Reflecting on an Incredible Year
As I look back on the activities within the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry over the past year, I’m inspired by the commitment of each and every one of you. Thanks to all of you, the year (July 2024 to June 2025) held many high points, all contributing to our collective vision of health and wellness of all through excellence in education, discovery and clinical care.
With more than 3,000 faculty and at least as many learners, it can be difficult to stay in touch. I hope this report brings us together to understand, honour and celebrate the breadth of our work.
Thank you all.
Brenda Hemmelgarn, Dean, Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry
Read the full message from the dean »
View the Impact Report 2023-2024 »
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Research Impact
More students, more research, more impact
760+
new graduates
on their journey to become the next generation of health care leaders
+30
MD student seats
As part of the Northern Alberta Medical Program+2
Interdisciplinary Research Hubs
AI + Health and Climate Change + Health are tackling the world’s most complex health challenges.Improving Health Outcomes Through Research
$234,521,313
in FoMD Research Revenue (+19.2% over previous year)
4,100+
research articles published*
2
new spinoff companies
43
new inventions
50
new patents (24 granted, 26 filed)
32
Canada Research Chairs
2
Canada Excellence Research Chairs
Harnessing AI to improve access to quality health care
In May 2025, the College of Health Sciences launched the AI + Health Hub to harness the power of data and computing science to solve a wide range of health-care challenges from quicker diagnoses to streamlining hospital queues and discovering new drugs.
FoMD Canada Research Chairs
The Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry is honoured to have 13 Tier 1 and 19 Tier 2 CRCs leading promising research at the University of Alberta.
Padma Kaul, Tier 1 Canada Research Chair in Maternal - Child Health and Well-being
With the launch in November 2024 of the online Healthy Pregnancy Hub, pregnant women in Canada have a new place to look for evidence-based information on the safety of prescription medications.
The site is based on research from the Canadian Mother-Child Cohort, led by principal investigator Padma Kaul. Nearly 70 per cent of pregnant women take medications, but there is little clinical trial evidence available about their impact on this population because pregnant women are usually excluded as clinical trial subjects, according to Kaul.
Breakthrough Discoveries
Clinical trial could lead to new ‘gold standard’ test for prostate cancer detection
The researchers report that the new test correctly predicted the location and margin of tumours in 45 per cent of cases — nearly twice as often as the rate of 28 per cent for MRI. The research published in JAMA Oncology was led by Adam Kinnaird, assistant professor of surgery and adjunct assistant professor of oncology, as well as the Frank and Carla Sojonky Chair in Prostate Cancer Research and a member of the Cancer Research Institute of Northern Alberta.
Protein ‘referee’ could hold key to stopping some breast cancers from spreading
Principal investigator Ing Swie Goping, professor of biochemistry and Lilian McCullough Chair in Breast Cancer Research and her research team have identified a key protein involved in the normal growth of mammary glands during puberty that misfires in some breast cancers, and is now searching for drugs to reverse the problem.
AI scribe could help emergency docs save time and improve patient care
A team of researchers, led by Jake Hayward, assistant clinical professor, emergency physician and deputy clinical head of quality improvement with Alberta Health Services, began testing an artificial intelligence scribe tool first created by Michael Weldon, an emergency doctor and engineer based in Red Deer, to take notes and summarize interactions between physicians and their patients, helping to ease the burden on busy doctors.
Providing cutting-edge research services
FoMD’s Core Research Facilities provide desirable research equipment and support services to researchers at the University of Alberta and across Canada. This includes the Helios 5CX Focused Ion Beam Scanning Electron Microscope (FIB SEM), one of only two in Canada.
Making Their Mark - FoMD’s Early Career Researchers
Carrie Ye, assistant professor, Department of Medicine
A recipient of the Early Career Investigator in Cancer prize from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research, Carrie Ye received funding for two new research projects in the same competition. The first looks for ways to stop anti-cancer immunotherapy drugs from causing arthritis as an unintended side-effect. The second aims to create an accurate online resource to answer rheumatology patients’ questions, called ChatRheum.
Fabiana T. Almeida, assistant professor, Mike Petryk School of Dentistry
Fabiana T. Almeida was one of six U of A researchers to receive support from the Alberta Innovates LevMax-Health competition in 2025, which awarded a total of $9.9 million to support digital and data-enabled health innovations in the province. Almeida is working with a team of radiologists, oral surgeons, pediatric rheumatologists and biomedical engineers at the U of A and the University of Calgary to improve screening for pediatric arthritis and make that diagnosis quicker and safer by combining hand-held ultrasound and artificial intelligence.
Maria loannou, assistant professor, Canada Research Chair in Brain Lipid Cell Biology, Department of Physiology
Neuroscientist Maria Ioannou received the 2024-25 Martha Cook Piper Research Prize, in recognition of her past projects and outstanding promise as a researcher. She and her team are working on understanding how changes to lipids in the brain contribute to Parkinson’s disease, using real-time imaging of cell processes as they happen.
Power in Partnership
The FoMD is home to eight research institutes. These collaborations lead to incredible discoveries, development of new treatments and improved care for people around the world. Discover a few of their achievements from the past year.
Alberta Diabetes Institute
2025 marked 25 years since the Edmonton Protocol was first published by a team of University of Alberta researchers in the New England Journal of Medicine. Today, more than 3,000 islet transplants have been carried out worldwide.
Alberta Transplant Institute
Over the past year ATI has collaborated with Give Life Alberta to increase the number of organ donations in the province. By implementing Donation Physician Specialists, a sustained reduction in missed organ donation opportunities and increased referrals, a higher deceased donation rate was achieved.
Celebrated U of A kidney transplant expert Philip Halloran and his team also published new research in Nature of a randomized controlled trial for felzartamab, a newly developed drug that suppresses a process now known as antibody-mediated rejection (ABMR), which is the culprit behind about half of all transplanted kidney failures.
Cancer Research Institute of Northern Alberta
A hub of leading-edge cancer research, CRINA brings together scientists and clinicians to translate discoveries into new therapies and better outcomes for patients facing cancer. CRINA also supports students at both undergraduate and graduate stages. The Institute hosts seminars, workshops, presentations and an annual Research Day. CRINA studentship awards also provide valuable funding for innovative projects across the cancer continuum. In 2024/25, CRINA awarded over $150,000 in studentships. In addition, in collaboration with the Alberta Cancer Foundation and Kids with Cancer Foundation, CRINA awarded over $80,000 in summer studentships.
Cardiovascular Research Institute
Dedicated to improving heart and vascular health, the institute advances life-saving treatments and prevention strategies through interdisciplinary research and clinical innovation.
iSMART - The smartwear revolution begins
In March 2025, the iSMART team was awarded $24 million over six years from the federal government, to work on smartwear technology that could increase independence and quality of life for millions of people.
Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology
At the forefront of global virology research, the institute has made breakthrough contributions in infectious disease prevention, vaccine development and antiviral therapies. Over the past year the institute awarded more than 13 student awards and 14 research awards and grants, and collaborated with the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry to support the recruitment of key leadership roles to advance critical research.
Neuroscience and Mental Health Institute
NMHI leads transformative research into brain and mental health disorders, unlocking new understanding and treatments that support the well-being of individuals and communities.
This year, the NMHI CONNECTIONS exhibit at the Royal Alberta Museum was the signature community outreach event for the Institute. The collection of artwork and scientific images portrayed the many aspects of neuroscience, brain diseases and mental health disorders and their intersections with art and life.
Women and Children’s Health Research Institute
WCHRI made great leaps this past year through a number of initiatives including the launch of the Realizing Healthier Pregnancy Research Cluster to advance and lead transdisciplinary women and children’s health research on a national and international level.
The Institute also collaborated with FoMD’s Cell Biology, Medical Genetics and Pediatrics to establish a new Human Induced Pluripotent Stem Cell (hiPSC) Shared Resource Lab (SRL). This initiative will enable essential research infrastructure and expertise.
Teaching and Learning Impact
Students Leading with Purpose
MSc '24 grad Paige Hardy
Before completing a master’s in neuroscience, Paige Hardy earned a BSc in honours neuroscience at the University of Alberta. “As an undergrad, I wanted to study neuroscience because I liked science and I thought the brain was cool,” she says. “My interest in this area of study has grown a little more nuanced over the years.”
MD student Princess Eze
Princess Eze is an MD student with a passion for creating spaces where Black students feel seen and supported. A former president of the University of Alberta’s Black Students’ Association, and now beginning her second year in the MD program, she is committed to amplifying Black voices and creating a more inclusive and equitable environment for those coming after her.
Dentistry grad Justin Kim
Justin Kim’s path to dentistry was shaped by compassion and curiosity. To him, dentistry was the perfect intersection of science, fine motor skills and service, with each day presenting the chance to make a meaningful impact on someone’s life. During his degree, he volunteered in the remote northern community of Faust, providing dental care to people with limited access. He also participated in research focused on incidental findings in CBCT imaging used for implant diagnostics.
Medical lab science '25 grad Bohan Hu
Driven by a lifelong interest in health care and a passion for hands-on science, Bohan Hu found the perfect fit in medical laboratory science. Now, as she steps into her new role as a medical laboratory technologist, Hu is excited to apply her skills in real-world clinical settings and continue supporting patient care.
Faculty Leading with Purpose
Diane Severin, clinical professor, oncology
Diane was honoured with the 2025 Dr. Richard Fedorak Memorial Award in Professionalism. A proud alumna of the Faculty, Diane began her career as a family physician before returning to complete a residency in radiation oncology. She is a trusted advisor and supporter of learners and patients alike, leading with integrity and professionalism in every area of her busy career.
Wayne Inuglak Clark, assistant professor, Psychiatry; and director, Wâpanachakos Indigenous Health Program
As a Fulbright Arctic Initiative Scholar, Wayne Inuglak Clark is investigating how existing diagnostic tools, such as the Kiddie Schedule for Affective Disorders and Schizophrenia, can be thoughtfully adapted to align with Inuit Qaujimajatuqangit knowledge systems and community contexts. Working alongside community members and Elders in Arviat, Nunavut, Wayne is preparing to launch a mental health clinical trial that incorporates a version of a patient health questionnaire translated into Inuktitut.
Vickie Baracos, professor, oncology
In June 2024, Vickie Baracos was appointed to the Order of Canada for her work transforming our understanding of cachexia, a debilitating syndrome that causes rapid weight and muscle loss in patients with advanced-stage cancer, leaving them with a skin-and-bones appearance.
Richard Martin, assistant dean, Northern Alberta Medical Program
As a family doctor in northern Alberta, Richard Martin knows first-hand the joys and challenges of working in remote parts of the province. Martin takes inspiration from mentors and collaborators as he tackles this new role.
Staff Leading with Purpose
RaeAnne Barkhouse, Medicine
RaeAnne Barkhouse is an academic division administrator in the Department of Medicine. She was recognized with a 2024 University of Alberta Support Staff Recognition Award for her exceptional organizational skills and proactive engagement, which were pivotal during faculty recruitment and restructuring.
Tabitha Nguyen, Medical Microbiology and Immunology
As a key administrator, Tabitha Nguyen was recognized with a U of A 2024 Excellence in Learning Support Award for ensuring smooth operations while providing personalized support to students.
Alina R, Ophthalmology and Visual Science
A standout lab technician, Alina Radziwon was given a U of A 2024 Excellence in Learning Support Award for going above and beyond to support students in the lab. Known for her dedication to training and willingness to help troubleshoot experiments, she fosters independence while promoting critical thinking.
Community Impact
Training the Health Care Leaders of Tomorrow
We play a vital role in shaping the next generation of health professionals who will care for Albertans and patients globally. Through hands-on learning in diverse settings both urban, rural and remote, we prepare students to become skilled, compassionate and well-rounded leaders.
#5
in Canada (Times Higher Education)
3,000
learners
750+
faculty
2900+
clinical academic faculty
160+
teaching sites across Alberta
New dental assisting program
The Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry welcomed its inaugural class of dental assisting students in April 2024 in this 10-month, direct-entry program. Students take classes and gain hands-on experience in labs and in clinical settings, such as working alongside dentistry and dental hygiene students at the Mike Petryk School of Dentistry’s Oral Health Clinic, which offers dental services to the public.
Honouring our Past, Shaping Tomorrow
Department of Medicine celebrates 100 years
The Department of Medicine was officially established in 1924. Today, the department has more than 700 faculty members including clinical faculty and offers training in 16 specialty programs, with a strong focus on innovation in research, education and training.
Featured at the Department of Medicine 100 anniversary gala, Dr. Narmin Kassam, Chair, accompanied Her Honour, the Honourable Salma Lakhani, Lieutenant Governor of Alberta, and His Honour, Dr. Zaheer Lakhani, Clinical Professor in the Division of Cardiology.
Serving the Community
To make a lasting impact, our training and research must represent and serve our communities. We work in partnership with communities to address and understand their unique health care needs, promote equity and ensure our learners are prepared to provide culturally responsive, community-informed care.
Indigenous Health
The Wâpanachakos Indigenous Health Program (WIHP) continues to grow holistic support of First Nations, Inuit, and Métis students to pursue health sciences in the FoMD. The dedicated team is making important strides to increase Indigenous representation and culturally grounded care in Alberta and beyond.
- Weekly tea and bannock events, Community Orientation Day, New Year’s Sweat ceremony, ice fishing, and many other events to honour Indigenous traditions and bring the FoMD community together.
- Indigenous Culinary Pre-Clerkship Elective: Co-created with an Elder, the course taught students how to prepare and present traditional Indigenous foods.
- 9 students received the Indspire Award totalling $189,000+ to support their education journeys.
A legacy scholarship empowers Indigenous students to transform healthcare
Medical student Ashley Turner makes a point of taking time to share her story as a recipient of the Darcy Tailfeathers Memorial Award. Because, for Turner, this scholarship is more than financial support — it’s a lifeline that connects her to a profound legacy of resilience, community and hope.
Supporting Black Excellence in Health
A concerted effort to improve access for qualified Black medical students has led to changes in everything from admissions to curriculum and professional development. Black Health Lead, Eniola Salami continues to work to expand support, curriculum and programming in the FoMD to increase representation, access and equality.
2024-25 Highlights
- Three new Black Excellence in Medicine student awards introduced.
- Black Medical Students Association hosted its fourth annual Black Health Fair to encourage Black high school and undergraduate students to consider a career in health care and to provide health information to the wider community.
Rural & Regional Health
Introducing the Northern Alberta Medical Program
The new Northern Alberta Medical Program began its very first fall term in September 2025 thanks to funding from the Alberta government and a partnership between the U of A and Northwestern Polytechnic. The cohort of 30 students will take all medical training in Grande Prairie and other northern Alberta communities, ultimately transforming rural health care in the north.
Camrose welcomes family medicine residents
This year, the Department of Family Medicine’s residency program welcomed Camrose as a training site in the residency rural stream, with Amber Jorgensen and Jeff Bennett as site co-directors. Both Jorgensen and Bennett work as rural health practitioners and look forward to the opportunity to share the joys of that experience with the residents they will be mentoring.
SHINE dental clinic marks 20 years
At the SHINE dental clinic in inner-city Edmonton, students from the Mike Petryk School of Dentistry provide about $8,000 worth of care each week free of charge to vulnerable Edmontonians.
The Student Health Initiative for the Needs of Edmonton Clinic — now known simply as SHINE — was started in 2005 by then-dental student Amreesh Khanna, who now runs dental practices, an AI startup and a charity in Calgary.
Celebrating Our Alumni and Donors
$61.85M
given to FoMD by donors
$1.38M
scholarships/bursaries awarded to students
Family gifts School of Dentistry $10 million
Mike Petryk was a dental student at the University of Alberta in the 1950s. Now, following a career of more than 40 years in dentistry with a sideline in Calgary real estate investment, he hopes to inspire future students to follow in his footsteps. In September 2024, he, his wife Pat, and their children Bob and Susan made a $10-million donation to the newly named Mike Petryk School of Dentistry.
Supporting life-saving kidney research & treatments
When Larry Gusse went into near-fatal kidney failure, his daughter Natalie Ruhl didn’t hesitate to offer him one of hers. Doctors estimated a seven-year wait for a public donor — time he likely didn’t have.
FoMD Alumni Make a Difference
Our alumni make a profound impact locally and globally—advancing healthcare, driving research and serving communities.
18,118
FoMD Alumni around the world
Atul Malhotra, ’88 BSc, ’92 MD - Distinguished Alumni Award
A global authority in breathing and sleeping issues, Atul Malhotra is leading research, treating patients, and mentoring the next generation of doctors to help people who struggle with these necessities of life. As an academic physician, Malhotra has specialized in sleep apnea while also working with patients experiencing disorders ranging from respiratory failure and sepsis to narcolepsy.
Stephanie Liu, ’13 MD, ’15 PostgradCert(MedEd) - Alumni Horizon Award
Motherhood inspired family physician Stephanie Liu to become an online innovator who delivers evidence-based health information for moms and little ones. Her blog, Life of Dr. Mom, shares credible information with 150,000-plus followers. In addition to her medical practice and work as a U of A assistant clinical professor, Liu is also an entrepreneur.
Fatima Mraiche ’04 BSc(Spec), ’10 PhD - Alumni Honour Award
Fatima Mraiche is a transformative educator whose work to promote teaching standards is guided by her lab excellence, classroom effectiveness, and firm belief that students deserve care, support and knowledge. A U of A associate professor, Mraiche became the university’s Vargo Teaching Chair in July 2023, recognizing her dedication to promoting academic teaching practices and curriculum innovation.
This report highlights achievements from the Faculty of Medicine & Dentistry over the course of July 1, 2024 - June 30, 2025.