News
Announcement: Celebrating the 2024 Awards of Excellence recipients
April 17, 2024
Congratulations to all of our Physiology and Pharmacology winners!Schulich Medicine & Dentistry researchers named Distinguished University Professors
April 10, 2024
Recognized for their leadership, research excellence and community service, Frank Beier, PhD, and Michelle Mottola, PhD, have been named Distinguished University Professors.Western innovators receive Early Researcher Awards
March 28, 2024
10 faculty attract provincial funding for projects focused on health, homelessness and climate change, including Taylor Schmitz in the department of Physiology and PharmacologyTargeting toxic bacteria among research projects to receive CIHR project funding
March 13, 2024
Dean Betts, PhD, is investigating how to increase the success and safety of assisted reproductive technology (ART) and help ensure the health of mothers and their children utilizing this approach.Exposure to cannabidiol (CBD) in pregnancy reduces heart function in young male offspring
February 16, 2024
New study sheds additional light on the safety of cannabis use, particularly CBD, during pregnancy.Study explores why South Asians have higher rates of heart disease
February 14, 2024
Research data provides a previously unrecognized link to explain why South Asians develop early and aggressive heart diseaseNeuroscience student, football player tackles early stages of Alzheimer’s
February 01, 2024
Hayley Shanks may be a wide receiver for Western’s women’s football team, but when she is off the field, she’s tackling Alzheimer’s disease through her research.In Memoriam: Dr. David Pomerantz
January 22, 2024
It is with great sadness we share that Dr. David Pomerantz – Professor Emeritus in the department of Physiology and Pharmacology – has passed away.New online study explores link between healthy brains and bodies
January 17, 2024
Neuroscientist Adrian Owen partners with U.K. science museum in research driven by immersive video gamesMeet Miguel Quiñones-Mateu and current cohort of Western Research Chairs
January 08, 2024
Two decades ago, Quiñones-Mateu and his friends and colleagues, Eric Arts and Richard Gibson, scratched out ideas for a viral vaccine seed bank on a napkin.A look back at the top stories of 2023
December 18, 2023
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry experts brought their research expertise, innovative thinking and thought leadership to bear on some of the most pervasive health challenges facing the world in 2023. Read about the important contributions made by our people as told through some of the year's top stories.Announcement: Dr. Frank Beier has been re-appointed as Chair, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology
November 20, 2023
Dr. Frank Beier has been re-appointed as Chair, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective July 1, 2024 to June 30, 2029.Seinfeld provides insight into how our brains understand and appreciate humour
November 15, 2023
Neuroscientists at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry studied participants watching the classic TV series in an fMRI scanner. The results shed light on why patients with Parkinson’s disease might have difficulty understanding humour.Research shows prenatal exposure to cannabis may increase diabetes risk in offspring
November 10, 2023
A study led by researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry finds exposure to CBD impacts glucose intolerance in male rats.Program brings together scientists and policymakers to improve communication, build relationships
October 30, 2023
How can we improve the flow of new knowledge from research into policymaking? Postdoctoral fellow Jonathan Michaels, PhD, took part in a program that brings scientists and policymakers together to break down stereotypes.Western Organoid Workshop
October 19, 2023
We are excited to announce the date for our 2nd Annual Western Organoid Workshop (W.O.W.), which will take place on November 2nd, 2023.Western researchers reveal link between Alzheimer’s disease and sex hormones
October 17, 2023
Alzheimer’s disease disproportionately affects women, who represent about two-thirds of those diagnosed with the late-onset type of the disease.Maternal diabetes impacts oxygen flow in umbilical cord, study suggests
October 16, 2023
A new study published in the journal Placenta has found a surprising difference in how pre-existing diabetes and gestational diabetes affect the oxygen supply in the umbilical cord during pregnancy.Three researchers among new Canadian Academy of Health Sciences Fellows
September 27, 2023
Dr. Adrian Owen, among the 48 individuals to receive the honour this year.Western scholars honoured by Royal Society of Canada
September 13, 2023
Marlys Koschinsky, one of six noted Western scholars that have been elected as new Fellows of the Royal Society of Canada (RSC) in recognition of their outstanding scholarly, scientific and artistic achievements.Researchers use AI to predict recovery after serious brain injury
September 11, 2023
Graduate students working with neuroscientist Adrian Owen, PhD, have developed a ground-breaking method for predicting which patients will survive a severe brain injury.$5.1 million donation boosts open hardware approach to motor neuroscience
August 15, 2023
Pruszynski’s “open-hardware” concept is to create a consortium of neuroscientists whose research – whether it’s motor control or motor learning – would benefit from using these electrodes, and in turn gain feedback from the researchers to refine their hardware.Study suggests cannabis use during pregnancy could cause lifelong cognitive deficits
August 04, 2023
Researchers also find impact of prenatal cannabis exposure on cognition and memory differs by sex.The hidden curriculum and its impacts on students and educators
August 02, 2023
In an opinion piece for University Affairs, Nicole Campbell, PhD, and Asil El Galad, BMSc'23, share experiences with the hidden curriculum and offer a framework for educators.Nica Borradaile appointed Acting Associate Vice-Provost, SGPS.
August 01, 2023
The Department of Physiology and Pharmacology extends its congratulations to Nica Borradaile on her appointment as Acting Associate Vice-Provost, SGPS.Pioneer program opens doors to new opportunities for high-school students from diverse backgrounds
July 21, 2023
Through a new Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry program designed to make biomedical sciences more accessible for students from diverse backgrounds, the trio are among the first group of local high-school students experiencing first-hand what their future in science could look like.Announcement: Dr. Cheryle Séguin, Acting Chair, Physiology and Pharmacology
July 05, 2023
The Office of the Dean is pleased to announce that Dr. Cheryle Séguin, has been appointed as Acting Chair, Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective July 1, 2023, until June 30, 2024.LHRD 2023 Physiology and Pharmacology Poster Winners
June 29, 2023
Congratulations for our LHRD 2023 poster award winners.BMSc grad combines science and sports to change the narrative on equity
June 26, 2023
“Knowing it’s still there warms my heart,” said Brown, reflecting on time spent alone on the diamond, while juggling coaching the Lucan-Ilderton girls' softball team, studying for her medical college entrance test and, along with the rest of the world, navigating the waves of COVID-19.Annual Awards of Excellence ceremony brings Schulich Medicine & Dentistry community together
June 01, 2023
Congratulations to our award winners; Nica Borradaile, Wataru Inoue, Christine Bell and Stefan Everling.Schulich Medicine researchers fast-tracking drug development process among four recipients to receive grants
May 25, 2023
A project to fast-track drug development for neurodegenerative diseases by a team of researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry was one of two Western projects among four across Canada awarded grants through the Canada Brain Research Fund (CBRF).Schulich Medicine researchers shed light on symptoms of understudied spine disease
May 18, 2023
After hearing first-hand from patients about how the disease affected their lives, a team of researchers and graduate students at Western were inspired to investigate the symptoms associated with an understudied spine disease called diffuse idiopathic skeletal hyperostosis (DISH)Schulich Medicine Faculty Scholars
May 03, 2023
Congratulations Dr. Andrew Pruszynski, recipient of a Faculty Scholars Award 2023.Western to revolutionize drug development for brain diseases with $24M federal funding boost
April 26, 2023
First-of-its-kind platform will fast track drug development and help identify effective new therapies within six years.Western announces 2022-23 teaching award recipients
April 20, 2023
Congratulations Dr. Nicole Campbell, recipient of the Edward G. Pleva Award for Excellence in Teaching.Announcement: Celebrating the 2023 Awards of Excellence recipients
April 14, 2023
The 2023 Awards of Excellence recipients enrich the learning community culture at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry every day. Their commitment to the School’s mission and values, their innovative approaches to their work, and their leadership distinguish their contributions.Celebrating your achievements - March 9
March 10, 2023
Congratulations to Dr. Anita Woods from Physiology and Pharmacology and Dr. Charys Martin from the Department of Anatomy and Cell Biology for recently being hired in teaching scholar positions at Schulich.In Memoriam: Dr. Tutis Vilis
February 22, 2023
It is with great sadness we share that Dr. Tutis Vilis – Professor Emeritus at Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry – has passed away.Learning how our brain’s rewards systems work
February 21, 2023
With cutting-edge technology, Miguel Skirzewski and fellow researchers, Tim Bussey, Marco Prado, Vania Prado, Lisa Saksida, and Jane Rylett, are learning how our brain’s rewards systems work, and gaining insights into new treatments for neuropsychiatric disease.Researchers receive nearly $9-million in CIHR funding to tackle urgent health challenges
February 09, 2023
With nearly $9-million in federal funding through the Canadian Institutes for Health Research (CIHR), Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry researchers will press forward with tackling urgent health challenges.New study uncovers negative effects of vaping
December 15, 2022
Vaping may harm proper lung function, says a recently published study by researchers at Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry and Lawson Health Research Institute.Saksida and Arts: Invest in research on long COVID now
December 14, 2022Researchers analyze hair to study war trauma among Syrian refugee children
December 01, 2022
Through hair analysis, a study at Schulich Medicine based on a large cohort of Syrian refugee children, found that adolescent females who experience war are at much greater risk of PTSD than those who do not.Dr. Nicole Campbell and the creativity of teaching
November 25, 2022
Dr. Nicole Campbell has always brought creativity to the classroom. Now she has been recognized with an Ontario Confederation of University Faculty Associations award for her work in re-imagining the way teachers connect with students.Physiology and Pharmacology Award winners 2022
November 07, 2022
Congratulations to our undergraduate and graduate student award recipients.Western-led study explores COVID-19 effects on cognition
October 18, 2022
Principal investigators Adrian Owen and Conor Wild discovered significant impairments in reasoning, speed of thinking and verbal abilities in patients with confirmed cases of COVID-19, but no losses in memory functioning.Western Organoid Workshop
October 11, 2022
Do you work with 3D spheroid or organoid cultures in your research? Or are planning to soon? If so, then Drs. Chris Pin, Van Lu and Trevor Shepherd, would like to invite you to the inaugural Western Organoid Workshop (W.O.W.).Honours: Award recipient shares education insights
October 03, 2022
Dr. Michael Rieder, Professor in the Departments of Paediatrics, Physiology and Pharmacology and Medicine at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, recently received the Distinguished Service and Education Award from the Canadian Society of Pharmacology & Therapeutics (CSPT). He shares some insights into his education philosophy.Working to honour our National Day for Truth and Reconciliation and beyond
September 29, 2022
This week, on National Day for Truth and Reconciliation, Canadians will collectively honour the strength and resilience of Indigenous people, while acknowledging our shared history and the continued detrimental impacts of colonization and residential schools.Profiles: Researchers take diverse paths to Schulich Medicine
September 22, 2022
Van Lu and Jennifer Guthrie, both PhDs, are two new faces at Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry. Take a few minutes to get to know more about their research, their accomplishments, and the different paths they took to get here.Research: Guardians of the cell that become dysfunctional in Parkinson’s disease provide clues for new treatments
September 19, 2022
Through a global collaboration of researchers, Marco Prado, PhD, and his team have developed a better understanding of how a protein called alpha-synuclein interacts with a cellular defense mechanism known as the chaperome.Royal Society of Canada celebrates Western scholars
September 14, 2022
Among them, Adrian Owen, Physiology and Pharmacology, Psychology, Western Institute for Neuroscience is named as an RSC Fellow.Honours: Schulich Medicine & Dentistry researchers among new Canadian Academy of Health Sciences Fellows
September 12, 2022
Three Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry researchers are among the 71 new Fellows selected to the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences (CAHS) for 2022. Frank Beier, Dr. Ruth Lanius, and Kathy Nixon Speechley were among those given the honour. C. Nadine Wathen, Arthur Labatt Family School of Nursing, was also selected.Fall Perspectives on Teaching Conference
August 24, 2022
Fall Perspectives 2022 will feature a keynote from Dr. Nicole Campbell (Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences), concurrent sessions in the morning and afternoon, and a closing plenary on Academic Integrity. The conference will be offered in person, with some sessions available via Zoom (see conference program for details).Announcement: Dr. Mark Chandy appointed as the Barnett-Ivey Heart & Stroke Chair
August 17, 2022
Congratulations to Dr. Mark Chandy, who has been appointed as the Barnett-Ivey Heart & Stroke Chair at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective August 1, 2022 to July 31, 2027.Funding: CIHR announces Project Grant recipients
August 11, 2022
Congratulations to the successful CIHR project recipients: Stefan Everling, Daniel Hardy, Marlys Koschinsky and Julio Martinez-Trujillo.New study explores infection effect on fetal brain development
July 27, 2022
Western researchers probe how mother’s immune response affects risk of neurodevelopmental disordersWestern researchers receive combined $2.8M NSERC Discovery grants
June 29, 2022
All told, 66 NSERC Discovery grants will go to Western researchers across five faculties: 22 in the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry; 19 in Engineering; and 25 in the faculties of science, social science and health sciences.June 29th Lunch and Learn
June 13, 2022
“Machine Learning with Digital Signal Processing (ML-DSP): Raman Spectroscopy, Electrocardiograms, and Electroencephalograms” Guest speakers, Adrian Yung and Kathleen Hill.Award: 2022 convocation awards recognize outstanding educators
June 08, 2022
Congratulations to Fabiana Crowley, PhD, recipient of the Douglas Bocking Award.News: EDI-D training module creators supported through fellowship
May 31, 2022
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry has awarded four graduate students fellowship funding for their work in the development of an education and training module focused on Equity, Diversity, Inclusion and Decolonization (EDI-D).Western, McGill team up in new neuroscience initiative
May 11, 2022
Two of the world’s most accomplished neuroscience research initiatives at McGill and Western University have combined their expertise to take on two large-scale brain research projects.Announcement: Dr. David Hess re-appointed as Sheldon H. Weinstein Endowed Chair in Diabetes Research
April 19, 2022
Dr. David Hess has been re-appointed as the Sheldon H. Weinstein Endowed Chair in Diabetes Research at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective February 1, 2022 to January 31, 2027.Graduate Administrator Olga Krougly
April 11, 2022
We are very pleased to announce that Olga Krougly has accepted the fulltime position of Graduate Administrator in the department of Physiology and Pharmacology.Awards: Western honours outstanding educators
April 08, 2022
The 2021-2022 Western Awards for Excellence in Teaching have been announced recognizing faculty for actively engaging and inspiring students. Congratulations to Cheryle Séguin, PhD.2022 Alumni of Distinction Award recipients
April 07, 2022
Congratulations Dr. Anita Woods, recipient of the 2022 Alumni of Distinction Award.Funding: Seed funding advances new research collaborations
April 06, 2022
Seven interdisciplinary research teams have received funding from the Collaborative Research Seed Grants (CRSG) program at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry.Announcement: Celebrating the 2022 Awards of Excellence recipients
March 31, 2022
The 2022 Awards of Excellence recipients enrich life and learning at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry each and every day. Their commitment to the School’s mission, their innovative approaches to their work, and their leadership distinguishes them. It is with great pride that we recognize and honour their achievements.Feature: Kick-starting education research
March 25, 2022
The Faculty Support for Research in Education (FSRE) grants provide support for rising education leaders at the School and serve as a catalyst for new and innovative education research, while supporting a goal within the School’s new five-year strategic plan.Social Accountability: Scholarships strengthen support for promising, diverse students
March 23, 2022
Pawakian is the inaugural recipient of the Graduate Opportunity Scholarship established by the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology.Three Western researchers named Distinguished University Professors Award recognizes careers of excellence in teaching, research, leadership
March 21, 2022
Congratulations to Dan Hardy, named among the Faculty Scholars Award recipients for 2022.Funding: Clinical researchers awarded $2.7 million to fund innovative projects
March 16, 2022
Clinical researchers at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry have received more than $2.7 million in funding from the Academic Medical Organization of Southwestern Ontario (AMOSO) to support the development of new and innovative approaches to health care delivery.Student-led STEM conference to feature Prime Minister address
March 11, 2022
Students at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and Western University are hosting the two-day Inspiring Diversity in STEM conference on March 12 and 13. Prime Minister Justin Trudeau will deliver the closing remarks, joining 17 other speakers and presenters.‘Because of COVID’: Western experts weigh in on two years of pandemic
March 10, 2022
On March 11, 2020, the World Health Organization declared a global pandemic. Two years later, experts from Western University and Schulich Medicine & Dentistry reflect on the lessons we've learned amid the COVID-19 crisis.Feature: Researchers receive CFI funding to develop suite of molecular profiles for chronic diseases
February 28, 2022
Drs. Appelton and Asfaha are co-investigators on a joint project which encompasses research themes of arthritis, cardiovascular and gastrointestinal cancers that has received funding through the Canada Foundation for Innovation’s John R. Evans Leaders Fund.Frank Beier, PhD, Canada Research Chair (Tier 1) in Musculoskeletal Research, is investigating the mechanisms that cause and drive osteoarthritis.
February 24, 2022
Osteoarthritis is a common, debilitating and expensive disease that affects millions of Canadians. And currently, there are no treatments to slow, stop or reverse it.Funding: CIHR announces Project Grant recipients
February 04, 2022
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) have announced more than $7.7 million in research funding through their project grants competition for 10 projects at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry.Feature: Alzheimer support leads to $1.3B in health-care savings
January 31, 2022
Lisa Saksida, PhD, Scientific Director of BrainsCAN and Scientist at Robarts Research Institute, was involved in a new survey report that found Alzheimer’s Society of Ontario programs and services deliver savings of $1.3 billion to the province’s health care system.Announcement: Cheryle Séguin, Tim Regnault and David Hess Have Been Promoted to Full Professor
January 13, 2022Western professor Frank Beier renewed as Canada Research Chair in Musculoskeletal Research
January 13, 2022
Beier is chair of the department of physiology and pharmacology in the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, and member of Western’s Bone and Joint Institute. His research lab focuses on skeletal physiology, cartilage biology, bone development and osteoarthritis.Announcement: Dr. Nicole Campbell appointed as a Teaching Scholar
January 10, 2022
We are pleased to congratulate Dr. Nicole Campbell on her new appointment as a Teaching Scholar and Associate Professor in our Department effective January 1, 2022.Honour: Dr. Michael Rieder named British Pharmacological Society Fellow
January 04, 2022
Dr. Michael Rieder has been named a Fellow by the British Pharmacological Society for his contributions to pharmacology research.Funding: Drs. Glenn Bauman, Richard Kim awarded funding from the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research
December 10, 2021
Two researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry are among the recipients of new funding from the Ontario Institute for Cancer Research (OICR), supporting their respective studies on prostate cancer imaging and chemotherapy toxicity.Feature: SEED grows education capacity at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry
December 08, 2021
An award-winning educator, McLean identified the foundational needs for SEED in 2017 while working on her master’s in education technology. She had an idea to create a centralized resource that would support innovative curriculum approaches to develop engaging and meaningful learning environments for students.Researcher targets stem cells for healing diabetes
November 29, 2021
David Hess, Sheldon H. Weinstein Chair in Diabetes Research, is advancing stem cell research by identifying which proteins are essential to islet regeneration, and which human building blocks are most efficient for creating those proteins to help the body heal itself naturally.Funding: Researchers awarded $2M to study genetic links between diabetes and osteoarthritis
November 25, 2021
As part of the Diabetes Mechanisms and Translational Solutions Team Grant competition, Matthew Grol, PhD, and co-investigators will receive $2M in a five-year period from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR).Of mice and milkshakes: Journey to brain discovery
October 26, 2021
These are puzzles Tim Bussey, Western Research Chair in Cognitive Neuroscience, has been trying to solve in a career of ground-breaking research that uses rodents, rewards and non-invasive touchscreen technology to understand brain circuitry in humans.Honour: Van Lu, PhD, recognized by Gairdner Foundation for early career excellence
October 25, 2021
Van Lu, PhD, has been selected for a Gairdner Foundation Early Career Investigator Award, in recognition of her exceptional achievement and future potential in research impacting human health.Feature: A plan to produce the best pre-clinical science
October 22, 2021
It’s a question Timothy Regnault, PhD, likes to ask as a researcher and academic administrator, looking for ways to challenge the status quo and make change for the better.Feature: Research leads to new insights on spinal disc degeneration
October 20, 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.Early Career Investigator Award
October 19, 2021
Dr. Van Lu is working to understanding the influence of gut microbiota in human health.Announcement: New five-year Strategic Plan launched today
October 14, 2021
Today, Schulich Medicine & Dentistry released its new five-year strategic plan. The Plan brims equally with optimism and goals focused on five priority directions.Summer program gives undergrads immersive research feel
September 27, 2021
Summer program gives undergrads immersive research feel. BrainsCAN internship aims to promote diversity in neuroscience researchFunding: 2021 NSERC competition results in more than $730K for research initiatives
September 09, 2021
Four research projects from the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry secured funding — collectively more than $730,000 — through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) 2021 Discovery Grant competition.Western community shares personal reasons for getting vaccinated
September 03, 2021
Members of the campus community shared their motivations for getting vaccinated with Western News.Western researchers explore effects of weed in womb
September 02, 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 30, 2021
We are pleased to announce that 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.Bridge-check tech among research grants
August 18, 2021
Nine innovative research projects at Western receive funding through John R. Evans Leadership FundAddressing the health care challenges of the older population is a key priority for the Institute of Aging located at Western's Robarts Research Institute.
August 11, 2021
Jane Rylett pursuing knowledge to address geriatric health-care challenges at helm of Institute of AgingFunding: Nearly $10 million awarded in CIHR grants
July 30, 2021
Researchers from the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry were awarded $9,933,800 in funding from the Canadian Institutes for Health Research (CIHR) for 13 studies making important contributions in diverse research areas.Announcement: Schulich Education Enhancement Division names inaugural Director
July 24, 2021
Sarah McLean, PhD, Assistant Professor, Physiology & Pharmacology and Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences, has been appointed as the inaugural Director of the Schulich Education Enhancement Division (SEED).Dr. Matt Grol, PhD Among 12 Western scientists and scholars named Canada Research Chairs
June 15, 2021
Twelve Western researchers – who delve into mysteries as deep as the human mind and as vast as the universe itself – have been named Canada Research Chairs as they bolster their place among the top scholars and scientists in their fields.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.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.Feature: Turning hope into reality for a pain-free future
May 28, 2021
Dr. Tom Appleton, PhD’07, MD’11, hopes that he can contribute to a future where people with osteoarthritis live a life free of pain and disability. And the clinician-scientist is dedicating his career to turning this hope into reality.Announcement: Celebrating the 2021 Awards of Excellence recipients
May 03, 2021
Congratulation to Nicole Campbell for being awarded the Schulich Leader Award – Undergraduate Education, and Andy Watson for being awarded the Schulich Leader Award – Graduate Education.Western neuroscience spinoff sees growth in remote-care world
April 30, 2021
Web-based tests, which measure brain function such as memory, reasoning and concentration, are used by healthcare practitioners to accurately assess individuals as it relates to mental health conditions, brain injuries, healthy aging as well as neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s, Huntington’s, Alzheimer’s and ALS.2021 Faculty Scholar Award Recipients Announced
April 23, 2021
Congratulations to Dr. Brad Urquhart on receiving a Faculty Scholar Award. This award recognizes faculty who have significant recent scholarly achievements in teaching or research, an international presence in their discipline, and are considered all-round scholars.Announcement: Dr. Timothy Regnault appointed Assistant Dean, Pre-Clinical Research
April 12, 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. In this role, Dr. Regnault will provide strategic leadership and representation for animal-based research on behalf of the research community within the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry.Western implements additional measures to prevent spread of COVID-19
April 01, 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.Funding: Dr. Lakshman Gunaratnam awarded two Kidney Foundation grants
March 29, 2021
Dr. Lakshman Gunaratnam’s research focused on the mitigation of the impact of kidney trauma cumulatively received $150,000 in funding from The Kidney Foundation of Canada for two separate research initiatives.Funding: Six interdisciplinary teams receive Collaborative Research Seed Grant funding
March 10, 2021
Six new interdisciplinary research teams have received funding from the Collaborative Research Seed Grants (CRSG) program at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry.Funding: CIHR Project Grant recipients announced
March 05, 2021
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) announced more than $7.4 million in research funding through their project grants competition for 12 research projects at Western University. Ten projects from the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry received funding. A collaborative project with researchers at the School and the Faculty of Science also was successful in this round, as was one at Lawson Health Research Institute.Honour: Celebrating 25 Years of Service
January 08, 2021
Each year, Western University honours staff and faculty members who have achieved 25 years of service with the University. At the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, four staff members and 14 faculty were recognized with a long-term service award in 2020.Honour: Marlys Koschinsky honoured with Order of Ontario appointment
January 05, 2021
Marlys L. Koschinsky, PhD has been appointed to the Order of Ontario by the Lieutenant Governor of Ontario and Chancellor of the Order of Ontario. A Schulich Medicine & Dentistry Professor Physiology and Pharmacology and Scientist at the School’s Robarts Research Institute, Koschinsky is a research leader focused on cardiovascular disease.Genetic testing could personalize care for patients with Crohn’s disease, particularly women
December 20, 2020
Study shows that Crohn’s disease patients with a specific genetic variant are much more likely to need surgery and to need it earlier in their care journey.Annnouncement: Four new Canada Research Chairs named at Western, one renewed
December 17, 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.Q&A: Lisa Saksida honoured as a powerful advocate for women in STEM
December 02, 2020
2020 has been a big year for Lisa Saksida, professor of physiology and pharmacology at Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry and BrainsCAN co-scientific director. Saksida was elected into the Royal Society of Canada in September; two weeks later, she was named a Fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences; and today, she has been honoured as one of WXN’s Top 100 — recognizing outstanding women across Canada who advocate for workforce diversity and inspire tomorrow’s leaders.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.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.Vanguard innovator may have found first-ever sepsis treatment
November 05, 2020
Dr. Qingping Feng has been named the 2020 WORLDiscoveries Vanguard Innovator of the Year, an honour that celebrates market-ready research, for his team’s development of the protein annexin A5 into a pharmaceutical that may become the world’s first effective treatment for sepsis, including when it arises as a complication of COVID-19.2020 James A.F. Stevenson Research Day Student Poster Winners
November 03, 2020Research News: Biomarkers could be used in a quick, inexpensive COVID-19 blood screening tool
October 28, 2020
A new study from Western University, Lawson Health Research Institute and University of Alberta suggests that COVID-19 affects the 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.Feature: Preparing trainees for life after graduation
October 27, 2020
Thomas Drysdale, PhD, says it was all about the right people at the right time. When considering the role of Associate Dean, Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, he knew he had the experience to understand the needs of graduate trainees and postdoctoral fellows, and the ideas to help improve their experience.New graduate program in Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences prepares students to solve wicked problems
October 19, 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.How Do We Learn Complex Motor Skills?
October 14, 2020
It requires getting and computing inputs from the skin and muscles of your hands and fingertips to understand where the button is in your hand, its size and shape, and where it is in relation to the button hole. The brain and spinal cord then have to interpret and understand those inputs in order to tell dozens of muscles in your hands in fingers to make very small movements and extremely accurate forces to manipulate the button through the hole. Andrew Pruszynski, PhD, is fascinated by this complexity.Forever Connected | The Class of 2020
September 25, 2020
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry’s Class of 2020 will forever be connected because of the COVID-19 worldwide pandemic. As the world searched for answers and families found new ways to deal with loss, change and adapt day in and day out, students at the School tapped into their personal resources and resiliency to complete their programs. Schulich Medicine & Dentistry couldn’t be more proud of all of their accomplishments and have chosen to celebrate their graduation by sharing five stories of the Class of 2020.Honours: Six Western researchers named Canadian Academy of Health Sciences Fellows
September 23, 2020
After reviewing a record number of applications this year, the academy’s fellowship committee named Marlys Koschinsky, PhD, Dr. Amit Garg, Grace Parraga, PhD, Dr. Michael Rieder and Lisa Saksida, PhD as CAHS Fellows at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry.Funding: Researchers receive a multi-million dollar injection of funding through CIHR
September 16, 2020
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) announced the results of their project grants competition, awarding nearly $4.9 million in research funding to eight projects from the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry.Award: PhD candidates receive CIHR recognition at the Canadian Student Health Research Forum
September 08, 2020
A group of graduate trainees represented the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry at the 2020 Canadian Student Health Research Forum, winning four Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Silver Awards and three CIHR Honourable Mentions between them.Announcement: Nicole Campbell, PhD, appointed as Director of Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences
September 03, 2020
Dr. Campbell will be responsible for overseeing both the undergraduate and graduate level programs, and will lead the launch of the graduate IMS program in May 2021.Pandemic-era course shift fuels students’ academic and personal growth
September 01, 2020
Nicole Campbell can empathize with students feeling the weight of personal and academic stress involved in remote learning. And because the professor of physiology and pharmacology has been there – and come out the other side – she is committed to designing courses that help build students’ success as scholars and as people.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.Funding: Research to understand working memory receives new funding
August 20, 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.Experiential Learning grants brew innovative courses
August 10, 2020
Engineering students will have a double-double learning experience when professor Lauren Briens guides them through the chemistry and business of a perfect cup of coffee.Four new Canada Research Chairs for Western, two renewed
July 27, 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.Research News: Exposure to chronic stress changes neurons in the brain
July 20, 2020
Wataru Inoue, PhD, studies the effect of chronic stress on the brain. His latest paper, “Neuronal hypertrophy dampens neuronal intrinsic excitability and stress responsiveness during chronic stress,” led by his recent graduate student Sara Matovic, MSc’17, showed that the neurons in the brain actually change their size and microstructure, and become desensitized to stress signals over time.Awards: Trainees honoured with Brain Star Awards
July 08, 2020
Congratulations to PhD Candidate Roger Hudson, and Postdoctoral Fellow Jeffrey Weiler, PhD, who were awarded Brain Star Awards from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the Canadian Association for Neuroscience.Study hints at early sign of Alzheimer’s degeneration
July 06, 2020
Researchers have moved one step closer to identifying targets for brain degeneration that occur decades before symptoms of Alzheimer’s disease appear – a much sought-after clue that might open the door to early treatment.Brain Study explores lasting impacts of COVID-19
June 24, 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.Banting Fellowship puts postdoc’s work in motion
June 22, 2020
BrainsCAN postdoctoral scholar Jonathan Michaels has been awarded a Banting Postdoctoral Fellowship to continue his work around brain activity during reach control.Announcement: Thomas Drysdale, PhD has been appointed as the Associate Dean, Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies
June 01, 2020
We are pleased to announce that 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.Provincial funding enables coronavirus research in London, Ontario
May 27, 2020
Three studies investigating a range of important COVID-19 questions led by teams from Western University and Lawson Health Research Institute are among an initial 15 projects funded through the Government of Ontario’s COVID-19 Rapid Research Fund.Announcement: New Scholarship opportunity for graduate students
May 14, 2020
With a goal of enhancing collaborative research, Dr. John Yoo has announced the introduction of the Dean’s Research Scholarship program.Announcement: Researchers receive more than $4 million in NSERC funding
May 09, 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).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.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.Nicole Campbell, PhD, recognized provincially for teaching excellence
April 30, 2020
Congratulations to Nicole Campbell, PhD, Assistant Professor, who has received a 2020 Teaching Excellence Award from the Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance (OUSA).Cheryle Séguin – Faculty Scholar
April 22, 2020
Congratulations to Cheryle Séguin who was 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.Eight faculty honoured for teaching excellence
March 13, 2020
Eight exceptional faculty members have been awarded Western’s highest honours for leading and inspiring their students. Collectively and individually, they exemplify the heart of excellence in teaching – and their influence has stretched across faculties, disciplines and decades.President’s statement on COVID-19 efforts
March 12, 2020
Western President Alan Shepard released the following statement today on the university’s response to the evolving COVID-19 situation, including updates on student, faculty and staff travel.Learning for the future in undergraduate education
February 28, 2020
Brad Urquhart, PhD, stepped into the new role of Associate Dean, Basic Medical Sciences Undergraduate Education in September. In this role, he oversees the Bachelor of Medical Sciences and Neuroscience programs at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry.Rapid test kit for Listeria improves food safety
February 26, 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.Care Zone program signals help for Science students
February 19, 2020
Inspired by the Block Parent program pioneered in London in the 1960s, the Care Zone program relies on a similar network of trained faculty and staff with easily recognizable signage on their doors, providing support to students in need.Announcement: Cheryle Séguin, PhD, will be serving as Interim Chair for the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology
February 12, 2020
Effective February 1, 2020, Cheryle Séguin, PhD, will be serving as Interim Chair for the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University for the duration of Dr. Frank Beier’s leave.Funding: CIHR Project Grant recipients announced
January 24, 2020
The Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) announced more than $11.9 million in research funding through their project grants competition for 17 projects across Western University. At the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, 15 projects received funding, including four projects at Robarts Research Institute.Joint research on target for arthritis sufferers
January 21, 2020
Physiology and Pharmacology professor Frank Beier and Chemistry professor Elizabeth Gillies have joined forces to tackle the debilitating effects of osteoarthritis. Their joint work was recently honoured by not only the Arthritis Society of Canada, but by patients wrestling daily with the disease.Research shows real risks associated with cannabis exposure during pregnancy
January 17, 2020
A new study from researchers at Western University and Queen’s University definitively shows that regular exposure to THC, the main psychoactive ingredient in cannabis, during pregnancy has significant impact on placental and fetal development. With more than a year since the legalization of recreational cannabis in Canada, the effects of its use during pregnancy are only now beginning to be understood.Monkey maze study sheds light on key brain structure's role
January 08, 2020
Western University researchers are a step closer to settling a heated debate over the role of a complex region of the brain, discovering it acts more like a complicated memory card than a navigation system.Award: Cheryle Séguin, PhD, awarded two Arthritis Society grants
December 20, 2019
Cheryle Séguin, PhD, is the recipient of two grants from the Arthritis Society, a Strategic Operating Grant and a Stars Careers Development Award – Mid Career. The grants support her promising new research into back pain and arthritis. Her research will study the biology of disc degeneration and common spine disorders and test new treatments.Honours: Researchers celebrated on Arthritis Society’s Top 10 Research Advances of 2019 list
December 17, 2019
Two researchers at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry were among those named to the Arthritis Society’s Top 10 Research Advances of 2019 list. Frank Beier, PhD, along with PhD trainee Ian Villamagna, were acknowledged for their work in developing a new delivery method for an anti-inflammatory drug. Matthew Teeter, PhD, was honoured for his research into wearable technology being used as a pre- and post-operative assessment tool for knee replacement surgery.Lung images of twins with asthma add to understanding of the disease
December 04, 2019
In a case study published today, researchers used a specialized MRI technique in a set of twins with asthma. While the twins are non-identical, the researchers found that they actually had identical ventilation defects in the same upper left lung segment, which stayed the same over the duration of the seven year study.Media Release: New study advances quest to better understand consciousness
October 11, 2019
In a new study published today by Nature Communications, Adrian Owen, PhD, and his colleagues at the University of Cambridge compared the brain states of patients who are in a vegetative state with those of healthy participants who were anaesthetized. The aim is to identifying a specific brain state that is associated with consciousness and conversely, a specific brain state that is indicative on unconsciousness.Funding: Ontario Research Fund supports early researchers and infrastructure at Western
October 07, 2019
Today, the Ontario government announced $2.2 million in support of research at Western University. The funds support important health research projects at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry through the Early Researcher Awards and the Ontario Research Fund (ORF) Infrastructure Fund.Welcome Christie Vanderboor
October 01, 2019
We are pleased to announce that Christie Vanderboor has joined the Physiology and Pharmacology Administrative team as the Facilities and Laboratory Manager effective September 30, 2019. In this role, Christie will be responsible for managing all aspects of the Department’s technical operations and resources as well as overseeing the Undergraduate Teaching Laboratories. Christie holds a PhD in Physiology and Pharmacology from Western. Since 2011, she has been employed at the University as a Research Associate and Laboratory Manager with her most recent appointment in the laboratory of Dr. Tim Regnault. Please join us in congratulating Christie and wishing her all the best in her new role!Fall Preview Day
September 30, 2019
Join us for Fall Preview Day: Sunday, November 17, 2019Vanquishing an Insidious Foe
September 27, 2019
The question is one Dr. Rob Hegele hears often: Is cardiovascular disease a product of genetics or a product of lifestyle? “The answer is … yes,” said the Robarts Research Institute scientist. One of the world’s foremost experts on the genetic basis of cardiovascular disease, Dr. Hegele cares for more than 2,500 patients at his lipid clinic. For those individuals, he is more than a physician. By mapping the genetic basis of their high cholesterol or Type 2 diabetes, he is also able to help change their outcomes.Alumni take top honours among world’s best
September 25, 2019
Research papers by two recent Western graduates – Cynthia Qi and Madelaine Coelho – have been selected as the best in the world in their fields in the 2019 edition of The Undergraduate Awards, an international, cross-disciplinary competition that awards undergraduate students for outstanding coursework.Eye movement opens door to memory formation
September 16, 2019
The research team, led by Dr. Julio Martinez-Trujillo, used animal models to study how eye movement influences brain signals in the hippocampus, a small curved portion of the brain responsible for new memory formation and recall. Because the hippocampus is located deep in the brain, not all brain signals make it there.Anita Woods – Undergraduate Program Chair
September 12, 2019
Congratulations to Anita Woods on her appointment as our Department’s Undergraduate Program Chair effective September 1, 2019 to June 30, 2022.Annual Corn Roast and BBQ
September 09, 2019
On September 5th, the department’s annual corn roast and bbq was held at Fanshawe Park to kick of the new academic year and welcome our incoming 4980 students, graduate students, and post docs. A great time was had by all. A special thanks to everyone who helped with the event! To see pics, please visit our Flickr Page.Media Release: Diabetes medication shows potential to reduce heart disease
September 05, 2019
A new study from St. Michael's Hospital in collaboration with Western University sheds light on how a class of medications that help regulate blood sugar for patients with Type 2 diabetes can also protect against heart disease.Announcement: Brad Urquhart has been appointed Associate Dean, Basic Medical Sciences Undergraduate Education
August 23, 2019
Brad Urquhart, PhD, has been appointed as Associate Dean, Basic Medical Sciences Undergraduate Education, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, effective from September 1, 2019 to August 30, 2024.In Memoriam: Michael Poulter, PhD
August 14, 2019
It is with great sadness that we share news of the unexpected passing of Michael Poulter, PhD, professor in Physiology and Pharmacology and scientist at Robarts Research Institute. Poulter was a devoted scientist and teacher whose contributions to the School and the research community will be greatly missed.Funding: CIHR funds translational collaborative research
July 17, 2019
Health researchers at Western were awarded more than $8 million in funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) in the latest project grant competition. In total, nine research projects were funded at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry ranging from evaluating new ways of looking at spinal cord injury to understanding how neuroimaging can improve diagnostics for Parkinson’s disease.Awards: Bone and Joint Institute researchers celebrated
July 10, 2019
Members of Western’s Bone and Joint Institute were celebrated recently by the International Combined Orthopaedic Research Societies (ICORS) at the group’s annual meeting.Forging a path toward a brighter future in osteoarthritis
July 03, 2019
Mentorship and strong ties to the research community have been invaluable components of Dr. Appleton’s career development. Upon starting his PhD, the task of familiarizing himself to osteoarthritis (OA) research was initially intimidating. Nevertheless, he took a dive into the field, eager to learn as much as he could from those around him. “I was always confident that I had the right support network around me,” he explained. “I developed a network of really thoughtful, intelligent people.”Awards: Dentistry faculty internationally recognized for oral health research
June 25, 2019
Congratulations to Drs. Walter Siqueira and Jeffrey Dixon who received international recognition for their work in Dental Research.Awards: Physiology and Pharmacology faculty recognized for excellence in research
June 20, 2019
Congratulations to Peter Chidiac, PhD, and Peter Stathopulos, PhD, both honoured by the Canadian Society of Pharmacology and Therapeutics for their exceptional contributions to research in the field of pharmacology.Announcement: Four new CRCs announced
June 18, 2019
Congratulations to Shehzad Ali, PhD, Grace Parraga, PhD, Corey Baron, PhD, and Marco Prado, PhD, who have been named among Western’s nine new Canada Research Chairs (CRCs).CRC push opens doors to diverse applicants
June 11, 2019
Western has opened the Canada Research Chair (CRC) application process in a special call for candidates who demonstrate research excellence and who meet equity, diversity and inclusion criteria. The federal CRC program funds the work of approximately 2,000 of the country’s most innovative, world-changing researchers, including 43 at Western. This newest search is aimed specifically at recruiting researchers who are members of groups currently under-represented among Western CRCs: women, Indigenous persons and persons with a disability.Media Release: Research examines how diet can influence memory-formation
June 07, 2019
A new study shows how the brain controls what information becomes memories and the role diet and obesity play in these formations. Published in the journal Trends in Neuroscience, the study describes the critical importance of perineuronal nets (PNNs) – structures that enmesh certain neurons in the brain – in protecting the neuron and regulating how often the brain turns experiences into memories.Symposium touches on ‘new frontiers’ of tech
June 05, 2019
More than 100 neuroscience researchers from around the world are visiting Western to take part in the first international touchscreen symposium, New frontiers in cognitive testing using touchscreen technology, June 5-6 in the Western Interdisciplinary Research Building.Rylett named to lead CIHR Institute of Aging
May 28, 2019
Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry professor Jane Rylett was recently named the new Scientific Director of CIHR’s Institute of Aging, one of only 13 institutes nationwide supported by the funding body that funds health researchers and trainees across Canada in various areas.Canadian research toward unlocking a common back pain disease
April 25, 2019Award: Andrew Pruszynski, PhD, recognized as outstanding physiologist
April 18, 2019
Congratulations to Andrew Pruszynski, PhD, assistant professor in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and scientist at Robarts Research Institute who has been awarded the J.A.F. Stevenson award from the Canadian Physiological Society.Pruszynski recognized as outstanding physiologist
April 18, 2019
Congratulations to Andrew Pruszynski, PhD, scientist at Robarts Research Institute and assistant professor in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology who has been awarded the J.A.F. Stevenson award from the CanadianICU patients with non-brain-related injuries may suffer undetected cognitive dysfunction
April 15, 2019
A new study led by Western University and Lawson Health Research Institute has found that most patients entering hospital intensive care units (ICU) for non-brain-related injuries or ailments also suffer from some level of related cognitive dysfunction that currently goes undetected in most cases.Awards: 2019 Awards of Excellence recipients announced
March 29, 2019
As educators, researchers, innovators and leaders, the 2019 Awards of Excellence London and Windsor Campus recipients are making a difference at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry. It is with great pride that we recognize and honour their achievements. Congratulations to this years' recipients.Discovery unlocks spine disease mysteries
March 15, 2019
Led by Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry professor Cheryle Seguin, a Bone and Joint Institute research team has made a breakthrough into better understanding a highly prevalent spine disease that affects one-third of North American men over 50.Western celebrates top teaching talent
March 12, 2019
Eleven winners, representing three different faculties, have been awarded Western’s highest honours for inspiring active and deep learning in their students. This year’s winners join a company of teachers nearly a quarter-century strong.Award: Frank Beier honoured for excellence in osteoarthritis research
March 08, 2019
Congratulations to Frank Beier, PhD, who is being honoured with an Award for Basic Science Research from the Osteoarthritis Research Society International (OARSI). The award recognizes Beier’s pioneering work in applying genomics techniques to osteoarthritis models.MSK Innovation Competition
March 07, 2019
This initiative aims to cultivate skill sets that enable ideas to be successfully pitched to investors and promote entrepreneurial spirit. The competition is open to all London-based entrepreneurial MSK researchers (e.g. academia, research institutions, research hospitals, startups, etc.). Each innovation team will require at least one Western faculty member, but anyone with the entrepreneurial itch can lead an application! While the research idea should be novel and sound, the competition is for the best pitch – i.e. the presentation that best convinces the investor panel on the value of the idea and how the $30,000 award would improve and/or better illustrate the potential and commercial value of the innovative idea itself.Your spinal cord is ‘smarter’ than previously thought: research shows our spinal cords contribute to sophisticated hand function
February 15, 2019
Using specialized robotic technology, a three degree of freedom exoskeleton at Western’s Brain and Mind Institute, researchers demonstrated that the spinal cord is able to process and control complex functions, like the positioning of your hand in external space.Researchers committed to open-science efforts
February 13, 2019
Placing collaboration above competition, Western researchers are giving 300 labs around the world the opportunity to gain a better understanding of the mouse brain in hopes of unlocking the secrets of Alzheimer’s disease and other disorders in humans. Led by BrainsCAN, this is the latest and largest project undertaken by the neuroscience initiative in a push for open-science research.Study explores impact of THC exposure in utero
February 05, 2019
Daniel Hardy, a Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry professor, led a recent study that found “alarming” damage to important organs in newborns who were exposed to cannabis – and, specifically, to THC – while in utero. This damage could lead to heart disease and diabetes later in life.Western Perspective Project
February 01, 2019
Everywhere we look, whether it’s in our education, our personal hobbies, or in the way we connect with others on social media, we are constantly exposed to the successes achieved by our fellow peers. We see people excelling in their academic career, winning scholarships and awards. ... We don’t see the failures and difficulties that others have had to overcome, and as a result, we have come to fear failure. We feel ashamed when we try so hard and fail to achieve our goals.Congratulations to the funding recipients in Physiology and Pharmacology!
January 28, 2019
Health researchers in London were awarded more than $10 million in funding from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, with $7.3 million supporting projects through Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and $2.8 million through Lawson Health Research Institute.Owen named Officer of British Empire
January 07, 2019
Renowned Western neuroscientist Adrian Owen has been named an Officer of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (OBE) as part of the 2019 New Year’s Honours list recognising “the achievements of a wide range of extraordinary people” across the United Kingdom.Awards: Exceptional educators honoured
December 19, 2018
Congratulations to Dr. Jamie Wickett and Fabiana Crowley, PhD, who were named as this year’s recipients of the Canadian Association for Medical Education (CAME) Certificate of Merit Award for Western University.Bit by bit: Funding our future
December 13, 2018
From internal funding to major grants, the Bone and Joint Institute fosters support for all researchers.From the start: Next-level training
December 11, 2018
Trainees have found success in the Bone and Joint Institute’s unique training program, CMHR.Award: Recognizing clinical innovation in Ontario
December 07, 2018
Congratulations to Dr. Douglas Fraser on receiving a 2018 Innovation Fund Award in the category of Women and Children from the Innovation Fund Provincial Oversight Committee. Dr. Fraser, Associate Professor in Paediatrics, Physiology & Pharmacology and Clinical Neurological Sciences, worked with Dr. Karen Choong at McMaster University’s Department of Pediatrics, on a project entitled, “Functional Recovery in Critically Ill Children: The ‘Weecover’ Longitudinal Cohort Study".An innovative approach to teaching teamwork
November 30, 2018
The ‘escape box’ was developed by Nicole Campbell, PhD, assistant professor in Physiology and Pharmacology, and John Kelly, a master’s student in clinical anatomy, with the help of a local mystery escape room company. The box is at the centre of Campbell’s fourth year Interdisciplinary Medical Sciences lab.Neuroscience grants promote teamwork
November 28, 2018
Two of the world’s most accomplished neuroscience centres – Western’s BrainsCAN and McGill’s Healthy Brains for Healthy Lives – are sharing their expertise in seven ground-breaking team projects.Rapid test for E. coli keeps contaminated food off grocery store shelves
November 23, 2018
A new rapid testing kit developed by researchers at Western University is revolutionizing food safety testing by producing results in hours rather than current methods which can take days.Congratulations to the 2018 Physiology and Pharmacology Annual Research Day Poster Awardees
November 07, 2018Researchers uncover gene that regulates fat accumulation and obesity
November 06, 2018Congratulations to the 2018 Mogenson Trust Scholarship and PPGSC Leadership Awardees
October 29, 2018Simplicity in Innovation
September 25, 2018
Like Theodore Seuss Geisel, educators at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry are finding new ways to capture the imagination of their students as they use innovative approaches to learning, curricula development and assessment.Western elite among Royal Society Fellows
September 11, 2018
Bonnie Schmidt, BSc’86, PhD’93, the founder of Let’s Talk Science, is a pioneer in science education for Canadian school children and teachers. Due to her drive and exceptional dedication, the initiative she started as a graduate student at Western, more than 20 years ago, is now a multi-dimensional national program, providing over six million Canadian children, regardless of gender, race or social standing, the opportunity to develop their skills in problem solving and critical thinking.Research eyes role stress plays in mental illnesses
August 17, 2018
Wataru Inoue explores “what our brains go through every day” – the biological mechanisms of how the brain deals with and adapts to stressful experiences. While current treatments and the progress in the development of new or improved drugs is slow, Inoue said advancing the understanding of stress neurobiology is a crucial step in identifying the key mechanisms causing mental illnesses and, ultimately, developing more effective treatment strategies.Award: Jeffrey Dixon honoured for excellence in oral biology
August 10, 2018
Congratulations to Professor Emeritus Jeffrey Dixon, PhD, who was honoured by the International Association for Dental Research (IADR) as the 2018 recipient of the IADR Distinguished Scientist Award in Research in Oral Biology.Congratulations to CCTC 2018 Award winners
June 15, 2018
Many PhysPharm trainees presented their research at the recent Canadian Connective Tissue Society Conference in Toronto. Jeff Dixon presented awards to Supinder Kour Bali, Margaret Man-Ger Sun, Brandon Kim and Melina Bellini. Well done!Congratulations to Dr. Jeff Dixon
May 15, 2018
Dr. Jeff Dixon has received a Life Time Achievements Award from the Canadian Connective Tissue Society (CCTS). The award will be presented at the 24th Annual Canadian Connective Tissue conference to be held in Toronto from May 23rd – 25th.Understanding the brain’s hidden superpowers
April 17, 2018
Blake Butler, PhD, an adjunct research professor with the Department of Psychology, and Stephen Lomber, PhD, Professor with the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, and Psychology, and Canada Research Chair in Brain Plasticity and Development, are looking at the anatomy underlying sensory enhancements to better understand how the deaf brain transforms and reorganizes itself.Western names Distinguished University Professors and Faculty Scholars
March 27, 2018
Four professors are the latest recipients of Distinguished University Professorships (DUP) awards including Dale Laird, from the Department of Anatomy & cell Biology. Western also selected 15 Faculty Scholars to recognize their significant achievements in teaching or research including Qingping Feng, Physiology and Pharmacology; Steven Laviolette, Anatomy &Cell Biology; and Walter Siqueira, Biochemistry.Sean Gill receives Breathe New Life Award
March 26, 2018
Congratulations to Sean on his award from the Ontario Thoracic Society for his project, "Role of TIMPs in pulmonary microvascular endothelial cell activation and dysfunction in lung injury."Congratulations to Sarah McLean on receiving the Marilyn Robinson Award for Excellence in Teaching
March 15, 2018
Sarah McLean’s students describe her as clear, energetic, enthusiastic with a teaching style that makes them excited to learn. She strives to include interaction, collaboration and inspiration – ensuring student perspective through peer-to-peer interactions and then inviting students to reflect on their discussions. At the centre of her teaching is innovation through technology. Sarah has also developed experiential learning opportunities with community partners in London to allow students to apply knowledge to real-world health issues.Interested in Biomedical Research and Graduate Studies?
February 27, 2018
The Physiology and Pharmacology Research Committee is hosting an Interactive outreach session on Tuesday, March 6, 2018, 12:00-4:00 pm. DSB2005 to help you explore and navigate research opportunities in Musculoskeletal, Cardiovascular, Reproductive and Developmental Biology Clinical and Molecular Pharmacology Neuroscience A light Pizza Lunch will be available. Please RSVP to Penny Sim, psim@uwo.ca.Andrew Pruszynski receives NCM Early Career Award
February 01, 2018
Congratulations to Andrew Pruszynski who has been selected the inaugural winner of The Society for the Neural Control of Movement (NCM) Early Career Award. This award was established to recognize outstanding contributions by scientists early in their careers that have significantly advanced our understanding of the neural control of movement.CIHR funding success
January 31, 2018
Congratulations to Drs. Stephen Lomber, Paul Gribble, James Koropatnick, and Kevin Shoemaker for success in the most recent CIHR Project Grant CompetitionHow a little known particle can triple heart attack risk, even for young, healthy people
January 22, 2018
Marlys Koschinsky, the scientific and executive director of the Robarts Research Institute in London, has been studying lipoprotein(a) – or lp(a) – for 30 years. She warns it can accelerate the development of plaque in the arteries and lead to blood clots, which can be fatal.Astronauts’ circulation woes can cue better health for all
January 19, 2018
Kevin Shoemaker, Associate Dean of Research in the Faculty of Health Sciences, examined how the lack of gravity for astronauts affects normal circulation and distribution of blood inside the body, and the problems it can cause when they return to Earth. Some of his finding could prevent falls among frail elderly people.Western Bone & Joint researchers receive two Arthritis Society Grants
January 10, 2018
Western University researchers who are part of the interdisciplinary Bone and Joint Institute have been awarded two major Arthritis Society grants — one to study the cellular workings of osteoarthritis in knee joints, and the other to examine whether a specific protein inhibitor might be used to halt or treat scleroderma fibrosis.In Memorium – Dr. Richard (Dick) Philp
December 19, 2017
Dr. Richard (Dick) Philp, Professor Emeritus in Physiology and Pharmacology, passed away on Oct 26th, 2017. Dick graduated from the University of Guelph with the DVM degree, then completed his PhD in Pharmacology at Western under the supervision of Dr. Charles Gowdey in 1964. He became a faculty member at Western, and was a devoted educator and researcher who served as Chair of the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology from 1981-1986. Following his retirement in 1997, Dick pursued his passion for art and community service, volunteering at a number of organizations including as an art instructor at the Horton Street Seniors’ Centre – Boys and Girls Club of London. Dick also authored several textbooks, primarily on environmental matters. Western will lower the flag all day on November 1, 2017 in his memory.In Memorium – Dr. Vernon Brooks
November 13, 2017
Vernon Brooks, Professor Emeritus in Physiology and Pharmacology, passed away on Oct 4th, 2017. Dr. Brooks was chair of the former Department of Physiology from 1972 to 1977. His 1952 PhD thesis in Neurophysiology at McGill and U of T on the effect of botulinum toxin on the nervous system revealed the principle of Botox. Vernon researched the motor cortex and cerebellum at Rockefeller Institute and New York Medical College before moving to Western. His appointment of Professor Emeritus in 1988 marked the end of a distinguished career.Call for Applications Chair, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology
October 31, 2017
The Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, at Western University, London, Ontario, Canada is inviting applications for the position of Chair in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology. Interested candidates are encouraged to apply. Review of applicants will begin after November 30, 2017.Four scholars named among nation’s elite
September 12, 2017
Four Western researchers have been named Canada Research Chairs (CRC), a program which recognizes the country’s best scholars across disciplines. Two additional researchers also had their existing Chairs renewed for an additional five years, while another saw a renewal of seven years. This now brings Western’s total number of CRCs to 52.Follow us on Twitter
August 31, 2017
Be sure to check out the Department’s new Twitter feed @westernuPandP. Follow us to keep up to date on PhysPharm news.Announcement: Dr. Qingping Feng appointed as the Richard & Jean Ivey Fund Chair in Molecular Toxicology
August 10, 2017
Dr. Qingping Feng has been appointed as the Richard & Jean Ivey Fund Chair in Molecular Toxicology at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective August 1, 2017 to July 31, 2022.Announcement: Dr. Frank Beier appointed Acting Chair, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology
August 03, 2017
Dr. Frank Beier has been appointed as Acting Chair, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective August 1, 2017 to July 31, 2018.Announcement: Dr. Jane Rylett appointed Associate Dean and Director, Animal Research Facilities
August 03, 2017
Dr. Jane Rylett has been appointed as Associate Dean and Director of Animal Research Facilities, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, effective August 1, 2017 to June 30, 2022. Dr. Rylett has served as Chair, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology since 2005.Announcement: Dr. Michael Rieder, appointed Chair/Chief, Department of Paediatrics
August 02, 2017
Dr. Michael Rieder, has been appointed as Chair/Chief 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 for a five year term.Congratulations to Anish Engineer on receiving a 2017 CIHR Poster award
June 21, 2017
Anish won a Gold Award at this year’s CIHR National Student Research Poster competition held on June 7th in Winnipeg, Manitoba. This competition is held yearly and recognizes excellent research being carried out by trainees in Canada.Celebrating the BMSc Class of 2017 with Nick Tonial
June 19, 2017
During the past four years, Tonial has used the motto: “It’s not what you take from the world, but it’s what you give back,” to guide his pursuits. In doing so, he followed his passions for research, community engagement and improving the human condition of those around him.Announcement: 25 new CIHR-funded projects for Western researchers
May 24, 2017
Researchers at Western University are the recipients of a total of $12.4 million in project and bridge grant funding announced by the Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) today. Congratulations to Dr.'s Martinez-Trujillo, Ramachandran, Seguin, Wang, Welsh, Gribble and Bai.Award: Dr. Sarah McLean receives two awards for teaching excellence
April 12, 2017
Dr. Sarah McLean received the Western University Award of Excellence in Undergraduate Teaching and the Ontario Undergraduate Student Alliance Award for Teaching Excellence.Congratulations to the 2017 Awards of Excellence recipients
April 07, 2017
As Physiology and Pharmacology educators, researchers, innovators and leaders, this year’s Awards of Excellence recipients are making a difference at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry. It is with great pride that we recognize and honor their achievements: Dr. Angela Beye, Schulich Excellence in Education Awards for Undergraduate Education; Dr. Cheryle Seguin, Schulich Excellence in Education Awards for Graduate/Postgraduate; Dr. Marco Prado, Dean’s Awards of Excellence for Faculty, Research; and Ms. Dawn Bryce and Ms. Holly Dupuis, Dean’s Awards of Excellence for Staff, Continuous Excellence. We look forward to celebrating each of them at the Awards of Excellence Dinner on May 24, at the Great Hall.Brian Corneil named Faculty Scholar
March 24, 2017
Congratulations to Brian Corneil on being named a 2017 Western Faculty Scholar. Faculty Scholars are recognized for their significant achievements in teaching and research. The recipients are considered all-around scholars and will hold the title of Faculty Scholar for two years and receive $7,000 each year for scholarly activities.Anita Woods honoured for excellence in teaching
March 17, 2017
Although large classes can often be a challenging environment for both students and instructors, with limited interaction, Anita Woods’ use of technology in classrooms has begun to close this gap. Over the past five years, Woods conceived, developed and popularized the use of a three-dimensional augmented reality (AR) software for the study of human organs in higher education. The program allows students to view and directly manipulate organs in augmented reality to further their understanding of how the structure of organs affects function."Featured Alumni Careers" resource now available on the PhysPharm web site
November 03, 2016
This new initiative gives our trainees a flavour of career options available to them. Currently the website features our PhD graduates working in academia, industry, law, business, medical editing and other areas. Be sure to follow this link to access alumni profiles and career resources.Dr. Michael Rieder receives 2016 Paediatric Academic Leadership - Clinician Investigator Award
November 02, 2016
This passion has been the driving factor behind Dr. Rieder’s more than 25 years of dedication to the international and national paediatric health care communities, which is being recognized by the Paediatric Chairs of Canada with the 2016 Paediatric Academic Leadership – Clinician Investigator Award.Western Receives $66 Million Federal Grant for Brain Research
September 06, 2016
Western University's BrainsCAN initiative received a substantial $66 million investment from the Canada First Research Excellence Fund (CFREF) today – the largest research grant in the university's history – providing a significant boost to ongoing research in cognitive neuroscience and imaging at Western.Dr. Doug Jones reappointed as Vice Dean, Basic Medical Sciences
August 18, 2016
Dr. Doug Jones has been reappointed as Vice Dean, Basic Medical Sciences, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective from July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2018.Professor keeps family, ethnic traditions alive
August 16, 2016
Daniel Hardy, an Obstetrics and Gynecology professor, with a cross-appointment to Physiology and Pharmacology, is the 139th President of The Irish Benevolent Society of London and Area. The society was established in 1877 to provide an opportunity to Irish immigrants, descendants and friends – of all faiths – to work together to preserve their heritage while focusing on doing good works in their transplanted home.In Memoriam - Dr. David Armstrong
August 04, 2016
It is with great sadness that we share the passing of Dr. David Armstrong, one of the School's most renowned basic scientists in the field of reproductive biology. Dr. Armstrong published over 400 research papers in his long career at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry where he was a professor in the departments of physiology and pharmacology and obstetrics and gynaecology since 1968. It was Dr. Armstrong's work that laid the foundation for the understanding of how the ovary produces estrogens. Dr. Armstrong founded the Medical Research Council Group and served as its first director from 1979 to 1989. Alongside his distinguished research career, he also mentored a large number of graduate students, postdoctoral and clinical fellows. He will be greatly missed.Researchers awarded millions in CIHR funding
July 20, 2016
Schulich Medicine & Dentistry is proud to share that almost $30 million in CIHR funding was awarded to its researchers in the latest round of competition. 34 projects were funded across the School, Robarts Research Institute, and Lawson Health Research Institute including $14.8 million in project grants, and more than $15 million in foundation grants. Congratulations to all of the successful applicants!Dr. Jane Rylett extended as Chair of the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology
July 11, 2016
Dr. Jane Rylett has been extended as Chair of the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University effective July 1, 2016 to June 30, 2017. She was appointed initially as Chair in 2005 and reappointed for a second term in 2010.Reunion Weekend 2016
June 21, 2016
We look forward to welcoming you back to Schulich Medicine & Dentistry on Friday, September 30 - Sunday, October 2 as we unlock the past and focus on passion, purpose, professionalism and potential — key attributes that have driven our alumni to success in varying ways. A variety of events and activities will be taking place all weekend long offering something for everyone.Jane Rylett appointed as one of CIHR College of Reviewers Chairs
June 14, 2016
Congratulations to Jane Rylett, PhD, on her appointment as one of 15 Chairs of the CIHR inaugural College of Reviewers. The newly appointed Chairs will oversee strategies aimed at attracting and retaining outstanding peer reviewers.Man-Ger (Margaret) Sun receives Nellie Farthing Fellowship
June 10, 2016
Congratulations to Margaret Sun who is a recipient of the 2016 Nellie Farthing Fellowship in Medical Sciences. The Fellowship recognizes excellence in research to a full-time doctoral student in Medical Sciences. Margaret is supervised by Frank Beier.Nicole Campbell receives 2016 Fellowship in Teaching Innovation Award
May 18, 2016
Congratulations Nicole Campbell, PhD, on receiving the 2016 Fellowship in Teaching Innovation award for your project on “Implementing ePortfolios for Senior Undergraduate Medical Science Students to Promote Lifelong Learning.”Wataru Inoue, PhD, received a New Investigator Fellowship from the Ontario Mental Health Foundation.
May 02, 2016
Wataru Inoue, PhD, received a New Investigator Fellowship from the Ontario Mental Health Foundation.With this grant, Inoue's lab aims to investigate the mechanisms of stress-induced neural plasticity.Western Email System Change Coming - How this will impact you.
March 29, 2016
Earlier this month, Western University announced that it is beginning the next phase of the project to replace its campus-wide email platform (known as Convergence) to a new cloud-based system called Microsoft Office 365. This next phase includes moving the Western email accounts (i.e. those ending in @uwo.ca) of all faculty and staff in Schulich Medicine & Dentistry. This change will likely impact you...Congratulations to Our London Health Research Day 2016 Award Winners
March 29, 2016
London Health Research Day is the largest research day of its kind in Ontario. Each year, more than 700 people attend this event. Together, participants represent health science labs from across the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Robarts Research Institute, Lawson Health Research Institute, London Health Sciences Centre and St. Joseph’s Health Care London. LHRD recognizes research excellence in graduate students, trainees, clinical fellows and postdoctoral scholars. Awards are given for both the poster and platform presentations.Stefan Everling and Grace Parraga named Faculty Scholars
March 28, 2016
Congratulations to Stefan Everling, PhD, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, and Grace Parraga, PhD, Department of Medical Biophysics, on being selected as two of Western University's 2016 Faculty Scholars.CFI funding backs osteoarthritis research
March 18, 2016
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry professor Frank Beier, Canada Research Chair in Musculoskeletal Research, received $321,264 from CFI’s John R. Evans Leaders Fund to purchase advanced equipment to identify molecular and cellular mechanisms that lead to various types of osteoarthritis. In the longer term, Beier and his team hope to use this knowledge to create new treatment strategies for the disease.Andrew Pruszynski, Tier 2 CRC in Sensorimotor Neuroscience
February 11, 2016
Pruszynski, who came to Western from Sweden, leverages expertise in robotics and neuroscience to understand the basic neural circuitry that underlies healthy and impaired movement – including reaching, grasping and object manipulation. This work will lead to better interventions and rehabilitation strategies following injuries and disease that compromise movement.Ending stigma through research - Q&A with Wataru Inoue, PhD
February 05, 2016
Wataru Inoue, PhD, is an assistant professor with the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology and a scientist at Robarts Research Institute. He studies the effect of chronic stress on the brain and the biological basis for depression. We spoke to him about ending stigma around mental health and how his research may help diagnose, treat and prevent clinical depression in the future.Congratulations to the 2016 Schulich Equipment AID Grant recipients
January 27, 2016
Ten applications have been funded through the latest Schulich Equipment AID (Advancement, Improvement, Development) Grant competition. The Schulich Equipment AID program provides Schulich Medicine & Dentistry faculty with a mechanism to acquire, develop or improve equipment directly used for research that they cannot obtain through other funding channels. This program aims to also catalyze collaborative research for Schulich Medicine & Dentistry across many disciplines. The focus of this competition was on repairing/replacing of aging equipment within the faculty.Western University Team Awarded OIRM New Ideas Grant
December 11, 2015
A team led by Dr. Dean Betts, PhD was awarded $50,000 from the Ontario Institute for Regenerative Medicine to advance the hypothesis that metabolic reprogramming enhances the generation efficiency of cells towards a naïve pluripotent stem cell state. The team will direct fibroblasts towards a single and/or bivalent metabolic states using sole fuel source selection to determine if their induction towards multiple pluripotent states is enhanced. The studies will develop a simple and reliable culture protocol to modulate the bioenergetic state of somatic cells to efficiently generate high quality naïve human iPS cells for future stem cell therapies.Animal Care chair embraces new role as overseer
December 04, 2015
Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry professors Nagalingam (Raj) Rajakumar and Timothy Regnault hope to engage members of the Western community – and the broader London community – to bring to light the mandate and functions of the university’s Animal Care Committee (ACC).Postdoctoral scholar strikes more Gold with research
October 22, 2015
Western neuroscientist Melanie Kok, PhD’15 (Neuroscience), has gone from athletic medals to academic medals with her research on the cerebral cortex for which she was recognized with a 2015 Governor General’s Academic Gold Medal.New rapid test for E. coli improves food safety
October 02, 2015
Dr. Michael Rieder and his team have created a new rapid-test system to detect E. coli 0157. The test would allow manufacturers to identify contaminated food quickly before it leaves the processing plant and enters the grocery store.Bringing new life into research on the placenta
October 02, 2015
As part of the National Institute of Health’s (NIH) Human Placenta Project, Charles McKenzie, PhD, and Timothy Regnault, PhD, have received $3.7 million CAD in funding over four years to develop a new technology based on magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) that will, for the first time, allow them to determine metabolism in the placenta and monitor changes in placental metabolism as pregnancy unfolds and when challenged by external maternal factors.Taking science out of the box
August 18, 2015
On any given Friday night during her graduate studies, Bonnie Schmidt, PhD’93, could be found tending bar at an east London establishment. The part-time job not only helped her to make ends meet, but it also served as a platform for her to talk about science and her research.PhysPharm Researchers receive CIHR funding
July 31, 2015
Of more than 1,600 applications received by CIHR, 150 applications were successful in receiving funding, four of those from Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry and Robarts Research Institute. Frank Beier, PhD, professor, Department of Physiology and Pharmacology at Schulich Medicine & Dentistry, and Canada Research Chair in Musculoskeletal Research, received more than $3 million for his research into the molecular pathways behind osteoarthritis.Speaking with some of the 2015 Order of Canada honourees
July 10, 2015
Bonnie Schmidt has been named a member of the Order of Canada because of her advocacy for youth engagement in science education through her organization Let’s Talk Science, which develops programs for children from preschool to high school.Catherine Nevin, MSc Candidate, earns Women’s Health Scholars Award
June 23, 2015
Catherine Nevin, MSc Candidate in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, has been named among nine university scholar recipients of the Ontario Women's Health Scholars Award...Congratulations to our students
June 22, 2015
Congratulations to our graduating 4th year student award winners and graduate student scholarship recipients. Congratulations also to two of our PhD students, who were amongst 10 PhD students that were chosen to represent Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and Western University at the Canadian Student Health Research Forum (CSHRF)/CIHR National Student Research Poster Competition...Ontario Research Fund supports research excellence
June 18, 2015
Congratulations to Stephen Lomber (Equipment for Electrophysiological Recording and Functional Imaging of Brain Plasticity), Penny MacDonald (Investigating Cognition in Parkinson's Disease: Identifying Clinical and Cognitive Features That Predict Functional Impairment), and Cheryl Seguin (Mouse models to study intervertebral disc development, health and disease).Congratulations to our Graduates!
June 11, 2015
Today our graduates participated in Western's 305th Convocation ceremony. We wish our graduates the best of luck as they take their next steps forward! Pictures from our convocation luncheon can be found in our Flickr galleryCongratulations Team Bernier!
June 09, 2015
This past Sunday, June 7th, 2015, a passionate group of students, staff, and faculty from Physiology and Pharmacology, and other departments, participated in the annual Walk to Fight Arthritis to raise funds for The Arthritis Society in support of the over 4.6 million Canadians that live with arthritis.Homecoming 2015 Dean’s Distinguished Lecturer announced
June 01, 2015
We are pleased to announce that Bonnie Schmidt, PhD’93, has been selected as the recipient of this year’s Dean’s Distinguished Lecture award. Schmidt is the President and Founder of Let’s Talk Science — an award-winning, national and charitable organization dedicated to science education and outreach in support of youth development.Sleep apnea cutting lives short, researcher argues
May 22, 2015
Physiology and Pharmacology professor John Ciriello’s research shows pregnant women suffering from sleep apnea may actually be putting their unborn children at risk for metabolic diseases as adults.Western establishes The Bone and Joint Institute
May 15, 2015
Western University has taken another bold step toward positioning itself as a global leader in research and innovation in musculoskeletal (MSK) health by establishing The Bone and Joint Institute.Grad award winners
May 15, 2015
The Department of Physiology and Pharmacology was well represented yesterday at the 13th Annual Paul Harding Research Awards Day. Two of our Physiology and Pharmacology MSc candidates, Mike Wong (supervisor Dan Hardy) and Kristyn Dunlop (supervisor Tim Regnault) won 1st and 2nd place oral competition, respectively, in the Graduate Student category.New Musculoskeletal Health study cautions use of whole-body vibration platforms
April 23, 2015
A new study from Western University shows that whole-body vibration platforms, which are used extensively in health clubs and rehabilitation clinics, may be causing significant damage to joint tissues. The findings by Cheryle Séguin, Matthew McCann and collaborators ...Celebrating Excellence in Physiology and Pharmacology
April 15, 2015
We are pleased to announce that the following members of our department have been recognized for their outstanding contributions to the Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry...Congratulations to our faculty members
April 13, 2015
Congratulations to Drs. Penny MacDonald and Stephen Lomber who were recently awarded new Canada Research Chairs...London Health Research Day 2015 Award Winners
April 09, 2015
Congratulations to our award winning trainees. Poster award winners: Katherine Rabicki (Beier) and Valerie Arpino (Gill), Student Choice Award: Carmen Leung (Feng). Feature Platform Presentations: Noelle Ochotny (Dixon), Michael Pest (Beier) and Anusha Ratneswaran (Beier). The Lucille & Norton Wolf LHRD Trainee Publication Awards were swept by PhysPharm trainees: Anusha Ratneswaran (Beier), Thomas Velenosi (Urquhart) and Michael Pest (Beier).Annual 4th year thesis students poster day photos now posted!
April 08, 2015
Be sure to visit our Flickr gallery to view the latest photos taken at our annual 4th year thesis students poster day. There are also plenty of other great photo albums of past events to look at in our Flickr gallery if you haven't already had the opportunity to do so!Congratulations to Drs. Jeff Dixon, Lina Dagnino, and Paul Gribble.
March 20, 2015
Jeff Dixon has been honored with a Distinguished University Professorship (DUP), the university’s top award for faculty. The Distinguished University Professorship Award acknowledges sustained excellence in scholarship over a substantial career at Western. Lina Dagnino and Paul Gribble have also been honored this year as Faculty Scholars which recognizes their significant achievements in teaching or research. The recipients are considered all-around scholars and hold the title of Faculty Scholar for two years. For more details on the awards/awardees, click on the above link.Ruth Martin named to Canadian Academy of Health Sciences
March 03, 2015
Congratulations to Ruth Martin, PhD, Professor in the School of Communication Sciences and Disorders and the Faculty of Health Sciences' Associate Dean for Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies, on her induction as a fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences (CAHS)...Dr. Lewis W. Hersey - Obituary
March 02, 2015
Dr. Hersey passed away on February 27, 2015. He was recruited to the Department of Pharmacology as a graduate student in 1961 and subsequently received a faculty cross-appointment with the Departments of Pharmacology and Anaesthesia. After a distinguished career Lew Hersey became Professor Emeritus in 1995.Dr. Julio Martinez-Trujillo has been appointed to the position of Provincial Endowed Academic Chair in Autism
February 13, 2015
Dr. Julio Martinez-Trujillo completed his MD at the University of Havana in 1991, and completed his residency training in Clinical Neurophysiology at the Cuban Neuroscience Center. He practised Clinical Medicine from 1993 to 1996 in Bogota Colombia working with children with epilepsy and developmental disorders...Dr. Jim Lewis has been appointed as Clinical Research Training Director
February 11, 2015
The Clinical Research Training Director position was created to have a lead faculty member responsible for the management of the clinical research training programs, mentoring and career development of the trainees in the programs at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry...Getting in touch with the brain
February 05, 2015
Have you ever wondered how the brain works to move the hand? Questions like this have fostered Andrew Pruszynski’s interest in his research that involves how the brain and body interact to create purposeful movement and experience sensation...The Department welcomes two new scientists
January 07, 2015
Dr. Julio Martinez-Trujillo joins Schulich Medicine & Dentistry as an Associate Professor with the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology, and as a researcher at Robarts. Andrew Pruszynski, PhD, arrived at Western from Umea University in Sweden...
