Robarts to host neuroscience symposium

Dr. Marc Caron, James B. Duke Professor, Department of Cell Biology, Duke University Medical Center
Lecture: Genetic Animal Models of Brain Disorders; 2:30 p.m.

Dr. Caron uses genetic approaches to develop animal models of abnormal neurobiological function, including disorders such as schizophrenia and depression. He is the author of more than 500 publications and has contributed to the training of many of Canada's leading neuroscientists. Three current Robarts scientists, Stephen Ferguson (grandson and namesake of S.C. Ferguson); and Marco and Vania Prado (recent recruits to Robarts from Brazil), have worked under Dr. Caron.

Dr. Ivan Izquierdo Director, Center of Memory, Pontificial Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul
Lecture: Memory Persistence; 3:15 p.m.

Dr. Izquierdo is a renowned Brazilian scientist and pioneer in the study of the neurobiology of learning and memory. For more than 20 years he has worked in the "Center of Memory" at the Federal University of Rio Grande do Sul. Recently, he moved to the Pontificial Catholic University of Rio Grande do Sul where he continues with his research. Dr. Izquierdo has made several key contributions to understanding how the brain stores and retrieves memory.

"This symposium not only brings two of the world's top minds in neuroscience to campus, but serves to highlight neuroscience excellence at Robarts," says Dr. Ferguson. "My grandfather had a distinguished career as a chartered accountant here in London and was highly respected by his peers and the community. His affliction with Alzheimer's played no small role in my decision to pursue a career in biomedical research, and I am proud that, in his name, we are able to bring such prominent scientists to London."

The S.C. Ferguson Memorial Symposium visiting scholars program is a signature event for the Molecular Brain Research Group at Robarts, supported by a gift to Robarts by S. C. Ferguson's son and daughter-in-law, Dr. Gary G. and Mrs. Mary E. Ferguson.

Open to the public, the Symposium takes place in Auditorium A, University Hospital. The full program can be found at: http://www.robarts.ca/news.php?id=292.