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Looking deeper: Canada’s first PET/MRI at Lawson opens new frontiers in research and care

What if researchers could detect the earliest signs of disease, injury or chronic pain before they become visible through conventional imaging and testing? Thanks to Canada’s first Siemens Healthineers BIOGRAPH One PET/MRI scanner at Lawson Research Institute (Lawson), that future is now closer than ever. This cutting-edge technology combines positron emission tomography (PET) and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to provide an exceptionally detailed view of both the structure and function of the human body. With greater sensitivity and accuracy than previous technologies, researchers can study subtle biological and biochemical changes linked to chronic pain, mental health and brain behaviour pathways, cardiovascular disease, workplace injury and cancer. Lawson’s PET/MRI was made possible through an investment from the Workplace Safety and Insurance Board (WSIB), in partnership with the WorkSafe Ontario Fund. The technology will support discoveries that lead to earlier diagnoses, new treatment approaches and improved patient outcomes. Interested in learning more? Explore the St. Joseph’s, Siemens Healthineers, CTV and Hospital News stories, watch the PET/MRI video, or follow St. Joseph’s Health Care London (St. Joseph’s) on LinkedIn and Instagram for the latest research and health care updates.

Imaging the future: Advancing PET/MR research in Canada

Canada’s first Siemens Healthineers BIOGRAPH One PET/MR scanner is opening new possibilities for imaging research at Lawson. On June 11, researchers, clinicians, trainees, industry and community partners gathered for “Imaging the Future: Advancing PET/MR Research in Canada,” a workshop focused on how the technology could support earlier detection, more precise diagnoses and new collaborations across Canada. Presentations showcased a range of emerging applications, including research led by Lawson Scientist and Clinical Medical Physicist, Jean Théberge, PhD, exploring how advanced PET/MR imaging can help reveal the often-invisible impact of workplace injury on brain health and recovery. Participants also heard from local and international experts: keynote speaker Dr. Ciprian Catana, Professor of Radiology at Harvard Medical School and Director of Integrated MR-PET Imaging at Massachusetts General Hospital; Sebastien Deval, Head of MRI Business at Siemens Healthineers Canada; and Lawson imaging leaders Michael Kovacs, PhD and Keith St. Lawrence, PhD. The event brought together partners from Western University, Fanshawe College, the WSIB, the WorkSafe Ontario Fund, and industry partners to explore what comes next for PET/MR research and collaboration in Canada.

From discovery to impact

How does a research discovery move from an idea to impact? That was the question explored during Lawson’s June 2 Lunch and Learn with the Western Technology Transfer Office, formerly WORLDiscoveries. Researchers, staff and trainees learned how promising ideas can move beyond the lab through intellectual property protection, industry partnerships and commercialization pathways that help innovations reach patients and communities. The session also highlighted resources available to support inventors, entrepreneurs and teams interested in exploring the impact potential of their work. Have an idea with real-world application? Consider connecting with the Western Technology Transfer Office to learn what opportunities may exist; or apply for the Commercial IQ program highlighted later in this issue. If you were unable to attend and would like a copy of the presentation, please contact Taryn Sendzik.

Exploring magnetic fields and the nervous system

At the June Talks on Fridays (TOFS), the Lawson Association of Fellows and Students (LAFS) featured Eléonore Fresnel, PhD candidate in Medical Biophysics, who presented her research on extremely low-frequency magnetic fields and the human peripheral nervous system. Her talk explored how certain magnetic fields may affect the nervous system, from magnetophosphene (visual) perception to peripheral sensory activation, and considered whether current safety standards offer sufficient protection. The session gave trainees, researchers, staff and clinicians an opportunity to learn about emerging work with real-world implications for health, safety and research practice.

Are we missing clues to joint pain hidden under the microscope

How do people access the assistive devices they need to live, work and participate in daily life? At the June 12 LAFS webinar, Abby Spadzinski of the Possibilities Project Plus and Lawson trainees Nicoletta Erdelyi, Policy Specialist at Spinal Cord Injury Ontario, and Patrick Stapleton, Person with Lived Experience, explored the barriers, partnerships and creative pathways involved in obtaining assistive devices. The session brough together research, policy, community and lived-experience perspectives to show why improving access requires collaboration across many sectors. The discussion offered a practical reminder of the systems, supports and community partnerships needed to improve access to assistive devices

A new era in understanding osteoarthritis

Osteoarthritis is often described as “wear and tear,” but the science tells a more complex story. At Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation Grand Rounds on June 22, Dr. Tom Appleton, Lawson Scientist, shared emerging research on osteoarthritis as a disease shaped by genetics, aging, biomechanics and joint health. His talk, The Emperor of Joint Diseases: A New Era of Osteoarthritis, highlighted how sharing research knowledge can change how clinicians understand, diagnose and treat one of the most common joint conditions. By translating new evidence into clinical discussion, Dr. Appleton helped bring research impact directly into care conversations

In the News

Bringing custom thumb arthritis care closer to home

What if a custom hand splint could be made without travelling to a specialist clinic? Lawson Scientist Joy MacDermid, PhD, and her team at St. Joseph’s Roth | McFarlane Hand and Upper Limb Centre are exploring how digital hand scans and 3D printing could improve access to custom orthoses for people living with thumb arthritis. The research could help patients experiencing pain, stiffness and weakened grip receive more equitable care closer to home, especially in communities with limited access to hand therapy services. Read about this innovative work by checking out the St. Joseph’s and Western News stories or watching the Rogers TV Community News feature.

Life after concussion: Research, recovery and support

A concussion can affect much more than the moment of injury, influencing how people think, feel, move and return to daily life. In a featured episode of St. Joseph’s DocTalks Podcast, Dr. Heather MacKenzie, a physiatrist in the Spinal Cord Injury and Brain Injury Rehabilitation Programs at Parkwood Institute and Lawson Scientist, shares practical insight into concussion symptoms, when to seek care, treatment options and ways to support recovery from persistent or long-lasting symptoms. Her Lawson research focuses on predicting outcomes after concussion and identifying patients at higher risk for prolonged recovery so that rehabilitation services can be mobilized earlier. Listen where you get your podcasts or on the St. Joseph’s website. Follow us on Instagram, LinkedIn and Facebook for more concussion research news.

Gender-based violence, pain, trauma and the brain: Connecting research to real-world impact

Researchers, health-care professionals, community partners, advocates and legal experts gathered on June 12 for the Gender-Based Violence, Pain, Trauma and the Brain half-day workshop, a collaborative research-to-community event hosted by the Centre for Research on Health Equity and Social Inclusion (CRHESI) with support from Lawson and other partners. Participants explored emerging evidence on how gender-based violence and trauma can affect pain, cognition and decision making. Presentations from co-Leads of Western kNOw-PAIN - Siobhan Schabrun, PhD, Lawson Scientist, Professor at Western University, and David Semowicz, PhD, Professor at Western University and Scientist with the Robarts Research Institute, shared the complex relationship between chronic pain, post-traumatic stress and brain function. A multidisciplinary panel examined how health, justice and community systems can better support survivors through trauma- and violence-informed approaches. Beyond the research, the event sparked meaningful dialogue and new opportunities for collaboration across sectors, advancing knowledge to improve care, reduce stigma and support survivors. Read the full event recap and key insights on the CRHESI website.

Understanding concurrent disorders in mental health

In a recent St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation DocTalks presentation, Dr. Rohit Lodhi explored the complexities of concurrent disorders, where mental health challenges and substance use overlap. His talk highlighted how conditions such as cannabis-related psychosis and opioid use can affect diagnosis, treatment and recovery, while emphasizing the importance of compassionate, specialized care. Through his presentation, Dr. Lodhi helped connect emerging research with practical care approaches that support individuals, families and communities. Listen to the full event by visiting St. Joseph’s Health Care Foundation’s Instagram page.

Research at the heart of St. Joseph's Annual Report

St. Joseph’s Health Care London’s 2025/2026 Annual Report - From Vision to Action, highlights the first year of progress under its new strategic plan, including the priority Excellence in Care: Powered by Discovery. For Lawson, that means research is not separate from care. It is part of how teams improve outcomes, close gaps and shape the future of health care. The report shares stories and data that show how discovery, partnerships and people are helping ideas take root across St. Joseph’s. Explore the annual report online to see how research is helping shape the future of care across St. Joseph’s.

Clinical trials are a vital part of how new treatments, devices and care strategies are discovered, tested and improved for patients. Throughout late April and May, Lawson supported 918 clinical research studies, underscoring the dedication to advancing patient-centered medical innovations.

Clinical trials that change the world from right here in London

What if the next breakthrough in health care started just down the hall? At Lawson, that’s not just a possibility, it’s part of our history. From pioneering cancer studies that have influenced treatment around the world, to advancing innovations in imaging, regenerative medicine and dementia, Lawson researchers have turned bold ideas into better patient care through clinical trials.

One landmark example is the SABR-COMET clinical trial, a randomized Phase II study that tested whether stereotactic ablative radiotherapy could help patients with a limited number of metastatic tumours. The results showed that precisely targeting all known cancer sites could extend survival for some patients, helping shift how clinicians think about treating metastatic cancer.

Every clinical trial represents a partnership among researchers, clinicians and volunteer participants who share a common goal: improving health for future generations. Behind every new treatment or diagnostic tool is a carefully designed study that answers an important question and moves science one step forward.

Take a few minutes this month to explore Lawson’s legacy. You may be surprised how many world-changing discoveries began right here. Share these stories with colleagues, patients, friends and family. Every conversation helps build awareness of the vital role clinical research plays in improving lives. This is how Lawson leads.

Explore the world of pragmatic clinical trials with HDRN Canada Pragmatic Trials Training Program

Each week, Health Data Research Network’s Canada Pragmatic Trials Training Program releases open-access learning modules that dive into key aspects of trial design and implementation - from randomization and data analysis to the principles of truth and reconciliation in pragmatic trials. Whether you’re a clinician, researcher or health professional, these modules offer practical insights to strengthen your understanding of how trials can improve real-world care. Discover the full series at pragmatictrialstraining.ca

LAWSON ASSOCIATION OF FELLOWS AND STUDENTS

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SPIRITUAL HEALTH MOMENT

Sacred moments: How connection can support healing

Can a brief moment of connection help address burnout and improve patient care? New research led by Lawson Associate Scientists Dr. Serena Wong and Dale Nikkel, PhD, is shining a light on the power of ‘sacred moments’ - those meaningful interactions that foster a sense of purpose, trust and wellbeing in health care. Published in the Journal of General Internal Medicine, the study found these moments can improve clinicians’ well-being while enhancing patient experiences. As the first Canadian hospital to join the international initiative, St. Joseph’s is posed to lead a growing movement to bring greater compassion, connection and whole-person care into health care. Learn more about the research, the international Sacred Moments initiative and Lawson’s role in bringing this work to Canada in the full St. Joseph’s story

We encourage researchers to submit grants, publications and awards for us to showcase. Please provide a one- to two-sentence plain-language description along with the submission.

Check out a few examples of the research published in May-June:

Montero-Odasso M, Lee L, Hogan DB. (2026). Improving the delivery of brain health care to all. Keeping our eye on the main prize in an era of emerging anti-amyloid therapies. Canadian Geriatrics Journal.

How can health systems keep brain health care equitable and patient-centred as new Alzheimer’s therapies emerge? This commentary highlights the promise and limits of anti-amyloid therapies, noting that only some patients may be eligible or able to access them. The authors call for continued focus on timely diagnosis, prevention, management of risk factors and coordinated care for all people living with cognitive concerns. Clinicians, researchers and health system leaders should read this article for a timely perspective on how to balance emerging Alzheimer’s treatments with broader strategies to improve brain health care for all. #Aging

Hajiesmaeili Y, Espin Garcia O, Azarpazhooh MR, Stranges S, Barra L. (2026). Cardiovascular disease incidence among aging patients with rheumatoid arthritis: Results from the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA). Nutrition, Metabolism, and Cardiovascular Diseases.

Are aging Canadians with rheumatoid arthritis at greater risk of cardiovascular disease, and which factors may increase that risk? Using Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging data, this study found people with rheumatoid arthritis had higher cardiovascular disease incidence than those without it. The findings highlight the need for targeted prevention and management strategies, especially for higher-risk groups. Clinicians, researchers and health-care planners should read this article to better understand cardiovascular risk in aging patients with rheumatoid arthritis and how evidence from large Canadian datasets can inform prevention and care planning. #EndocrinologyMetabolismChronicDiseases

Quayyum S, Pageau AG, Tilley M, Dickerson CR, Maly MR, Athwal GS, Knowles NK. (2026). Comparison of reconstruction kernel and monochromatic energy pairs used in dual energy CT imaging of the proximal humerus. Journal of the Mechanical Behavior of Biomedical Materials.

How do different dual-energy CT image settings affect measurements of shoulder bone density and estimated bone stiffness? This study compared reconstruction kernels and energy pair combinations used to image the proximal humerus, showing that imaging choices can influence quantitative results. Researchers, imaging specialists and clinicians interested in shoulder assessment will gain insight into how CT settings may affect bone analysis and future imaging-based models. #Imaging

Rueda A, Martin J, Parkington K, Perivolaris A, Teferra BG, Lee GH, ..., Nazarov A, ..., Bhat V. (2026). Digital health monitoring and intervention suite for stress in frontline nurses: Prospective cohort trial. JMIR Formative Research.

Can an integrated digital health tool feasibly monitor stress, support engagement and show early signs of impact for frontline nurses? This study tested a digital health suite designed to monitor and support stress in frontline nurses. The approach combined virtual reality, brief education, self-reported check-ins and wearable data to better understand stress responses in real time and over 12 weeks. The findings suggest this type of integrated tool is feasible and may help inform future supports for health-care worker wellbeing. Researchers, clinicians, nurse leaders and health system planners should read this article to better understand how digital tools may support stress monitoring, engagement and future well-being interventions for frontline health-care workers. #MentalHealth

Lee JW, Chan K, Unger J, Mauceri S, Heffernan MG, Musselman KE, Masani K. (2026). Balance training alters extrapolated centre-of-mass and base-of-support dynamics and neuromechanical regulation of reactive stepping in people with incomplete spinal cord injury. Journal of Biomechanics.

Can balance training help people with incomplete spinal cord injury take more stable, consistent steps when they lose balance? This study examined how eight weeks of balance training changed reactive stepping, showing improvements in balance control that were retained at follow-up. Rehabilitation clinicians, researchers and therapists should read this article for insight into how targeted balance training may support fall prevention and mobility after spinal cord injury. #Rehabilitation

So S, Qing Wang T, Thind A, Hutnik CML, Malvankar-Mehta MS. (2026). A cost-effectiveness analysis of medications compared with selective laser trabeculoplasty in patients with newly diagnosed open-angle glaucoma. Canadian Journal of Ophthalmology.

Could laser treatment be a more cost-effective first option than daily eye drops for people newly diagnosed with open-angle glaucoma? This analysis compared selective laser trabeculoplasty with topical medications from a Canadian health-care payer perspective and found the laser approach may lower costs while improving quality-adjusted life years. Ophthalmologists, researchers and health system planners should read this article to understand how treatment choices may affect patient outcomes, costs and resource use in glaucoma care. #SurgicalSpecialties

2026 Medical Advisory Committee Award recipients

Congratulations to Dr. Susan McNair and Dr. Adam Dukelow on receiving 2026 Medical Advisory Committee (MAC) Awards. Dr. McNair received St. Joseph’s MAC Award for her leadership in trauma- and violence-informed care, while Dr. Dukelow received the MAC Chairs’ Award for advancing collaboration and medical leadership across St. Joseph’s and London Health Sciences Centre. Read the full announcement on St. Joseph’s intranet. 

President's Awards celebrate discovery, partnership and leadership

St. Joseph’s 2026 President’s Awards recognized several teams and leaders whose work is advancing care, research and community impact. Honorees include the Fecal Microbiota Transplantation Care and Research Team, recognized for translating discovery into patient-centred care; the Rehabilitation Program and Southwestern Ontario YMCA Partnership for extending rehabilitation into the community through Partners in Motion; and Stephanie Cornell, honoured for compassionate leadership in the Acquired Brain Injury Outpatient and Outreach Program. Read more on St. Joseph’s intranet or join the celebration by sharing the Instagram announcement.

Roy Butler receives Fanshawe College honorary diploma

Roy Butler, President and CEO of St. Joseph’s Health Care London, was recently honoured with an honorary diploma from Fanshawe College. This honour recognizes individuals whose contributions have enriched the lives and careers of Fanshawe students and alumni. Butler was recognized for his commitment to meaningful partnerships, quality and safety, servant leadership and the values of St. Joseph’s. Help celebrate this well-deserved honour by visiting and sharing St. Joseph’s Instagram post.

Dale Nikkel earns Governor General's Academic Gold Medal

Dale Nikkel, PhD, Lawson Associate Scientist, received the Governor General’s Academic Gold Medal at his PhD convocation at Saint Paul University in Ottawa on June 19. This prestigious medal is awarded to the graduate student who achieved the highest academic standing. Jointly conferred by the University of Ottawa and Saint Paul University, his PhD culminated in an interdisciplinary dissertation in bioethics and theology, with a focus on spirituality in advance care planning.

CALL FOR APPLICATIONS

Commercial IQ: Translate your research into real world impact

Now accepting applications until July 31 - Only 20 funded spots available.

The Fall 2026 CIHR Reviewer in Training Program has launched and the Grants Development Team at the Office of Research Services would like to connect with Early Career Researchers who are considering applying. If you are, please email us at grantsubmission@sjhc.london.on.ca

Overview

The CIHR Reviewer in Training (RiT) program offers Early Career Researchers (ECRs) a learning opportunity to gain a better understanding of the elements of high-quality review and the peer review process through direct participation in the Project Grant competition.

Eligibility

• To be eligible to participate in the RiT program, individuals must meet CIHR's definition of an ECR and work at a Canadian institution as of the application deadline of the Fall 2026 Project Grant competition on September 9, 2026.
• ECRs who have previously participated in the RiT program, reviewed for the Project Grant competition, or are full members of the College of Reviewers are not eligible to apply.

How to apply

• To apply for this opportunity, please visit the CIHR-RiT program website.
• RiT applicants can select either the role of a Mentee or ECR Reviewer.
• ECRs that want to gain exposure to CIHR’s peer review process with the guidance of a Mentor can apply to the Mentee role.
• ECRs who hold federal (or equivalent) funding and want to gain direct peer review experience can apply to the ECR Reviewer role.

Deadline to apply: July 28, 2026

Please note: The CIHR-RiT program's application requires a letter from the Institute attesting that you meet the eligibility criteria. Please contact grantsubmission@sjhc.london.on.ca by July 20,2026 to obtain a letter certifying that you meet the eligibility criteria.

RESEARCH INSIGHTS EXPANSION SURVEY

Share your feedback on Lawson's Research Insights journal

Lawson is seeking feedback on whether and how to expand Research Insights across the institute. Started by Dr. James Mendonca, the publication has long highlighted local researcher and trainee work in mental health. Please take 5-10 minutes to complete the survey and share how the journal could best support researchers, staff and teams Lawson-wide. Please complete the survey by 11:59 p.m. on July 31.

UPCOMING GRANT COMPETITIONS

General information about Grants Development services

If you are considering applying for future research funding opportunities, please notify the Grants Development Team as soon as possible. To obtain institutional signatures for your application, you will need to:

1. Notify the Grants Development Team as soon as possible  

2. Indicate "Lawson Research Institute" for St. Joseph's applicants as the ‘Institution Paid’ in all grant management systems and applications.   

3. Email the structurally complete package to grantsubmission@sjhc.london.on.ca either: 

• 1 week in advance of the application deadline for a mandatory admin review, or 
• 2 weeks in advance of the application deadline for an optional enhanced review. 

4. Complete the Request for Institutional Approval of Grant Application Form prior to the final submission deadline, with signatures. 

If you are not sure which "institute" you should be referring to (i.e., Lawson, LHSCRI, Western), please refer to Decision Tool for Determining Where External Grants and Contracts Are Held on Lawson's intranet.

For more information about grant opportunities and grant applications please email grantsubmission@sjhc.london.on.ca.

Please visit the research funding announcement page to find out more about these funding opportunities:

• Operating Grant: TRANSCAN-4 (Pre-Proposals Application Deadline to TRANSCAN-4 JCS: July 21, 2026, 6am EDT)
• Project Grant: Fall 2026 (Registration Deadline: August 12, 2026)
• Operating Grant: Early Career Researchers in Human Development, Child and Youth Health (2026) (Registration Deadline: September 15, 2026)
• Operating Grant: Aging in the Community (Application Deadline: September 22, 2026)
• Team Grant: National platform for evidence-based programs and practices: Youth mental health (Registration Deadline: September 24, 2026)
• Operating Grant: Evaluation and implementation science for youth mental health (Registration Deadline: October 22, 2026)

Notice of upcoming funding opportunity:

• Pan-Canadian Single Research Ethics Review Initiative (Launch: late July 2026)

External funding opportunities: 

EVENTS

Research in action

Advancing patient-oriented research across Ontario. Registration is now open for OSSU Research Day 2026! 

Join the Ontario SPOR SUPPORT Unit (OSSU) on Sept. 23, for a province-wide gathering of researchers, patients, partners, policymakers and health system leaders. Centered on the theme Research in Action, this year’s event will spotlight the people, partnerships and approaches driving patient-oriented research forward across Ontario. 

The program will explore: 

• Priority populations, including pediatric and aging research 
• Pragmatic clinical trials 
• Learning health systems 
• Emerging research directions 
• AI in healthcare 

Free to attend. Attend in person at the MaRS Discovery District in Toronto or join virtually from anywhere.  

Registration takes less than two minutes to complete. Contact researchday@ossu.ca 

with questions. 

Share your news with us!

We want to hear about your latest projects, grants, publications, awards and events!

Send news to lawsonresearch@sjhc.london.on.ca

Lawson Research Institute, the health innovation arm of St. Joseph's Health Care London, is committed to making discoveries that improve lives. Every day, Lawson scientists work to translate their ideas into innovations that improve patient care. Lawson LEADS health research. Find us online at LawsonResearch.ca and on social media @stjosephslondon

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