College of Medicine News - College of Medicine

Dr. Stu Skinner and mobile medicine: Halting syphilis and HIV

Dr. Stu Skinner (MD) knew something was wrong three years ago, when patients started coming to him with vision loss, fever, rashes and meningitis.

College of Medicine educator honoured for teaching excellence and innovation

Dr. Jacqueline Kraushaar (MD), assistant professor and Regina area department lead in the Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, has been recognized with a prestigious teaching award.

"I like to see if we can make things better"

USask graduate Dr. Ron Shore’s (MD’70) creativity and ingenuity has led to innovations in the field of dermatology and golf.

USask master's student: Shaping the future of population health

While working as a pharmacy assistant in rural Saskatchewan, Emilia Gillies witnessed firsthand the gaps within the health-care system, particularly when it came to individuals who experienced substance abuse.

Verge, Yang, Lang honoured as top USask researchers

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) is honouring groundbreaking neuroscientist Dr. Valerie Verge (PhD), a professor in the College of Medicine’s Department of Anatomy, Physiology and Pharmacology, with its top academic honour of Distinguished Researcher. The award will be presented June 5 during Spring Convocation at Merlis Belsher Place.

USask researchers developing non-invasive tool for removing lung cancer tumours

Dr. Chris Zhang (PhD) knows and understands the amount of time it takes to recover from lung cancer surgery.

USask top graduate encourages students to step out of comfort zones

Biomedical neuroscience undergraduate student receives Governor General’s Silver Medal and the University Medal.

Peptide puzzle: Yi-Chun Chen on early markers for diabetes and obesity

Dr. Yi-Chun Chen (PhD) is taking a close-up look at some of the body’s hardest-working cells — the ones often processing an overabundance of modern-day food and nutrients.

Rehabilitation science at USask celebrates 60 years of impact

Today, the University of Saskatchewan (USask) celebrates 60 years of training physical therapists.

USask researchers exploring brain-gut connection in new Alzheimer’s disease treatments

Could a potential treatment for Alzheimer’s disease be sitting in the dairy cooler of your local grocery store?

Pair honoured for outstanding teamwork in pathology residency program

The College of Medicine has recognized an outstanding team from the Department of Pathology and Laboratory Medicine with the 2025 Team Achievement Award.

USask scientists identify vulnerability in cancer cells

SASKATOON – A team of University of Saskatchewan (USask) researchers, using innovative genetic screening, have identified a new target to suppress breast cancer growth.

Teaching award reinforces the importance of work being done at the Regina Campus

Dr. Calvin Tsui recognized for excellence as a medical education teacher with a 2025 Regina Campus Teaching Award.

USask community members to receive the Saskatchewan Order of Merit

Established in 1985, the Order celebrates excellence and achievements by Saskatchewan citizens and is the province’s highest honour

USask-led research program examines Canadian trust in public health

Trust in public health care is vital to its success, and that trust has been tested over the past five years like never before.

Five USask faculty members honoured with distinguished professorship

The honorary title of distinguished professor is an award that celebrates lifetime achievement in research, scholarly, and artistic work. Three University of Saskatchewan (USask) faculty members and two professors emerti were selected to receive the honorary title this year.

In the trenches: Dr. James Stempien on Emergency Medicine

Dr. James Stempien (MD) has navigated some of the most challenging corners of emergency medicine, from the frigid isolation of Inuvik to the bustling corridors of Saskatoon’s emergency departments. His experience in low-tech outposts has shaped his approach to modern emergency care.

Explore the 2025 edition of Connective Issue!

Connective Issue is the College of Medicine's digital magazine

All’s Not Lost: A Roadmap to Treating Hepatitis C on the Prairies

As the world aims to eradicate hepatitis C (HCV) by 2030, Carrielynn Lund and Dr. Alexandra King’s (MD) team created a how-to guide.

Celebrating faculty and staff achievements

Twenty individuals and two teams from across the College of Medicine have been honoured for their outstanding dedication and contributions through the 2025 Faculty and Staff Awards.

'Turning curiosity into action'

Award-winning USask graduate Dr. Monique Simair (BSc’04, PhD’09) has leveraged her passion for science, innovation, and problem-solving into two successful environmental consultancy businesses

Dreams, Determination, and Legacy: Honouring Dr. Geraldine Kurz

In December 2024, the College of Medicine bid farewell to an alumna whose life story reflects determination and ingenuity that will not soon be forgotten. In celebrating Dr. Geraldine Kurz (MD’73), the Alumni and Community Program remembers not only an accomplished physician but also a determined and generous soul who embodied the very spirit of our college community.

Supporting our students

Completing a degree in medicine is a major achievement and a huge responsibility. It requires a significant investment of time, money, and dedication. Support in the form of scholarships, bursaries and awards can be critical in ensuring students have the resources they need to achieve their educational goals.

Standing the Test of Time: Four Decades of the Highlights in Medicine Conference

The College of Medicine invites alumni, former faculty, deans, students, and researchers to join us for the 2025 Highlights in Medicine Conference from June 19 to 21, 2025. The theme is, “Care in Matters of Life and Death: Collaborative learning for the enhancement of patient care in all stages of life and circumstance.” Don’t miss this chance to reconnect, contribute, and celebrate.

College of Medicine strategic achievements

The College of Medicine has concluded its 2017-2025 Strategic Plan. Considerable progress has been made across the seven pillars, including the following highlights:

Margaret Cotton Memorial Bursary

The late Dr. David Cotton’s (MD) legacy lives on through the Margaret Cotton Memorial Bursary, a tribute to the mother who first inspired his journey into medicine.

USask leads $20 million community-centred reproductive health and rights project in Mozambique

Health-care researchers from USask are working on a massive international development project to improve the sexual and reproductive health and rights of girls and young women in Mozambique.

Together, we raised $400,000 for the Regina Campus expansion!

The campaign for the College of Medicine Regina Campus expansion at Regina General Hospital has successfully concluded, raising an incredible $400,000 thanks to the generosity of our donors and alumni.

Health care collaboration: USask’s Master of Physician Assistant Studies program

The Master of Physician Assistant Studies (MPAS) program, offered through the University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) College of Medicine, will welcome its first cohort of students this fall.

Rare Disease Day 2025 spotlights children's health

There are over 7,000 rare diseases worldwide, with more being discovered every year. One in 12 Canadians has a rare disease, with children representing two-thirds of those cases. Unfortunately, the lack of treatment options means that 75 percent of children with a rare disease will not live to see their tenth birthday.

USask research explores role of microproteins in virus replication

Researchers are still discovering more about the fundamental building blocks of human cells and a University of Saskatchewan (USask)-led research project is exploring microproteins and their role in defending against viruses.

Past, present and future: Celebrating 60 years of rehabilitation science at USask

Since its humble beginnings at the Saskatoon airport, the School of Rehabilitation Science at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) has been a cornerstone of high-quality physical therapy education and research for students from across the province.

Holt just what the doctor ordered for Huskies

Dawson Holt knew it would be difficult balancing his ambition to be a physician with his mission to win a championship with the Huskies.

Exercise your right to breathe: Dr. Brianne Philipenko and asthma

Dr. Brianne Philipenko (MD) was midway through her respirology fellowship in Calgary when the COVID-19 pandemic shut down the city.

USask researchers paving the way to better HIV treatments

The human immune deficiency virus (HIV) first entered public consciousness in the early 1980s, after cases of unfamiliar and deadly illnesses began to overwhelm medical centres across North America.

Innovative Hepatitis C Roadmap aims to boost access to care in the Prairies

A new evidence-based resource has been launched to help eliminate hepatitis C as a public health threat in the Prairie provinces.

USask researcher probing AI’s potential for health care

Many clinicians are anticipating the massive wave of impact Artificial Intelligence (AI) will have on the field of medicine. But instead of watching from the shore, Dr. Stephen Lee (MD) is jumping right in.

Giving back in life and death

USask graduate and veterinary toxicologist Dr. Barry Blakley (BSc’70, Sc’71, DVM’75, MSc’77, PhD) made a big impact in his profession and in the classroom. After passing away in March from pancreatic cancer, his legacy continues through ocular donations and student scholarships.

Dr. Sarah Forgie: Why the new Dean of Medicine taught herself the ukulele

In this episode, we catch up with Dr. Sarah Forgie (MD), the new dean of the College of Medicine.

Dr. Kathy Lawrence receives the Ian McWhinney Family Medicine Education Award

Dr. Kathy Lawrence selected as the 2024 Ian McWhinney Family Medicine Education Award winner.

Mutual trust between teacher, student paramount to success

USask Distinguished Teacher Award winner honoured for the recognition.

USask Convocation: Completing a PhD program in a pandemic

For many university students, Fall Convocation represents a culmination of hard work, perseverance and late nights.

USask President’s Medal winner finds purpose in helping others

When she wasn’t studying, Amélia Katherine Gagnon—and her dog—supported students, health-care workers and patients

USask Convocation: From quitting high school to completing PhD

College of Nursing Knowledge Keeper and Indigenous Student Advisor Dr. Kathleen McMullin (PhD) completes doctorate program.

College of Medicine members honoured by the Saskatchewan Medical Association

Four members of the College of Medicine have been recognized with awards from the Saskatchewan Medical Association.

Summer research highlights strength of college’s interdisciplinary research programs

Students in the University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) College of Medicine can participate in a breadth of summer research projects within the college, at both Saskatoon and Regina campuses.

Grey area: Dr. John Howland on cannabis and budding brains

A behavioural neuroscientist in Saskatoon is uncovering important truths about cannabis's effects on fetal brain development.

Town of Canora works with USask to develop RaDAR rural memory clinic

The town of Canora is supporting its rural older adults to live well by developing a local primary care memory clinic delivered by health providers in the community.

Global training fellowship improves care across the globe

A new fellowship at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) is helping address health needs across the world.

The impact of USask research on the future of breast cancer care

A Breast Cancer Awareness Month discussion with Dr. Mita Manna (MD) — University of Saskatchewan (USask) College of Medicine faculty member and medical oncologist.

Innovative USask collaboration helps medical residents develop essential disaster response skills

An ambitious simulation exercise at the University of Saskatchewan Clinical Learning Resource Centre is addressing the need for disaster management curriculum in Canadian emergency medicine residency programs.

Putting patients first

USask graduate and honorary degree recipient Dr. Richard Ehman (BSc’74, MD’79, DSc’00), a Mayo Clinic radiologist and researcher, reflects on his university education and his impactful career in medical imaging.

Young Innovators: USask researchers lead promising advances in MS treatments

New treatments for promoting nerve cells regrowth in those with Multiple Sclerosis (MS) are inviting optimism after pre-clinical trials at the University of Saskatchewan (USask).

Alumnus receives USask Lifetime Achievement Award

Dr. Jim Dosman (BA'59, MD'63, MA'69) has been recognized with a 2024 University of Saskatchewan (USask) Lifetime Achievement Award.

Renowned USask researcher named Canadian Academy of Health Sciences fellow

A top University of Saskatchewan (USask) health researcher renowned for her work in Indigenous wellness is now a fellow of the Canadian Academy of Health Sciences (CAHS).

New USask research into aging-related cell damage receives CIHR funding

Everybody ages – but new research at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) is exploring both how aging damages cells and how that aging might be countered.

Nourishing Minds: Dr. Rachel Engler-Stringer’s Vision for a New Approach to School Meals

What if a key to improving children's health and learning outcomes lies in the food they eat at school?

USask’s College of Medicine launches Master of Physician Assistant Studies program

SASKATOON – Applications open this fall for the new Master of Physician Assistant Studies program (MPAS) that begins next year in the College of Medicine at the University of Saskatchewan (USask). The program, one of the few of its kind in Canada, will begin in September 2025 with a cohort of 20 learners.

New potential target to kill cancer cells identified by USask researchers

A team of University of Saskatchewan (USask) researchers believe that iron metabolism could be targeted to treat an aggressive form of cancer.

Driving MS Research Forward in Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan Health Research Foundation (SHRF) and MS Canada’s $599,000 Investment.

Innovating and bridging gaps in IBD care: Dr. Juan-Nicolás Peňa-Sánchez

Even as a teenager, Dr. Juan-Nicolás Peña-Sánchez (MD, PhD) could see stark differences in health for those who had medical coverage — and those without, thanks to his stepfather, an emergency department physician.

USask researcher secures CIHR funding for groundbreaking work on histamine and emerging pathogens

Understanding the interactions between microbes and their hosts can lead to new therapeutic strategies for major bacterial threats.

Organoid research key to exploring relationship between Crohn’s and mental health

The answers to a crucial connection between the gut and the brain of individuals dealing with Crohn’s disease might lie in tiny, lab-grown brain and intestine organoids at the University of Saskatchewan (USask).

Kinesiology students bring impact to West Winds Primary Health Centre

University of Saskatchewan (USask) kinesiology students are gaining real-life experience working as part of a health care team at West Winds Primary Health Centre in Saskatoon, SK.

SHA announces expansion plans for pediatric gastroenterology

The Government of Saskatchewan and Saskatchewan Health Authority (SHA) have announced the recruitment of pediatric gastroenterologist Dr. Rabin Persad, who will begin practicing in Saskatchewan this fall. He will also serve as a faculty member in the College of Medicine.

USask farm shoulder study shows research in action at Ag in Motion

The Canadian Centre for Rural and Agricultural Health (CCRAH) at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) partnered with industry to conduct much-needed research at the annual Ag in Motion outdoor agricultural show.

New leader for Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology

Dr. Linda Chelico (PhD) is the new head of the College of Medicine’s Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology.

Cuts Like a NanoKnife: Dr. Mike Moser

"When I got into medical school, the last thing in the world I wanted to be was a surgeon because I couldn't stand the sight of blood," said Dr. Mike Moser (MD).

New USask-RUH cardiology pilot project saving time and muscle

Life-saving technology speeds heart attack response times.

New dean brings a people focus to USask’s College of Medicine

A pediatrician, scholar, and esteemed educator, Dr. Sarah Forgie (MD) is the new dean of the University of Saskatchewan’s (USask) College of Medicine.

It's personal for donor Jim Berry

Retired Math Teacher Supports Dr. Ron Geyer’s Alzheimer’s Research

Walking the Talk: Dr. Daniel Fuller on Urban Health and Mobility

As an undergrad, Dr. Daniel Fuller (PhD) didn’t have a car, nor was he keen on taking the bus.

The Keegans: One family’s generational impact on medicine

In the alumni ranks of the College of Medicine, certain narratives stand out, not only for the achievements earned, but for the familial bonds that intertwine graduating classes.

$8.1 million for first of their kind health care training programs in Saskatchewan

Saskatchewan students will soon have more opportunities to train at home through two new domestic health care programs.

Building a culture of appreciation at the College of Medicine

The College of Medicine is celebrating the staff and faculty recipients of its 2023-24 college awards.

USask researchers receive more than $8.3 million in NSERC funding

Researchers from across the University of Saskatchewan (USask) have received funding for a variety of creative and innovative projects through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC) Discovery Grants program.

Anatomy of Success: Three Researchers, Three Grants, One Goal

From the laboratory to saving lives, this episode brings together three outstanding researchers from the University of Saskatchewan’s Department of Anatomy, Physiology, and Pharmacology (APP) as they discuss their work and its implications for cardiac care.

Gold Medal grad inspired to serve others

A childhood diagnosis transformed Dr. Teagan Holt’s (MD) life. Inspired to care for others, Holt has now received her medical degree at the University of Saskatchewan (USask), graduating at the top of her class.

USask honours MS researcher

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) has chosen Dr. Sarah Donkers (PhD), assistant professor in the School of Rehabilitation Science in USask’s College of Medicine, as the 2024 New Researcher awardee for her sustained and widely acclaimed contributions to neurorehabilitation and multiple sclerosis (MS) rehabilitation.

80th anniversary of D-Day: A tragic USask Love story

Eighty years ago today on June 6, 1944, the D-Day Allied assault on the Normandy beaches in France helped turn the tide of the Second World War. But the invasion came at a terrible cost of lives lived and lost – including former University of Saskatchewan student Major John (Jack) Vernon Love – and grieving loved ones left behind.

USask doctor recognized for collaborative methods

The PESTA award recognizes scholars who excel in research that engages with the community to address issues related to social, environmental and economic impacts.

USask honours 2024 teaching award winners

Teaching excellence at the University of Saskatchewan (USask) will be celebrated on June 18 as part of the USask Staff and Faculty Awards event.

Nerve cell damage control

Every disease has a burning question, and multiple sclerosis (MS) is no exception. Researchers at the University of Saskatchewan take an innovative and collaborative approach to solving the enigma of disease progression in people living with MS – and how it can be slowed or stopped.

USask spearheads AI-driven detection of early Alzheimer’s through eye screenings

University of Saskatchewan (USask) researchers Dr. Changiz Taghibiglou (PhD) and Dr. Sara Mardanisamani (PhD) are bridging biology and data science to develop a new, non-invasive AI screening tool for those at risk for Alzheimer’s disease.

Dr. Jacob Alhassan and the Politics of Expendability

Dr. Jacob Alhassan (PhD) felt inspired to study health systems while growing up in Ghana. His work in Saskatchewan led him to explore the health outcomes tied to public transportation.

USask conference to provide practical strategies to address violence

A University of Saskatchewan (USask) symposium aims to provide frontline workers with strategies to identify and address potentially violent situations and support victims of violence.

USask researchers identify promising protein candidate for metabolic disease treatment

A University of Saskatchewan (USask) research team’s discovery of the additional health benefits of an appetite-suppressing protein has doubled the potential for scientists to find new avenues for treating obesity and metabolic disorders in animals and people.

Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation and USask partner in support of pediatric education and research in Saskatchewan

The Jim Pattison Children’s Hospital Foundation (JPCHF) and the University of Saskatchewan (USask) are joining forces to improve children’s health through greater investment and emphasis on pediatric education and research.