to deliver the DNA-editing tool CRISPR-Cas9 into microorganisms in the lab, providing a way to efficiently launch a targeted attack on specific bacteria.
Announcement: Dr. Amardeep Thind has been re-appointed as Director, Schulich Interfaculty Program in Public Health
October 03, 2019
Dr. Amardeep Thind, has been re-appointed as Director, Schulich Interfaculty Program in Public Health, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective September 1, 2019 to August 31, 2024.
News: Western moves up in Maclean’s rankings
October 02, 2019
Western rose one spot from last year, landing at No. 7 in the 2020 Maclean’s University Rankings, released Oct. 3. In the Medical Doctoral category-by-category breakdown, Western ranked highest in scholarship and bursaries (No. 3), student satisfaction (No. 4) and student services (No. 6).
Funding: NIH Grant supports genome editing cancer immunotherapy research
October 01, 2019
A new NIH grant will allow John Ronald, PhD, and his team to develop tools to better monitor how CRISPR-modified cancer immunotherapies move through a patient's system. Ronald says their imaging technologies could provide the critical data needed to understand individual patient response by actually visualizing where these cells go within the body.
Alumni News: CARL revolutionizing audiology education
October 01, 2019
Susan Scollie, Director of the National Centre for Audiology, and Rob Koch, MESc (Biomedical Engineering)’18 founder and president of AHead Simulations, with some of the CARL patient simulators being used for research, training and product demonstrations.
Media Release: Cannabis study reveals how CBD offsets the psychiatric side-effects of THC
September 30, 2019
Steven Laviolette, PhD, and his research team including Vanier Scholar Roger Hudson have shown for the first time the molecular mechanisms at work that cause cannabidiol, or CBD, to block the psychiatric side-effects caused by tetrahydrocannabinol (THC), the main psychoactive chemical in cannabis.
Award: Terry Peters, PhD, honoured for outstanding career
September 27, 2019
Congratulations to Terry Peters, PhD, who was awarded the 2019 Gold medal from The Canadian Organization of Medical Physicists (COMP). The Gold Medal is the highest award given by COMP and recognizes a member who has made a significant contribution to the field of medical physics in Canada.
News: Western named one of fastest-rising institutions for scientific research by Nature Index
September 26, 2019
When considering the growth in research output in the 82 high-quality journals tracked by the Nature Index, the journal ranked Western University as Canada’s fastest growing institution and one of the 8 globally.
Media Release: Commonly used drug for Alzheimer’s disease increases risk of hospitalization for muscle breakdown
September 19, 2019
Dr. Amit Garg explains that these findings support vigilance from physicians about the possible risk of rhabdomyolysis in patients who start donepezil. “If someone presents to the hospital with rhabdomyolysis, they should look for donepezil on their medication list as a possible cause.”
Alumni News: Alumnus targets public health via social media
September 17, 2019
As celebrity gossip and jokes long dominated social media in Tanzania, Sajjad Fazel, MPH’18, was convinced social media could be used for social good.
Funding: The real low-down on diabetes
September 16, 2019
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry’s Diabetes Alliance received more than $1 million to lead a global, real-world study on diabetes-related hypoglycemia
Announcement: Lauren Flynn named a member of College of New Scholars
September 11, 2019
Congratulations to Lauren Flynn, PhD, Associate Professor with Anatomy and Cell Biology, who was named a member of the College of New Scholars. Part of the Royal Society of Canada, College membership represents the emerging generation of scholarly, scientific and artistic leadership in Canada.
Researchers named among newest Fellows of the Royal Society of Canada
September 10, 2019
Congratulations to Ravi Menon, PhD (Medical Biophysics), Ann Chambers, PhD (Oncology, Medical Biophysics and Pathology) and Joy MacDermid, PhD (Physical Therapy and Surgery), elected by their peers in recognition of outstanding scholarly and scientific achievement.
In Memoriam: Dr. Howard Cameron
September 09, 2019
It is with sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dr. Howard (Howie) Spencer Cameron, MD’50, an orthopaedic surgeon, faculty member and a member of the Medicine Class of 1950, a unique class of medical students who each served in World War II and came to be known as ‘the Veterans Class.’
Award: Bojana Radan named CMHF Award recipient
September 06, 2019
Bojana Radan, Medicine Class of 2021, is being recognized by the Canadian Medical Hall of Fame as a community leader, advocate and innovator. "This award means a great deal to me since it represents the struggle, resilience and determination it takes to make systemic change in medicine for the better," she said.
Announcement: Dr. Robert Stein has been re-appointed Assistant Dean, Learner Equity & Wellness, Undergraduate
September 06, 2019
Dr. Robert Stein, has been re-appointed as Assistant Dean, Learner Equity & Wellness, Undergraduate, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective October 1, 2019 to September 30, 2020.
Media Release: Diabetes medication shows potential to reduce heart disease
September 04, 2019
A new study from St. Michael's Hospital in collaboration with Western University sheds light on how a class of medications that help regulate blood sugar for patients with Type 2 diabetes can also protect against heart disease.
Announcement: Dr. Christopher Watling appointed Director, Centre for Education Research & Innovation
September 04, 2019
Dr. Christopher Watling, has been appointed Director, Centre for Education Research & Innovation (CERI) at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University for a five-year term effective January 1, 2020.
News: Changes to medical school admission process puts more focus on experiences and values
August 26, 2019
The incoming Medicine Class of 2023 is the first to have been selected through the initial phase of changes to the medical school admissions process that include an autobiographical sketch and widened MCAT threshold.
Alumni News: Dr. Jen Gunter advocates for women's health with new book and CBC series
August 23, 2019
For years she's been "wielding the lasso of truth" online. Now resident alumna Dr. Jen Gunter, who completed her training in obstetrics and gynaecology at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, is tackling women's health issues with a new show on CBC Gem.
Announcement: Brad Urquhart has been appointed Associate Dean, Basic Medical Sciences Undergraduate Education
August 23, 2019
Brad Urquhart, PhD, has been appointed as Associate Dean, Basic Medical Sciences Undergraduate Education, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, effective from September 1, 2019 to August 30, 2024.
Award: Taylor Prize winner credited for ‘rescuing abandoned molecule’
August 20, 2019
It is his determination, persistence and passion to improve the health of patients that makes Dr. Daniel Rader the deserving recipient of the 2019 J. Allyn Taylor International Prize in Medicine. Robarts Research Institute at Western University’s Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry has awarded the Taylor Prize to leading scientists since 1985 to recognize the contributions of outstanding internationally recognized researchers.
Announcement: Dr. Lena Palaniyappan has been appointed as the Endowed Tanna Schulich Chair of Neurosciences & Mental Health
August 14, 2019
Dr. Lena Palaniyappan has been appointed as the Endowed Tanna Schulich Chair of Neurosciences & Mental Health, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2024.
In Memoriam: Michael Poulter, PhD
August 14, 2019
It is with great sadness that we share news of the unexpected passing of Michael Poulter, PhD, professor in Physiology and Pharmacology and scientist at Robarts Research Institute. Poulter was a devoted scientist and teacher whose contributions to the School and the research community will be greatly missed.
Media Release: Researchers discover translator gene may play a role in disease
August 13, 2019
When researchers and clinicians investigate the genome’s relation to disease, they have traditionally focused on mutations in the code for proteins. But now researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry have shown that the genes encoding tRNAs can also have mutations that cause the code to be misread, and in greater numbers than previously thought.
Feature: Survey explores nationwide trans, non-binary population
August 08, 2019
Epidemiology and Biostatistics professor Greta Bauer, PhD, expects the nationwide Trans PULSE Canada survey to bridge a massive “deficit of quantitative data across Canada on the health of trans and non-binary people.”
Media Release: Depression is the single largest predictor of substance use during pregnancy
August 08, 2019
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and Brescia University College researchers Rachel Brown, and Jamie Seabrook, PhD, studied health data from 25,000 pregnant women and have shown that depression is the largest driver of substance use during pregnancy.
Announcement: Dr. Ian Hons appointed as Regional Academic Director for Oxford
July 31, 2019
As the newest Regional Academic Director (RAD) as part of Schulich Medicine’s Distributed Education program, Dr. Hons will help guide the medical education program in Oxford.
Media Release: New research facility allows researchers an unprecedented ability to investigate infectious pathogens
July 31, 2019
The Imaging Pathogens for Knowledge Translation facility (ImPaKT) was officially opened at Western University. The research facility is unique in North America, housing a cutting-edge suite of imaging equipment within a high-level containment environment allowing researchers unprecedented ability to investigate infectious pathogens like HIV, Staph A and Zika Virus.
Announcement: Welcome to Dentistry's newest faculty members
July 26, 2019
Three new faculty members have recently joined Schulich Dentistry. Welcome to Drs. Sharat Pani, Shawn Steele and Liliani Vieira.
Announcement: Dr. Tracey Crumley appointed as Interim Chair/Chief Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology
July 19, 2019
Dr. Tracey Crumley has been appointed as the Interim Chair/Chief, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, St. Joseph’s Health Care and London Health Sciences Centre effective July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020 or until the position is filled.
Media Release: Group calls on international community to prevent dementia by preventing stroke
July 18, 2019
The risk factors for stroke and dementia are the same, and a growing body of evidence demonstrates that preventing stroke can also prevent some dementias. Now, a group of experts led by Western University Professor, Dr. Vladimir Hachinski are calling on the global community to come together to take action on preventing dementia by preventing stroke.
Announcement: Gregory Gloor, PhD, appointed Chair, Department of Biochemistry
July 15, 2019
Gregory Gloor, PhD, has been appointed as Chair, Department of Biochemistry, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective from July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2024.
Funding: CIHR funds translational collaborative research
July 12, 2019
Health researchers at Western were awarded more than $8 million in funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) in the latest project grant competition. In total, nine research projects were funded at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry ranging from evaluating new ways of looking at spinal cord injury to understanding how neuroimaging can improve diagnostics for Parkinson’s disease.
Announcement: Dr. Davy Cheng, extended appointment as Acting Dean of the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry
July 10, 2019
Dr. Davy Cheng has agreed to an extension of his appointment as the Acting Dean of the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective from July 1, 2019 to December 31, 2019.
Announcement: Dr. George Kim, re-appointed as Assistant Dean, Rural & Regional Community Engagement
July 10, 2019
Dr. George Kim has been re-appointed as Assistant Dean, Rural & Regional Community Engagement, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective from July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2024.
Awards: Bone and Joint Institute researchers celebrated
July 09, 2019
Congratulations to Physiology and Pharmacology Professors Cheryle Seguin, Jeff Dixon and Frank Beier who were honoured by the International Combined Orthopaedic Research Societies (ICORS) at the group’s annual meeting.
Western and Schulich Medicine & Dentistry mourn the loss of a medical student
June 27, 2019
The Western community is mourning the death of Feng (David) Xu, 26, a Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry student, who died Monday, June 24, in Toronto, after a battle with cancer.
Award: Dr. David Spence named to the Order of Canada
June 27, 2019
Congratulations to Dr. David Spence, BA’65, MD’70, who has been appointed to the Order of Canada along with 83 outstanding individuals from across the country. One of Canada’s highest honours, it recognizes trailblazers who have enriched the lives of others and made a difference to the country.
Research: Scientists look to defuse cardiac 'time bomb'
June 25, 2019
Researchers may have unlocked the mystery of aortic aneurysms. Scientists at Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Robarts Research Institute and Lawson Health Research Institute have shown a recognized process in cancer biology is causing cells to become destructive and eat away at the surrounding muscle tissue, weakening the aortic wall.
Award: Dr. John Denstedt honoured for lifetime achievement
June 24, 2019
Congratulations to Dr. John Denstedt, Professor at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, who was honoured with the Karl Storz Lifetime Achievement Award from the Endourological Society. Awarded annually, this international award recognizes a senior endourologist whose lifetime contributions have had a major impact in the field.
Feature: Celebrating the Dentistry Class of 2019 with Pari Dabas
June 20, 2019
During the past four years, Pari Dabas, Dentistry Class of 2019, created lasting friendships, enjoyed a whole host of experiences that have helped her grow personally and professionally, enriched the community and student experience of her alma mater and developed the skills she needs to pursue a career as a dentist.
Awards: Dentistry faculty internationally recognized for oral health research
June 19, 2019
Congratulations to Drs. Walter Siqueira and Jeffrey Dixon who received international recognition for their work in Dental Research. Both Drs. Dixon and Siqueira were presented awards as part of the International & American Associations for Dental Research (IADR) General Session and Exhibition in Vancouver on June 19.
Awards: Faculty honoured for Academic Leadership
June 19, 2019
Congratulations to Drs. Jay Rosenfield and Robin Walker who received awards for Academic Leadership from the Pediatric Chairs of Canada (PCC). PCC is dedicated to providing national leadership in paediatric research and education to promote the health and health care of children and youth.
Awards: Physiology and Pharmacology faculty recognized for excellence in research
June 18, 2019
Congratulations to Peter Chidiac, PhD, and Peter Stathopulos, PhD, both honoured by the Canadian Society of Pharmacology and Therapeutics for their exceptional contributions to research in the field of pharmacology.
Announcement: Gregory Dekaban, PhD, appointed Acting Chair, Microbiology & Immunology
June 18, 2019
Gregory Dekaban, PhD, has been appointed as Acting Chair, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective from July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020 or until a new Chair is appointed.
Funding: London scientists key players in national dementia strategy
June 17, 2019
Researchers in London have been awarded $1.345 million over five years through the second phase of the Canadian Consortium on Neurodegeneration in Aging (CCNA), announced as part of Canada’s national dementia strategy. CCNA is a collaborative research program tackling the challenge of dementia and other neurodegenerative illnesses.
Announcement: Four new CRCs announced
June 17, 2019
Congratulations to Shehzad Ali, PhD, Corey Baron, PhD, Grace Parraga, PhD, and Marco Prado, PhD, who have been named among Western’s nine new Canada Research Chairs (CRCs). The Canada Research Chairs Program aims to attract and retain some of the world’s most accomplished and promising minds. With this announcement, there are now 1,836 Canada research chairs at universities across Canada.
Feature: Celebrating Convocation with PhD graduate Safee Mian
June 14, 2019
Safee Mian, PhD'19, is applying his basic science training to a career in management consultancy. He says graduate school provides highly transferable skills. "There is a demand for professionals who can analyze data, solve problems, think on their feet and successfully manage projects."
Feature: Celebrating the BMSc Class of 2019 with Megan DeWeerd
June 13, 2019
Megan DeWeerd, BMSc'19, is part of the first cohort of students graduating this June with an Honors Specialization in Biochemistry and Cancer Biology.
Feature: Exploring the current landscape of arts and humanities in medical education
June 06, 2019
Can jazz help a future physician better interact with patients? Can reflective writing improve physician resilience? These are questions that Lorelei Lingard, PhD, co-lead Tracy Moniz, PhD, and an international team of researchers will explore in a scoping review of arts and humanities in medical education for the Association of American Medical Colleges.
Media Release: Researchers examine gender-based differences in physician burnout
June 05, 2019
A crucial step to successfully improve clinician well-being is recognizing how gender-related differences impact physician burnout. Dr. Javeed Sukhera examines why investigating these differences with scientific rigor is critical.
Media Release: Research examines how diet can influence memory-formation
June 04, 2019
A new study shows how the brain controls what information becomes memories and the role diet and obesity play in these formations. Published in the journal Trends in Neuroscience, the study describes the critical importance of perineuronal nets, structures that enmesh certain neurons in the brain, in protecting the neuron and regulating how often the brain turns experiences into memories.
Feature: Discovery sharpens ovarian cancer diagnosis
June 03, 2019
Anatomy & Cell Biology PhD Candidate Dylan Dieters-Castator said newly discovered protein biomarkers could soon help oncologists more accurately differentiate between two types of ovarian cancers, allowing for more precise treatment options.
Announcement: Acting Vice Dean & Director, Dentistry
May 29, 2019
Dr. Bertha Garcia has been appointed as Acting Vice Dean & Director, Dentistry at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective June 1, 2019 until May 31, 2020 or until a permanent Vice Dean & Director is selected.
Announcement: Indigenous Leader in Residence
May 24, 2019
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry strives to create an environment that is inclusive and culturally safe for all people and is working to specifically address the health of Indigenous peoples and communities. A new position for an Indigenous Leader in Residence (ILIR) has been created at the School.
Awards: Dr. Paul Adams honoured for career-spanning work
May 23, 2019
Congratulations to Dr. Adams who was honoured with the Marcel Simon Award, an international prize for excellence in the research of genetic hemochromatosis, and who has also been selected as the recipient of the 2019 CASL-CLF Visiting Professorship. This award is granted by the Canadian Association for the Study of the Liver and the Canadian Liver Foundation.
Feature: Knee surgery benefits from extra step
May 22, 2019
Dr. Alan Getgood has found that young athletes needing anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) reconstruction surgery may get a leg up by opting for an additional procedure that may drastically reduce the possibility of the injury reoccurring.
Announcement: Jane Rylett appointed Scientific Director of CIHR's Institute of Aging
May 21, 2019
Jane Rylett, PhD, is an internationally recognized neuroscientist and expert in Alzheimer's disease research. As Scientific Director, she will identify research priorities, develop funding opportunities, build partnerships, and translate research evidence into policy and practice to improve the health of Canadians and people around the world.
Feature: Celebrating the Medicine Class of 2019 with Cindos Barakat
May 16, 2019
Reflecting on the past four years, Barakat has a hard time believing it will soon be over. On May 17, Barakat will cross the stage for her graduation and become a member of yet another family – the Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, Western University alumni family.
Announcement: Emerging researchers receive funding to expand horizons and take risks
May 14, 2019
Corey Baron, PhD, Bogumil Karas, PhD, and Dr. Zhan Tao (Peter) Wang have received funding as part of the federal government's New Frontiers in Research Fund. The initiative invests in researchers with five or years less of experience since their first academic appointment.
News: Western backs federal equity efforts
May 13, 2019
Western is endorsing the Dimensions: Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Canada program focused on equitable hiring and promotion opportunities. By backing the Charter of Eight Principles of Inclusion, Western commits to embedding equity, diversity and inclusion principles in its policies, practices, action plans and culture.
Announcement: Second iteration of 2019 CaRMS results
May 13, 2019
The second iteration of the Canadian Resident Matching Service (CaRMS) process was released on April 10, 2019.
Feature: Advantages offered through training in Windsor
May 10, 2019
Dr. Matthew Pfaff, a first-year resident in Family Medicine, values the advantages offered through training in Windsor and the mentorship provided by Dr. Dale Ziter.
Feature: Letting go of the 'aha' moment
May 08, 2019
Matthew Berg, PhD Candidate, is using yeast models to study the mechanisms regulating gene expression. He looks at research as a series of small, important steps. "There's no one result or experiment that makes or breaks my work. It's definitely a journey."
Feature: Project eyes prostate cancer diagnosis
May 06, 2019
Medical Biophysics graduate student TianDuo Wang is working on “the Holy Grail for cancer detection” – a protein detectable in urine that allows doctors to spot the presence and determine the aggressiveness of prostate cancer cells earlier in order to better direct patient treatment.
Feature: A decade of laughter and sharing smiles
May 03, 2019
Sharing Smiles Day, which celebrated its 10th anniversary in 2019, is an informative day where the attitudinal barriers between dental students and persons with special needs are removed and positive relationships fostered.
Award: McCrae Award holds special significance for McAlister
May 02, 2019
As the 2019 recipient of the Canadian Medical Association’s John McCrae Memorial Medal, Dr. Vivian McAlister is especially honoured to be simultaneously recognized and associated with an award that bears the name of the famed physician, solider and poet. “It is a great honour to be chosen for any award, but an award named for John McCrae has special significance to me. He is very special in Canadian history and medical history,” he said.
Awards: Dr. Ken Milne honoured for excellence in academic emergency medicine
May 01, 2019
Congratulations to Dr. Ken Milne who has been honoured with two international awards in recognition of his contribution to academic medicine. He is the recipient of the Judith E. Tintinalli Award for Outstanding Contribution in Education from The American College of Emergency Physicians (ACEP), and has been recognized by the Society for Academic Emergency Medicine (SAEM) with the FOAMed Excellence in Education Award.
Feature: Accessible Medics student group brings security to low-income Londoners
April 30, 2019
"I started Accessible Medics with the mission that no medical services should be forgone due to financial insecurity,” said BMSc student Kevin Zhou. Through Accessible Medics, Zhou and classmates provide free emergency health insurance and community care kits to low-income populations in the city.
Funding: New interdisciplinary research teams supported
April 29, 2019
Six research teams have received funding through the School's Collaborative Research Seed Grants (CRSG) program. Congratulations to the recipients.
Feature: Team to offer insights into Crohn’s treatment tools
April 26, 2019
Along with colleagues at the Cleveland Clinic and Mayo Clinic, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry professor Dr. Brian Feagan will co-lead the Stenosis Therapy and Anti-Fibrotic Research (STAR) consortium. This team will develop imaging and patient-reported tools to better understand the effectiveness of new anti-fibrotic therapies for Crohn’s disease.
Media Release: More than half of mothers of children with epilepsy at risk for depression
April 25, 2019
Mothers of children with epilepsy are at risk of having poor mental health and wellbeing, according to a new study by researchers at Lawson Health Research Institute and Western University. The research team is the first to study families of children with epilepsy long-term.
News: Senate approves changes to Internationally Trained Dentists Program
April 17, 2019
On March 15, Western’s Senate approved the School’s ITD Program from the current two-year format to a three-year format beginning in 2020/2021.
Award: Andrew Pruszynski, PhD, recognized as outstanding physiologist
April 17, 2019
Congratulations to Andrew Pruszynski, PhD, who has been awarded the J.A.F. Stevenson award from the Canadian Physiological Society. The award recognizes an outstanding young Canadian physiologist and is named after James A.F. Stevenson, former renowned physiologist from Western University.
Media Release: ICU patients may suffer undetected cognitive dysfunction
April 12, 2019
A new study led by researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry has found that most patients in hospital intensive care units for non-brain-related injuries or ailments also suffer from some level of related cognitive dysfunction that currently goes undetected in most cases.
In Memoriam: Dr. Raj Harricharan
April 10, 2019
It is with great sadness that we share the news of the sudden passing of Dr. Raj Harricharan, Vice Chair and Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry. He believed in empowering those who surrounded him including his patients and the many students and residents under his mentorship over the years.
Media Release: 3D Ultrasound gives clinicians a clearer picture to guide treatment for gynaecological cancer
April 09, 2019
By transforming a conventional ultrasound probe, this technology developed at Robarts Research Institute can provide a 360-degree, three-dimensional view of surgical tools and surrounding tissue and organs to provides a more accurate picture in the OR for clinicians who need to precisely insert needles for treatment of gynaecological cancers.
News: Government of Canada supports HockeyFIT expansion across Canada
April 05, 2019
Today, Peter Fragiskatos, Member of Parliament, announced that the Public Health Agency of Canada (PHAC) will be investing up to $2.5 million over three and a half years to help expand Western University’s Hockey Fans in Training (Hockey FIT) program across the country. Hockey FIT is led by Dr. Rob Petrella.
Award: Fred Possmayer recognized for professional achievement
April 05, 2019
Congratulations to Fred Possmayer, PhD'65, recipient of a 2019 Alumni Award of Merit from Western University. During his five-decade career, he pioneered research on Infant Respiratory Distress Syndrome. His lab’s work with bovine lung surfactant was named one of the "Top Five Game-Changing Discoveries in Ontario" by the Council of Ontario Universities.
Award: Lauren Cipriano recognized for advancing health technology assessment
April 04, 2019
Lauren Cipriano, PhD, is being honoured as the 2019 recipient of the Dr. Maurice McGregor Award from Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH). The award recognizes rising stars in the field of health technology assessment.
Award: Janet Martin recognized for contributions to health technology assessment
April 04, 2019
Congratulations to Janet Martin, PharmD, associate professor in Anesthesia & Perioperative Medicine and Epidemiology and Biostatistics, on receiving an Anniversary Medal from the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (CADTH).
Feature: Summer experiences inspire a future in research
April 03, 2019
A recipient of two NSERC Undergraduate Student Research Awards, Mihai Dumbrava is building a foundation for a career in health research. Experiences in research labs at home and abroad have shown him the value of scientific training and discovery.
Award: Honouring contributions to sustainability
April 01, 2019
This year’s winners of the Western Green Awards are making strong environmental impacts on campus residences, research facilities and around the world. Congratulations to Robarts Research Institute facilities manager Ron Vander, one of this year's recipients.
Awards: Medical education mentors honoured
April 01, 2019
Congratulations to Lorelei Lingard, PhD, and Sayra Cristancho, PhD, recipients of the 2019 Early Career Medical Educator (ECME) Awards. ECME is a nation-wide community of engaged and collaborative scholars in medical education and aims to grow and support the community of medical and health professions educators in Canada.
Awards: 2019 Awards of Excellence recipients announced
March 29, 2019
As educators, researchers, innovators and leaders, the 2019 Awards of Excellence London and Windsor Campus recipients are making a difference at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry. It is with great pride that we recognize and honour their achievements. Congratulations to this years' recipients.
News: Dr. Victor J. Dzau to receive Honorary Degree
March 27, 2019
An internationally acclaimed leader and scientist, Dr. Victor J. Dzau has made a significant impact through his seminal research in cardiovascular medicine and genetics. He is Chancellor Emeritus and James B. Duke Professor of Medicine at Duke University and will receive an honorary degree at the Schulich Medicine Convocation on May 17.
In Memoriam: Laurence John Fraher, PhD
March 27, 2019
It is with sadness that we share that Professor Emeritus Laurence Fraher, PhD, passed away on March 15, 2019 after a short battle with cancer.
News: Commercialization strategies top competition
March 25, 2019
Trainees took home top prizes at the Proteus Innovation Competition, a four-month contest that takes three newly developed technologies and challenges teams to plan their commercialization. Congratulations to Joshua Dierolf, Tim Han, Christopher Leclerc and Jeffrey Levine.
Research: Using artificial intelligence and brain stimulation to improve treatment for psychosis
March 20, 2019
A new grant from CIHR in collaboration with the EU consortium has provided a total of $2.1 million to establish a network of research centres focused on personalized medicine for mental disorders. In collaboration with five European centres, Dr. Lena Palaniyappan will be collecting brain scans and genetic information from more than 60,000 patients in order to understand the relationship between genetics and brain development.
Honours: Gregor Reid awarded Distinguished University Professorship
March 19, 2019
Three professors are the latest recipients of Distinguished University Professorships (DUP) awards, joining a select group of faculty members recognized for exceptional scholarly careers. Honoured this year are David Sherry , Marilyn Ford-Gilboe and Gregor Reid.
Honours: Three named Faculty Scholars
March 19, 2019
Congratulations to Alison Allan, PhD, Shelley McKellar, PhD, and Dr. David Palma, selected among 11 Faculty Scholars at Western University. Faculty Scholars are recognized for their significant achievements in teaching or research.
Research: Solution sought to 'sticky' staph situation
March 15, 2019
In a recent study published in Nature Communications David Heinrichs, PhD discovered some variants of staph aureus have the potential to cause more severe infections by over-expressing surface proteins that bind to our cells in the bloodstream – they simply ‘stick’ to us better than other variations.
Awards: 2019 PARO Award recipients
March 14, 2019
Congratulations to the 2019 PARO (Professional Association of Residents of Ontario) Award Recipients from Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, Dr. Daniel Grushka, Dr. Bharat Markandey, and Anish Naidu, Medicine Class of 2019.
Western mourns death of Medical Sciences student
March 14, 2019
The Western community is mourning the death of Sara Ali, 21, a fourth-year Bachelor of Medical Sciences student, who died Monday, March 4, in London.
Funding: CFI funding supports innovative translational research
March 13, 2019
Today Kirsty Duncan, MP announced longer-term stable funding for equipment for innovative research across Canada through the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI). As part of the announcement she acknowledged the successful JELF grant recipients from Western including Grace Parraga, PhD, and Rithwik Ramachandran, PhD.
News: Partnership with Canon Medical aligns area imaging expertise
March 13, 2019
A new multi-million dollar partnership in local medical imaging technology will bring state-of-the art research equipment to Robarts Research Institute and allow research findings to be brought to patient bedsides more rapidly and readily than ever before.
Awards: Western celebrates top teaching talent
March 12, 2019
Congratulations to Schulich Medicine & Dentistry faculty members who were awarded Western’s highest honours for inspiring active and deep learning in their students: Michele Barbeau, Angela Beye, Nicole Campbell, Charys Martin, Sarah McLean, Tom Stavraky and Anita Woods.
Balance For Better: International Women’s Day
March 08, 2019
Balance is not a women's issue, it's a business issue. On International Women’s Day, we support the #BalanceforBetter campaign to build a gender-balanced world – in boardrooms, government, clinical environments, academic spaces, media coverage... As part of this year’s initiative, we asked women at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry what #BalanceforBetter means to them.
Trainees to showcase research communication skills at Western’s 3MT final
March 07, 2019
Congratulations to the two trainees at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry who placed as Top 20 finalists for Western University's campus-wide Three Minute Thesis (3MT) competition – Olivia Sehl and Spencer Yeung.
In memoriam: Dr. Gordon Vail
March 07, 2019
It is with great sadness that we share the news of Dr. Gordon Vail’s passing on March 3, 2019 after a two year fight with cancer. Dr. Vail was an Emergency Department Physician and an adjunct professor at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry – Windsor Campus, a position he held since 2003.
Award: Frank Beier honoured for excellence in osteoarthritis research
March 06, 2019
Congratulations to Frank Beier, PhD, who is being honoured with an Award for Basic Science Research from the Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI). The award recognizes Beier’s pioneering work in applying genomics techniques to osteoarthritis models.
CaRMS Match results
February 28, 2019
On February 26, medical students from across Canada learned their residency match results as the first iteration of the Canadian Resident Matching Service (CaRMS) process became available.
Award: Dr. Les Kalman honoured as a Fellow of Academy of Osseointegration
February 27, 2019
Congratulations to Dr. Les Kalman, who along with three others from across North America, will be honoured for achieving Fellowship status in the Academy of Osseointegration during the Opening Symposium at its 2019 Annual Meeting.
Award: Faculty Support for Research in Education grant recipients announced
February 26, 2019
Faculty Support for Research in Education (FSRE) grants facilitate and enable scholarship in education at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry. Two new awards focus on the effects of implementing competency-based medical education and understanding Indigenous learners’ experiences.
Media Release: Tobacco plants transformed into ‘green bioreactors’ to benefit human health
February 26, 2019
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry professor Dr. Tony Jevnikar and Biology professor Shengwu Ma have discovered that tobacco plants can be used to produce large quantitates of Interleukin 37 – or IL-37 – a naturally occurring protein in the human kidney.
Announcement: Interim Chair/Chief, Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation
February 26, 2019
Dr. Robert Teasell and Dr. Keith Sequeira have been appointed Interim Co-Chair/Chiefs of the Department of Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University and its teaching hospitals, London Health Sciences Centre and St. Joseph's Health Care London, effective February 1, 2019 to June 30, 2019 or until the incumbent Chair/Chief returns from leave.
In memoriam: Dr. Gérard Guiraudon
February 19, 2019
It is with great sadness that we share news of the passing of Dr. Gérard Marcel Guiraudon on February 14, 2019. Dr. Guiraudon pioneered surgical procedures at London Health Sciences Centre and engaged in groundbreaking research focused on cardiac electrophysiology at Western University and Robarts Research Institute.
Media Release: London’s vulnerable populations live near primary care, but language remains a challenge
February 13, 2019
Led by Western professor Jason Gilliland, a team of researchers looked at accessibility to a primary-care provider – either a family doctor or nurse practitioner – based on distribution and geographical proximity in London.
February 13: Western returns to a regular schedule
February 12, 2019
Western will be open and operating on a regular schedule on Wednesday, February 13.
Media Release: Spinal cord 'smarter' than previously thought
February 11, 2019
Using specialized robotic technology, Andrew Pruszynski, PhD, and Jeff Weiler, PhD, demonstrated that the spinal cord is able to process and control complex functions, like the positioning of your hand in external space.
Award: Dr. Bertha Garcia honoured as YMCA Woman of Excellence
February 05, 2019
In recognition of her contributions to science, medicine and education, Dr. Garcia is being honoured with a 2019 YMCA Women of Excellence Award. Her impact as a medical educator, clinical leader and mentor has been profound. In a culture with few female leaders, she stands as a role model who values all voices and perspectives.
Award: Recognizing the talent and contributions of women in Southwestern Ontario
February 05, 2019
The annual YMCA Women of Excellence Class of 2019 includes four Western-connected honourees, including Dr. Bertha Garcia and Serena Tejpar, BMSc'18.
Unique oncology internship uses mentorship and research to train and raise awareness
February 04, 2019
The Oncology Research Internship (ORIoN) initiative in the Department of Oncology pairs resident mentors with medical students, providing an introduction to research and case reports. "We believe it addresses an underserved need within the medical school curriculum, and is a valuable exercise for residents whose future careers often require supervision and training," says Dr. Chris Goodman.
Media Release: VIRTUES - cutting-edge technology ushers in a bold new era of arrhythmia care
February 04, 2019
CANet, hosted at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, is currently focusing on solutions – advanced analytics, artificial intelligence, machine learning, and blockchain technology – towards one simple strategic goal – significantly improve the efficiency, effectiveness, and accessibility of arrhythmia care delivery in Canada.
Announcement: Dr. Stewart Harris reappointed as the Canadian Diabetes Association Chair in Diabetes Management
January 31, 2019
Dr. Stewart Harris has been reappointed to his third term as the Canadian Diabetes Association Chair in Diabetes Management at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective January 1, 2019 to December 31, 2023.
Let's Talk: Resident mental health and wellness
January 30, 2019
A recent survey by the Canadian Medical Association found that a significant number of resident doctors are suffering from burnout and depression. Dr. Caroline Just, PGY5 Neurology, says these experiences need to be supported with empathy from peers and colleagues. She shares more about the increasing incidence of mental health issues, the culture of medicine and how residents can support one another.
Let's Talk: The Western Perspective Project initiates a campus conversation about failure
January 30, 2019
The Western Perspective Project was designed with a goal of helping to normalize failure in academic and non-academic settings. "We are so proud of the impact this campaign has had and we hope it continues to make students understand that failure is a normal part of life and that everyone has experienced it," says Montana Hackett, one of the Project's student organizers.
Funding: CIHR grants support important projects from Indigenous health to cancer immunotherapy
January 25, 2019
Health researchers in London were awarded more than $10 million in funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, with $7.3 million supporting projects through Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and $2.8 million through Lawson Health Research Institute.
Dr. Francisco Olea-Popelka appointed as the Beryl Ivey Endowed Chair in One Health
January 11, 2019
Dr. Francisco Olea-Popelka has been appointed as the Beryl Ivey Endowed Chair in One Health, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective Jan 2, 2019 – Jan 1, 2024.
Award: Professor Emeritus Dr. Ross Feldman named to the Order of Canada
January 10, 2019
Dr. Ross Feldman was one of 103 Canadians awarded one of the nation's highest honours recognizing those "whose service shapes our society; whose innovations ignite our imaginations; and whose compassion unites our communities."
Media Release: Women with complications after pelvic mesh implants at increased risk of depression and suicide
January 09, 2019
Women who require more surgery for complications after a mesh-based sling procedure have an increased risk of depression and self-harm behaviour, according to a new study led by Dr. Blayne Welk from Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, Lawson Health Research Institute, and ICES.
Announcement: David Cechetto appointed to the Order of Ontario
January 31, 2018
Congratulations to David Cechetto, PhD, who will be appointed to the Order of Ontario later this month. Cechetto is being honoured for his pioneering research and for his work in the health care sector in Rwanda.
Feature Article: Autism and The Little Prince
January 29, 2018
For Dr. Genevieve Eastabrook, the classic children's book The Little Prince holds a special place in her heart. The main character always reminds her of her brother, Thomas, who lives with autism and was the main source of inspiration for her recent publication about the book's connection to the disorder.
Funding: CIHR Project Grant recipients announced
January 24, 2018
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) today announced more than $8.6 million in research funding through their project grants program for 13 projects across Western University and Lawson Health Research Institute
Western News: Hair samples provide window into refugee stress
January 19, 2018
Youth affected by the Syrian war were part of a study conducted at Robarts Research Institute to measure cortisol levels in their hair, a biomarker to assess their stress levels and the impact of an intervention programs being offered to them through humanitarian aid.
Announcement: Associate Dean Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies
January 17, 2018
Dr. Michael J. Strong is pleased to announce that Dr. Susanne Schmid has been appointed as the Associate Dean, Graduate & Postdoctoral Studies, at Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective January 1, 2018 to June 30, 2022.
Media Release: Research uncovers new link between head trauma, CTE and ALS
January 15, 2018
Dr. Michael Strong and his team at Robarts Research Institute have uncovered a unique neurobiological pathway triggered by head trauma which underlies both Chronic Traumatic Encephalopathy (CTE) and amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (also called ALS or Lou Gehrig’s Disease).
Funding: Researcher receives New Investigator Grant in Maternal, Reproductive, Child and Youth Health
January 10, 2018
Congratulations to Stephen Renaud, PhD, who will be studying the role of immune cells in the uterus in regulating placental blood flow and fetal health.
