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Canada’s stem cell research community gathers in Vancouver to discuss latest advances and game changing science
October 3, 2022 (Ottawa/Vancouver) – From cancer to wound repair to COVID-19, stem cells offer hope for better health. Back in person for the first time in three years, from October 3 to 5, more than 500 experts in stem cell and regenerative medicine research will gather in Vancouver for the 2022 Till & McCulloch Meetings (TMM), Canada’s premier stem cell and regenerative medicine conference. The record number of attendees includes world-class researchers, graduate students, postdocs, industry experts and legal scholars from across Canada and around the world who will discuss the latest research advances in the field.
The conference boasts an exceptional scientific program, full of outstanding speakers covering areas such as cell therapies for cardiac disease and diabetes, misinformation and public trust in science, and clinical advancement of regenerative medicine therapies. Dr. Catriona Jamieson from the University of California, San Diego and Sanford Stem Cell Clinical Center, will give the keynote address. Her discoveries and pioneering cancer stem cell research have informed the development of cancer stem cell targeted therapies for the treatment of leukemia.
Always a conference highlight, this year TMM delegates will hear from two patient speakers, Eddyson Chery who will speak about his experience with COVID-19, and Karen Peat who took part in a stem cell trial focused on type 1 diabetes. Additionally, for the first time, the conference will host a Talking Circle that will explore First Nations and Métis perspectives on tissue engineering and regenerative medicine.
Notably, this year Dr. Connie Eaves will be presented with the Till & McCulloch Lifetime Achievement Award in recognition of her longstanding contributions to the field of stem cell research, and her dedication to training the next generation of scientists. Spanning five decades, Dr. Eaves’ seminal work has advanced treatments for leukemia and breast cancers, and her pioneering research methodologies have become “gold standards” with significant applications worldwide. Throughout her career, Dr. Eaves has demonstrated exceptional national and international leadership and has trained more than 100 scientists globally. She co-founded the Terry Fox Laboratory at the British Columbia Cancer Agency, was instrumental in the creation of the Stem Cell Network, and has also held multiple senior roles in the National Cancer Institute of Canada, where she spearheaded the establishment of the Canadian Breast Cancer Research Alliance.
Also being recognized for outstanding work in the field is Dr. Tyson Ruetz who will be presented with the 2022 Drew Lyall Award of Excellence, an honour given to the lead trainee author of the highest ranked abstract. Originally from Vancouver, Dr. Ruetz is currently working as a postdoctoral fellow at Stanford University where his research focuses on the connections between aging and the regenerative neural stem cells of the brain.
Both Dr. Eaves and Dr. Ruetz will give special presentations to delegates, overviewing their latest research.
Quotes
“Canada is home to world leading stem cell and regenerative medicine research and researchers, and TMM presents a unique, annual opportunity to bring our national community together to discuss the latest advances and consider where the science is taking us. This year I am excited to be back in person and I look forward to the opportunity to connect with the many students, postdocs, and young scientists who are driving the field forward and will continue to do so in the coming decades. They are the future of this sector, and their passion, enthusiasm and innovative mind-set is nothing short of extraordinary.”
– Michael Rudnicki, Ph.D., O.C., FRS, FRSC, Scientific Director, Stem Cell Network
“Regenerative medicine is the next frontier of health and will be an important economic driver for Canada. Each year TMM sparks important conversations, collaborations and mentorships that reinforce the strength of Canada’s regenerative medicine research community. I have no doubt that this year will be any different. We could not deliver TMM without the support of our numerous sponsors, and volunteers. A very sincere thank you to the incredible community who lend their time and expertise to make TMM possible.”
– Cate Murray, President and CEO, Stem Cell Network
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About the Till & McCulloch Meetings
The Till & McCulloch Meetings (TMM) is Canada’s premier stem cell research and regenerative medicine conference, attracting attendees from across the country and internationally since 2012. Hosted by the Stem Cell Network, the conference brings together world-class scientists, post-graduate students, industry experts and legal and policy scholars who will share the latest research advances and techniques in the field. To register or learn more about the conference visit www.tillandmcculloch.ca.
About the Stem Cell Network
The Stem Cell Network (SCN) is a Canadian not-for-profit that supports stem cell and regenerative medicine research; training the next generation of highly qualified personnel; and knowledge mobilization and transfer of stem cell and regenerative medicine research. From the lab to the clinic, SCN’s goal is to power life-saving therapies and technologies through regenerative medicine research for the benefit of all. Created in 2001, with support from the Government of Canada, the Network has grown from a few dozen labs to more than 230 world-class research groups, supporting over 225 research projects and more than 25 clinical trials. Since its inception, over 20 biotech companies have been catalyzed or enhanced and more than 5,000 highly qualified personnel have been trained. In 2021, the Government of Canada demonstrated its continuing trust and support in SCN with an investment of $45 million for the 2022–2025 period.
Media contact:
Samantha Rae Ayoub
Vice President, Communications & Knowledge Mobilization
Stem Cell Network
srae@stemcellnetwork.ca