Call for Applications: Robert Sladek Prize for Mentorship in Genomic Medicine

On April 10, 2026 By HGSS McGillIn announcement, otherLeave a comment

The D2R community is saddened by the passing of Professor Robert Sladek, a founding member of the McGill Genome Centre and a valued member of the Victor Phillip Dahdaleh Institute of Genomic Medicine.

Prof. Sladek made foundational contributions to genomics and metabolic disease research, including leading one of the first genome-wide association studies for type 2 diabetes. Beyond his scientific achievements, he is remembered as an exceptional mentor who generously supported students, trainees, and colleagues throughout his career.

In recognition of his legacy, the D2R Initiative is establishing the Robert Sladek Prize for Mentorship in Genomic Medicine.

Applicant Eligibility:

This competition is open to faculty members at McGill University whose work aligns with the goals of the D2R Initiative.

How to apply:

Submit your application online by Thursday, May 28, 2025, at 5:00 PM EDT.

Learn more and apply now: https://www.mcgill.ca/dna-to-rna/funding/funding-opportunities/robert-sladek-prize-mentorship-genomic-medicine

Thanks to everyone who came out to our Mario Kart tournament on March 19!

On April 8, 2026 By HGSS McGillIn otherLeave a comment

Thank you to everyone who joined us for our Mario Kart tournament on March 19! 🏁🎮 We hope you had a great time racing, connecting with others, and enjoying some well-earned pizza 🍕. We’re already looking forward to the next one!

Upcoming defences and seminars

On April 8, 2026 By HGSS McGillIn defence, defense, seminarLeave a comment

Dear HG Students and Supervisors,

Join us this week, on Thursday, April 09 at 3:00 PM for Ariel Madrigal’s, PhD Seminar titled, “Gene programs underlying renal cell carcinoma heterogeneity revealed by integrative single-cell modelling“, with supervisor Dr. Hamed Najafabadi.

To be held via Zoom: https://mcgill.zoom.us/j/85452629934

Upcoming defences and seminars:

Monday, April 20 at 9:00 AM – Andy Roth, MSc Seminar titled, “Identification of Rare Variants in Restless Legs Syndrome Through Whole-Genome Segregation Analysis of French-Canadian Families“, with supervisors Dr. Guy Rouleau and Dr. Patrick Dion. To be held via Zoom.
Thursday, May 09 at 3:00 PM – Charlotte Sénéchal, PhD Seminar title TBA, with supervisor Dr. Colin Crist. To be held via Zoom.
Thursday, June 04 at 3:00 PM – Andrea Accogli, PhD Seminar title TBA, with supervisor Dr. Myriam Srour. To be held via Zoom.

Invitation to attend: Tomlinson Talks 2026

On April 8, 2026 By HGSS McGillIn announcement, EventsLeave a comment

Graduate and Postdoctoral Studies holds the annual Tomlinson Talks to honour the late Dr. Richard H. Tomlinson’s generous contribution to McGill University. The event will feature presentations from a small group of Tomlinson Scholars, highlighting some of the outstanding research done at McGill, thanks to Dr. Tomlinson’s support.

This year, our presenters include Tomlinson Fellowship recipients from the Departments of Biology, Computer Science, Earth and Planetary Sciences, Economics, Educational and Counselling Psychology, Kinesiology and Physical Education, Psychology, and the School of Religious Studies.

Meet the 2026 presenters in the event program here.

Join the 2026 Tomlinson Talks in-person or virtually through the livestream on April 23 at 3:00 PM.

Register now

MIGSA x HGSS Thesis Writing Workshop

On March 16, 2026 By HGSS McGillIn Events, WorkshopLeave a comment

Thesis writing doesn’t have to be a solo struggle ✍️📚

Join HGSS × MIGSA for a Thesis Writing Workshop where we’ll share practical tips for planning, structuring, and actually making progress on your thesis. Whether you’re outlining your first chapter or trying to stay motivated, this session is for you.

📅 Thursday, March 19
⏰ 1:00-2:00 PM
📍 Bellini Life Science Complex, Room 330
💻 Zoom option available

Come learn strategies, ask questions, and connect with fellow grad students navigating the thesis process.

🔗 Register here!

The Human Genetics Students’ Society is excited to invite you to register for our 2026 Annual Conference! 🧬

On March 16, 2026 By HGSS McGillIn announcement, EventsLeave a comment

Theme: Reimagining Preclinical Modeling for the Next Generation of Therapies
📅 Date: Monday, April 27, 2026
📍 Location: Research Institute of the McGill University Health Centre (RI-MUHC)

This year’s conference will bring together trainees, researchers, and clinicians to explore innovative approaches in preclinical modeling and how emerging systems are shaping the future of therapeutic development. The day will feature engaging talks and opportunities to connect with colleagues across the Human Genetics community.

🔗 REGISTER HERE FOR THE 2026 ANNUAL HGSS CONFERENCE!

The deadline to register is April 20, 2026.

We look forward to seeing you there!

Roots in Resistance upcoming event by PGSS

On February 24, 2026 By HGSS McGillIn otherLeave a comment

Roots in Resistance is an immersive land-based learning experience open to all graduate students at McGill.

Participants will visit Kahnawà:ke for a day of guided discussions, hands-on medicine bag making, and meaningful dialogue grounded in community knowledge.

This event includes transportation, morning pastries and coffee, lunch and beverages, a medicine bag workshop, networking, and door prizes.

Date: Saturday, March 14, 2026
Time: 9:30 AM – 6:30 PM
Meet-up Location: Thomson House (3650 McTavish Street)
Cost: $10

Rare Disease Day 2026 by RareDIG McGill

On February 24, 2026 By HGSS McGillIn otherLeave a comment

Location: Jeanne Timmins Amphitheatre, Institut—Hôpital neurologique de Montréal, Montréal, QC

Date and Time: Wednesday, Mar 18 from 6:30 pm to 9:30 pm

Join us at Rare Disease Day 2026, a one-of-a-kind in-person event that promotes discussion and raising awareness of rare diseases.

McGill’s RareDIG is excited to welcome you to the eighth edition of Rare Disease Day! Millions of individuals are affected by rare diseases worldwide and Rare Disease Day is hosted in support of these patients and family members.

Students, researchers, physicians, patients, and community members will meet at Jeanne Timmins Amphitheatre at The Neuro (Montreal Neurological Institute-Hospital) in Montreal on March 18th to discuss the challenges faced by people with rare diseases, research and advocacy efforts. Poster presentations will also be prepared by student researchers with a keen interest in making a difference in the rare disease field.

Registration will begin at 5:30 PM and close at 6:30 PM.

Complimentary food and drink will be served.

To help us ensure the best possible experience for you, please fill this form to let us know of any accommodations you may need.

If you are a student submitting an abstract, please fill out this form before Friday, March 6th.

If you are a patient with a rare disease, please fill out this form.

Highlights:

3 hours
In person
Doors at 5:30 PM

Refund Policy: Refunds up to 7 days before even

Departmental Hoodies are Here!

On February 19, 2026 By HGSS McGillIn announcement, otherLeave a comment

The HGSS is excited to launch this year’s Human Genetics departmental hoodie. Hoodies are available in two styles:
• Pullover – $55.20 ($48 + tax)
• Zip-up – $59.80 ($52 + tax)

Each hoodie features a small McGill logo embroidered on the left chest and a large Human Genetics departmental logo embroidered on the back. Available in six colour options.

A reference image is attached below to illustrate logo placement. Please note that the final design may vary slightly in style.

To view all colour choices and place your order, please complete the form below by selecting your preferred size and quantity: https://forms.gle/Mik8tKb9Zp8jmtV96