2020
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.
