NMD4C: The Neuromuscular Disease Network for Canada

The Neuromuscular Disease Network for Canada (NMD4C) together with Muscular Dystrophy Canada (MDC) are excited to announce the recipients of a funding competition, which awarded national post-doctoral fellowships in neuromuscular research. This competition saw many incredible applicants and involved a thorough and extensive review by leading Canadian neuromuscular researchers to ensure the most promising and top-ranked researchers received the funding.

The fellowship provides salary support for early-career scientists to conduct postdoctoral studies in a laboratory focused on research of NMDs. Successful applicants will receive $40,000 in funding over a one-year period.

“This initiative will assist with training and education for the next generation of neuromuscular researchers and strengthens the biomedical infrastructure to build neuromuscular research capacity in Canada. For our clients, this means we are investing in the sustainability of neuromuscular research which brings us one step closer to finding cures.”

Stacey Lintern, CEO of Muscular Dystrophy Canada

“The fellowships will provide opportunities for early-career scientists to pursue exciting research in NMDs. Reducing barriers to practice in neuromuscular research is integral in allowing researchers to build a sustainable career in the field, and we are pleased to partner with Muscular Dystrophy Canada in providing these opportunities.”

Dr. Rashmi Kothary, Steering Committee Member of the NMD4C

Post-doctoral research fellowship recipients:

Emanuela Pannia, PhD
Research Institute, Hospital for Sick Children

Post-doctoral Supervisor: James Dowling, MD, PhD, Clinician and Senior Scientist, The Hospital for Sick Children
Title of Research: Determining the molecular mechanisms and environmental modifiers of progressive liver disease in X-linked myotubular myopathy.
Overview: The goal of this study is to identify the cause of liver disease in X-linked myotubular myopathy (XLMTM) and the effects of diet and the immune system on its development. This study will be the first to identify causes of liver disease in XLMTM and discover new therapies to help children with this devastating disease.

Rebecca Robertson, PhD
McGill University

Post-doctoral Supervisor: Dr. Natasha Chang, Assistant Professor, McGill University
Title of research: The role of CARM1 in satellite cell dysfunction in Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD)
Overview: This project aims to fully assess issues in protein quality in DMD muscle stem cells through a variety of methods. This study will also explore how changes to CARM1 can impact the function of muscle stem cells and how they contribute to muscle repair. The ultimate goal of this work is to provide possible of treatment for DMD through these stem cells.

These fellows exemplify the excellence of future generations of researchers. Generous supporters of MDC made this funding competition possible. Thank you for making a difference and investing in the future of neuromuscular research.