2019
Using probiotics to protect honey bees against fatal disease
October 30, 2019
A group of researchers at Western and Lawson combined their expertise in probiotics and bee biology to supplement honey bee food with probiotics, in the form a BioPatty, in their experimental apiaries. The aim was to see what effect probiotics would have on honey bee health.ImPaKT Facility Opening
July 30, 2019
The $16-million imaging pathogens for knowledge translation facility (ImPaKT) contains a level two biosafety containment lab where researchers will study microbes including HIV and antibiotic-resistant superbug MRSA. Researchers in ImPaKT’s level three containment lab will study viruses including SARS-CoV-2, Zika and West Nile and the highly contagious bacterial infection tuberculosis. The 650 square metre secure facility features several different types of state-of-the-art imaging technology including an MRI and super-high resolution microscope.CIHR funding success
July 12, 2019
Dr. John McCormick (Staphylococcus aureus at the commensal-pathogen interface: the superantigen paradox) and Dr. Jamie Mann (Engineering HIV virus-like-particles (VLPs) for improved Env antigenicity and neutralizing antibody responses) in the Department of Microbiology and Immunology have each received CIHR funding. Congratulations to both.Acting Chair appointed - Microbiology and Immunology
July 09, 2019
Gregory Dekaban, PhD, has been appointed as Acting Chair, Department of Microbiology & Immunology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective from July 1, 2019 to June 30, 2020.Distinguished University Professor
March 21, 2019
Gregor Reid is recognized as a Canadian and international pioneer in the areas of probiotics, beneficial microbes, and the microbiome. Reid’s research has led to significant clinical translational and commercial applications. He was a pioneer in understanding the microbiome and the possibility of probiotic treatment in an era when this research was largely considered ‘fringe’ science.
