News
Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Research Day 2024
April 17, 2024
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine held the 2024 Research Day on Thursday, April 4. The event celebrated our achievements in basic, translational, and clinical research, and served as an excellent platform for researchers to explore the wide range of research activities in our unique department. We had a significant gathering of approximately 200 attendees, including current and prospective undergraduate and graduate students, residents, faculty members, and staff.Amanda Morin completes her MSc Thesis
April 15, 2024
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Amanda Morin who recently completed her MSc in Pathology.Announcement: Celebrating the 2024 Awards of Excellence recipients
April 12, 2024
Ensure your spot at the Awards of Excellence Dinner as we celebrate the deserving recipients of the 2024 awards.In Memoriam – Dr. Godfrey Heathcote
March 31, 2024
It is with great sadness that we share the news of the passing of Dr. Godfrey Heathcote in Bayfield, Ontario on March 20, 2024.WPA Poster Workshop
March 19, 2024
The WPA held a workshop to teach incoming students the ins and outs of creating a visually engaging and informative poster for scientific conferences. The workshop was led by a senior PhD candidate and the co-president of the WPA, Frederikke Larsen, who walked the students through the most important aspects of a research poster, and shared some tips on how to make the poster more captivating.WPA Bake Sale
March 18, 2024
The WPA held a bake sale at the lobby of the Medical Sciences Building to raise money to support future WPA events. Many members contributed to the creation of baked goods for the sale. They sold out well ahead of the planned end time, and raised over $300 toward upcoming events!Western spin-off secures over $2M in seed funding for cancer care robotics system
March 13, 2024
A medical technology startup from Western has obtained seed funding of more than $2 million to develop a robotics system for colon cancer treatment.WPA CV and Resume Workshop
March 11, 2024
The WPA hosted a seminar to teach students to write effective resumes and cover letters. We welcomed guest speaker David Feeney, a career coach at the Career Education unit of Western Student Experience, who shared some tips and tricks on engaging the reader, formatting the document to be visually pleasing.Announcement: Dr. Francisco Olea-Popelka re-appointed as Beryl Ivey Endowed Chair in One Health
February 23, 2024
I am pleased to announce that Dr. Francisco Olea-Popelka has been re-appointed as the Beryl Ivey Endowed Chair in One Health at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective January 1, 2024, to December 31, 2028.Valentine’s Day Bake Sale and Card Exchange
February 16, 2024
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine hosted a Valentine’s themed bake sale and card exchange both were a great success.Oral health is health: Better access to dental care may have potential benefits beyond Canadians’ mouths
January 31, 2024
Because oral health is linked to overall health, dental care needs to be viewed as an integral part of health care.Meet the researchers who are breaking new ground as Western Research Chairs
January 31, 2024
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry boasts five Western Research Chairs who are unravelling the mysteries of the brain, infectious diseases, breast cancer, disease-inhibiting enzymes and bringing Indigenous perspectives to bear on human health.PaLM Educational Leadership Appointments
January 30, 2024
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine would like to announce the following educational leadership appointments effective January 1, 2024. Dr. Art Poon - Graduate Chair, Research-Based Programs, Andrew Zhang - Program Director, Masters of Clinical Science, Pathologists’ Assistant (PA) Program and Dr. José Gomez - Medical Director, Masters of Clinical Science, Pathologists’ Assistant (PA) Program.WPA Scientific Communication Workshop
January 25, 2024
The WPA hosted a seminar to help students improve their scientific communication skills.New beginnings for the Medicine Class of 2027
January 24, 2024
Former MSc Pathology student Wessam AI Jawhri being featured in the Medicine Class of 2027.Doctoral Research Award: Cancer Research Society
January 17, 2024
Congratulations to Megan Hong, one of 21 recipients of the new Doctoral Research Award program offered by the Cancer Research Society (CRS).Meet Miguel Quiñones-Mateu and current cohort of Western Research Chairs
January 10, 2024
Quiñones-Mateu is a world-leading virologist. His expertise lies in virus evolution and pathogenesis, extracting valuable details about viral behaviour and using that knowledge to develop antiviral strategies.$7.55 million in funding to take LHSC-developed technology global
January 08, 2024
On average it takes five to seven years to diagnose a rare disease. But, for growing numbers of rare diseases, that is all about to change with new artificial intelligence-led technology developed by researchers at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) and Lawson Health Research Institute that will be going global.Closed for the Holidays
December 20, 2023
Western University will be closed for the holiday break effective December 23, 2022. Western will reopen on Thursday, January 4, 2023.Hong Lin Wang completes her MSc Thesis
December 18, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Hong Lin Wang who recently completed her MSc in Pathology.LPA Holiday Party and Awards of Excellence
December 13, 2023
The London Pathology Associates (LPA) Holiday Party was held on Thursday, December 7 at Bellamere Winery and Event Centre. At the event, the LPA Awards of Excellence for 2023 were awarded to Joelle Maclean and our Lead Pathologists' Assistants: Thom Burberry, Rebecca Glover, and Kara McArthur.Pathology and the Future of AI
December 12, 2023
The year 2023 has seen an explosion in publicly available artificial intelligence models that has everyone – in and outside the lab – wondering what the future holds. As the end of the year draws close, Dr. Matthew Cecchini spoke with his own artificial laboratory assistant – Pathrick – to see the positives, the pitfalls, and the pathological purpose of AI tools.Moheem Halari completes his PhD Thesis
December 11, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Moheem Halari, who has completed his PhD in Pathology.Holiday Movie Night
December 07, 2023
On December 5, following the final SCCT session of the calendar year, the WPA held a holiday movie night to commemorate the end of the semester and the beginning of the holiday season.Mentor-Mentee Meetup + Board Game Night
December 06, 2023
On November 27, Pathology students met at the Grad Club to enjoy an evening of casual chit chat, board games, and food. This event welcomed senior students and newcomers alike and promoted casual conversations between those who attended.Sarah Ryan completes her MSc Thesis
November 30, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Sarah Ryan who recently completed her MSc in Pathology.Low-Income Dental Clinics in London, Ontario
November 24, 2023
Dr. Noha Gomaa was quoted in a story about a Statistics Canada survey that found 35 per cent of Canadians avoided dental visits due to high costs.519Pledge for socks 2023
November 23, 2023
From October 1 to November 15, the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and the Western Pathology Association participated in the annual 519Pledge, a charity that collects socks for those in extreme poverty.Chin-Jung Lin completes the Graduate Diploma Program in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
November 15, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to congratulate Chin-Jung Lin who has completed the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Graduate Diploma program.WPA Scholarship Writing Workshop
November 13, 2023
On Tuesday November 7, the WPA held a scholarship writing workshop. This workshop was designed to provide incoming graduate students with the necessary skills to write effective and successful scholarship applications.Recognizing exceptional service and contributions
November 03, 2023
Congratulations to all of the 25 Year Service Award recipients, especially those who reached this significant milestone in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine: Vipin Bhayana, David Driman, Rob Hammond, Tracey Koning, Edward Tweedie. Thank you for your service and commitment to the Department, the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry and Western University.WPA Research Presentation Workshop
November 01, 2023
On Tuesday, October 31, the WPA hosted a Research Presentation Workshop. This event aimed to help PaLM research-based graduate students and fourth-year undergraduates prepare for upcoming presentations.Dr. Quiñones-Mateu’s Inaugural Lab at Western University
October 19, 2023
The beginning of the 2023-24 Fall/Winter Term witnessed the formation of the first Quiñones-Mateu Lab @ PALM/Schulich/Western University. Continuing with his “paying it forward” approach, aimed at providing the same opportunity he had many years ago to as many underprivileged and/or international students as possible, Dr. Quiñones-Mateu has assembled a diverse research group, from different backgrounds and countries.Showdown in Pasta Town the Lasagna Bake Off
October 12, 2023
On October 11, the resident group and Dr. Driman hosted a charity lunch to raise money for the Humane Society London & Middlesex for the ongoing fundraising effort to donate an animal condo for the new animal shelter.Three researchers among new Canadian Academy of Health Sciences Fellows
October 11, 2023
Dr. Cindy Hutnik, Adrian Owen, PhD, and Dr. Carlos Quiñonez have been elected to the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences, recognizing their leadership, academic work and scientific creativity.Expert insight: COVID-19 and what to expect this fall
October 06, 2023
Dr. Sameer Elsayed answers questions about COVID-19, new variants and vaccines.WPA Bowling Night
October 04, 2023
On Thursday September 28, the WPA hosted a bowling night at Palasad SocialBowl. It was a great success and a great turnout of both Pathologists’ Assistant students and research-based students.Graduate Student Orientation 2023
September 29, 2023
We welcomed 27 new graduate students in our Research-based (GDip, MSc, and PhD) and MClSc Pathologists’ Assistant graduate programs at an in-person Graduate Orientation, held on September 15.Welcome Dr. Bojana Djordjevic
September 28, 2023
We are pleased to announce that Dr. Bojana Djordjevic joined our department on September 1, as Pathologist and Associate Professor.Pathology professor contributes to ‘sacred work’ of investigating missing Indigenous children
September 27, 2023
Forensic pathologist Dr. Rebekah Jacques is providing support and guidance to Indigenous families and communities as a member of the National Advisory Committee on Residential Schools Missing Children and Unmarked Burials.Old Friends, New Foes
September 21, 2023
About 20 years ago, they scratched out ideas for a viral vaccine seed bank on a paper napkin. Now, a trio of old friends is finally making it happen, positioning Schulich Medicine & Dentistry as a world leader in the fight against emerging infectious diseases.In major breakthrough, Western, Brown researchers close in on preeclampsia cure
September 15, 2023
Researchers from Western and Brown University have made groundbreaking progress towards identifying the root cause and potential therapy for preeclampsia – a complication in eight per cent of pregnancies and a leading cause of maternal and fetal mortality.Alice Dawson completes the PaLM MSc program
September 14, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Alice Dawson, who recently completed an MSc in Pathology.Tan Ze Wang completes the PaLM MSc program
September 12, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Tan Ze Wang, who recently completed an MSc in Pathology.PaLM Merchandise for Sale
September 11, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at Western University is selling PaLM Merchandise once again. Please order by Thursday, September 28, 2023.Canadian Society of Cytopathology Distinguished Service Award
September 07, 2023
At a recent CAP-ACP meeting in Ottawa, the Canadian Society of Cytopathology honoured Dr. Meg McLachlin with its Distinguished Service Award in recognition of Dr. McLachlin’s outstanding work on cervical cancer screening and HPV testing in Canada and her longstanding contributions to Canadian quality assurance and improvement practices in cytopathology.Sevanthi Ravichandran Completes the PaLM MSc Program
September 06, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Sevanthi Ravichandran, who recently completed an MSc in Pathology.Reza Asakereh completes the PaLM MSc program
August 31, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Reza Askakereh, who recently completed an MSc in Pathology.Welcome Dr. Anurag Sharma
August 31, 2023
We are pleased to announce that Dr. Anurag Sharma has joined the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine as an Assistant Professor and Pathologist effective August 16, 2023.Samantha Collings completes her MSc Thesis
August 30, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Samantha Collings, who recently completed her MSc in Pathology.Mackenzie Hsu completes her MSc Thesis
August 29, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Mackenzie Hsu, who recently completed her MSc in PathologyMultidisciplinary initiative to track influenza, other viruses in wastewater
August 28, 2023
Recognizing Western’s excellence in developing robust systems to track and fight global health threats, the government of Ontario has renewed and expanded the university’s wastewater surveillance project to track COVID-19, influenza and other emerging viruses until March 2024.MohdWessam Al Jawhri completes his MSc Thesis
July 13, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to MohdWessam Al Jawhri, who has completed his MSc in PathologyFecal transplants show promise in improving melanoma treatment
July 11, 2023
Using a technique pioneered by a Schulich Medicine researcher, a world-first clinical trial has found fecal microbiota transplants (FMT) are safe and show promise in improving response to immunotherapy in patients with advanced melanoma.Erin Brintnell completes her MSc Thesis
July 06, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Erin Brintnell who recently completed her MSc in Pathology.2023 London Health Research Day
July 05, 2023
The London Health Research Day (LHRD) is an annual event that features outstanding work from labs at Lawson Health Research Institute, Western’s Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry and the Faculty of Health Sciences. Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine would like to extend congratulations to our graduate students who presented their wonderful work at the London Health Research Day, and an additional congratulations to our award recipients.MClSc-PA Program Cake and Tea Celebration 2023
June 29, 2023
Congratulations to our six PA students of the 2023 Graduating Class! On June 29, the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine held a cake and tea reception to congratulate our new graduates, who have completed the requirements of their Master of Clinical Sciences, Pathologists’ Assistant Program.Summer Social and Awards Ceremony
June 29, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine held its second annual Summer Social and Awards Ceremony on June 22, 2023 at Ivey Spencer’s Outdoor Pavilion. It was a lovely evening to come together and acknowledge several awards, honours and professional milestones.The Dr. Subrata Chakrabarti MClSc PA Student Award of Excellence
June 29, 2023
Congratulations to Erik Trautrim, recipient of the Dr. Subrata Chakrabarti MClSc Pathologists’ Assistant Student Award of Excellence.Ronan Anderson completes his MSc Thesis
June 27, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Ronan Anderson, who has completed his MSc in Pathology.Resident and Fellow Cake and Tea Celebration 2023
June 19, 2023
We had much to celebrate at the 2023 Resident and Fellow Cake and Tea Celebration on June 14, 2023! We would like to Congratulate Dr. Sarah Aziz, Dr. Jonathan Keow, Dr. Basma AlYamany, Dr. May-Phyo Nyi Nyi and Dr. Valerie Taylor.Annual Awards of Excellence ceremony brings Schulich Medicine & Dentistry community together
June 12, 2023
The evening celebrated the accomplishments of the 32 award winners who joined the list of more than 450 colleagues who have been recognized since the inception of the awards in 1992.Visionary research chair to change the future of eye care
May 30, 2023
We are pleased to announce that Dr. Cindy Hutnik, Chair/Chief of the Department of Ophthalmology, has been named the inaugural Marcel and Louise Brunette Research Chair in Ophthalmology. The $5-million endowed research chair was made possible by a $2.5M donation by St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation, matched by Western University. The chair will help build research capacity and provide leadership between the hospital and university to forge new discoveries in eye health and eye care.Trauma Patterns Among Pedestrians and Cyclists Involved in a Motor Vehicle Collision
May 10, 2023
Moheem Halari is currently in his fourth-year PhD in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine and studies injury patterns in pedestrian and cyclists fatalities involved in motor vehicle collisions in Ontario under Dr. Michael Shkrum (a forensic pathologist, at Western University and Director of Motor Vehicle Safety (MOVES) Research Team) funded by Transport Canada.Dr. Jessica Shepherd
April 27, 2023
After 23 years of dedicated service, Dr. Jessica Shepherd has retired from the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine effective April 1, 2023. We wish Dr. Shepherd and her family all the very best in retirement.2023 Alumni of Distinction Awards
April 25, 2023
Congratulations to Dr. Mike Shkrum for receiving an Alumni of Distinction Award for Professional Achievement in Medicine. The 2023 Alumni of Distinction Award recipients are international leaders, accomplished scholars, community advocates and trailblazers in their fields. They have upheld the exceptional reputation of the School and represent what is best in our alumni community.2023 Awards of Excellence
April 24, 2023
Congratulations to all of the 2023 Awards of Excellence recipients, including Dr. Michele Weir and Andrew Zhang in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine. We also thank the nomination leads and the peers and learners who submitted letters of support.Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Research Day 2023
April 19, 2023
Our 2023 Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Research Day was held on March 30, 2023. It was a celebration of our achievements in basic and clinical research, and an opportunity to promote inter/intra-departmental and cross-pillar collaborations. It was especially cathartic to see our learners, staff, and faculty in-person after two years of pandemic-related virtual meetings.Western researchers join the call for rational discourse to protect vital virus research
April 18, 2023
“Uninterrupted and watchful scientific research is needed to be ready for the next viral pandemic,” said Quiñones-Mateu, who is Western Research Chair in viral pathogenesis and professor in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry.Damir Rosic completes his MSc Thesis
April 05, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Damir Rosic, who has completed his MSc in Pathology.Expert Insight: An FAQ on avian flu
April 03, 2023
Avian influenza is a highly contagious viral infection that affects wild and domestic birds worldwide. Schulich Medicine’s Dr. Sameer Elsayed answers questions about the bird flu and its emergence as a public-health threat.$1 million donation by London, Ont. couple aims to expand unconventional cancer treatment
March 31, 2023
Dr. Saman Maleki, a scientist with the heath sciences centre, is the lead researcher for immuno-oncology in London. Maleki says the donation, which is being supported by Ontario Institute for Cancer Research, will help him and his team take the next steps in finding treatments for cancer patients.Study explores link between neighbourhoods and heart health
March 17, 2023
New research looks at national health data, community well-being and neighbourhood information to study effects of social environment on cardiovascular health.Western to be part of new Canada research hub for pandemic preparedness
March 10, 2023
Western’s participation in HI3 is currently led by Miguel E. Quiñones-Mateu, professor and Western Research Chair in viral pathogenesis, Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry.Bringing One Health to policy makers in the Asia-Pacific region and G20 Summit
February 28, 2023
Dr. Francisco Olea Popelka worked as part of a multisectoral and transdisciplinary team composed of the Indonesian Ministries of Health, Home and Agriculture and the Association of All Health Offices; the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease (The Union); the University of Western Ontario, Canada and the World Organization for Animal Health (WOAH) that convinced this established consortium of mayors, the Asia Pacific Cities Alliance for Health and Development (APCAT), to join forces and adopt and implement a One Health workshop with fellow Asia Pacific regional city and district mayors and decision-makers in preparation for the November 2022 G20 meeting in Indonesia.Dr. Kamilia Rizkalla
February 28, 2023
After 34 years of dedicated service, Dr. Kamilia Rizkalla has retired from the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine effective February 1, 2023.Congratulations to Akeida Elliott-Benjamin
February 28, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Akeida Elliott-Benjamin, who has received the American Association of Pathologists’ Assistants (AAPA) Student Delegate Top Manuscript Winner among the 2022 class of student delegates.Congratulations to Dr. Bertha Garcia
February 27, 2023
Congratulations to Dr. Bertha Garcia for being recognized by the Association of Faculties of Medicine of Canada with the AFMC Mentorship award.Bringing Indigenous stories to the table in environmental health policy
February 24, 2023
Gerald McKinley, PhD, will spend a year in the U.S. as a Harkness Fellow. He will study methodologies to bring Indigenous voices to the development of environmental health policy.Jeff Lovell completes his MSc Thesis
February 15, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Jeff Lovell, who has completed his MSc in Pathology. Dr. Mark Darling is Jeff’s supervisor.CAME Rising Star Certificate of Excellence
February 09, 2023
Congratulations to Jonathon Keow, PGY5 for being named a recipient of a Canadian Association for Medical Education (CAME) Rising Star – Certificate of Excellence Award.WHO decision on COVID-19 emergency won’t affect Canada’s response
February 06, 2023
Dr. Sameer Elsayed, an infectious diseases physician and the director adult infectious diseases residency training at Western University in London, Ont., said to his mind the WHO should end the global emergency designation even though the pandemic itself is not over.Black History Month
February 02, 2023
Western acknowledges and celebrates Black History Month, and encourages the campus and London communities to listen, learn and discuss. The Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is pleased to host a number of events throughout February and March celebrating Black excellence. These events are free of charge. Please see event descriptions for more information. Everyone is welcome to attend.Expert Opinion: An FAQ on COVID-19 subvariant XBB.1.5
January 19, 2023
In this piece in the Conversation, Schulich Medicine & Dentistry's Dr. Sameer Elsayed addresses frequently asked questions about the COVID-19 subvariant XBB.1.5, nicknamed ''Kraken.'The COVID-19 virus keeps evolving. These 'disease detectives' are on the case.
January 16, 2023
Researchers look for mutations in the virus's genetic code that might offer a growth advantage. Art Poon is a scientist for the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, Western University who is watching for variants spreading faster than expected and tracking how COVID-19 moves between countries.Sareh Bagherichimeh completes her MSc Thesis
January 12, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Sareh Bagherichimeh who has completed her MSc in Pathology.Ojan Khosravifar completes his MSc Thesis
January 10, 2023
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Ojan Khosravifar, who has completed his MSc in Pathology.PaLM EDI Working Group
December 27, 2021
As the calendar year comes to a close, the members of the PaLM Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Working Group would like to provide an update on their progress. In its first year, the EDI Working Group met quarterly to discuss how to best to support the PaLM community.Closed for the Holidays
December 23, 2021
Western University will be closed for the holiday break effective December 23, 2021. Western will reopen on Tuesday, January 4, 2022.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.Paterson Lecture 2021
December 10, 2021
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine hosted the 2021 Paterson Lecture on Thursday, December 2, 2021. Our guest this year, Dr. Lewis Cantley, is the Margaret and Herman Sokol Professor and Director of the Sandra and Edward Meyer Cancer Center at Weill Cornell.Centre for Tomorrow
December 08, 2021
The Verspeeten Clinical Genome Centre (VCGC) at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) is breaking barriers to allow for a more seamless integration between research and the clinical application of genetic sequencing.Pitch competition connects Western-founded ventures with investors
December 03, 2021
When Saumik Biswas co-founded Tenomix, he wanted to make a difference in improving health-care delivery through technology. But more than that, it was a venture that was also personal to him.Lisa Walker and Lisa Noseworthy Retirement
December 02, 2021
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine would like to announce the retirements of Lisa Walker after 31 years of service and Lisa Noseworthy after 32 years of service.Western signs national charter to fight anti-Black racism in higher ed
November 30, 2021
Western has joined other Canadian universities and colleges in signing the Scarborough Charter on Anti-Black Racism and Black Inclusion in Canadian Higher Education.What we know about COVID-19 variant Delta’s newest offspring
November 29, 2021
Art Poon, PhD, says that to understand the sub-lineages of the Delta variant, it helps to think of SARS-CoV-2 as an enormous tree that keeps sprouting new branches as the virus evolves. “This virus still seems to have plenty of room for adaptation.”NAACLS Accreditation Site Visit
November 26, 2021
Thank you to all the faculty, staff, and students who met with representatives from The National Accreditation Agency for Clinical Laboratory Sciences (NAACLS) on October 25-26, 2021 as part of the accreditation process for the Pathologists’ Assistant (PA) Program.Mad about Plaid
November 24, 2021
PaLM turned plaid on November 19. Thanks to everyone who participated in Plaid Day. It was a close race between Dr. Jose Gomez and Stephanie Sharpley. In the end, it was too close to call, so they shared first prize.WPA 519Pledge for Socks
November 22, 2021
519Pledge, a London-based organization dedicated to assisting those in extreme poverty, has an annual sock drive. This year the WPA accepted the challenge to collect 519 pair of socks, and with the generosity of all those in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine 561 pair of socks were donated.Choosing Wisely Designation
November 18, 2021
Congratulations to the Transfusion Medicine team at both University and Victoria Hospital for the recent designation as a Using Blood Wisely Hospital. The designation is awarded by Choosing Wisely Canada and Canadian Blood Services to those hospitals that have met benchmarks in red blood cell stewardship and have demonstrated their commitment to reducing unnecessary red blood cell transfusions.Western International Week 2021
November 12, 2021
Western University will be celebrating International Week 2021 from November 15-19. A wide range of events and activities are scheduled, including academic lectures, workshops, performances, cultural activities, and fairs.Jina Kum completes her PhD Thesis
November 10, 2021
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Jina Kum, who has completed her PhD in Pathology.Diabetes Research Looks Behind the Lens
October 29, 2021
Growing up, Dr. Subrata Chakrabarti watched his father struggle with Type 2 diabetes. The experience led him to medical school, where he set his sights on gaining a deeper understanding of the disease, its complications and effective treatments.Halloween Spirit
October 29, 2021
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine got into the Halloween spirit again this year. Faculty and staff were encouraged to dress up in costumes this Halloween. Thanks to everyone who participated.Banking on research
October 27, 2021
The new Brain BioBank at Robarts Research Institute is home to a program that conducts detailed cognitive and behavioural testing on patients with a neurodegenerative disease and allows them to donate their brain tissue to research after death.Pushing cancer immunotherapy forward
October 26, 2021
Saman Maleki, PhD, is combining the strength of the microbiome and the immune system to boost our body’s natural ability to fight cancerComputing the future of medicine
October 25, 2021
A trio of researchers are leading the way with medical bioinformatics research and developing new tools to convert data into medical knowledge.Reducing barriers
October 18, 2021
Life experience nurtured in Dr. Rebekah Jacques a moral sensibility that inspires her work as a forensic pathologist, researcher and social advocate. Grounded in her Métis culture and surrounded by nature, she seeks truth and fairness to improve the lives and legacies of her patients, their families and children in the foster care system.Honour: Saumik Biswas, PhD’20, named in Business London’s top 20 twenty-somethings
October 06, 2021
PhD alumnus Saumik Biswas made the annual list of top young leaders and innovators in London.Dr. Francisco Olea Popelka and One Health on the local, national and international stage
September 30, 2021
Dr. Francisco Olea Popelka, Beryl Ivey Endowed Chair in One Health, and his team of collaborators, are bringing One Health to the local, national and international stage. Highlights include a plenary session at the International Union Against Tuberculosis and Lung Disease, participation on the Canadian Institutes for Health Research (CIHR) First Consultation on One Health, and One Health Research Day on November 3, 2021.Observing the National Day for Truth and Reconciliation
September 30, 2021
Since 2013, September 30 has been commemorated as Orange Shirt Day across what is now known as Canada in honour of the Survivors of Indian Residential Schools. This year, September 30 will also be designated as National Day for Truth and Reconciliation (NDTR). The date was declared a statutory federal holiday with the passage of Bill C-5 in June of this year, in response to Call to Action 80 of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada (TRC).An Afternoon with Dr. Opiyo Oloya
September 30, 2021
Western University's Anti-Racism Webinar Series and the Western Equity Census Working Group are very pleased to invite you to An Afternoon with Dr. Opiyo Oloya, Western's inaugural Associate Vice-President of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI). Dr. Oloya will talk about his vision for leading change at Western University and in the Canadian post-secondary education system. His talk will coincide with the launch of the Western Equity Census, a comprehensive campus-wide survey that aims to collect data that can be used to help understand the demographics of the university and to enhance the diversity and equity of our community.Welcome Back to School
September 30, 2021
The PaLM administrative office at Western University is buzzing with excitement as we begin the 2021-22 academic year and welcome our PaLM students.Funding: 2021 NSERC competition results in more than $1M for research initiatives
September 23, 2021
Congratulations to Dr. Lisa Cameron, Dr. Parisa Shooshtari, and Dr. Zia Khan for being awarded funding through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) 2021 Discovery Grant competition. NSERC is a federal funding agency, whose mission is to help promote and maintain a diversity of research across Canadian universities and research institutions. Across Western University, 43 projects were supported through the 2021 Discovery Grant competition, 7 of which were awarded to scholars in the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry.Western launches action plan and Task Force on Sexual Violence and Student Safety
September 17, 2021
In response to concerns about student safety and sexual violence on campus, Western University is launching a new student safety action plan. The action plan will increase safety and security on campus by introducing new security measures, including hiring new special constables, enhancing security patrols, and implementing mandatory in-person sexual violence awareness and prevention training for all students in residence.Take Care Western
September 14, 2021
In light of the alarming events on campus this past weekend, we would like to reassure the PaLM community that there are supports in place for faculty, staff and learners who may be impacted. We encourage anyone who feels they need support to reach out to family, friends, a colleague or to resource staff on- or off-campus.Yiming Lin completes his MSc Thesis
September 09, 2021
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Yiming Lin, who has completed his MSc in Pathology.Adam Greasley completes his MSc Thesis
September 07, 2021
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Adam Greasley, who has completed his MSc in Pathology.Chukwuebuka Osuji completes his MSc Thesis
August 26, 2021
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Ebuka Osuji, who has completed his MSc in Pathology.Learner Perspectives: MD/PhD Candidate Kara Ruicci on the connection between the arts, research and medicine
August 25, 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.Mei Yuan completes her MSc Thesis
August 23, 2021
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Mei (Mabel) Yuan, who has completed her MSc in Pathology.Awards: Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship recipients announced
August 16, 2021
Congratulations to Peter Zeng, a recipient of the prestigious Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship. Peter is an MD/PhD candidate in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine working with Dr. Anthony Nichols on research in HPV-related head and neck cancer.Western to Require Proof of Vaccination for Campus Community
August 12, 2021
Western University and affiliated colleges Brescia, Huron and King’s are requiring proof of COVID-19 vaccination for students, staff and faculty, as part of a new policy to further protect the campus community.Data Driven Dementia Prevention
August 10, 2021
Congratulations to Dr. Stephanie Frisbee, who will co-lead the epidemiological work on a collaborative project aimed at preventing and reducing the occurrence of dementia among Canadians by developing models for prevention. The international team of researchers led by Dr. Vladimir Hachinski, has received a Weston Family Foundation’s Transformational Research 2020 Grant for its dementia prevention research.Hayley Good completes her PhD Thesis
July 29, 2021
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Hayley Good, who has completed her PhD in Pathology.Opiyo Oloya to lead Western’s equity work
July 22, 2021
A renowned advocate for social justice and human rights, Opiyo Oloya has been named Western's first associate vice-president of equity, diversity and inclusion, effective August 30.WORLDiscoveries and Western Entrepreneurship’s Innovation Ambassadors
July 19, 2021
WORLDiscoveries and Western Entrepreneurship’s Innovation Ambassadors are hosting a new speaker series for all faculty and students which will feature faculty members from across campus and special guest panelists from industry discussing research innovation here at Western and in the local community.The Dr. Subrata Chakrabarti MClSc PA student Award of Excellence
July 15, 2021
Congratulations to Larisa Golinowski and Keeley Burnside, recipients of the Dr. Subrata Chakrabarti MCISc Pathologists’ Assistant Student Award of Excellence.MClSc-PA Program Cake and Tea Celebration
July 13, 2021
Congratulations to our six PA students of the 2021 Graduating Class! On June 29, the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine held a cake and tea reception to congratulate our new graduates.Western Invests 6 Million to Support New EDI Initiatives
July 05, 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.The Citizen Project: Youth Sport
June 25, 2021
Meet Linda Jackson-Boeters, Departmental Technician with the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine. Recognizing the value sport brings to the lives of children and young people, she has dedicated years of service to youth soccer in the London community. She currently serves as the Fields Director for the Byron Optimist Soccer Club.American Society for Clinical Pathology Student Scholarship
June 25, 2021
Congratulations to Melissa Yeo, MCISc Candidate in the Pathologists’ Assistant Program, who has received a Laboratory Student Scholarship awarded by the American Society for Clinical Pathology (ASCP) Foundation’s Scholarship Fund.Feature: Improving training in Indigenous health is a journey not a check-box
June 24, 2021
New research from Schulich Medicine & Dentistry shows cultural training programs need more than just filling knowledge gaps.Using a One Health approach to examine the health impact the COVID-19 pandemic is having on mothers and their new babies
June 18, 2021
Scientists and students, including Dr. Stephanie Frisbee and Mei Yuan (MSc Candidate in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine), are investigating the possible health impacts on mothers and their babies who were born or will be born during the pandemic.Asieh Alikhah completes her MSc Thesis
June 16, 2021
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Asieh Alikhah who recently completed her MSc in Pathology.Seismic Shift by G7 in Recognizing One Health as Critical to Everyone’s Health
June 14, 2021
Momentous events are occurring in global health, with perhaps the most significant, at least the rhetorical recognition that the interface between animal-human-environmental health is at the crux of our future health. In short, One Health is now recognized by the G7 as critical to everyone’s health. This is recognition at the highest political levels in developed countries.Schulich Medicine & Dentistry stands with the Muslim community
June 09, 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.Residential School Remains Could Reveal How 215 Children Lived — and Died
June 04, 2021
Dr. Rebekah Jacques was featured in a recent National Post article entitled “Residential school remains could reveal how 215 children lived — and died.”Expanding the Undergraduate One Health Program
May 30, 2021
With a vision to expand the One Health Program, the Faculty of Science, the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, and the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (One Health) brought their expertise together to develop and officially launch the undergraduate One Health Major in the fall of 2021.Feature: Mentorship Program enriches medical school experience for LGBTQ+ students
May 26, 2021
When Dr. Rachelle Beanlands started clinical rotations as part of her medical school training, how and if to discuss her sexuality with her colleagues weighed heavily on her.COVID-19 lab testing at LHSC surpasses 1 million mark
May 26, 2021
Serving people across southwestern Ontario, the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (PaLM) team at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) has surpassed a notable milestone, processing more than one million COVID-19 tests to-date.Rebecca Sullivan completes her PhD Thesis
May 13, 2021
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Rebecca Sullivan, who has completed her PhD in Pathology.Sonja DiGregorio completes her PhD Thesis
May 10, 2021
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Sonja DiGregorio, who has completed her PhD in Pathology.Vy Ngo completes her PhD Thesis
May 07, 2021
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Vy Ngo, who has completed her PhD in Pathology.LHSC Introduces Variant of Concern Screening as Part of COVID-19 Lab Testing Services
May 06, 2021
The Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (PaLM) team at London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) has introduced routine Variant of Concern (VOC) screening as part of its COVID-19 lab testing services. PaLM is now performing VOC screening on all samples received from southwestern Ontario that test positive for COVID-19.PaLM Faculty Award Recipients
April 30, 2021
In April, four faculty members in Pathology and Laboratory Medicine were recognized for their outstanding contributions to education, leadership, research, and service. It is with great pride that we honour their achievements and extend our congratulations.Feature: 900,000+ COVID-19 tests processed by PaLM Microbiology Division
April 29, 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.Children’s Health Foundation CHRI Scientist of the Year Award
April 27, 2021
Congratulations to Dr. Bekim Sadikovic who received the Children’s Health Foundation CHRI Scientist of the Year Award. This award is for the project entitled "Identification of structural signatures in the genome to diagnose childhood diseases."2021 Departmental Award Recipients
April 22, 2021
On behalf of departmental committees overseeing graduate education and resident training, we are pleased to announce the results of our 2021 Departmental Awards.PaLM Research Day Award Recipients
April 21, 2021
We would like to take this opportunity to once again thank our faculty, staff, postdoctoral scholars, clinical fellows, residents, graduate students, and undergraduate learners for their participation in our Research Day on April 7, 2021.Edward G. Pleva Award for Excellence in Teaching
April 16, 2021
Congratulations to Dr. Michele Weir on receiving the prestigious Edward G. Pleva Award for Excellence in Teaching. This award recognizes Western University’s top educators and celebrates excellence in teaching, mentorship, educational leadership, and curricular innovation.National Medical Laboratory Week – April 11-17, 2021
April 12, 2021
The Canadian Society for Medical Laboratory Science sponsors a special week in April to promote awareness and understanding of the role of medical laboratory professionals in the health care system.A Message of Gratitude from Dean Yoo
April 08, 2021
On April 12, the fall/winter term for the academic year will come to an end for some of Schulich Medicine & Dentistry’s programs. Many students will be moving into their final examinations and the Classes of 2021 will have eyes on their graduation in June.PaLM Research Day 2021
March 31, 2021
We are excited to announce that the details of our 2021 Research Day are now available online! This year’s event on Wednesday, April 7, 2021 is fully virtual. You can find the schedule, abstracts and Zoom links on our Research Day website.Collaborative Research Seed Grant Funding
March 31, 2021
Congratulations to the interdisciplinary teams who received Collaborative Research Seed Grant Funding, including Dr. Parisa Shooshtari and Dr. Qi Zhang.Tuberculosis Animal-to-Human Transmission
March 30, 2021
Dr. Francisco Olea-Popelka argues that to eliminate TB entirely, we must look at the zoonotic form of the disease, more common than once thought.1 Year Anniversary of COVID-19 Testing
March 22, 2021
Congratulations to PaLM for the 1 year anniversary of COVID-19 testing! On March 18, 2020, PaLM performed the first COVID-19 PCR test on-site after an incredibly rapid test development and implementation process.Learner Perspectives: Dr. Natasha Holder on mentorship in oral and maxillofacial surgery
March 17, 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.”Feature: New software provides detailed picture of COVID-19 virus variants
March 15, 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.WPA Health and Wellness Challenge
March 04, 2021
The WPA, along with Pathology Health and Wellness Ambassadors Michael Roes and Liam Ratushny, hosted a one-week challenge encouraging students to take part in daily activities that focused on personal health and well-being.PaLM Merchandise
March 04, 2021
It’s the moment you’ve been waiting for, the PaLM merchandise order form is here! Have a look, we have lots to choose from this year including sweatpants, baseball-styled cap, hoodies, ¼ zip sweaters, and crewnecks!Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Ambassador
February 26, 2021
As the inaugural Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (EDI) Ambassador for PaLM, it is hard to believe that it has only been 2 months since I accepted this role.One Health in Action
February 22, 2021
One Health researchers received a Western Strategic Support Grant to explore and understand the experiences of Community Health Volunteers as agents of behaviour change in the context of human and zoonotic tuberculosis at the intersection of human, animal and environmental health among the Maasai of Kajiado County, Kenya.Congratulations to Mike Kadour
February 17, 2021
It is with great excitement we announce Dr. Mike Kadour (PhD) as the successful candidate to the newly established role of Chief Laboratory Officer in service to the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine (PaLM) team and our patients across Southwestern Ontario and beyond.PaLM at 10000/Day Test Capacity
February 12, 2021
Approximately one year ago, the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine began its pandemic response with capacity to test 300 samples daily for what was then referred to as Novel Coronavirus. One year later, following the rebuild of the lab, new equipment, and extensive recruitment, training, and optimization, PaLM now has daily capacity for 10,000 COVID-19 tests.Peer Support and Wellbeing Liaison
February 10, 2021
Dr. Michele Weir has been appointed as the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine’s Peer Support and Wellbeing Liaison effective January 1, 2021.The Second Annual Translational Immuno-Oncology Symposium
February 08, 2021
The Second Annual Translational Immuno-Oncology Symposium will be held on Tuesday, February 9, 2021. The symposium is an international, virtual event hosted by the Centre for Translational Cancer Research (CTCR).Expert Explainer: Art Poon, PhD, on coronavirus ‘variants of concern’
February 03, 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."Western's 7th Annual Indigenous Awareness Week
January 27, 2021
Western's 7th Annual Indigenous Awareness Week will be held virtually from February 1-6, 2021. Indigenous Awareness Week (IAW) seeks to celebrate Western's Indigenous presence, nurture relationships, and facilitate collaborations between Indigenous and non-Indigenous peoples.Research Grant Success
January 25, 2021
Congratulations to Dr. Lisa Cameron, Dr. Gerald McKinley, Dr. Francisco Olea-Popelka, Dr. Qi Zhang and Dr. Liena Zhao on recent research grant success.2021 Awards of Excellence: Nominate a deserving individual today
January 22, 2021
Take part in celebrating and recognizing the outstanding contributions of faculty and staff at Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry with an Award of Excellence.Dr. George M. Cherian
January 14, 2021
Formosa HMT Biotech, established and registered in 2016, has developed a low-cost, affordable, patented process for the manufacture of high capacity Zinc hypoMTTM Metallothionein (“hypoMTs”) that supplements and boosts the body’s ability to defend against and reverse damage caused by oxidative stress. Chief Scientist for Formosa, Dr. George M. Cherian, a Professor Emeritus in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine, has been a part of the Formosa HMT Biotech company since its infancy.Welcome Dr. Christina Castellani
January 05, 2021
Dr. Christina Castellani, PhD, joins the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine in January 2021 as an Assistant Professor.Benjamin Rogala completes his MSc Thesis
January 04, 2021
The Department of Pathology and Laboratory of Medicine would like to offer congratulations to Benjamin Rogala who recently completed his MSc in Pathology.
