Dr. Mandy Archibald holds appointments in the College of Nursing and School of Art at the University of Manitoba, as well as the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba (CHRIM). She holds a PhD and BSc in Nursing with Honours from the University of Alberta. She completed her Canadian Institutes of Health Research Postdoctoral Fellowship at Flinders University.

Dr. Archibald serves as an Associate Editor for the Journal of Mixed Methods Research and the International Journal of Multiple Research Approaches. Her work focuses on innovations in family-centered and applied health research using mixed methods, arts-based and knowledge translation science.

Dr. Archibald joined the MMSF board in 2022.

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Dr. Glen Bergeron, a professor and athletic therapist at the Faculty of Kinesiology and Applied Health at the University of Winnipeg, is a leader in the field of athletic therapy. With degrees from the University of Manitoba and the University of Alberta, Dr. Bergeron has dedicated his career to the prevention and care of sports injuries alongside concussion research. His contributions to his field have been recognized with awards such as the World Federation of Athletic Training and Therapy Achievement Award and induction into the Canadian Athletic Therapists Association Hall of Fame.

Dr. Bergeron has served on the MMSF board since 2012 and is the current chair of the Public Relations Committee. He brings a passion for networking with peers and adjudicating research applications, enjoying the diverse expertise that comes through the MMSF board. His previous roles include interim dean and associate dean of the Faculty of Kinesiology and Applied Health, and president of both the World Federation of Athletic Training and Therapy and the Canadian Athletic Therapists Association, highlighting his leadership and commitment to advancing his profession.

Dr. Sharon Bruce joined the MMSF board in 2025.

Thomas Bryk, chair of the board for Manitoba Blue Cross, brings a wealth of expertise in finance, accounting and governance to the MMSF board, where he has served since 2021.

A distinguished figure in the financial sector, Mr. Bryk was previously president and CEO at Cambrian Credit Union, steering the institution toward significant milestones. His commitment to the MMSF board is driven by a desire to foster the development of community-based researchers, believing in the transformative impact of local scientific inquiry. His notable acumen in fiscal management and organizational governance significantly enhances the board’s capabilities.

While his professional pursuits are rooted in finance, Mr. Bryk maintains a personal passion for wine. His keen interest in oenology, though he jests about its omission from official publications, underscores his appreciation for the nuanced arts of wine exploration, tasting and collection.

Dr. Peter A. Cattini is a professor of Physiology and Pathophysiology at the University of Manitoba. He holds Doctor of Philosophy and Bachelor of Science (Hons.) degrees from the University of King’s College, London, and completed postdoctoral training as a NATO Fellow at the University of California, San Francisco. Throughout his career, Dr. Cattini has received numerous awards including the Rh Award for Outstanding Contributions to Scholarship and Research, the MMSF Basic Science Career Development Award, the CIHR Scholarship and Investigator Awards, and the Henry G. Friesen Chair in Endocrine and Metabolic Disorders. Dr. Cattini has been the proud recipient of the Health Science Graduate Students' Association Award for Distinction in Mentorship on three separate occasions.

Dr. Cattini’s research interests focus on neuro-, cardio- and reproductive-endocrinology and specifically metabolic conditions related to obesity, puberty and pregnancy, as well as response to heart injury. His notable past roles include multiple terms as the head of the Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology, associate vice-president of research and first CIHR delegate at the University of Manitoba.

Bringing a wealth of experience in medical research, student training and academic administration, Dr. Cattini has been a member of the MMSF board since 2000, serving as vice-chair, chair of the Nominations Committee, and now board chair since 2023. His commitment to the community and the support of health research in Manitoba are driving forces behind his involvement with MMSF.

Dr. Prashen Chelikani is a professor of oral biology at the Dr. Gerald Niznick College of Dentistry and the director of grants development at the Max Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba. He leads the Manitoba Chemosensory Biology research group and is a scientist with the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba (CHRIM).

Dr. Chelikani earned his Doctor of Philosophy in Microbiology degree from the University of Manitoba in 2004 and completed postdoctoral training as an American Heart Association Fellow at the Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Beginning his independent career in 2007, Dr. Chelikani’s research focuses on taste biology, host-microbe interactions, and associated pathophysiology in oral, autoimmune and airway health and disease. His work spans oral health, cystic fibrosis, taste proteins and food chemosensation, resulting in over 75 peer-reviewed publications and numerous invited talks. He brings extensive experience in research grant peer-review and has secured approximately C$10 million in funding as a principal investigator.

Dr. Chelikani has received several accolades, including being elected a Fellow of the Royal Society of Biology (UK), the Exceptional Achievement in Microbiology Alumni Award from the University of Manitoba, and the Allen Rouse Basic Science Career Award from the MMSF. He also received a New Investigator Award from the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada.

Serving on the MMSF board since 2019, Dr. Chelikani is a member of the Executive and Awards Committees.

Dr. Shyamala Dakshinamurti is a renowned professor of Paediatrics and Physiology at the University of Manitoba and a leading researcher at the Neonatal Pulmonary Biology Lab within the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba. Dr. Dakshinamurti has been recognized for her teaching excellence, earning multiple nominations for the Outstanding Teaching Award at the University of Manitoba College of Medicine. In 2023, she was honoured as the Undergraduate Science Co-op Supervisor of the Year.

Dr. Dakshinamurti joined the MMSF board in 2021 and now serves as vice chair, driven by her personal experience as an MMSF Dr. F.W. DuVal Clinical Research Professorship recipient. Recognizing the pivotal impact of such support on her career as a clinician scientist, she is committed to paying it forward, and continues to honour and promote emerging Manitoba researchers.

Dr. Dakshinamurti excels in translational research and science communication, focusing on neonatal intensive care, mechanical ventilation and cardiorespiratory physiology. Beyond her academic and clinical roles, she has served on various boards, including for Winnipeg Rh Institute Foundation and Prairie Theatre Exchange. Her past appointments include the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba and the Canadian National Perinatal Research Meeting. She continues to make advancements in pulmonary hemodynamics and vascular biology; regularly contributing to improved outcomes in neonatal care.

Benjamin Graham has been a dedicated MMSF board member since 2020, when he was appointed president and chief executive officer of Manitoba Blue Cross. With extensive global experience, he brings particular expertise in medical underwriting models, insurance and risk management.

With extensive global experience, Mr. Graham’s transparent and inclusive leadership style drives business transformation and growth. Committed to fostering collaboration between Manitoba Blue Cross and the MMSF, he continues to explore opportunities for further partnership, reflecting the longstanding support Manitoba Blue Cross has provided to the organization for decades.

Mr. Graham serves on the board of directors of Blue Cross Life and the Canadian Association of Blue Cross Plans and was appointed chair of the Manitoba Hydro board in 2023. He previously served on the board of the Winnipeg Humane Society from 2020 to 2023.

Before arriving in Manitoba in 2018, Mr. Graham held executive positions at QBE Insurance Asia Pacific in Hong Kong; Abu Dhabi National Insurance Company and Deloitte & Touche in the United Arab Emirates; and Protiviti Risk Consulting in Australia. Prior to his current role, he was the CEO of Manitoba Public Insurance.

Mr. Graham holds a master's degree in economics with a focus on quantitative risk management from Monash University and a Bachelor of Political Science from the University of South Wales, both in Australia. He is dedicated to supporting the MMSF’s mission and advancing its impact for years to come.

Mark Gray is a seasoned tax CPA lawyer with a career spanning several decades. He earned his Bachelor of Laws from the University of Manitoba in 1979 and his Manitoba Chartered Accountant designation at Price Waterhouse in 1983, subsequently becoming a tax partner in 1991. In 1994, Mr. Gray co-founded Gray & Brown, an independent consulting firm offering tax and business advisory services. After serving as a principal at Richardson Capital Ltd. from 2007 to 2010, he resumed independent practice.

Mr. Gray has tutored at the Canadian Institute of Chartered Accountants, authored taxation articles and served as an expert witness and arbitrator in various court proceedings. His corporate board experience includes Trillium Health Care Products Ltd., Meadows Golf Club Ltd., Value Creation Inc. and Golden Pocket Resources Ltd. His community involvement includes leadership roles at the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba, the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba and Foundations for Health Inc., earning him awards such as the Children’s Hospital Foundation of Manitoba Teddy Award for Distinguished Service.

Currently, Mr. Gray chairs the Investment Committee of the MMSF, leveraging his 30+ years of financial and legal expertise to advance healthcare research. He joined the board in 2004. Outside of work, he enjoys golf and spending time with his grandchildren. His profound expertise continues to benefit the organizations he serves, reflecting his dedication to the betterment of his community.

Dr. Greg Hammond is the executive director and treasurer of the MMSF, and a distinguished professor at the University of Manitoba in the departments of Internal Medicine and Medical Microbiology/Infectious Diseases. He earned his Bachelor of Science and Master of Surgery degrees from McGill University, and further specialized at the Universities of Alberta, Toronto and Manitoba as well as the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

Dedicated to advancing public health through infectious disease control and research, Dr. Hammond's accolades include the Canadian Infectious Disease Society Janssen/Ortho Distinguished Service Award, the Premier’s Career Achievement Award, and the Doctors Manitoba Health Promotion Award. In 2018, he received the Association of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases (AMMI) Lifetime Achievement Award and was named a Fellow of AMMI in 2022.

An MMSF board director since 1988, Dr. Hammond passionately supports health research development in Manitoba, particularly for young researchers. His roles have included directing the Cadham Provincial Public Health Lab and the LAXUS MB Diagnostic lab network, as well as directing the public health branch and CDC control at Manitoba Health.

Dr. Hammond’s expertise in infectious diseases, virology, vaccines and public health offers vital clinical and community perspectives to the MMSF board. His experience has significantly impacted diagnostic microbiology and population public health, further enriching his role as a leader in the health sector.

The Rev’d Canon Tony Harwood-Jones is an esteemed priest in the Anglican Church of Canada. Raised in Montreal, Tony graduated from McGill University in 1962 with a Bachelor of Arts in English Literature and Music. He later obtained a degree in Theology from Trinity College, Toronto, and was ordained in the Anglican church. Over nearly six decades, he has served various congregations in Winnipeg and had a two-year assignment in the Caribbean.

Tony’s extensive career includes roles such as interim priest at multiple parishes and involvement in various diocesan committees. Since retiring in 2005, he has dedicated himself to voluntary community work, particularly in health research through the MMSF. He has been a director of the MMSF board of directors since 2012 and chaired the Public Relations Committee from 2017 to 2024.

In addition to his clerical duties, Tony is actively involved in community services, including as chaplain for the RCMP Veterans’ Association of Manitoba. His interests include music, reading and photography, reflecting his lifelong passion for learning and creativity.

Tony’s commitment to his faith and community, along with his innate ability to connect with people, continues to make an impact through his work with the MMSF and beyond.

Dr. Kent HayGlass is a professor emeritus in the departments of Immunology and Paediatrics and Child Health at the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences. He obtained his Bachelor of Science (Honours) in chemistry and biology from Queen’s University in 1978 and his Doctor of Philosophy in Immunology from the University of Western Ontario in 1983. Following a postdoctoral fellowship at Harvard University from 1983 to 1985, he served on the faculty at Harvard Medical School.

Since joining the MMSF board in 2011, Dr. HayGlass has been actively involved on the Awards Assessment Committee and as part of the grant review process. His commitment to the MMSF stems from his desire to support junior investigators and contribute to the essential programs that foster their development.

An internationally recognized expert in immunology, particularly in allergies and asthma, Dr. HayGlass has received prestigious awards such as the Canadian Society of Immunology’s Cinader Award and the John Bowman Rh Institute Foundation Award for lifetime scientific achievement, along with several teaching awards. Throughout his career, he successfully secured external peer-reviewed salary support from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research and the Canada Research Chair.

Additional notable past positions include Canada research chair in Immune Regulation, scientific director at the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba and director of the University of Manitoba’s MD/PhD program.

Dr. Josée Lavoie is a professor in the Department of Community Health Sciences at the University of Manitoba. She holds a Bachelor of Science in Nutrition and a Master of Arts in Medical Anthropology from McGill University, as well as a PhD in Health Policy and Financing from the London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine.

Dr. Lavoie has over 30 years of experience working with Indigenous communities in Canada, Australia, New Zealand and others, with a focus on access to responsive primary healthcare in rural and remote communities.

Dr. Lavoie was previously Director, Ongomiizwin Research at the University of Manitoba. A senior scholar, she’s an expert in Indigenous health research, primary healthcare and non-government organizations. She joined the board in 2023.

A board director since 2023, Dr. Neeloffer Mookherjee is a professor within the Departments of Internal Medicine and Immunology at the University of Manitoba. Dr. Mookherjee earned her PhD from the University of Victoria and subsequently completed postdoctoral trainings from Vaccine and Infectious Disease (VIDO) and The University of British Columbia, focused on innate immunity.

Dr. Mookherjee leads an internationally recognized research program defining the immunobiology of regulation of inflammation in chronic disease. Her research group uses various Systems Biology approaches to identify molecular hubs within inflammatory networks that can be targeted for the development of new immunomodulatory therapy, with a focus on asthma and arthritis. Dr. Mookherjee is recognized for her pioneering research on the immunity-related functions of host defence antimicrobial peptides.

Dr. Mookherjee was awarded the inaugural Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR) Sex and Gender Science Chair in Circulatory and Respiratory Health. She is at the forefront of research to examine influence of biological sex in the regulation of inflammation and response to therapy in respiratory disease. Dr. Mookherjee is also the co-lead of a new multidisciplinary research facility, AirSAFE, dedicated to research on the health impacts of air pollution.

Dr. Mookherjee is a strong advocate for women in science. She is the Founding Member and Chair of WISDOM (Women In Science: Development, Outreach and Mentorship) initiative at the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences at the University of Manitoba, which supports the development and leadership of women in science. She is recognized for her excellence and distinction in mentoring academic women in science.

Dr. Mookherjee has received many awards and recognitions. Recently, she was named one of Canada's Most Powerful Women: Top 100 by the Women's Executive Network (WXN) in the STEM category (2024) and received a Kings Charles III Coronation Medal in recognition of her exceptional contributions to lung health research and education in Canada (2025).

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Dr. Susan McClement is an esteemed nursing professional who joined the board in 2009. She serves as honourary secretary and co-chair of the Nominating Committee. She has received numerous accolades, including the Outstanding Administrator Award from the University of Manitoba, and the Graduate Students’ Teaching Award. She was bestowed with the designation of Professor Emerita in 2024. Additionally, she is an honourary member of Havana University Medical School's Academic Committee for Palliative Care.

Formerly the associate dean of research at the University of Manitoba's College of Nursing and director of the Manitoba Centre for Nursing and Health Research, Dr. McClement specializes in palliative nursing care, qualitative research methods, and cancer anorexia-cachexia.

Dr. McClement is dedicated to representing nursing in health disciplines, supporting emerging researchers, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and advancing palliative care and nursing education. Her leadership and contributions continue to make a substantial impact on the field of nursing and the broader health care community, demonstrating her commitment to excellence and innovation.

Mark Neskar is a retired healthcare executive with a distinguished 35-year career in senior administrative roles within Manitoba healthcare facilities. His most recent positions were 10 years as chief executive officer of Seven Oaks General Hospital and three years as chief operating officer of Rana Respiratory Care Group. Mark’s extensive experience includes serving on the board of Manitoba Blue Cross, where he spent the last six years as board chair. Additionally, he was on the board of Blue Cross Life Insurance Company for five years, including serving as chair of the Audit and Risk Committee.

Mark’s commitment to healthcare leadership is further demonstrated by his involvement with various other boards, including the Canadian College of Health Leaders, the Canadian Association of Blue Cross Plans, St. Joseph’s Personal Care Home, Middlechurch Home and the St. Benedict’s Foundation.

Mark has been on the MMSF board since 2015, six years of which were spent as chair of Manitoba Blue Cross. He is currently chair of the Audit Committee. He is a strong advocate for supporting healthcare research in Manitoba and is committed to further strengthening the partnership between Manitoba Blue Cross, the MMSF and the research community. His wealth of experience and passion for health care make him an invaluable asset to the board.

Dr. Lindsay E. Nicolle, professor emeritus at the University of Manitoba’s Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, serves as a consultant in adult infectious diseases for the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority and the Province of Manitoba. She holds Bachelor of Science and Doctor of Medicine degrees and is also a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.

Dr. Nicolle has chaired the Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Manitoba and has extensive experience in healthcare infection control. Her research, with numerous publications, focuses on urinary tract infections, antimicrobial resistance and healthcare-acquired infections.

Dr. Nicolle is a Fellow of several esteemed societies including the Society of Hospital Epidemiologists of America, the Infectious Diseases Society of America, and the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences. She co-founded the Canadian Hospital Epidemiology Commitee in 1993, co-chairing it until 1997. She was a member of the Drug Directorate Expert Advisory Committee on Blood Regulation from 2004 to 2014. Dr. Nicolle was also a member of the Drug Directorate Expert Advisory Committee of the Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health (now Canada Drug Agency) from 2007 to 2012, and chaired that committee from 2012 to 2017.

Dr. Nicolle was the founding editor-in-chief of the Canadian Journal of Infectious Diseases and Medical Microbiology for 20 years and chaired the Infection Control Guidelines steering committee from 1985 to 2005. Her awards include the AMMI Canada Lifetime Achievement Award, the MMSF Scholastic Award, the SHEA Lectureship and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal. Dr. Nicolle has been on the MMSF board since 2018.

Dr. Christine Peschken is a professor of medicine at the University Manitoba, division head of the Section of Rheumatology in the Department of Medicine and a consultant rheumatologist at the Health Sciences Centre.

Dr. Peschken has an MD from the University of Saskatchewan and a Master of Sciences in Epidemiology and Biostatistics from McGill University. She completed her post-graduate research training at McGill University, the University of British Columbia and the Manitoba Centre for Health Policy. She is a Fellow of the Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada.

Dr. Peshken has been a MMSF board director since 2004 and is an expert in clinical research, lupus, epidemiology and rheumatology. Since 2012, she has been the Chair of the Canadian Network for Improved Outcomes in Systemic Lupus Erythematosus. And in 2023, she won the Distinguished Faculty Member Award in the Department of Internal Medicine at the University of Manitoba.

Dr. Grant Pierce, a distinguished professor at the University of Manitoba, has made significant contributions to the field of cardiovascular sciences. With a postdoctoral background from the University of California, Los Angeles, he has authored over 250 peer-reviewed research manuscripts and eight textbooks focusing on metabolism, nutrition and health. His pioneering research on dietary flaxseed as a treatment for cardiovascular diseases positions him at the forefront of medical innovation.

Dr. Pierce's leadership roles include chair of the Executive Review Committee for the Heart and Stroke Foundation of Canada and editor-in-chief of the Canadian Journal of Physiology and Pharmacology. His exemplary service has earned him prestigious recognitions such as the Order of Manitoba, the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal and the Order of Canada. He was the executive director of research at St. Boniface Hospital from 2006 to 2020 and currently serves as the world president of the International Academy of Cardiovascular Sciences.

An elected Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada, Dr. Pierce continues to influence and advance cardiovascular research globally. He has been on the board since 1997.

Dr. Brian Postl is the former dean of the Max Rady College of Medicine, former dean of the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences and former vice-provost (health sciences) at the University of Manitoba. Under his leadership, the colleges of dentistry, medicine, nursing, pharmacy and rehabilitation sciences were united as the Rady Faculty of Health Sciences. A paediatrician for over 40 years, his previous roles at the University included leading the J.A. Hildes Northern Medical Unit (now Ongomiizwin – Health Services).

Dr. Postl was the founding president and chief executive officer for 10 years of the Winnipeg Regional Health Authority and served as chair of Research Manitoba. He is currently a board member of Manitoba Blue Cross and chair of Canadian Blood Services. He has been on the MMSF board since 2024.

He is an advocate for equitable health care for Indigenous communities and has championed equity, diversity and inclusion across the Rady Faculty. He has also led changes to medical school admissions criteria to create a student body that better reflects Manitoba’s diverse population.

In 2012, Dr. Postl received the Order of Manitoba, and in 2020, in recognition of his advancement of clinical and academic health care in Manitoba, he was appointed a member of the Order of Canada.  He was also awarded the 2022 Doctors Manitoba Distinguished Service Award for his esteemed medical career as a paediatrician, researcher and health system leader, and in 2023, he earned the Institute of Corporate Directors Designation (ICD-D).

Dr. Laura Saward is a strategic executive with over 25 years of industry experience in research and drug development, focusing on diverse diseases and fostering innovative solutions. She has served as an adjunct professor in the Department of Medical Microbiology and Infectious Diseases at the University of Manitoba since 2008. As a board director for the MMSF since 2020, she excels at building partnerships across government, academia and healthcare systems. Dr. Saward’s expertise spans transformational leadership, strategic planning and corporate governance, with an emphasis on partnerships and business growth.

Dr. Saward led global business units at Emergent Biosolutions and Cangene Corporation, resulting in the successful licensure of seven novel therapeutics. Through her industry and academic roles, she has contributed to several pandemic preparedness initiatives and led the accelerated development of a COVID-19 therapeutic, securing $50 million for Phase III clinical trials.

Her contributions to pharmaceutical development were recognized with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2021 from the Pharmaceutical Sciences Group. Dr. Saward has served on various non-profit and industry boards including her current roles with the Canadian Biomanufacturing Research PRAIRIE Hub, Women in Science Development Outreach and Mentoring (WISDOM) and the MMSF. In these roles, she mentors the next generation of leaders and works to enhance health care in Manitoba.

Dr. Brian Schmidt, consultant neurologist at Winnipeg’s Health Sciences Centre and professor at the University of Manitoba, has a distinguished career marked by significant academic and clinical achievements. His educational journey includes a degree in medicine from the University of Manitoba and specialized training in neurology from McGill University, along with a research fellowship spanning institutions such as National Institutes of Health (NIH) and the University of California, Los Angeles.

Serving on the MMSF board since 2023 as a member of the Awards Assessment Committee, Dr. Schmidt’s role is influenced by his own early career experiences, having once received critical MMSF support. His contributions are deeply valued, especially his unique bench-to-bedside perspective, which enhances the board’s understanding of medical research.

An expert in movement and spinal cord motor control networks, his research focuses on the neural mechanisms of locomotion. Dr. Schmidt’s career includes roles such as neurology training program director and co-section head of neurology at the University of Manitoba, reflecting his commitment to advancing neurological education and research.

Gordon Webster joined the MMSF board in 2000.

Fiona Webster Mourant, president and chief executive officer of Manrex Ltd., brings to the MMSF board a rich background in leadership and a commitment to health care and community service. Her accolades include multiple Manitoba Women Entrepreneur of the Year awards and recognition as an Ernst & Young Entrepreneur of the Year finalist.

Ms. Webster Mourant’s previous board experiences, including with the Children’s Hospital Foundation and St. Boniface Hospital Research Enterprise Committee, have deepened her understanding of the pivotal role of medical research. Her entrepreneurial expertise and ability to approach problems with a fresh perspective make her an asset to the MMSF board, which she joined in 2024.

Ms. Webster Mourant is particularly passionate about women’s health and child health research, driven by personal experiences as a breast cancer survivor and mother. Her current role on the board allows her to contribute meaningfully while continuing her lifelong pursuit of learning and advocacy in health care.

Dr. Michael West is a distinguished professor emeritus in the Department of Surgery at the University of Manitoba's Max Rady College of Medicine. He holds a Bachelor of Science in Medicine and a Doctor of Medicine degree from the Rady College of Medicine as well as a Doctor of Philosophy degree from the University of Manitoba. Dr. West further received specialty training in neurosurgery at several institutions, including the University of California, San Francisco, and Northwestern University.

Honoured with the Order of Canada and the Order of Manitoba, Dr. West has received numerous accolades such as the Canadian Association of Medical Education Certificate of Merit and the Queen Elizabeth II Diamond Jubilee Medal for contributions to neurosurgery. Serving on the MMSF board since 2020, he chairs the Nominating Committee and participates in both the Awards and Executive Committees.

As a clinical neurosurgeon and basic science researcher, Dr. West has authored numerous papers and conducted cooperative research studies. His expertise includes brain aneurysms, pituitary and skull base tumours and Gamma Knife radiosurgery. He has held leadership roles including associate dean for Postgraduate Medical Education and remained actively involved in medical education and mentoring, with interests in supporting emerging scientists and the impact of aging on medical practice.

Dr. John A. Wilkins is a respected professor emeritus in the Department of Internal Medicine at the Max Rady Faculty of Health Sciences, University of Manitoba. He holds Bachelor of Science (Honours) degrees in biology and chemistry and a master's degree in biology from the University of Waterloo, as well as a Doctor of Philosophy degree in immunology from the University of Manitoba.

Dr. Wilkins has made significant contributions to the fields of immunology, biochemistry, proteomics and systems biology. His work earned him the co-recipient honour of the Natural Science and Engineering Research Council Brockhouse Prize for interdisciplinary research in science and engineering, particularly in biomolecular spectrometry.

Dr. Wilkins joined the MMSF board in 2024, committed to raising awareness of biomedical and life sciences research. He founded the Manitoba Centre for Proteomics in 2000 and directed it until 2006, later directing the Centre for Proteomics and Systems Biology from 2006 to 2021. He has also served as director of research at the Health Sciences Centre in Winnipeg and was on the board of the Health Sciences Centre Foundation. Dr. Wilkins has contributed to various research review panels, including the Canada Foundation for Innovation advisory committee for the University of Manitoba.

His research focuses on the use of high-content methods for analyzing biological and biomedical systems, further exemplifying his commitment to advancing scientific understanding and application.