Professors Herbert Gaisano & Stephen Matthews Named Canada Research Chairs

Congratulations to Professors Herbert Gaisano and Stephen Matthews who were named Tier 1 Canada Research Chairs on December 16th, 2020. 

Professor Gaisano's research focus has largely been on SNARE proteins and discovering their implications in diabetes and pancreatitis. More recently, he has also begun to pursue his interest in the role of the intestinal microbiome in contributing to metabolic syndrome, as well as the involvement of SNARE protein-mediated dysregulation in autophagy which he has just found to contribute to alcoholic pancreatitis.

"It is indeed a great feeling to have this most prestigious recognition and the recommendation by the University of Toronto," said Professor Gaisano over email. "But more importantly, the sustained support of this award will ensure that I can continue to contribute to these areas of research in diabetes and pancreatitis."

Improving the health of pregnant women and their children is the goal of Professor Matthews' research program, which integrates basic, translational, and clinical research. His preclinical research focuses on: 1) the mechanisms by which stress and glucocorticoids influence the developing brain leading to changes in stress responsiveness and behaviours in offspring, and 2) function and regulation of transport mechanisms that protect the developing brain. His clinical research is determining the impact of preconception and pregnancy interventions on improving maternal health and cardiometabolic and neurodevelopmental outcomes in children.

"I am honoured to be recognized by the Canada Research Chair Program, and look forward to continuing our mission to increase understanding of early development and improve long-term health outcomes," Professor Matthews said. "With such honours it is important to acknowledge the contributions of the many collaborators, staff and trainees who have supported my research program."

The Canada Research Chair Program supports researchers who make contributions in diverse areas of critical importance such as infectious disease prevention, cyber security, cancer therapeutics, queer and diversity education, data and artificial intelligence, Indigenous maternal and child wellness, and climate change impacts in the North. We are very proud of Professors Gaisano and Matthews for achieving this high honour alongside twenty-seven colleagues at the University of Toronto this year. Congratulations to all.