A Toast to Science!

Come join the PGSA for a casual and relaxed evening of science and conversation at our Toast to Science pub night! 

We have invited a diverse group of principle investigators from various research backgrounds to speak about their work and their personal journey as a researcher. 

Our speakers will include:

  • Dr. Amy Ramsey, whose research is focused on NMDA receptors, an important receptor in learning, memory and brain development, and how significant dysfunction of this receptor is implicated in many brain disorders including schizophrenia, autism, and epilepsy. Her current work is on finding clinically relevant treatments for those affected by NMDA receptor dysfunction, including dietary changes and adenoviral gene therapy.
  • Dr. Ali Salahpour, who is focused on understanding dopamine signaling, transmission and homeostasis such that it can be modulated pharmacologically to treat neurological and psychiatric conditions. This includes investigating the mechanistic role of dopamine and exogenous chemicals in neurodegenerative processes such as Parkinson’s disease, and developing new therapies for Dopamine Transporter Deficiency Syndrome that increase dopamine transporter expression.
  • Dr. Landon Edgar, who is focused on investigating carbohydrates and their effect on the immune system, as well as engineering glycans on the surface of immune cells to induce immune responses. This work is expected to provide a foundation for next-generation therapeutics for a variety of diseases included rheumatoid arthritis, cancer, multiple sclerosis, and diabetes. This is a great opportunity for students to engage with faculty members and learn more about science in a friendly and informal setting. 
  • Dr. Peter McPherson, whose research is focused on identifying factors which promote genomic integrity as well as characterize the molecular transactions which constitute cellular response to DNA damage.

We hope this event will also foster inter-disciplinary collaborations and bring together researchers from different fields. Don’t miss out on this exciting opportunity to connect with others and learn more about the fascinating world of pharmacology. We will also host a fun pub quiz with a prize at the end! Please fill out the registration form to confirm your attendance. Register for the event HERE! Please also note that there will be a $5 cover at the door (cash or e-transfer).

We hope to see you there!