2021
Feature: Tackling London’s health challenges through community-engaged learning
December 21, 2021
A community-engaged learning course for undergraduate medical science students is connecting learners with the London community to address some of the Forest City’s pressing health issues.
Honour: Dr. Vladimir Hachinski acknowledged at T.S. Srinivasan Knowledge Conclave in India
December 21, 2021
Dr. Vladimir Hachinski was recently honoured at the T.S. Srinivasan Knowledge Conclave in India in recognition of his contributions to neuroscience research.
Feature: Novel approach to COVID-19 vaccine shows early promise
December 20, 2021
Early studies in mice show a potential vaccine developed by Schulich Medicine & Dentistry researchers could produce stronger and longer lasting immunity to fight against variants.
News: Staff recognized for going ‘above and beyond’
December 17, 2021
Melanie Katsivo Equity, Diversity and Inclusion Specialist, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, is a 2021 recipient of the annual Western Award of Excellence.
Announcement: Dr. Michael Motolko’s appointment as Chair/Chief, Department of Ophthalmology extended
December 17, 2021
Dr. Michael Motolko’s appointment as Chair/Chief, Department of Ophthalmology in the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University and London Health Sciences Centre and St. Joseph's Health Care London has been extended. The additional term is effective December 1, 2021, to June 30, 2022, or until a new Chair is appointed, whichever is sooner.
Honour: Dr. Michael Rieder named British Pharmacological Society Fellow
December 17, 2021
Dr. Michael Rieder has been named a Fellow by the British Pharmacological Society for his contributions to pharmacology research.
Learner Perspectives: Medical student Ziad Sabaa-Ayoun on the power of conversation
December 16, 2021
As Ziad Sabaa-Ayoun completes his fourth year of the Doctor of Medicine (MD) program, he’s reflecting on the power of conversation that he’s enjoyed through his podcast, Multipotent MD, through patient care, and with his mentors and colleagues.
Announcement: Dr. David Driman appointed Chair/Chief of the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine
December 16, 2021
We are pleased to announce that Dr. David Driman has been appointed as the Chair/Chief of the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective December 1, 2021 to November 30, 2026.
Feature: Contributing to a mental health-informed community
December 15, 2021
Dr. Jennifer Grbevski, PGY4 and Psychiatry Chief Resident, is passionate about improving mental health care in her hometown of Windsor.
Honour: Bridget Ryan named AMS Fellow in Compassion and Artificial Intelligence
December 15, 2021
Bridget Ryan, PhD, was named a 2021 Research Fellow in Compassion and Artificial Intelligence by AMS Healthcare.
Feature: Adding layers of understanding
December 14, 2021
Sasha Dowhayko, Medicine Class of 2022, draws on his experiences in nursing, psychiatric care and community health outreach on his journey to becoming a physician.
Feature: Facilitating a collaborative learning process
December 13, 2021
Dr. Nicole Hugel’s passion for medical education has led her back to Schulich Medicine & Dentistry as a faculty member and a student in the Master of Health Professions Education program.
Feature: Study dispels harmful gender dysphoria myth
December 09, 2021
A first-of-its-kind study by Greta Bauer, PhD, and her team at Trans Youth CAN! dispels a controversial gender dysphoria theory that activists and experts have called inaccurate and harmful to transgender people.
Funding: Drs. Glenn Bauman, Richard Kim awarded funding from the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research
December 09, 2021
Researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry are among the recipients of new funding from the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR).
Feature: Artificial intelligence helps improve outcomes for depression treatment
December 08, 2021
Shehzad Ali, PhD, was the lead health economist on a first-of-its-kind clinical trial that shows the benefits of AI for mental health care.
Feature: SEED grows education capacity at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry
December 08, 2021
The Schulich Education Enhancement Division is building capacity to create high-impact, innovative and student-centred learning experiences so students can thrive and grow.
News: Researchers receive Arthritis Society funding
December 07, 2021
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry Professors Joy MacDermid, PhD, and David Holdsworth, PhD, have been awarded research funding through the Arthritis Society's Ignite Research Grant.
Schulich Medicine alumna named among Canada’s Top 40 Under 40
December 03, 2021
Dr. Teresa Purzner, MD’09, was recognized for her impact in paediatric cancer research and neurosurgery, and her achievements in business.
Research: New study led by Jason Gilliland reveals pandemic impact on Canadian youth
December 03, 2021
Positive coping strategies saved teens during COVID-19 first wave,
News: Saumik Biswas pitching business at Western Angels’ Demo Day
December 02, 2021
Saumik Biswas, PhD, is pitching his medical technology company, Tenomix, to potential investors as part of Western Angels’ Demo Day.
World AIDS Day: Jessica Prodger, PhD, helps bring HIV cure within reach
December 01, 2021
Prodger, a professor of immunology and microbiology at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, is a co-lead investigator in Weill Cornell Medicine’s new five-year, US $28.5 million Martin Delaney Collaboratory grant from the NIH.
Award: Alumni receive recognition from College of Family Physicians of Canada
November 26, 2021
Dr. Rick Glazier, MD’79, received the Lifetime Achievement in Family Medicine Research Award and Dr. Jane Philpott, MD’84, was presented with the W. Victor Johnston Award.
Funding: Researchers awarded $2M to study genetic links between diabetes and osteoarthritis
November 25, 2021
Matthew Grol, PhD, and co-investigators will study the genetic causes behind sarcopenia, a condition associated with Type 2 diabetes and osteoarthritis, thanks to a Diabetes Mechanisms and Translational Solutions Team Grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research.
Feature: Building strong relationships
November 25, 2021
Dr. Ali Tassi is committed to supporting learners and championing forward-thinking educational initiatives as a faculty member, mentor and leader.
Award: Ontario College of Family Physicians celebrates outstanding physicians
November 24, 2021
Dr. Laura Lyons was recognized with the Regional Family Physician of the Year award and Drs. Sharon Bal and Andrea Chittle received the 2021 Award of Excellence.
Feature: Lost in translation
November 24, 2021
Researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry are expanding the genetic code to better understand disease.
Expert explainer: COVID-19 vaccines for kids
November 19, 2021
Dr. Michelle Barton-Forbes offers facts and insights about vaccinating children against COVID-19.
Feature: A place to thrive
November 17, 2021
Pam Bere helps learners at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry thrive. A long-time staff member at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, she has been counselling medicine and dentistry learners for the past 14 years.
Research News: Global study offers new insight on heart valve surgery
November 16, 2021
Researchers at Western University and Lawson Health Research Institute played a leading role in a new global study that will change the way surgeons repair leaky valves in the heart.
Learner Perspectives: Dental student Vlad Podskalniy on improving access to oral health care
November 16, 2021
Through research, Vlad Podskalniy is trying to capture a fuller picture of the specific barriers to dental care faced by different population groups in London.
News: New award increases access to MD+
November 12, 2021
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry is launching a new award for MD+ students to support them in enriching their medical education with interdisciplinary, experiential learning.
Learner Perspectives: BMSc student Pam Dorjee on vaccine manufacturing
November 10, 2021
Inspired by the experiences of her family members working in health care during the COVID-19 pandemic, BMSc student Pam Dorjee is pursuing an internship placement with Sanofi Pasteur focused on vaccine manufacturing.
Feature: Seeking answers about COVID-19 and its impact on Black communities in Canada
November 10, 2021
Feeling the burden to better understand COVID-19 and the devastating effect it is having on Black communities in Canada, Dr. Michelle Barton-Forbes partnered with colleagues on the seroMARK research study.
Award: Medical students recognized for summer research achievements
November 08, 2021
Outstanding student researchers received Summer Research Training Program awards for projects in molecular oncology, psychiatric assessment and quality improvement in paediatric cardiology.
News: Significant funding enables learning opportunities abroad for students from under-represented groups
November 08, 2021
The program will enable Indigenous and racialized students, those with disabilities, from minority religions and from low-income backgrounds with unique international learning experiences.
Feature: Imaging the long-term effects of COVID-19
November 03, 2021
Sophisticated technology and key collaborations have propelled important research forward that seeks to answer questions about the devastating impact of the disease on human health.
Feature: Holding ourselves accountable
October 27, 2021
At Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, advancing equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) is more than a moral aspiration. It’s a foundational building block in the mission to educate socially responsible leaders in human health.
Announcement: Dr. Amit Garg appointed Associate Dean, Clinical Research
October 27, 2021
Dr. Amit Garg has been appointed as Associate Dean, Clinical Research, at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective October 1, 2021 to September 30, 2026.
Feature: Learning that sticks
October 27, 2021
As Vice Dean, Undergraduate Medical Education, Dr. Shannon Venance plans to shift the focus of medical education and empower students to take charge of their own learning.
Award: Jelena Poleksic, Medicine Class of 2022, receives international scholarship to study abroad
October 27, 2021
Poleksic was named a Chevening Scholar and will be pursuing a master’s degree in History in the UK as part of the School’s new MD+ track.
Feature: New beginnings, bright futures
October 26, 2021
In September, Schulich Medicine & Dentistry welcomed a new cohort of medical and dental students. Meet eight of the students at the start of their professional journeys, and learn about the issues that are important to them as future health care professionals.
News: Faculty inducted into the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences
October 26, 2021
In recognition of their notable contributions to promoting the health sciences, Tim Bussey, Western Research Chair in Cognitive Neuroscience, and Michelle Mottola, Chair of the Division of Maternal, Fetal & Newborn Health were inducted as CAHS Fellows.
News: Western grads receive prestigious medal
October 25, 2021
Jacqueline Dron, PhD’20, is among the recipients of the 2021 Governor General’s Gold Medal, awarded for academic excellence at the graduate level.
Honour: Van Lu, PhD, recognized by Gairdner Foundation for early career excellence
October 22, 2021
Lu, an Assistant Professor in Physiology and Pharmacology, is one of five Canadians to receive an Early Career Investigator Award.
MD+: A medical education innovation
October 20, 2021
Medical students are embracing the recently launched MD+ as a new opportunity to build their skills and broaden their horizons.
News: Global Health Systems graduates reflect on national case competition win
October 20, 2021
The five-student team credits the transformative master’s program for their success.
Announcement: Gray Centre for Mobility and Activity launches new initiatives
October 20, 2021
The Gray Centre for Mobility and Activity announces new research innovations and education opportunities thanks to academic and clinical collaborations.
Research News: Does moral injury change the brain?
October 20, 2021
Dr. Ruth Lanius, Professor in the Department of Psychiatry is using MRI scans to pinpoint moral injury effects in the brains of health care workers.
Feature: Research leads to new insights on spinal disc degeneration
October 19, 2021
Cheryle Séguin, PhD, is tackling one of the most common and costly clinical problems in North America – back pain. In a recent collaborative study, her research team examined the connection between obesity, back pain and disc degeneration.
Feature: Pandemic offers real-world lessons for public health grad
October 19, 2021
For Alexandra Romanski, pursuing a master’s degree in public health during a global pandemic offered a once-in-a-lifetime learning experience. Graduating this month, she is the recipient of the MPH Class of 2014 Award, recognized by her peers for her care, compassion and leadership.
Award: Gregor Reid recognized for ground-breaking probiotic research
October 19, 2021
Reid, Distinguished Professor Emeritus, was named a co-recipient of the Dr. Rogers Prize for Excellence in for Excellence in Complementary and Alternative Medicine.
Funding: Two new grants to support suicide prevention
October 19, 2021
Dr. Marnin Heisel, Associate Professor in the Department of Psychiatry will focus his work on the mental health of vulnerable populations thanks to two new grants from CIHR and Movember
Announcement: New five-year Strategic Plan launched today
October 14, 2021
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry embraces the future with a bold, new five-year Strategic Plan.
Feature: A plan to produce the best pre-clinical science
October 14, 2021
As the new Assistant Dean, Pre-Clinical Research, Timothy Regnault, PhD, is focused on improving the School’s experimental research environment, ensuring the right supports, services and facilities are in place for scientists.
Feature: Meeting the challenge of the climate crisis
October 12, 2021
Dr. Anna Gunz is tackling the ‘biggest health crisis of our lifetime,’ in a forward-thinking way.
Announcement: Dr. Gary Tithecott appointed Acting Associate Dean, Admissions
October 12, 2021
Dr. Tithecott has been appointed Acting Associate Dean, Admissions at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, effective September 1, 2021.
Commentary: Adding a ‘plus’ to medical school training
October 08, 2021
"We wanted to re-think how we educate the physicians of tomorrow; to give medical students the space and support to dive deeper into their personal interests or discover new passions outside of medicine," writes Dean Dr. John Yoo in this op-ed about the new MD+ track, via University Affairs.
Research News: New study explores transgender youth experiences in Canada
October 07, 2021
First-of-its kind research led by Greta Bauer, PhD, Professor in the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, aims to help inform gender-affirming care.
Feature: ‘Once in a lifetime’ opportunity
October 06, 2021
Andrew Nguyen took part in an immersive summer learning experience at a Hazelden Betty Ford Foundation treatment centre.
Research News: New global study shows ‘collateral impact’ of COVID-19
October 06, 2021
Janet Martin and co-investigators find cancer patients missed scheduled surgeries due to lockdowns.
Feature: Channeling the power of communication
October 05, 2021
From storytelling to social media, Dr. Magbule Doko finds ways to forge connections with students, colleagues and patients alike.
Honour: Saumik Biswas, PhD’20, named in Business London’s top 20 twenty-somethings
October 05, 2021
PhD alumnus Saumik Biswas made the annual list of top young leaders and innovators in London.
Feature: Paving a new way for student advocacy
October 04, 2021
Accel Labs is a social entrepreneurship incubator founded by students, for students, to enrich community health initiatives.
Honour: Alumnus inducted into Canadian Medical Hall of Fame
October 01, 2021
Dr. Jonathon L. Meakins, MD'66, DSc'18, has been honoured as a Canadian Medical Hall of Fame inductee for 2022. Dr. Meakins has transformed surgical thinking and practice, improving outcomes for patients worldwide.
News: Innovator caps year with top Vanguard award
October 01, 2021
Dr. Douglas Fraser is recognized for breakthroughs in COVID and brain injury research with Innovator of the Year Award from WORLDiscoveries.
In Memoriam: Dr. Warren Blume
October 01, 2021
The Western community mourns the passing of Dr. Warren Blume, a pioneer in epilepsy care.
News: Summer program gives undergrads immersive research feel
September 27, 2021
The BrainsCAN internship provides undergraduate students who self-identify as members of visible minorities, Indigenous, LGBTQ2S+, with a disability, or as a woman, an opportunity to have an immersive neuroscience research experience.
Funding: Dr. Ana Lohmann awarded $400K for breast cancer research
September 24, 2021
The Susan G. Komen Breast Cancer Foundation’s Career Catalyst Research Grant will support Dr. Lohmann’s research investigating the use of liquid biopsies for predicting breast cancer recurrence.
Learner Perspectives: Jing Wen (Jenny) Liu, PhD, on changing the narrative about resilience
September 22, 2021
Jenny Liu's scholarship bridges research in stress and resilience with community-based applications. She is the creator and lead author of the Multi-System Model of Resilience. "“When it comes to resilience, we tend to think of it as an end goal. When really, we should honour the process and the journey that we take."
Announcement: Alumnus Dr. Kevin Pottie returns to Western as the Ian McWhinney Chair of Family Medicine Studies
September 16, 2021
Dr. Kevin Pottie has been appointed as the Ian McWhinney Chair of Family Medicine Studies at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective September 7, 2021 to September 6, 2026.
Feature: Human versus machine: Investigating the impact of AI technologies on compassionate care
September 15, 2021
Dr. Ben Chin-Yee is an AMS Healthcare Fellowship in Compassion and Artificial Intelligence investigating the use of genomic algorithms to predict oncology patient outcomes, and their impact on compassionate and equitable patient care.
President Shepard on community safety
September 14, 2021
In light of disturbing allegations of sexual violence and the unrelated, devastating death of a first-year student over the weekend, President Alan Shepard shared this message with the campus community on Sept. 13.
Funding: 2021 NSERC competition results in more than $1M for research initiatives
September 09, 2021
Zia Khan, PhD, Marco Prado, PhD, Lisa Cameron, PhD, Parisa Shoostari, PhD, Lisa Hoffman, PhD, Daniel Hardy, PhD and Brian Corneil, PhD, were awarded funding through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada 2021 Discovery Grant Competition.
News: Western welcomes first National Indigenous Scholarship recipients
September 08, 2021
Among the recipients of the inaugural National Indigenous Scholarships is Delainey Mattern, Dentistry Class of 2025.
News: From Cholera to COVID: New course melds past with present
September 07, 2021
Shelley McKellar, PhD, Hannah Chair in the History of Medicine at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, has developed a new course: From Cholera to COVID: How Epidemics Change the Way We Live. By studying outbreaks of previous centuries, students gain context around uncertainty and change amidst major epidemiological events.
Feature: Tracing the root of vaccine-induced blood clots
September 07, 2021
Angela Huynh, Medicine Class of 2023, focused her PhD studies on one specific protein, only to discover that it is the same one implicated in the blood clotting that occurs in rare circumstances after the Astra Zeneca vaccine.
Feature: Collaborative research explores cannabis use in pregnancy
September 01, 2021
Animal studies are beginning to show that using cannabis while pregnant may pose a risk to the health of the baby.
Announcement: Dr. Dale Laird appointed Assistant Dean, Research Chairs & Awards
August 27, 2021
Dr. Dale Laird has been appointed to the position of Assistant Dean, Research Chairs & Awards, at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective September 1, 2021 to August 31, 2024.
Award: Taylor Prize celebrates trailblazer in paediatric endocrinology
August 25, 2021
Dr. Heather Dean, Professor Emeritus at the University of Manitoba, is among the very first and most impactful researchers of youth-onset type 2 diabetes, particularly within the context of Indigenous youth in Canada.
News: Western strengthens COVID-19 vaccine policy
August 25, 2021
Latest step further supports increased vaccination rates
Award: Student global health leader receives Canadian Medical Hall of Fame’s top honour for medical students
August 25, 2021
Khalidha Nasiri, Medicine Class of 2023, is the 2021 CMHF Award for Medical Students recipient, in recognition of her research, mentorship and social development work, at the School and on a national level.
Announcement: Robert Bartha, PhD, re-appointed Acting Director, Strategy and Scientific Integration, Robarts Research Institute
August 24, 2021
Robert Bartha, PhD, has been re-appointed as Acting Director, Strategy and Scientific Integration at Robarts Research Institute, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, effective July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2022, or until such time as a Director is appointed.
Learner Perspectives: MD/PhD Candidate Kara Ruicci on the connection between the arts, research and medicine
August 20, 2021
In her sixth year of the MD/PhD program at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, Kara Ruicci is at an exciting point in her training. As she looks toward residency, she draws inspiration from the artistic process – a unique combination of vision, intuition, critical thinking and collaboration.
Research News: Tracking COVID-19 and variants of concern in wastewater around the globe
August 17, 2021
International researchers are investigating how wastewater can provide an accurate picture of COVID-19 cases in a population and detect emerging variants of concern
News: Western to require proof of vaccination for campus community
August 12, 2021
Western University is requiring proof of COVID-19 vaccination for students, staff and faculty, as part of a new policy to further protect the campus community. Those without proof of vaccination must be tested twice a week in order to be on campus.
Funding: Nine innovative research infrastructure projects at Western receive federal grant
August 11, 2021
Through the John R. Evans Leadership Fund, the Canadian Foundation for Innovation is supporting Gary Shaw, PhD, Jimmy Dikeakos, PhD and Peter Stathopulos, PhD in their work with nuclear magnetic resonance instrumentation, while Matthew Teeter, PhD, received funding for a device to measure wear of orthopaedic implants.
Funding: Feds invest $10M in regional health-tech hub
August 10, 2021
Waterloo and Western Universities are teaming up to help drive health innovation and job creation. A $10 million grant from from FedDev Ontario is investing in research and hospital-based strengths of London and Waterloo’s strengths in digital technology.
Honours: Outstanding graduate students recognized with top honours
August 10, 2021
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry is pleased to announce the results of the Internal Graduate Awards, including the including the the Collip Medal Award, the Drs. Madge and Charles Macklin Fellowships and more, which recognize excellence in research and academics among exceptional graduate students.
Feature: Walking two paths
August 09, 2021
Jessica Hill, MPH’19, is deeply connected to her home community of Six Nations of the Grand River. She recently joined a panel discussion hosted by Schulich Medicine & Dentistry in partnership with the Six Nations Polytechnic STEAM Academy aimed at inspiring young people to pursue careers in health care.
Research News: New study explores resident perspectives on the pandemic
July 30, 2021
New research explores how resident physicians perceived moral distress as it relates to the care of structurally stigmatized patients during the pandemic.
Funding: Nearly $10 million awarded in CIHR grants
July 30, 2021
13 Schulich Medicine & Dentistry researchers secured grant funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research. The successful projects showcase the extraordinary research taking place at the School and include investigations into magnetic particle imaging for cell therapy tracking, psychiatric assessments in long-term care homes, and a treatment for COVID-19.
Announcement: Dr. Shannon Venance appointed Vice Dean, Undergraduate Medical Education
July 29, 2021
Dr. Shannon Venance has been appointed to the position of Vice Dean, Undergraduate Medical Education, at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective August 1, 2021 to July 31, 2026.
Commentary: How the COVID-19 delay of the Tokyo Olympics helped some athletes break records
July 23, 2021
"After an unprecedented delay due to a once-in-a-century global health crisis, the Tokyo Games are finally ready to begin. Yet the athletes, like the Games themselves, have changed," writes Dr. Jane Thornton, Assistant Professor at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and Canada Research Chair in Injury Prevention and Physical Activity for Health.
Research News: Unfolding the hippocampus
July 22, 2021
A technique developed by researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and the Faculty of Social Sciences visually irons out brain wrinkles in the hippocampus for a more accurate picture of brain disorders.
Funding: Ontario Research Fund backs research in multi-modality imaging and precision medicine
July 20, 2021
Principal investigator, Aaron Fenster, PhD, is investigating imaging systems that will combine ultrasound with radionuclide imaging to provide an effective approach to three distinct unmet clinical needs.
Commentary: The Tokyo Olympics will be the Games of all mothers
July 20, 2021
The 2020 Tokyo Olympic Games highlighted barriers faced by mothers and mothers-to-be as they vie for coveted spots on the Olympic roster. “It is critical sport policies evolve to support the health and well-being of all athletes,” writes Dr. Jane Thornton.
Announcement: Schulich Education Enhancement Division names inaugural Director
July 16, 2021
Sarah McLean, PhD, will be leading the School’s newly-established instructional design hub, supporting faculty in e-learning, experiential learning and case-based learning innovation.
Awards: Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarship recipients announced
July 15, 2021
PhD candidates Samir Hamadache, Olivia Ghosh-Swaby and Peter Zeng are among the 166 nationwide recipients of the 2021-2022 Vanier Canada Graduate Scholarships.
News: Western invests $6 million to support new EDI initiatives
July 09, 2021
Continuing its commitment in response to the final report of the Anti-Racism Working Group, Western is investing a total of $6 million to support new equity, diversity and inclusion (EDI) initiatives.
News: Improving antiepileptic drug delivery
July 08, 2021
Engineering professor Kibret Mequanint and his team, including Dr. Jorge Burneo, Professor of Neurology, Biostatistics and Epidemiology and co-director of Western’s epilepsy program, received the New Frontiers in Research Fund 2020 Exploration Award to support their research into optimized dosing for epilepsy drug delivery.
Funding: Weston Family Foundation awards for collaborative research in dementia prevention
July 05, 2021
Dr. Vladimir Hachinski is leading 25 co-investigators from across Western University, Canada and four other counties to investigate factors associated with dementia and strategies for prevention.
News: Western offers deepest sympathies to Indigenous communities
June 24, 2021
The Western community continues to mourn, acknowledging the unfathomable loss of 751 Indigenous lives at the site of the former Marieval Indian Residential School in Saskatchewan.
In Memoriam: Dr. Catherine Yanchula
June 23, 2021
It is with great sadness that we share the news about the sudden passing of Dr. Catherine Yanchula. Dr. Yanchula was a Windsor family physician and Adjunct Professor at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry – Windsor Campus.
Feature: Improving training in Indigenous health is a journey not a check-box
June 21, 2021
New research from Schulich Medicine & Dentistry shows cultural training programs need more than just filling knowledge gaps.
Award: Douglas Bocking Award recipients announced
June 18, 2021
Dr. Robert Stein was named the recipient of the 2020 Bocking Award, while this year’s recipient is Charys Martin, PhD.
Celebrating the BMSc Class of 2021 with Matthew Shammas-Toma
June 17, 2021
For Matthew Shammas-Toma, the many opportunities to explore professional and personal interests during his undergraduate degree have developed into life-long passions.
Research News: ImPaKT team expands COVID-19 research to target variants of concern
June 17, 2021
As variants of concern continue to drive COVID-19 transmission around the globe, teams of researchers inside the world-class ImPaKT facility focus toward understanding how to target these variants and others that may emerge.
Research News: Study examines pandemic’s impact on mothers and new babies
June 16, 2021
Researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry are using a holistic perspective to study how the COVID-19 pandemic has influenced stress, mood and pregnancy outcomes for pregnant mothers.
Celebrating the Dentistry Class of 2021 with Eibhlin Storey
June 15, 2021
For Eibhlin Storey, it’s the in-between moments, added up, that have made her dental education so special – the unexpected moments sandwiched between the bigger, structured tasks. She says the community at Schulich Dentistry – professors, mentors and classmates – played a key role in her success.
News: 12 Western scientists and scholars named Canada Research Chairs
June 15, 2021
From the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Dr. Jane Thorton, Jessica Prodger, PhD, Matthew Grol, PhD and Lauren Cipriano, PhD have been announced as new chair holders.
Celebrating the Class of 2021 with Laura Russell, PhD
June 11, 2021
Already months into an industry job in California, Laura Russell, PhD, has a deep interest in understanding how things work, but she says she is most proud of the fact that she’s always followed a path of curiosity and finds time to pursue the things that bring her joy.
Funding: New Frontiers in Research Fund competition results announced
June 10, 2021
The New Frontiers in Research Fund 2020 Exploration Competition supported two projects involving Schulich Medicine & Dentistry researchers Justin Hicks, PhD, Shehzad Ali, PhD, Leonard Luyt, PhD and Dr. Jorge Burneo.
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry stands with the Muslim community
June 08, 2021
We at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry join colleagues across Western University in shock and profound sadness in response to the racist, Islamophobic attack on a London family. This was an unspeakable and senseless act of hatred against members of the Muslim community.
National media: The best lesson in bedside manner came from one of my patients
June 07, 2021
"What we don't talk about enough is the emotional healing physicians receive providing care to patients. In a world divided by politics, distance, paper and plastic, this beautiful symbiosis was just the medicine I needed," Dr. Larry Jacobs reflects on the power of the doctor-patient relationship in this piece published in The Globe and Mail.
Announcement: Dr. Lakshman Gunaratnam appointed as the Dr. Robert Zhong Chair in Translational Transplant Research
June 07, 2021
Dr. Lakshman Gunaratnam has been appointed as the Dr. Robert Zhong Chair in Translational Transplant Research, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective April 1, 2021 to March 31, 2026.
Celebrating the Medicine Class of 2021 with Erik Mandawe
June 04, 2021
From the beginning of his medical school studies, Mandawe lived his truth. He knew that medical school was going to be a different way of relating to others around him. He also knew that he was on the right path to using his gifts as an artist and his identity as a Bush Cree person in his role as a doctor.
Feature: Medical student-led conference critically examines decolonization
June 03, 2021
Medical students Divya Santhanam, Amy Woolsey and Gopika Punchhi worked together to create a virtual conference on decolonization in global health and within the Canadian context, attracting 300 interdisciplinary participants from around the world.
Feature: Maintaining momentum
June 03, 2021
Two student council positions, virtual fundraising in a pandemic, or international research: whatever the challenge, Angela Fan, Medicine Class of 2022, wants to tackle it head-on.
Expert Explainer: Dr. Arlene MacDougall on managing mental health in the next phase of the pandemic
June 03, 2021
As vaccination rates rise, Canadians are starting to anticipate an end to the pandemic and a gradual return to work, school and social activities. With that comes some relief, but also anxiousness and trepidation. Dr. Arlene MacDougall, Assistant Professor in Psychiatry and Epidemiology and Biostatistics provides strategies on how to support one another in this next phase of the pandemic.
Feature: Fostering a shared dialogue
June 02, 2021
Between running Windsor Regional Hospital’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, teaching learners and supervising research projects, Dr. Sajit Augustine is eager to make a difference in the Department of Paediatrics.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Kyle DeMars, Family Medicine
June 02, 2021
Dr. Kyle DeMars, PGY1, reflects on the lessons learned from his work on the Windsor Campus impact study and his journey into the medical profession.
Feature: Medical students help with vaccination effort
June 02, 2021
Medical students Rutik Patel, Kelsey Ambrose, James Colapinto, John Kelly, Tajdeep Brar and Sarah MacDonald recently lent a helping hand at Dr. Magbule Doko’s Windsor-based vaccine clinic.
Announcement: 2021 CaRMS Match results complete
June 01, 2021
On May 20, the second iteration of the CaRMS match results were released, bringing this year’s process to a close. Building on the first iteration results, a total of 40% of Schulich Medicine matched to programs at Western, and 48.2% matched to Family Medicine. More than 75% matched to an Ontario postgraduate medical education program.
Flags lowered to half-mast to honour residential school victims
May 31, 2021
Western University’s flags will be at half-mast for 215 hours to recognize the tragic loss of 215 children whose remains were found on the site of the former Indian Residential School in Kamloops, BC.
Learner Perspectives: Dental student Erik Tamberg on student leadership
May 31, 2021
Erik Tamberg, BMSc’15, Dentistry Class of 2021, believes students can have a big impact on their campus and community, as champions for positive change. During his time in dental school, he has volunteered with community outreach initiatives, participated in summer research projects and serves in student government, most recently as President of the University of Western Ontario Dental Student Society (UWODSS).
Award: Schulich Dentistry student - Natalie Rubinger named 2021 recipient of dentalcorp Academic Excellence Award
May 31, 2021
Rubinger, Class of 2021, will receive a full reimbursement of tuition for the DDS program, as well as a two-year contract at a dentalcorp practice.
Feature: Pitch perfect - New tool helps to ‘tune’ cochlear implants to improve hearing
May 27, 2021
With the aim of improving hearing for patients with cochlear implants, a team of researchers has designed a mathematical tool to help program the implants with precision for each patient’s unique anatomy.
Award: Canadian Resident Matching Service recognizes exceptional student leader
May 26, 2021
In recognition of his experience and potential as a leader, David Zheng, Medicine Class of 2022, received the CaRMS Sandra Banner Student Award for Leadership.
Feature: Enhancing care for patients with multiple chronic conditions
May 26, 2021
Patients with multiple chronic conditions are often seeing multiple medical specialists, taking a handful of medications and are balancing important and sometimes conflicting health advice. In an effort to improve care, Dr. Moira Stewart and a team of researchers at the Centre for Studies in Family Medicine tested a multi-provider case conference as part of their care.
News: Roy Butler, PhD announced as President and CEO of St. Joseph’s Health Care London
May 25, 2021
St. Joseph's Health Care London announced alumnus Roy Butler, PhD'02, will be stepping into the role of CEO and President, effective August 3, 2021. Butler is currently the Vice President, Patient Care and Risk Management.
Research News: Research collaboration shows critically ill COVID-19 patients have normal antibody production
May 25, 2021
Researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and Lawson Health Research Institute have teamed up with local biotech company, Diagnostics Biochem Canada Inc. (DBC), to help better understand COVID-19 and the body’s immune response to the infection.
Award: Dr. Amit Garg conferred Kidney Foundation’s Medal for Research Excellence
May 24, 2021
In recognition of his research contributions to furthering understanding of kidney health and their positive impacts on patient care, Dr. Amit Garg, PhD has received the 2021 Medal for Research Excellence.
Feature: Promoting success beyond the classroom
May 19, 2021
As Assistant Dean, Learner Experience (Dentistry), Dr. Maria Jacinta Santos hopes to bring a dentistry-specific perspective to existing learner supports and identify more opportunities to promote student success in the first two years of the DDS program.
Expert Explainer: Steven Kerfoot, PhD, on how vaccines work in our bodies
May 19, 2021
What exactly happens inside your body after you receive a COVID-19 vaccination? Will our immunity to COVID-19 eventually wane? As vaccine eligibility expands in Canada, Steven Kerfoot, PhD, Associate Professor in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology, provides a clear picture of how our immune systems respond to the COVID-19 vaccine.
Announcement: MD+ expands
May 18, 2021
Two months since its launch, the School’s new MD+ track has expanded program offerings. Students with interests in business, public administration, science management and music performance now have several new degree and diploma opportunities to explore.
Honour: Paula Foster, PhD, honoured with Senior Fellowship from the International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine
May 18, 2021
Foster is the first Canadian to become an ISMRM Senior Fellow, and only the third imaging scientist from the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry to ever receive the honour.
News: Western attracts $1 million to advance virtual learning
May 18, 2021
Ten Western initiatives have been awarded a total of $1 million in funding as part of the eCampusOntario Virtual Learning Strategy, including a suite of skills-based resources to support learners and promote equitable education developed by Nicole Campbell, a repository of medical education assets led by Danielle Dilkes and gamified simulation training for faculty development led by Michael Brock.
Feature: Mentorship Program enriches medical school experience for LGBTQ+ students
May 14, 2021
In their second year of medical school, Drs. Rachelle Beanlands and Lily Robinson formed a mentorship program for LGBTQ+ medical students at the School. Now in its fourth year, it has continued to provide hope, reassurance and a safe environment for self-expression.
News: Dr. Amit Garg awarded Western’s top research honour
May 13, 2021
Dr. Amit X. Garg, Professor of Medicine, has been awarded a 2021 Hellmuth Prize for Achievement in Research in recognition of his sustained excellence in his contributions to the field of nephrology.
In Memoriam: Louis Charland, PhD
May 13, 2021
The Western community lost a beloved member on Sunday, May 9, 2021, with the passing of Professor Louis Charland.
Feature: Not all head and neck cancers are the same
May 12, 2021
How might the site of a cancer in the mouth or throat influence its molecular makeup and how it’s treated? Medical student Hugh Kim and Dr. Anthony Nichols are diving into a massive database of information to find answers to these questions.
Feature: Engaging the community in cancer research
May 12, 2021
A group of graduate trainees is contributing to a new blog that showcases cancer research in the London region as part of the Canadian Cancer Society’s Research Information Outreach Team (RIOT).
Announcement: First Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences graduate program cohort begins studies
May 12, 2021
The Master of Science in Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences (IMS) program welcomed its first cohort of 18 learners, ready to take on medical sciences’ greatest ‘wicked problems’.
Announcement: 2021 Awards of Excellence – Windsor Campus recipients
May 09, 2021
The Awards of Excellence – Windsor Campus celebrate the commitment and dedication of faculty, residents, staff and students. As mentors and role models, the recipients are distinguished by their leadership skills and embodiment of the School’s values. Congratulations to the 2021 recipients.
Funding: Researchers receive Royal College grant to study bias and equity training in specialty education
May 07, 2021
With support from a Strategic Initiative Grant, researchers with the Centre for Education Research & Innovation will explore how professional context influences the cycle of feedback, facilitation and behaviour change, with the goal of informing future EDI training, policy and organizational practice.
News: Indigenous Graduation Ceremony marks shared milestone
May 07, 2021
More than 60 Indigenous students will be celebrated at the Indigenous Student Graduation Ceremony, including four medical students sharing a special bond.
Research News: Air pollution exposure contributes to childhood asthma, population-based study shows
May 04, 2021
New findings from Ontario have shown that children born in Sarnia have a higher risk of developing asthma compared to neighbouring cities. A research team found that higher air pollution exposure in the first year of life very likely contributed to this higher risk.
Feature: Training infectious disease research leaders
May 03, 2021
The ImPaKT Facility is ground zero for training research leaders to tackle the next pandemic. Mariya Goncheva, PhD, and Corby Fink, PhD are two postdoctoral trainees unravelling the mysteries of COVID-19 through their work on campus.
Announcement: Celebrating the 2021 Awards of Excellence recipients
April 29, 2021
As educators, researchers, innovators and leaders, the 2021 Awards of Excellence recipients are making a difference at the School. It is with great pride that we recognize and honour their achievements.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Rahul Verma, Paediatrics
April 29, 2021
For Dr. Rahul Verma, PGY2, Paediatrics, working with children and their families is a feeling like no other. “Children are a unique population of patients where early interventions and timely care can change their life trajectory for decades and decades to come.”
Feature: History of Medicine events – a virtual success
April 29, 2021
Schulich medicine explored history of medicine topics and were recognized for their unique approaches they applied their historical research at School and national events.
Honour: Dr. Bertha Garcia named an Honorary Fellow of the American College of Dentists
April 28, 2021
Acting Vice Dean & Director of Dentistry, Dr. Bertha Garcia, was awarded an Honorary Fellowship from the American College of Dentists, a special recognition for non-dentists who have had a significant impact on the profession.
News: Western neuroscience spinoff sees growth in remote-care world
April 28, 2021
Adrian Owen, PhD, Adjunct Professor, Anatomy and Cell Biology, developed electronic cognitive assessments that are now commercially licensed by Cambridge Brain Sciences, offering a database of more than 12 million assessment tasks for researchers and clinicians.
Announcement: Dr. Tisha Joy steps down as Associate Dean, Admissions
April 27, 2021
Dr. Tisha Joy, Associate Dean, Admissions, will be stepping down from her role effective June 15, 2021.
Feature: 900,000+ COVID-19 tests processed by PaLM Microbiology Division
April 27, 2021
From overcoming supply shortages to an ever-growing demand for tests, the Pathology and Laboratory Medicine Microbiology lab has met the challenge of providing COVID-19 testing for all of Southwestern Ontario, processing more tests than they would in 150 years of regular flu seasons.
Announcement: 2021 CaRMS Match Results
April 27, 2021
On April 20, medical students from across Canada learned their residency match results, as the first iteration of the 2021 Canadian Resident Matching Service process became available.
Award: Dr. Andrea Lum receives Gold Medal Award from the Canadian Association of Radiologists
April 27, 2021
In recognition of her contributions to the Canadian Association of Radiologists (CAR) and her commitment to furthering the profession of radiology, Dr. Andrea Lum has received the CAR’s highest honour – the Gold Medal Award.
News: Western announces Distinguished University Professorships and Faculty Scholars
April 22, 2021
Dr. Glenn Bauman is one of three recipients of the 2021 Distinguished University Professor Award, which recognizes sustained excellence in scholarship over a substantial career at Western University. John MacCormick and Brad Urquhart received the 2021 Faculty Scholar Award.
Funding: CIHR invests $3.3 million for a collaborative national oral health survey
April 22, 2021
Dr. Sharat Pani is a principal co-investigator on a collaborative research project, which will establish a national survey of Canadians’ oral health in partnership with Statistics Canada.
Announcement: Dr. Davy Cheng to be first-ever Dean of Medicine at The Chinese University of Hong Kong – Shenzhen
April 15, 2021
Dr. Davy Cheng, former Acting Dean, has accepted a position as Dean of Medicine at The Chinese University of Hong Kong, where he will lead the establishment of the medical school and teaching medical centre.
Feature: Exploring space medicine
April 15, 2021
A summer research internship with Western’s Institute for Earth and Space Exploration offered medical students Shozab Ahmed and Mohsyn Malik the perfect opportunity to combine their interests in space and medicine, while delving into the world of extreme environments health care.
Announcement: Dr. Saverio Stranges re-appointed as Chair of Epidemiology and Biostatistics
April 15, 2021
Dr. Saverio Stranges has been re-appointed as Chair of the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective October 1, 2021 to September 30, 2026.
Award: Dr. Chris Watling receives CAME recognition for excellence in mentorship
April 14, 2021
Dr. Watling, Acting Vice Dean, Education Scholarship and Strategy, is the recipient of the 2021 Mentors Award from the Canadian Association for Medical Education - Early Career Medical Educators.
Research News: Study shows how chronic stress may inhibit the body’s cancer-fighting ability
April 14, 2021
Hormones triggered by chronic emotional and psychological stress impair the ability of the immune system’s ‘emergency responders’ to fight cancer, researchers in the Departments of Microbiology and Immunology and Surgery have found.
Announcement: Drs. Ram Singh and Craig Campbell re-appointed as Interim Co-Chair/Chiefs of Paediatrics
April 14, 2021
Drs. Ram Singh and Craig Campbell have been re-appointed as Interim Co-Chair/Chiefs of the Department of Paediatrics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University and its teaching hospitals, effective June 30, 2021 to June 30, 2022.
Announcement: Dr. Karin Hahn re-appointed as Interim Chair/Chief of the Department of Oncology
April 14, 2021
Dr. Karin Hahn has been re-appointed as the Interim Chair/Chief of the Department of Oncology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University and its teaching hospitals, effective March 31, 2021 to December 31, 2021.
Funding: More than $3.2 million awarded to clinical researchers
April 13, 2021
More than $3.2 million was awarded to clinical researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry through the Academic Health Science Centre (AHSC) Alternative Funding Plan (AFP) Innovation Fund and the Academic Medical Organization of Southwestern Ontario (AMOSO) Opportunities Fund.
News: Trainees awarded at Imaging Network of Ontario Symposium
April 13, 2021
Fifteen trainees received research awards at the annual Imaging Network of Ontario Symposium in March.
Announcement: Dr. Emil Schemitsch elected to Orthopaedic Trauma Association leadership
April 13, 2021
Dr. Schemitsch has been appointed as the second President-Elect of the Orthopaedic Trauma Association, beginning a five-year term as part of the association’s leadership team in October 2021.
Announcement: Dr. Timothy Regnault appointed Assistant Dean, Pre-Clinical Research
April 09, 2021
Dr. Timothy Regnault has been appointed to the position of Assistant Dean, Pre-Clinical Research, at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2024.
News: Summer internship programs aim to help students and faculty
April 08, 2021
The Western Summer 2021 Student Internship and the Undergraduate Student Research Internship programs will offer 16-week placements for up to 400 students from May 1 to Aug. 31.
Research News: Fighting infection by harnessing the competitive nature of bacteria
April 08, 2021
Researchers in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology have discovered a compound that can inhibit the growth of Staphylococcus aureus, a deadly bacterium that has become resistant to most antibiotics. The discovery opens the door for new drug development.
Student Perspectives: Lena Schreyer on community outreach and youth mental health
April 07, 2021
Every year, one in five Canadian youth will struggle with a mental health concern and only 20 per cent will receive the support they need. Lena Schreyer, a fourth-year Neuroscience student, is working to address this gap as the Founder and Director of Beecuz, a non-profit organization that develops proactive and positive wellness education programs for children and youth.
News: 2021 Alumni of Distinction Award recipients
April 07, 2021
The 2021 Alumni of Distinction Award recipients are research leaders, accomplished scholars, community advocates and trailblazers in their fields. Congratulations to Karl Cuddy, Irene Hramiak, Philip Marsden, Ayden Scheim, Andrea Sereda and Nathan Stall.
News: ‘World’s Challenge Challenge’ winners from Western moving on to the next round
April 07, 2021
A team of students, including Colette Benko, BMSc Class of 2022, are moving on to the global finals the World's Challenge Challenge with their innovative proposal for Project Lightbulb, a virtual, hands-on science education program.
Feature: Taking a systems-thinking approach to anti-Black racism
April 06, 2021
A team of Schulich Medicine & Dentistry alumni have channeled the frustration and outrage the felt after the 2020 death of George Floyd, into an actionable report to address anti-Black racism in Ontario.
Feature: A personal challenge to do more
April 05, 2021
Growing up in the 70s, Dr. Dorian Lo was profoundly influenced by the socio-political issues of the day. His social consciousness, later nurtured in medical school, inspired a desire to do more. Combining his medical and business education, he’s now one of Canada’s leading health care business leaders.
News: An early warning system: Testing wastewater for COVID-19
April 05, 2021
An engineer-led, interdisciplinary study in collaboration with researcher Eric Arts collected wastewater samples from a number of strategic locations in London, Ont. to analyze at Western’s ImPaKT Facility as a method of mapping COVID-19 infection rates.
Feature: Turning hope into reality for a pain-free future
April 04, 2021
Dr. Tom Appleton is a clinician-scientist collaborating with experts in orthopedics, sports medicine, physiotherapy and skeletal biology. He is leading a translational early osteoarthritis research program focused on understanding the role that the immune system plays in osteoarthritis to contribute to a future where people with osteoarthritis live a life free of pain and disability.
Important COVID-19 Update: Changes to classes, exams, residences
April 01, 2021
As COVID-19 variants fuel transmission in the region, and with further restrictions expected in Ontario, Western University is moving the majority of in-person classes and final exams online, effective April 5.
Announcement: Dr. Maria Jacinta Santos appointed as Assistant Dean, Learner Experience (Dentistry)
April 01, 2021
Dr. Maria Jacinta Santos has been appointed as the Assistant Dean, Learner Experience (Dentistry), at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective March 1, 2021 to February 28, 2022.
News: Western implements additional measures to prevent spread of COVID-19
March 31, 2021
As the Middlesex-London region moves from orange to red in the face of rising case counts, and with variants of concern making up more than half of Ontario’s new COVID-19 cases, Western University is implementing additional precautionary measures to prevent the spread of the virus.
Feature: Trans PULSE Canada highlights diverse experiences of trans and non-binary Canadians
March 30, 2021
Trans PULSE Canada is the first research survey to collect all-ages data on trans and non-binary health across Canada. Spearheaded by Ayden Scheim, PhD, and Greta Bauer, PhD, from the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, the results of the survey are pinpointing the unique experiences of diverse groups within the trans and non-binary community, including Indigenous people, sex workers and immigrants and newcomers.
Feature: Creating culturally safe, accessible health care
March 29, 2021
Working with partners and communities with lived experience, medical students Claire Dong, Dilini Kekulawala and Brintha Sivajohan founded The BIPOC Women’s Health Network, a national, student-led organization focused on improving health care experiences and reducing disparities for BIPOC women.
Funding: Dr. Lakshman Gunaratnam awarded two Kidney Foundation grants
March 29, 2021
Dr. Gunaratnam's research projects, supported by the Kidney Foundation of Canada, will investigate acute kidney injury and determinants of recovery from the condition, as well as a potential therapeutic agent to improve outcomes of kidney transplantation.
Feature: Hockey FIT program reaches fans from coast to coast
March 29, 2021
Hockey FIT, a program that uses fan culture to encourage Canadian men to get fit, has expanded to 32 communities across the Canada. Despite the shuttering of hockey arenas across the country, men in cities from Chilliwack B.C. to Kingston, Ont. have accessed the 12-week program developed in the Department of Family Medicine at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry.
News: School to open Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion
March 26, 2021
The new Office, including an Associate Dean, Equity, Diversity and Inclusion and a Specialist, will direct and implement all matters related to equity, diversity, inclusion, bias, anti-racism and Indigenous initiatives at the School.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Danielle Kelton, Emergency Medicine
March 25, 2021
Dr. Danielle Kelton, PGY4, Emergency Medicine, enjoys the variety of her chosen specialty and says that the residency program’s biggest strength is its supportive, collaborative and inclusive culture.
News: Safe Ride Home Program for residents
March 25, 2021
A new program is providing safe transportation home for resident doctors who are experiencing fatigue after long or difficult shifts. The Safe Ride Home Program is free and available 24/7 for residents.
Research News: Global study shows elective surgery patients should be prioritized for COVID-19 vaccines
March 25, 2021
A new global modelling study shows patients waiting for elective surgery should be prioritized for COVID-19 vaccines. An international team of researchers, including Janet Martin from the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics, estimates that global prioritization of vaccination for elective surgery patients could prevent close to 60,000 COVID-19-related deaths in one year.
Feature: Creating connections: Western’s complexity science research hub
March 24, 2021
The Complex Adaptive Systems lab is an interdisciplinary network encouraging cross-campus collaboration, including the work of Schulich Medicine & Dentistry researcher Sayra Cristancho.
Feature: Feeling the rain
March 24, 2021
Shreya Gandhi’s mother showed strength, recovery, and resilience as a brain tumour survivor, and now she serves as a point of inspiration for her own journey to become the citizen she aspires to be.
Feature: Taking action on wellness
March 23, 2021
A member of the Clinical Faculty Affairs team, Dr. Laura Foxcroft is putting her focus on wellbeing - a major undertaking in the midst of the pandemic.
Award: 2021 PARO award recipients announced
March 23, 2021
Dr. Karin Hahn received the Professional Association of Resident of Ontario’s Excellence in Clinical Teaching Award, Dr. Shane Freeman was awarded the Resident Teaching Award and Sarah Luciw received the Citizenship Award for Medical Students.
Commentary: Experts call for research transparency on human challenge studies for COVID-19
March 23, 2021
A week after the world’s first COVID-19 human challenge trial began in London, UK, in which volunteers are deliberately exposed to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, Dr. Charles Weijer, Professor and bioethicist at Western University, and Josh Morrison, Executive Director of 1Day Sooner are calling for the publication of the trial’s protocol.
Feature: Interprofessional Education Day puts focus on Indigenous health and medicine
March 18, 2021
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry students joined nearly 1,000 of their peers from across the education health care spectrum for a day of interprofessional teamwork, listening and learning.
Announcement: MD+ to offer graduate training opportunities for MD students
March 16, 2021
Schulich Medicine students can now pursue professional and graduate training while completing their Doctor of Medicine (MD) degree. They will be able to explore space medicine, non-medical interests, public health or law, get hands-on research-intensive experience in the basic sciences, pursue work in Africa, or dig into the history of medicine to understand its impact on care today,
Feature: Powerful brain imaging creates new insights on neurological symptoms of COVID-19
March 16, 2021
A multidisciplinary team of scientists and clinicians is combining powerful brain imaging tools at Robarts Research Institute with expertise on brain diseases such as Alzheimer’s and epilepsy to better understand COVID-19’s neurological symptoms.
Research News: A more plant-based diet may improve cardiovascular health: experts
March 15, 2021
Dr. David Spence has long promoted the role of a more plant-based diet in reducing risk of cardiovascular disease. While it is well known that egg yolks have a high content of cholesterol and meat contains both cholesterol and saturated fat, he points out that lesser-known culprits in eggs and red meat could be increasing the levels of toxic metabolites produced by the intestinal microbiome, that negatively impact cardiovascular health.
Feature: Looking for clues: Using artificial intelligence to uncover mental health, addiction issues
March 14, 2021
A new social media search tool, developed by Dan Lizotte, PhD and PhD candidate Brent Davis, could help public health experts reach more people struggling with substance abuse.
Feature: New software provides detailed picture of COVID-19 virus variants
March 11, 2021
Genomic surveillance programs around the world are collecting data on how the virus that causes COVID-19 is mutating and changing as it moves through the population. Globally, more than 300,000 unique genetic versions of the virus have been identified. Visually representing that in a way that is accessible and easy to understand is at the core of a software application called CoVizu developed by a team in the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine.
Celebrating Canadian Women Physicians Day
March 11, 2021
In 1875, Dr. Jennie Trout became the first woman in Canada to be licensed to practise medicine. 146 years later, we are celebrating the first-ever Canadian Women Physicians Day (March 11). Five physician leaders share their inspirations, personal experiences and hopes for the future of the profession.
Feature: London startup raises the bar on spinal implants
March 11, 2021
London-based startup A-Line Orthopaedics, co-founded by Dr. Parham Rasoulinejad, Professor, Orthopedic Surgery, has developed a new spinal implant that could revolutionize an invasive treatment for upper cervical spine fractures.
Feature: Pandemic provides real-time, case-based learning for MPH students
March 10, 2021
For this year’s Masters of Public Health cohort, the backdrop of the pandemic is presenting unique opportunities for learning and analysis.
Feature: Using your genes to detect arrhythmias
March 10, 2021
Julieta Lazarte, MD/PhD Candidate, was awarded a Frederick Banting and Charles Best Canada Graduate Scholarship to support her research on the underlying genetic causes of atrial fibrillation.
Funding: Six interdisciplinary teams receive Collaborative Research Seed Grant funding
March 09, 2021
The program provides seed funding for the formation and development of new interdisciplinary and collaborative research teams. Researchers will explore a range of health topics, from a potential new therapy to treat SARS-CoV2 infection to sudden unexpected death in epilepsy.
Learner Perspectives: Dr. Natasha Holder on mentorship in oral and maxillofacial surgery
March 08, 2021
Dr. Natasha Holder is a second-year resident in Oral and Maxillofacial Surgery. She believes mentorship is key in making change in the field and is mentoring female students in dentistry with an interest in surgery. “They can’t be us, if they can’t see us.”
Funding: CIHR Project Grant recipients announced
March 05, 2021
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) have announced the results of their October 2020 grants competition. Schulich Medicine & Dentistry research teams in the areas of primary care reform, breast cancer, COVID-19 and more received more than $7.4 million in grant funding.
Announcement: Dr. Mark Awuku appointed as Chair of Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons subcommittee
March 04, 2021
Dr. Mark Awuku has been appointed as Chair of the Continuing Professional Development Accreditation Committee for the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.
Feature: On the frontlines and in the headlines: Dr. Jessica Summerfield
March 04, 2021
Dr. Jessica Summerfield has had a remarkable year, balancing clinical commitments as a COVID-19 front-line physician and her advocacy role as the President of the Essex County Medical Society.
Feature: Student researchers win big at cancer research conference
March 04, 2021
Sarang Upneja,Vanessa Montemurri and Nathan Doupnik placed first, second and third at the Windsor Cancer Research Group’s Biennial Cancer Research Conference
Feature: A place to call their own
March 03, 2021
Dr. Paris Lai, PGY4, secured PARO funding to create a resident-designated space at Hôtel-Dieu Grace Healthcare to facilitate resident wellness and resiliency.
News: Medical device to manage blood loss approved by Health Canada
March 01, 2021
After a traumatic injury from an event such as a car crash or industrial accident, many patients die from blood loss before they ever enter the operating room. In order to improve survival, Asha Parekh, PhD, and Dr. Adam Power have used their ingenuity to develop a medical device that can keep blood flowing to the heart and the brain in a way that is fast, simple and safe.
Feature: Supporting wellness in meaningful ways
February 25, 2021
As Assistant Dean, Postgraduate Learner Experience, Dr. Michelle Marlborough supports the psychological and physical wellbeing of residents and fellows at the School. In the role, she hopes to address some of the larger systemic issues that keep learners and physicians unwell.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Stephanie Lammers, Obstetrics and Gynaecology
February 24, 2021
As a fifth-year resident in Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Dr. Stephanie Lammers enjoys the surgical aspects of the program, as well as the special moments with patients that energize and refuel her.
News: Information breaks barriers for prospective medical students
February 24, 2021
A group of Black medical students have created the Unofficial Guide to Canadian Medical School – a valuable resource providing information about applying to medical school with the hopes to break down barriers to students who don’t have access to mentors and academic networks.
Funding: Centre for Functional and Metabolic Mapping receives $2.85 million grant
February 24, 2021
Ravi Menon, PhD, along with his research team, have received Brain Canada’s 2019 Platform Support Grant, to support the Centre for Functional and Metabolic Mapping (CFMM) at Robarts Research Institute.
Research News: Understanding antibodies at play in long-lasting COVID-19 immunity
February 23, 2021
A team of researchers across Canada, including collaborators from Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, is shedding light on how our bodies develop immunity to the SARS-CoV-2 virus, and may help to assess how effectively current vaccines are at conferring long-term immunity.
Research News: Pinpointing the role of language disruptions in psychosis
February 18, 2021
Difficulties with communication are some of the earliest symptoms of psychosis. A new study has found that this may be because, like a small airport trying to handle all the air traffic from a big international airport, parts of the brain not meant to process language are trying to perform this complex job in patients with psychosis.
Announcement: Jefferson Frisbee, PhD, re-appointed as Chair, Department of Medical Biophysics
February 18, 2021
Jefferson Frisbee, PhD, has been re-appointed as Chair, Department of Medical Biophysics, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective July 1, 2021 to June 30, 2026.
Learner Perspectives: Dr. Sondos Zayed on research and representation in radiation oncology
February 17, 2021
Dr. Sondos Zayed is a third-year resident in Radiation Oncology. She is looking at female authorship in the field and has created an online community for Muslim women in medicine through her blog, Medicine Unveiled, to share experiences and advice.
Research News: Difference in walking pattern can predict type of cognitive decline
February 16, 2021
A new study by a Canadian research team evaluated the walking patterns and brain function of 500 older adults and found that patterns in the way they walk can more accurately diagnose different types of dementia and identify Alzheimer’s disease.
Announcement: Gregory Dekaban, PhD, appointed as Chair, Department of Microbiology & Immunology
February 16, 2021
Gregory Dekaban, PhD, has been reappointed as Chair, Microbiology and Immunology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective February 1, 2021 to January 31, 2026.
Funding: Three research teams receive funding for education research
February 11, 2021
Three research teams have received funding from the Faculty Support for Research in Education (FRSE) program. Congratulations to Greta Bauer, PhD, Dr. Robin Mackin and Mary Ott, PhD, Postdoctoral Fellow.
Award: Schulich Dentistry student earns coveted spot at international competition
February 11, 2021
Vladyslav Podskalniy has received the CADR-NCOHR Student Research Presentation Award and was selected as the Canadian representative to present his research at the International Association for Dental Research Undergraduate Hatton Competition.
Research News: Dialysis patients at greater risk of dying from COVID-19 infection
February 11, 2021
Patients in Ontario with chronic kidney conditions who require dialysis have a significantly increased likelihood of contracting and dying from COVID-19, new research has shown. Study author Dr. Peter Blake says the research emphasizes the need to prioritize dialysis patients for vaccination.
Feature: Bats may hold the key to vaccines for future pandemics
February 10, 2021
In their quest to develop a bank of vaccines that could be at the ready for the next pandemic, Western University researchers are hunting for coronaviruses that have the potential for animal-to-human transmission. To do so, they’ve teamed up with bat biologists at the Royal Ontario Museum, which holds thousands of frozen bat tissue samples from around the world.
World Cancer Day: Using cancer cells to treat cancer
February 04, 2021
John Ronald, PhD, is rethinking cell therapy for cancer. He is using cancer cells engineered in the lab and injected back into the circulation to deliver therapeutics right to the site of the cancer.
Research News: Most instructions for inserting COVID-19 nasopharyngeal swabs don't go deep enough
February 03, 2021
There are wide discrepancies in the instructions for how deep the nasopharyngeal swabs used to test for COVID-19 are to be inserted up Canadian noses, new research has found. As an otolaryngologist, Dr. Leigh Sowerby is an expert in the anatomy of the head, neck and inside of the nose. He and his colleagues examined testing instructions provided by provincial and territorial authorities and found wide variations.
Expert Explainer: Art Poon, PhD, on coronavirus ‘variants of concern’
February 02, 2021
As new coronavirus variants emerge, scientists are keeping a close eye on how the virus continues to evolve. According to Art Poon, PhD, unless we can mitigate the spread of the virus, there is a greater chance it will continue to mutate and produce more "variants of concern."
Feature: Medical software licence underlines WORLDiscoveries success
February 01, 2021
Ting-Yim Lee, PhD, Professor of Medical Biophysics at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, has developed cutting-edge imaging software that measures blood flow in bodily tissues, helping to guide treatment for stroke patients.
Research News: Alternate type of surgery may prevent total knee replacement
February 01, 2021
A team of researchers including Dr. Robert Giffin, have shown that an underused type of knee surgery in younger patients, called high tibial osteotomy, may reduce the need for total knee replacement.
Feature: Structural stigma against mental illness ‘baked into’ system
February 01, 2021
Dr. Javeed Sukhera, Associate Professor of Psychiatry at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, writes about mental health stigma on individual and structural levels and its effect on health care.
Feature: Rebuilding resiliency - Peers-for-Peers program offers support for physicians
January 27, 2021
As the pandemic wears on, resilience is slowly being chipped away and peer support systems are needed now more than ever. A unique program at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry that is focused on peer-to-peer support, emphasizes the wellbeing of clinical faculty.
Feature: Bringing comfort through connection
January 27, 2021
Forty Schulich Medicine students have found unexpected friendships with senior members of the local community during the past year through the Student-Senior Isolation Prevention Program.
Announcement: Hematology fellow earns AMS Fellowship in Compassion and Artificial Intelligence
January 26, 2021
Dr. Ben Chin-Yee, Clinical Fellow in the Division of Hematology, was announced as part of the inaugural group of AMS Healthcare Fellows in Compassion and Artificial Intelligence.
Research News: ‘Brain training’ may be an effective treatment for PTSD
January 26, 2021
In a new study from Western University and Lawson Health Research Institute, neurofeedback, or 'brain training' was found to reduce symptoms and lead to remission in PTSD patients.
Funding: Collaborative research into COVID-19 impact on dental schools receives $1.44 million grant
January 25, 2021
Schulich Dentistry researcher Dr. Sharat Pani, along with 12 researchers across ten Canadian institutions, received COVID-19 Immunity Task Force funding to support research into COVID-19 experiences at Canadian dental school.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Lorenzo Madrazo, Internal Medicine
January 22, 2021
Before going into medicine, Dr. Lorenzo Madrazo trained to be a music teacher. From patient education to working with junior learners, teaching is one of his favourite aspects of residency.
Research News: More evidence needed to inform policy around sending kids back to class
January 21, 2021
Are kids in schools driving community transmission of COVID-19, or is it the other way around? This uncertainty could be clarified by conducting cluster randomized trials when students return to class, according to a new publication from an international team of experts co-led by Dr. Charles Weijer.
Announcement: Dr. Tracey Crumley appointed Chair/Chief Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology
January 21, 2021
Dr. Tracey Crumley has been appointed as Chair/Chief, Department of Obstetrics and Gynaecology, Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry, London Health Sciences Centre (LHSC) and St. Joseph’s Health Care London effective January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2025.
Resident Spotlight: Dr. Kriti Kumar, Paediatrics
January 20, 2021
For Dr. Kriti Kumar, working with children brings positivity and inspiration to her residency training experience. As a second-year resident in Paediatrics, she works with a range of patient populations, from infants to adolescents.
Feature: Contributing to a better future
January 18, 2021
As three of 10 inaugural recipients of the Dean’s Research Scholarship, graduate trainees Surim Son, Fabio Salerno and Mila Uzelac are working on translational research projects that aim to improve care for dementia, cancer and kidney disease patients.
Research News: Incentive payments to physicians may reduce non-urgent ED visits
January 18, 2021
New research shows that providing primary care physicians with incentives to see patients after hours may result in fewer visits to the emergency department for non-urgent issues, potentially helping to reducing emergency department overcrowding and lowering health care costs.
Feature: Rapid COVID-19 antibody test can check immune response
January 15, 2021
Shawn Li and his colleagues at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and the University of Toronto, have developed a simple test – faster and more accurate than any approved thus far in Canada – to determine who has developed COVID-19 antibodies.
Research News: How do social media and loss of sleep affect young people's mental health?
January 14, 2021
How exactly does sleep influence mental health and how does social media play a role? Researchers in the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics are working to understand the relationship in two recently published papers.
Award: CAME Certificate of Merit Award recipients announced
January 08, 2021
Dr. Alice Tsui and Dr. Yiannis Iordanous received the Canadian Association for Medical Education’s 2021 Certificate of Merit Award for their valuable contributions to enhancing medical education at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry.
Honour: Celebrating 25 Years of Service
January 08, 2021
Congratulations to Schulich Medicine & Dentistry staff and faculty who were honoured with a Western University long-term service award in 2020.
Announcement: Jimmy Dikeakos selected as President of the Canadian Society for Virology
January 06, 2021
Associate Professor of Microbiology and Immunology, Jimmy Dikeakos, PhD, will be leading the executive committee of the Canadian Society for Virology, effective January 1, 2021.
Announcement: Dr. Emil Schemitsch re-appointed as Chair/Chief of the Department of Surgery
January 06, 2021
Dr. Emil Schemitsch has been re-appointed as Chair/Chief of the Department of Surgery, effective January 1, 2021 to December 31, 2025.
Honour: Marlys Koschinsky honoured with Order of Ontario appointment
January 05, 2021
Marlys L. Koschinsky, PhD, was named one of the 2019 appointees to the Order of Ontario, in recognition of her achievements as an internationally recognized researcher and a leader in education and mentorship.
Feature: ImPaKT researchers show high-tech lighting solution can kill COVID-19 on surfaces
January 05, 2021
Working together with researchers at the ImPaKT Facility at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, two Western Alumni have shown that a UVC LED light system they developed can effectively kill SARS-CoV-2, the virus that causes COVID-19. The system is now being used in a variety of applications including in conveyors that can decontaminate packages and as part of a system designed specifically to clean casino chips.
Honour: Renowned military surgeon receives Order of Canada
January 04, 2021
Dr. Vivian McAlister has received the title of Officer of the Order of Canada, one of the country’s highest civilian honours.
