Dr. Sophie Karolczak, is a Research and Policy Analyst at Muscular Dystrophy Canada.

She recently completed her PhD working on an ultra-rare disease, earning her PhD in 2025 in Molecular Genetics at the University of Toronto, where she researched liver complications associated with X-linked myotubular myopathy in James Dowling‘s lab at Sickkids. Previously, she earned her Bachelor’s degree in 2020 at Wesleyan University (Connecticut, USA) in Molecular Biology and Biochemistry. She has also worked in the biotech industry at CRISPR Therapeutics, where she was part of preclinical programs for sickle cell anemia and myotonic dystrophy.

At Muscular Dystrophy Canada, Sophie is supporting multiple research initiatives, including tracking therapeutic development and clinical trial progress for neuromuscular diseases. Sophie is passionate about rare disease research and breaking down barriers to treatment and access.

In 2026, Sophie joined the NMD4C as our Clinical Trial Network‘s Manager and supports our Clinical Trial Database.