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Heart & Stroke, the Canadian Stroke Consortium, Canadian Neurological Sciences Federation, and the CanStroke Recovery Trials Platform are proud to announce that Dr. Mike Sharma is to deliver the 2026 Hnatyshyn Lecture, and lived experience advocate Sharon Gilroy-Dreher is to give the Louise and Frank Nieboer Lecture.Canada’s two most prestigious and impactful annual stroke lectures will take place at this year’s Canadian Stroke Congress, which will be held May 24-25, 2026 in Banff, Alberta. 

Hnatyshyn Lecture 2026
 
Mike Sharma, MD, MSc, FRCPC

Dr. Mike Sharma has been named the 2026 Hnatyshyn Lecturer in recognition of his profound impact on stroke care in Canada and internationally. A professor of neurology at McMaster University and a leading clinician‑scientist, Dr. Sharma has dedicated his career to advancing stroke prevention, treatment, and systems of care, authoring more than 170 peer‑reviewed publications and leading major international clinical trials, including OCEANIC‑STROKE. His work has helped reshape stroke prevention through more targeted, safer therapies and has influenced national and global stroke guidelines. In May 2026, he will share his career journey and the latest advances in stroke science when he delivers the Hnatyshyn Lecture at the Canadian Stroke Congress.

The Hnatyshyn Lecture was established in 2003 in memory of Canada’s 24^th Governor General, a founding board member of the Canadian Stroke Network and a strong advocate and supporter of stroke research.The Hnatyshyn and Nieboer Lectures will be a feature event in conjunction with the Canadian Stroke Congress, which will be held May 24^th to 25^th, 2026 in Banff, Alberta. Learn more about Dr. Sharma at News | Canadian Stroke Best PracticesAnd join us at Stroke Congress in May!

Nieboer Lecture 2026

Sharon Gilroy-Dreher 

Sharon Gilroy-Dreher has been named the Louise and Frank Nieboer Lecturer for 2026 in recognition of her significant contributions in driving change for women’s cardiovascular and cerebrovascular health as a patient advocate. After experiencing a rare cerebellar stroke at age 48 and facing delayed diagnosis and care, she became a powerful voice for self‑advocacy, patient engagement, and equity in stroke research and policy. A dedicated community volunteer, Sharon has contributed as a Patient Partner to numerous funded research projects, served on national scientific and patient engagement committees, and shared her perspective as a plenary and keynote speaker at major Canadian forums. Her leadership and advocacy continue to advance awareness, research, and action to improve outcomes for women affected by stroke across Canada.The Nieboer lecture was established in 2021 and is named in honour of Louise and Frank Nieboer, passionate advocates for improved systems of care, services and support that help people living with stroke to pursue meaningful, engaged lives.The Nieboer Lecture and the Hnatyshyn Lecture will be a feature event in conjunction with the Canadian Stroke Congress, which will be held May 24^th to 25th, 2026 in Banff, Alberta.  Learn more about Sharon at News | Canadian Stroke Best PracticesAnd join us at Stroke Congress in May! https://strokecongress.canadianstroke.ca/

ANNONCE – CONFÉRENCE HNATYSHYN ET NIEBOER SUR L’AVC 2026
 
Cœur + AVC, le Consortium Neurovasculaire Canadien, la Fédération des sciences neurologiques du Canada et la plateforme CanStroke Essais post-AVC sont fiers d’annoncer que le D^r Mike Sharma présentera la conférence Hnatyshyn de 2026 et que M^me Sharon Gilroy-Dreher, une personne ayant une expérience vécue et militante pour la cause, donnera la conférence Louise et Frank Nieboer.
 
Les deux plus prestigieuses et importantes conférences annuelles sur l’AVC au pays se dérouleront dans le cadre du Congrès canadien de l’AVC de cette année, qui aura lieu les 24 et 25 mai 2026 à Banff, en Alberta.
   
ANNONCE – CONFÉRENCE HNATYSHYN SUR L’AVC 2026
Mike Sharma, M.D., M. Sc., FRCPC
 
Le D^r Mike Sharma a été désigné le lauréat 2026 de la conférence Hnatyshyn pour souligner sa profonde influence sur les soins de l’AVC à l’échelle nationale et internationale. Professeur de neurologie à l’Université McMaster et éminent clinicien-chercheur, il est l’auteur de plus de 170 articles révisés par les pairs. Il a consacré sa carrière à améliorer la prévention, le traitement et les systèmes de soins de l’AVC, et a dirigé plusieurs essais cliniques majeurs à l’échelle internationale, notamment l’essai OCEANIC-STROKE. Ses travaux, qui portaient sur des traitements plus ciblés et plus sûrs, ont contribué à révolutionner la prévention des AVC et ont influencé les lignes directrices nationales et mondiales sur les soins de l’AVC. En mai 2026, il présentera la conférence Hnatyshyn lors du Congrès canadien de l’AVC. Il y racontera son parcours professionnel et parlera des plus récentes données scientifiques sur l’AVC.
 
La conférence Hnatyshyn a été tenue pour la première fois en 2003 en mémoire du 24^e gouverneur général du pays, membre fondateur du Réseau canadien contre les accidents cérébrovasculaires, et ardent défenseur et allié de la recherche sur l’AVC. 
 
La conférence Hnatyshyn et la conférence Nieboer seront présentées dans le cadre du Congrès canadien de l’AVC, qui se tiendra les 24 et 25 mai 2026 à Banff, en Alberta. 
 
Apprenez-en davantage au sujet du D^r Sharma ici : Nouvelles | Fondation des maladies du cœur et de l’AVC
 
Et joignez-vous à nous au Congrès canadien de l’AVC en mai! https://strokecongress.canadianstroke.ca/fr/
 
     
ANNONCE – CONFÉRENCE NIEBOER 2026 
Sharon Gilroy-Dreher
 
Sharon Gilroy-Dreher a été désignée pour présenter la conférence Louise et Frank Nieboer de 2026 pour souligner les progrès en santé cardiovasculaire et cérébrovasculaire des femmes que ses efforts de défense des intérêts des patientes et patients ont favorisés. Après avoir subi un AVC cérébelleux rare à 48 ans et été confrontée à des retards dans le diagnostic et les soins, elle est devenue une ardente militante en matière d’autonomie sociale, d’engagement des patientes et patients et d’équité dans la recherche et les politiques sur l’AVC. Sharon est une bénévole communautaire dévouée qui a participé à de nombreux projets de recherche comme patiente partenaire, siégé à divers comités scientifiques et d’engagement des patientes et patients à l’échelle nationale, et présenté son point de vue à titre de conférencière principale et de plénière aux principaux forums canadiens. Son leadership et son militantisme continuent de faire progresser la sensibilisation, la recherche et les mesures prises pour améliorer la santé des femmes qui vivent avec les séquelles d’un AVC au pays.
 
Tenue pour la première fois en 2021, la conférence Nieboer a été nommée en l’honneur de Louise et Frank Nieboer, tous deux des militants se passionnant pour l’amélioration des systèmes de soins, des services et du soutien qui aident les personnes vivant avec les séquelles d’un AVC à mener une vie satisfaisante où elles jouent un rôle actif.
 
La conférence Nieboer et la conférence Hnatyshyn seront présentées dans le cadre du Congrès canadien de l’AVC, qui se tiendra les 24 et 25 mai 2026 à Banff, en Alberta.  
 
Apprenez-en davantage au sujet de Sharon ici : Nouvelles | Fondation des maladies du cœur et de l’AVC
 
Et joignez-vous à nous au Congrès canadien de l’AVC en mai! https://strokecongress.canadianstroke.ca/fr/

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2026 Stroke Recovery & Rehabilitation Fellowship Competition

Funding competition to support the training of future physical medicine and rehabilitation (PM&R) experts in stroke and Vascular Cognitive Impairment (VCI) rehabilitation.

Deadline to submit application: May 15, 2026 17:00 EDT

2026 Post-Doctoral Fellowship Competition

Funding competition to support two StrokeGoRed post-doctoral fellowships focused on sex- and gender-based analysis in stroke

Deadline to submit application: April 2, 2026 16:00 ET

The post NEW Funding Opportunities appeared first on CanStroke Recovery Trials.

The program has two streams: 

• Expert Stream (FCSC-RR-E) – a one-year program focused mainly on clinical expertise
• Scholar Stream (FCSC-RR-S) – a two-year program focused on clinical expertise and research

There are one and two year opportunities available at institutions across Canada.  Completion of the program will result in certification as a Fellow of the Canadian Stroke Consortium Recovery and Rehabilitation (FCSC-RR) Program. 

Program launching March 2026.

The post New Fellowship Certification Program appeared first on CanStroke Recovery Trials.

Read more about the well deserved recognition below:

Janice J. Eng, O.C.
Vancouver, British Columbia

Janice Eng is an international leader in neurological rehabilitation. Through her influential research, she has advanced treatments and shaped clinical practice worldwide, notably in the delivery of upper and lower extremity recovery after stroke. She has improved the quality of life for thousands of patients in Canada and beyond.

https://www.gg.ca/en/appointments-order-canada-december-2025

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CANTRAIN (The Canadian Consortium of Clinical Trial Training), in partnership with CAN-TAP-TALENT (the Canadian Training Platform Leveraging Existing Networks), CBITN (the Canadian Behavioural Interventions & Trials Network), and StrokeCog (Innovative Clinical Trials Training Initiatives for STROKE and COGnition), is proud to share the results of the CTTP Studentship/Fellowship Awards Program 2025-26 Competition. With $610,625 in support from co-funders, the clinical trials training platforms (CTTPs) have awarded over $2.1 million in funding to 79 clinical research-focused graduate and postdoctoral awardees, including 24 post-doctoral fellows, 35 doctoral candidates, and 20 master’s degree students.

Learn more here:

NEWS RELEASE (English)

NEWS RELEASE (French)

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The Dale Corbett Translational Award was established to honour Dr. Dale Corbett, a visionary leader in stroke recovery research for more than 40 years. Dr. Corbett pioneered innovative, evidence-based approaches to rehabilitation—particularly in defining optimal exercise dosing, neuroplasticity, and translational therapeutics that bridge laboratory discoveries to real-world clinical practice.

This award celebrates Dr. Corbett’s lifelong commitment to advancing stroke recovery science and mentoring future leaders in the field. The inaugural Dale Corbett Translational Lectureship was presented in 2024 to Dr. Corbett himself. The next award will be presented at the Canadian Stroke Congress, to be held May 24–25, 2026 in Banff, Alberta, hosted by the CanStroke Recovery Trials Platform in collaboration with the StrokeCog Clinical Trials Training Platform.

Award Description

The Dale Corbett Translational Award recognizes a researcher or clinician who has made an exceptional contribution to translational stroke recovery science—advancing discoveries from basic or pre-clinical research through to clinical practice, programs, or policies that improve outcomes for people affected by stroke.

• The recipient will deliver the Dale Corbett Translational Lecture as a featured plenary at the 2026 Canadian Stroke Congress.
• The awardee will receive a formal certificate of recognition jointly signed by the partner organizations.
• Travel and accommodation expenses for the selected lecturer will be provided by the CanStroke Recovery Trials Platform and StrokeCog Clinical Trials Training Platform.
• No monetary prize is attached to this award.

Eligibility and Selection Criteria

Nominees should demonstrate:

• A sustained record of research excellence in translational stroke recovery science.
• Proven impact in bridging pre-clinical and clinical research, resulting in improved rehabilitation approaches, therapeutics, or patient outcomes.
• Leadership in mentorship, training collaboration, and knowledge translation across the stroke recovery spectrum.
• Alignment with Dr. Corbett’s legacy of innovation, collaboration, and mentorship.
  

Eligibility

• Open to researchers and clinicians in Canada (or internationally) whose work has directly advanced stroke recovery within Canada.
• Self-nominations will not be accepted.
• The nominee must be available to present the lecture in person at the Canadian Stroke Congress 2026 in Banff, Alberta.

Submission Process

All nominations must be submitted electronically to: farrell.leibovitch@sunnybrook.ca

Required materials:
1. Name, title, affiliation, and contact information of both nominator and nominee.
2. A ≤500-word statement describing the nominee’s contributions, translational impact, and why they merit recognition.
3. Minimum 2 letters of support (max 500 words each) from peers or collaborators highlighting impact and leadership.

Timelines

For more information, visit www.canadianstroke.ca or contact farrell.leibovitch@sunnybrook.ca

Prix Dale Corbett pour la recherche translationnelle — Appel à candidatures 2026

Contexte

Le prix Dale Corbett pour la recherche translationnelle a été créé en l’honneur du Dr Dale Corbett, un visionnaire dans la recherche sur le rétablissement post-AVC depuis plus de 40 ans. Le Dr Corbett a été le pionnier d’approches innovantes et fondées sur des preuves en matière de rétablissement – notamment en déterminant la quantité optimale d’exercices de réadaptation à prescrire, et au niveau de la neuroplasticité et des traitements thérapeutiques translationnels qui font le lien entre les découvertes en laboratoire et la pratique clinique concrète.

Ce prix récompense l’engagement constant du Dr Corbett en faveur du progrès de la science dans le domaine du rétablissement post-AVC et de l’accompagnement des futurs chefs de file dans ce champ. La première conférence Dale Corbett pour la recherche translationnelle a été présentée en 2024 par le Dr Corbett lui-même. Le prochain prix sera remis durant le Congrès Canadian Stroke, organisé par la plateforme CanStroke Essais post-AVC en collaboration avec la plateforme de formation en essais cliniques StrokeCog, qui se tiendra les 24 et 25 mai 2026 à Banff en Alberta.

Description du prix

Le prix Dale Corbett pour la recherche translationnelle reconnaît un chercheur ou un clinicien qui a apporté une contribution exceptionnelle à la science translationnelle dans le domaine du rétablissement post-AVC en faisant progresser les découvertes issues de la recherche fondamentale ou préclinique vers une pratique clinique, des programmes ou des politiques qui améliorent les résultats pour les personnes touchées par l’AVC.

• Le lauréat prononcera la conférence Dale Corbett pour la recherche translationnelle durant une séance plénière lors du Congrès Canadian Stroke 2026.
• Le lauréat recevra un certificat officiel de reconnaissance cosigné par les organisations partenaires.
• Les dépenses de déplacement et d’hébergement pour le conférencier sélectionné seront couvertes par la plateforme CanStroke Essais post-AVC et la plateforme de formation en essai clinique StrokeCog. 
• Ce prix n’est assorti d’aucune récompense financière. 

Critères d’admissibilité et de sélection

Les candidats doivent démontrer :

• Une excellence soutenue en matière de recherche en science translationnelle dans le domaine du rétablissement post-AVC.
• Un impact avéré dans le rapprochement entre la recherche préclinique et clinique se traduisant par une amélioration des approches de rétablissement, des traitements thérapeutiques ou des résultats pour les patients.
• Un leadership en matière de mentorat, de collaboration au niveau de la formation et de transmission des connaissances dans le spectre du rétablissement post-AVC.
• Une compréhension de l’héritage du Dr Corbett en matière d’innovation, de collaboration et de mentorat.

Admissibilité

• Ouvert aux chercheurs et aux cliniciens du Canada (ou de l’international) dont le travail a directement fait progresser le rétablissement post-AVC au Canada.
• Les candidats ne peuvent pas se nommer eux-mêmes.
• Les candidats doivent être disponibles pour présenter une conférence en personne lors du Congrès Canadian Stroke 2026 à Banff en Alberta.

Processus de candidature

Toutes les candidatures doivent être envoyées par voie électronique à : farrell.leibovitch@sunnybrook.ca

Matériel requis :
1. Nom, titre, affiliation et coordonnées de la personne qui propose le candidat et du candidat.
2. Un énoncé de plus ou moins 500 mots décrivant les contributions du candidat, l’impact de ses recherches translationnelles et les raisons pour lesquelles il mérite cette reconnaissance.
3. Au moins 2 lettres de soutien (max. 500 mots chacune) provenant de paires ou de collaborateurs qui mettent en lumière l’impact et le leadership du candidat.

Échéancier

Pour plus d’informations, consultez www.canadianstroke.ca ou contactez farrell.leibovitch@sunnybrook.ca

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Hnatyshyn Lecture 2026
Call for nominations: Hnatyshyn Lecture 2026

Heart & Stroke in collaboration with the Canadian Stroke Consortium, CanStroke Recovery Trials Platform and the Canadian Neurological Sciences Federation are excited to announce nominations are now open for the 2026 Hnatyshyn Lecture. This prestigious lectureship recognizes a healthcare professional who has made a significant and positive impact in the field of stroke and brain health. It is open to experts working in any discipline across stroke research, practice, and health systems in Canada, and whose contribution has taken place over a period of time or is a significant innovation in clinical management, systems, technologies, products, programs, or policies.For 2026, this lecture will take place during the Canadian Stroke Congress, being held in Banff, Alberta on May 23-26, 2026. This Congress is hosted jointly by CanStroke Recovery Trials Platform and the StrokeCog Clinical Trials Training Platform.  

Nominate a stroke professional who has made a significant contribution to Stroke in Canada.

If you know someone deserving of this important recognition, please consider nominating them. Self-nominations will not be accepted. More information including the selection criteria and submission process is available on the Canadian Stroke Best Practices website – Learn more

Nominations close on Monday, December 15th, 2025 at end of business day.
Please share this announcement across the stroke community in Canada. Please submit your nominations and any questions regarding this lectureship to Laurie Charest at laurie.charest@heartandstroke.ca .

Nieboer Lecture 2026
Call for nominations: Nieboer Lecture 2026

Nominate extraordinary individuals who have been touched by stroke.

Named in honour of Louise and Frank Nieboer, this lecture will acknowledge outstanding members of the stroke community who have directly experienced or been impacted by stroke, and who have selflessly turned their personal experiences into a mission to help others travelling a similar journey.

Louise was an incredible role model who experienced a stroke at the age of 32. Alongside her husband, Frank, they advocated passionately for improved systems of care, services and support that help people living with stroke to pursue meaningful, engaged lives.

For 2026, this lecture will take place during the Canadian Stroke Congress, being held in Banff, Alberta on May 23-26, 2026. This Congress is hosted jointly by CanStroke Recovery Trials Platform and the StrokeCog Clinical Trials Training Platform.  

Recognize someone who has made a difference in the lives of people living with stroke in Canada.

The Nieboer Lecture is awarded to an individual, couple or family who has made a significant, sustained, and positive impact on stroke recovery, stroke systems of care and/or support for people with lived experience of stroke in Canada.

If you know someone deserving of this important recognition, please consider nominating them. Self-nominations will not be accepted. 
More information including the selection criteria and submission process is available on the Canadian Stroke Best Practices website – Learn more 

Nominations close on Monday, December 15th, 2025 at end of business day.

Please share this announcement across the stroke community in Canada.

Please submit your nominations and any questions regarding this lectureship to Laurie Charest at laurie.charest@heartandstroke.ca .

Conférence Hnatyshyn de 2026
Appel de candidatures : conférence Hnatyshyn de 2026

Cœur + AVC, en collaboration avec le Consortium Neurovasculaire Canadien, la plateforme CanStroke Essais post-AVC et la Fédération des sciences neurologiques du Canada, est heureuse d’annoncer que le processus d’appel de candidatures pour la conférence Hnatyshyn de 2026 est maintenant lancé.Cette prestigieuse conférence récompense une professionnelle ou un professionnel de la santé ayant eu une incidence positive importante dans le domaine des soins de l’AVC et de la santé cérébrale. L’appel de candidatures s’adresse aux spécialistes travaillant dans toutes les disciplines de la recherche, de la pratique et des systèmes de santé liés à l’AVC au pays, et dont la contribution s’est échelonnée sur une certaine période ou constitue une innovation remarquable en matière de prise en charge clinique, de systèmes, de technologies, de produits, de programmes ou de politiques.En 2026, la conférence sera présentée dans le cadre du Congrès canadien de l’AVC qui se tiendra à Banff, en Alberta, du 23 au 26 mai 2026. Celui-ci est organisé conjointement par la plateforme CanStroke Essais post-AVC et la plateforme de formation clinique StrokeCog.  

Proposez la candidature d’une ou d’un spécialiste de l’AVC qui a apporté une contribution importante au domaine de l’AVC au pays.

Si vous connaissez une personne qui mérite cette reconnaissance majeure, n’hésitez pas à proposer sa candidature. Il n’est pas autorisé de poser sa propre candidature. De plus amples renseignements, y compris les critères de sélection et le processus de dépôt de candidature, se trouvent sur le site Web des Pratiques optimales de soins de l’AVC au Canada – En savoir plus

Les candidatures sont acceptées jusqu’au lundi 15 décembre 2025 à la fermeture des bureaux.Nous vous prions de diffuser cette annonce dans la communauté de l’AVC au pays.Veuillez présenter vos candidatures et transmettre toute question au sujet de cette conférence à Laurie Charest à l’adresse laurie.charest@heartandstroke.ca.

Conférence Nieboer de 2026

Proposez la candidature de personnes extraordinaires qui ont été touchées par l’AVC
Nommée en l’honneur de Louise et Frank Nieboer, cette conférence reconnaîtra des personnes exceptionnelles qui ont subi un AVC ou dont une ou un proche en a subi un, et qui ont transformé avec altruisme leur expérience en une mission visant à aider d’autres gens au parcours similaire.Louise, qui a subi un AVC à l’âge de 32 ans, était un modèle incroyable. Aux côtés de son mari Frank, elle a milité avec passion pour l’amélioration des systèmes de soins, des services et du soutien qui aident les personnes vivant avec les séquelles d’un AVC à mener une vie satisfaisante dans laquelle elles jouent un rôle actif.En 2026, la conférence sera présentée dans le cadre du Congrès canadien de l’AVC qui se tiendra à Banff, en Alberta, du 23 au 26 mai 2026. Celui-ci est organisé conjointement par la plateforme CanStroke Essais post-AVC et la plateforme de formation clinique StrokeCog. 

Soulignez la contribution d’une personne qui a changé la vie des gens vivant avec les séquelles d’un AVC au pays.

L’honneur de présenter la conférence Nieboer revient à une personne, un couple ou une famille qui a eu une incidence considérable, durable et positive sur le rétablissement après un AVC, les systèmes de soins de l’AVC ou le soutien aux personnes ayant une expérience vécue de l’AVC au Canada.Si vous connaissez une personne qui mérite cette reconnaissance majeure, n’hésitez pas à proposer sa candidature. Il n’est pas autorisé de poser sa propre candidature. De plus amples renseignements, y compris les critères de sélection et le processus de dépôt de candidature, se trouvent sur le site Web des Pratiques optimales de soins de l’AVC au Canada – En savoir plus.

Les candidatures sont acceptées jusqu’au lundi 15 décembre 2025 à la fermeture des bureaux.Nous vous prions de diffuser cette annonce dans la communauté de l’AVC au pays.Veuillez présenter vos candidatures et transmettre toute question au sujet de cette conférence à Laurie Charest à l’adresse laurie.charest@heartandstroke.ca.

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You can read the articles here:

Simpson LA, Barclay R, Bayley MT, et al. A Randomized Control Trial of a Virtually Delivered Program for Increasing Upper Limb Activity After Stroke. Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair. 2024;39(3):179-189. doi:10.1177/15459683241303702

De Las Heras B, Rodrigues L, Cristini J, et al. Investigating the Acute and Chronic Effects of Cardiovascular Exercise on Brain-Derived Neurotrophic Factor in Early Subacute Stroke. Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair. 2025;39(8):653-665. doi:10.1177/15459683251342150

Rodrigues L, Moncion K, De Las Heras B, et al. Modulating Brain Excitability with Cardiovascular Exercise in Chronic Stroke: A Randomized Controlled Trial. Neurorehabilitation and Neural Repair. 2025;39(10):801-813. doi:10.1177/15459683251351883

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The first article describes the CAMAROS (Canadian Maraviroc Randomized Controlled Trial To Augment Rehabilitation Outcomes After Stroke) trial, a multi-centre cross Canada study investigating whether the drug Maraviroc can enhance neuroplasticity and extend the window for brain recovery following stroke. The Calgary team is one of several partners contributing to this trial, which builds on previous preclinical and clinical observational evidence that targeting the CCR5 receptor may help the brain repair itself more effectively. CAMAROS is currently recruiting directly out of in-patient and out-patient rehabilitation units across 15 sites.

The second article highlights a the recent clinical trial looking at transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) combined with intensive speech therapy for patients with post-stroke aphasia. Led by Dr. Dukelow’s team, this study suggests that TMS may help restore more efficient language networks, even months after the initial injury. Future clinical trials will look to explore this on a larger scale.

Together, these projects demonstrate how advances in neuroscience are challenging older assumptions that recovery after stroke is strictly limited. Instead, emerging evidence points to the brain’s capacity for meaningful reorganization when supported by targeted, evidence-based interventions.

We are grateful to the patients and families who partner with us in this research, and to the dedicated team of clinicians, scientists, and collaborators who are working to expand what is possible in stroke recovery.

Read more in The New York Times:

A Pill to Heal the Brain Could Revolutionize Neuroscience

3 Psychiatric Tools That Could Boost the Brain’s Natural Healing

Low, Trevor A., et al. “Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Combined With Multimodality Aphasia Therapy for Chronic Poststroke Aphasia: A Randomized Clinical Trial.” Neurology 104.6 (2025): e213424.

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Congratulations to the four inaugural winners of the CanStroke Excellence in Clinical Trials Research Award! This award was launched to recognize the outstanding impact of CanStroke team members and their commitment to improving trial performance, participant engagement, leadership, and collaboration.

Learn more about the winners below:

Qiao Zhang, University of Calgary

Describe your career journey and what brought you to your current position with CanStroke Recovery Trials.

My career in stroke clinical research began over a decade ago. Since then, I’ve had the privilege of working on numerous international phase II and III stroke trials, gaining extensive experience in protocol development, data management, site management, and patient engagement.

Currently, I serve as the Senior Manager, Clinical Trials at the Calgary Stroke Program & Stroke Clinical Trials Group, where I lead the implementation and oversight of stroke-related studies. This includes CAMAROS, part of the CanStroke Recovery Trials network. I’m proud to be part of a collaborative initiative that is driving innovation in stroke recovery across Canada and beyond.

What is your favourite part of working with CanStroke Recovery Trials?

What I value most about working with CanStroke Recovery Trials is the strong spirit of collaboration and shared commitment across the network. Being part of a national initiative that brings together researchers, clinicians, and coordinators from diverse backgrounds creates a dynamic environment where ideas are exchanged freely, and innovation is encouraged. I especially appreciate the opportunity to contribute to studies like CAMAROS, which have the potential to make a meaningful difference in the lives of stroke survivors. It’s deeply rewarding to be part of a team that is dedicated to advancing stroke recovery across Canada.

What are the most important qualities to have when working as part of a clinical trials team?

Success in a clinical trials team relies heavily on several key qualities. First and foremost is attention to detail, as accuracy in data collection, documentation, and adherence to protocols is essential for maintaining the integrity of the trial and ensuring participant safety. Equally important is strong communication—clear, timely, and respectful interactions among team members, investigators, and participants are vital for smooth operations and effective problem-solving. Lastly, collaboration plays a central role; clinical trials are inherently team-based, and the ability to work cooperatively with individuals from diverse disciplines fosters a productive and supportive research environment.

What advice do you have for someone interested in working as part of a clinical trials team?

It is essential to develop strong organizational skills and maintain a high level of attention to detail—both are critical for preserving data integrity and ensuring patient safety throughout the course of a clinical trial. Another essential ability is to communicate effectively and work collaboratively; clinical trials are inherently team-based, and success depends on seamless coordination among professionals from diverse disciplines.

It is also important to remain mindful of the broader impact of your work. Each trial contributes to the advancement of medical knowledge and the improvement of patient outcomes. Keeping this purpose at the forefront can be both motivating and deeply rewarding.

Marissa Sobey, University of Calgary

Describe your career journey and what brought you to your current position with CanStrokeRecovery Trials.

Starting with my educational training, my Bachelor of Science and Master of Neuroscience, focused on understanding the brain from a pre-clinical perspective. I was a basic scientist, keen to learn about bio-cellular functioning. With over 6 years of basic research training, I felt like I had a solid foundation. However, I have immense appreciation for both basic and clinical fields. Post-grad, I was ready to switch gears to clinical research, and subsequently spent time working at biotech startups, in the biotechnology sector, and in other clinical fields.

Currently, I have been a Research Coordinator with the Calgary Stroke Program and Clinical Trials Group for over 1.5 years. I have had the privilege of facilitating international clinical trials. I felt ready to take on another clinical trial and was given the opportunity to concurrently work with CanStroke Recovery Trials. I feel fortunate to work for both teams and see the caliber and quality of the research yield results. I was particularly drawn to working with CanStrokeRecovery Trials as I wanted to be involved in Canadian-specific clinical trials and learn more about post-stroke recovery. Now, as also the Central Site Coordinator for the CAMAROS trial (The Canadian Maraviroc Randomized Controlled Trial TovAugment Rehabilitation Outcomes After Stroke), I am responsible for managing new and current site activities. Overall, CanStrokeis committed to clinical trials for recovery. I now work on both acute and rehabilitation stroke clinical trials, covering the scope of stroke. It’s invaluable to promote scientific research across Canada and know that we are making strides for rehabilitation research, which will ultimately have an impact on patients globally. 

What is your favourite part of working with CanStroke Recovery Trials?

The CanStroke Recovery Trials team! Everyone, from the sites to the internal teams, were genuinely kind and welcoming when I joined CanStroke Recovery Trials in November 2024.  Without having such a hard-working group of individuals, clinical trials like CAMAROS, would not be possible. It takes a collective of determined individuals to make research at hospitals across the country successful.

What are the most important qualities to have when working as part of a clinical trials team?

There are a few important qualities that I have relied on when doing my clinical trials work. The first being not underestimating the value of connection within communication. Your coworkers should look forward to talking to you. Make your workplace a space that is enjoyable, make a witty joke- hopefully, it lands! Get a coffee with your coworker, and you’ll see how much more you’ll get done. Secondly, in terms of hard skills, organization is a key factor for success in managing clinical trial sites. For me, I keep my clinical trials separated by a colour system- it’s pretty and effective. Lastly, transparency and initiative, which in my mind go hand-in-hand. There is so much behind the scenes that happens when running a clinical trial. Whether it is site activation processes, regulatory guidelines, legal contracts and negotiations, insurance, etc., you won’t know it all. Be transparent with your team on areas for learning and take initiative for the next steps.  

What advice do you have for someone interested in working as part of a clinical trials team?

I highly recommend working in clinical trials as a rewarding career! My advice to someone looking to get into clinical trials is that the journey to the end goal is often not linear. Do not discredit other avenues of work or jobs you may have had to get prior to getting your foot in the door. Before my time as a Research Coordinator, I was a snowboard instructor, and the skills of leadership, public speaking, and giving instruction have made it comfortable for me to do so in front of executive teams regularly. Pull from past experiences and let your unique CV shine; you don’t necessarily have to have all the credentials to get the job!

Melanie Dunlop, Dalhousie University

Describe your career journey and what brought you to your current position with CanStroke Recovery Trials.

I have worked as a Nurse Practitioner in Acquired Brain Injury services in Halifax, Nova Scotia, since 2015. My involvement with CanStroke began in 2018, when I stepped in as site coordinator on short notice. Initially, I expected this to be a temporary “back-up” role, but I quickly came to love being part of the CanStroke platform and team.  Since then, I have been proud to serve as a member of CanStroke Halifax, helping to coordinate the FLOW, ARM, TRAIL PROOF, TRAIL, CAMAROS, and ORDER studies. 

What is your favourite part of working with CanStroke Recovery Trials?

As both a clinician and a coordinator, I value seeing the impact of CanStroke research on our site and our patients. The ARM study, in particular, introduced the Nova Scotia Rehabilitation Center to wearable activity devices, which later informed a grant proposal to integrate them into practice. Collaborating with clinicians, patients, and researchers and witnessing research and health care come together to improve patient outcomes, has been especially rewarding.

What are the most important qualities to have when working as part of a clinical trials team?

I would highlight compassion, adaptability, and strong organizational skills.

What advice do you have for someone interested in working as part of a clinical trials team?

I would recommend starting by taking available courses and attending presentations by clinical trials team members. Attending journal clubs and completing the CanTrain education program are also great first steps. At Nova Scotia Health, this training is accessible to all clinicians. From there, look for opportunities to gradually get involved in research based on your comfort level.

Jill Williamson, University of British Columbia Okanagan

Describe your career journey and what brought you to your current position with CanStroke Recovery Trials.

I began my career trained in bench laboratory science with UBC Vancouver and the BC Centre for Disease Control, with a focus on public health and the epidemiology of emerging infectious diseases. Very early on, I recognized the gap between discoveries made at the bench and their translation into tangible, positive impacts for patient populations. This realization shaped my career path, fueling my passion for bridging the divide between research and real-world health outcomes.

Over time, I have built my professional focus around merging rigorous research with community health, ensuring that scientific advances not only move forward in theory but also reach and benefit the people who need them most. This commitment to patient-centered impact ultimately brought me to my current role with CanStroke Recovery Trials, where I can contribute to advancing innovative rehabilitation research and improving recovery outcomes for people living with stroke.

With the growth of the UBC Okanagan campus I was able to relocate back to my home community, joining the Okanagan Stroke Research Lab, lead by Dr. Brodie Sakakibara, at the Centre for Chronic Disease and Prevention Management.  Using innovative virtual methods our lab is committed to increasing the accessibility and inclusivity of clinical research trials to the rural populations.  I am entering my 3^rd year in my current role, having had the privilege of seeing our team and the reach of our work increase exponentially. 

What is your favourite part of working with CanStroke Recovery Trials? 

 My favorite part of this role is bringing together the “puzzle pieces” contributed by our research team and seeing the real impact on participants’ lives. I have the privilege of working closely with individuals in their recovery journeys—hearing their stories, sharing in their fears and joys, laughing together, and sometimes working through tears. The most rewarding moments are when participants tell me about the milestones that truly matter after they have completed one of our trials: regaining the confidence to go on a cruise with their spouse because their balance has improved, finding the courage to take a long-dreamed kayaking trip post-stroke, or simply being able to stand up from a wheelchair to clean up a spilled glass of milk without relying on their partner. These stories are the most meaningful return on my work, and they remind me daily why this research matters.

What are the most important qualities to have when working as part of a clinical trials team?

 Working effectively as part of a clinical trials team requires flexibility, patience, and resourcefulness. It is essential to balance immediate priorities while never losing sight of the broader research goals. By staying adaptable and focused, each team member contributes to the success of the trial and ultimately to tangible, positive outcomes for participants.

What advice do you have for someone interested in working as part of a clinical trials team?

My advice for anyone interested in working as part of a clinical trials team is to always remember that participants and their families are often facing life-changing and deeply emotional experiences that bring fear, worry, anger, or sadness. It is essential to individualize your approach with empathy and recognizing the unique needs and circumstances each participant has. While administrative checklists and scripts provide structure and are a crucial part of the process, they should never overshadow the importance of genuine human connection. Taking the time to listen openly, engage in meaningful conversations, and show compassion often leads to richer, more authentic responses than simply following a form. Above all, recognize that every participant is an equal partner in the research process—the true expert of their own experience—and honor their role in the RCT with the respect it deserves.

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