Work with thought leaders and academic experts from Western University

Dr. Daniel Milej is a multidisciplinary researcher with experience in medical biophysics, electronics, biocybernetics, biomedical optics and engineering. He is highly knowledgeable and experienced in a range of research techniques. He is a Scientist at the Lawson Research Institute, leading the transition of multimodal optical imaging systems from a research setting to clinical use in an ICU and OR environment, working closely with teams of nurses, surgeons, doctors and respiratory therapists. Previously, he was a Postdoctoral Fellow and Research Associate working on developing noninvasive modalities for brain activity monitoring in the Department of Medical Biophysics at Western University. Before that, Dr. Milej worked as a Researcher at the Nalecz Institute of Biocybernetics and Biomedical Engineering. He obtained his Ph.D. in 2014 from the Polish Academy of Science, specializing in Biocybernetics and Biomedical Engineering. He received his MSc in Electronics/Optoelectronics from the Military University of Technology, Warsaw, Poland, in 2008.

Dr Carly McKay completed her BKin (2006) and MSc in Sport Medicine (2008) at the University of Calgary (Canada), and her PhD in Kinesiology (2011) at Western University (Canada). She is currently the Director of Research at Podium Analytics (London) and a Reader in Injury Prevention and Deputy Director of the Centre for Health, Injury and Illness Prevention in Sport (Chi2PS) at the University of Bath. She is an executive member of the UK Collaborating Centre on Injury and Illness Prevention in Sport (UKCCIIS), which is one of 11 International Research Centres for the Prevention of Injury and Protection of Athlete Health supported by the International Olympic Committee. She serves as an Associate Editor for the Journal of Science and Medicine in Sport. Carly’s research focuses on the role of psychosocial and behavioural factors in sport injury risk and recovery, and using behaviour change approaches to support injury prevention strategies. She also has experience implementing large-scale prevention initiatives in elite and grassroots sport, as well as driving policy change in national and international sport organisations.

Tom is a global research leader in the areas of high-performance teamwork, virtual team and leader effectiveness, flexible remote and hybrid work, human-autonomy teaming, conflict and conflict management, personality, and assessment. His research funding exceeds $6M and he currently leads a lab team of 15, which includes doctoral, post-doctoral, and masters candidates, as well as undergraduate students and staff members. Tom has published over 70 peer-reviewed journal articles in outlets such as Journal of Applied Psychology, Journal of Management, Academy of Management Learning and Education, Organizational Research Methods, Computers in Human Behavior, and Human Resource Management Review, and he has worked extensively to translate the science of high-performance teamwork and flexible remote work into practice through consultations, workshops, public lectures, training, software development, and other services.

I am an academic dedicated to exploring the origins of the "us versus them" division in human behavior, with a particular focus on the racial divide. My latest book, "*Racism and Identity in a Xenophobic World,*" offers an in-depth analysis of "why we perceive others the way we do," examining both internal cognitive processes and external societal influences that shape our understanding of the "other." Moreover, it elaborates on the negative effects of racism on the identity and psychological well-being of individuals and proposes strategies to counteract these issues. My scholarly work encompasses publications on racism, xenophobia, identity, cultural diversity, and the integration and inclusion of immigrants and refugees. In addition to my role as department chair and Associate Professor at Canisius University in Buffalo, NY, I also serve as a consultant and speaker, designing educational programs and delivering impactful presentations on diversity, equity, and inclusion for organizations and communities beyond academia to foster meaningful change. I hold a PhD in Sociology with a specialization in Social Psychology and Ethnic Studies. After earning my doctorate from the University of Western Ontario in 2012, I expanded my interdisciplinary expertise as a postdoctoral fellow, blending psychological, sociological, and educational perspectives to develop manuals for cultural competency and diversity training programs. My work is fueled by a deep passion for promoting understanding and acceptance of diverse identities and cultures, as reflected in my community-focused research, teaching, and the recognition I have received through various awards.

Liam Hendrikse is a recent Ph.D. graduate from the Department of Medical Biophysics at the University of Toronto, now working as a Bioinformatician at the University Health Network. His research focuses on deepening our understanding of various cancer types using computational methods, in order to develop novel treatment options. Liam has a particular strength in analysis of various single-cell sequencing technologies (RNA, ATAC, CITE, TCR/BCR, etc.), as well as traditional sequencing technologies, such as bulk RNAseq. Liam has a proven track record of deriving highly impactful biological insights through his research, as evidenced by publications in high impact journals such as Nature and Cancer Discovery. Previously, Liam earned his Bachelor of Science in biochemistry and immunology from Western University in 2018.

. I received training at the Institute of Physiological Chemistry I, Medical school, Heinrich-Heine-University, Düsseldorf. My mentors were Professor Afanas’ev I.B., Professor Korkina L.G., Professor Helmut Sies, and Dr.  Lars-Oliver Klotz. Later I received training at the University of Western Ontario, Canada. My supervisors were Professor Cherian at the Department of Pathology and Professor Li at the Department of Biochemistry. I was Staff Scientist at the non-profit Research institute in Aging and Cancer, Irvine, California, where I spent 7 years as a research scientist focusing on the role of redox-active hydrogen sulfide in redox homeostasis in cancer and age-associated molecular changes. I relished the scientific freedom and the opportunity to mentor junior scientists. I have become interested in age-associated neurodegeneration. I left the staff scientist position and moved to Kentucky University in Lexington, KY. I accepted a postdoctoral scholar appointment with the Department of Neurology to study early molecular changes linked to Parkinson’s disease development. In 2021 I accepted the Scientist II position at Buck institute on research on aging. Under the supervision of Professor Melov, I work on understanding the mechanisms of senescence, lysosmal dysfunction, role of autophagy in cellular senescence and targeting of senescent cells with senolytics, and the development of organoids as an in vitro model of muscle atrophy in aging. In 2023, I moved back to Lexington, KY where I accepted the position of Scientist II to continue the research on alpha-synuclein and its role in neurodegenerative diseases such as Parkinson’s disease and multiple system atrophy (MSA). I am highly motivated to develop new approaches to solve the most challenging problems we face in modern-day science. I continue learning and integrating new technologies. I have experience in lab and project management, coordination of collaborations, and organization of meetings. I have extensive experience in experimental design, laboratory maintenance, and scientific data analysis. I published:  4 book chapters, 6 review articles, and over 41 original research articles. That statement is validated by my publication record, which can be easily found at [https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed](https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pubmed)

Jon Weiler is a highly educated and experienced materials engineer with a passion for improving manufacturing processes and developing innovative materials. He received his BESc in Integrated Engineering from the University of Western Ontario in 2002 and went on to complete his MESc and PhD in Materials Engineering from the same university. After completing his education, Jon joined Meridian Lightweight Technologies, a leading manufacturer of lightweight automotive components, as a Metallurgist. Through his dedication and expertise, he quickly rose through the ranks to become the Manager of Core Technology and eventually the Deputy Chief Engineer. In these roles, Jon has been responsible for developing and implementing advanced materials and manufacturing processes that have greatly improved the company's products and operations. He has also played a key role in the research and development of new materials and technologies that have helped the company stay at the forefront of the industry. Jon's extensive knowledge and experience in materials engineering have made him a sought-after expert in the field, and he has published numerous papers and articles on his research and findings. He is also a member of several professional organizations, including the Materials Research Society and the American Society for Metals. In addition to his work at Meridian Lightweight Technologies, Jon is also a dedicated mentor and educator. He has served as a guest lecturer at the University of Western Ontario and has mentored many aspiring engineers and researchers throughout his career. Overall, Jon Weiler is a highly accomplished materials engineer with a proven track record of success in the industry. His expertise, passion, and dedication make him a valuable asset to any organization.

Mandeep Singh Reen is a highly educated and experienced physicist and medical physicist. He completed his M.Sc in Physics from Panjab University in 2015, where he developed a strong foundation in theoretical and experimental physics. He then pursued a Ph.D. in Experimental Nuclear Physics from Okayama University in Japan, where he gained extensive research experience in the field of high-energy nuclear physics. After completing his Ph.D., Mandeep worked as a Post-Doctoral Research Fellow at Okayama University, where he continued his research on nuclear and particle physics. He also gained teaching experience as an Assistant Professor at Akal University, where he taught courses in physics and nuclear science. In pursuit of his interest in medical physics, Mandeep completed a second master's degree in Clinical Medical Biophysics from Western University, with a focus on radiation therapy and medical imaging. He is currently enrolled in medical physics residency program at Lakeridge Health. Mandeep's diverse educational background and research experience make him a valuable asset in the fields of nuclear and medical physics. He is passionate about using his knowledge and skills to contribute to advancements in these fields and improve patient care.

Zachary Zittell is a highly educated and experienced lawyer with a focus on franchise law. He obtained his JD from Western University in 2020, specializing in franchise law. Prior to that, he completed his undergraduate studies at the prestigious Ivey Business School at Western University, graduating with an HBA in 2020. After completing his education, Zachary joined the law firm Cassels Brock & Blackwell LLP as a lawyer. In this role, he has gained valuable experience in handling complex franchise law cases for clients from various industries. He is known for his ability to provide practical and effective solutions to legal issues faced by franchisors and franchisees. Zachary's passion for franchise law stems from his interest in business and entrepreneurship. He understands the unique challenges and opportunities that arise in the franchise industry and is dedicated to helping clients navigate through them successfully. In addition to his legal work, Zachary also stays current with developments in franchise law through continued education and involvement in industry associations. He is a member of the Canadian Franchise Association and regularly attends conferences and seminars related to franchise law. Outside of work, Zachary enjoys staying active through sports and outdoor activities. He also volunteers with local organizations, using his legal expertise to assist those in need.