NMD4C: The Neuromuscular Disease Network for Canada

NMD4C investigators are part of a national research team recently awarded $5.7 million in infrastructure funding from the Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) to support the development of advanced 3D human tissue models for brain and neuromuscular research. 

This nationally funded initiative brings together researchers from The Ottawa Hospital, the University of Ottawa, and the University of Toronto, and is co‑led by Dr. Michael Rudnicki, an NMD4C investigator and an internationally recognized leader in neuromuscular research. The leadership team also includes Dr. Penney Gilbert (University of Toronto) and Dr. Mireille Khacho (University of Ottawa), both of whom are active contributors to neuromuscular research in Canada and engaged members of the NMD4C community. These investigators are contributors to the broader research team, reflecting the range of neuromuscular expertise represented within the NMD4C community. 

The infrastructure supported through this grant will enable multiple laboratories to generate and study 3D neuromuscular and neural tissue models, including systems that combine nerve and muscle tissues. These shared platforms will accelerate discovery, foster collaboration across institutions, and provide hands‑on research opportunities for trainees nationwide. 

Dr. Khacho is also serving as the lead for the 2026 NMD4C Basic Research Summer School, further strengthening the connection between cutting‑edge national research infrastructure and the training of the next generation of neuromuscular scientists and clinician‑researchers. 

Read OHRI’s Full Announcement

NMD4C continues to support collaborative neuromuscular research and training through its national initiatives. Researchers and trainees interested in cross‑institutional opportunities may also wish to explore our NMD4C Collaborative Research Training Awards, with the current competition closing May 5, 2026.