Peter Thompson

Peter Thompson is an Assistant Professor in the Department of Physiology and Pathophysiology at the Max Rady College of Medicine, University of Manitoba, and a Principal Investigator at the Children’s Hospital Research Institute of Manitoba (CHRIM). His research focuses on Type 1 Diabetes (T1D), particularly the active role of pancreatic beta cells in disease pathogenesis, integrating endocrinology, immunology, and cell biology.

Education:

• Bachelor of Science (Molecular Genetics), University of Alberta (2007)
• Master of Science (Molecular Biology), University of Alberta (2010)
• PhD (Medical Genetics), University of British Columbia (2016)
• Postdoctoral Fellowship, Islet Biology and Diabetes, University of California, San Francisco (2020)

Dr. Thompson’s research explores beta cell stress responses, autoimmunity, epigenetics, extracellular vesicles, and small molecule therapeutics in T1D. His lab aims to develop preventive therapies and restore beta cell function. His work is supported by networks such as DREAM and CIRTN, and funding from URGP, DREAM Catalyst, CIHR, and Breakthrough T1D.

The research publications and presentations from his team reflect a strong focus on beta cell senescence, immune interactions, high-throughput screening, and dynamic hormone secretion. Recent outputs highlight translational methodologies, student-led discoveries, and national collaboration in diabetes research.

Scientific Awards:

• Ken Hughes Young Investigator in Medical Research, University of Manitoba (2023)
• Manitoba Medical Services Foundation (MMSF) Allen Rouse Basic Science Career Development Award (2023)
• Lawrence A. Smookler Distinguished Research Scientist in Diabetes (2019)
• Patricia A. Baird Research Award in Medical Genetics (2015)

Dr. Thompson actively mentors graduate students including PhD and Master’s candidates such as Jasmine, Camille, and Nayara. His lab has received multiple grants supporting collaborative and innovative research. Trainees have secured competitive awards from Research Manitoba, CIRTN, and NSERC-CREATE, demonstrating strong research training outcomes.

The Thompson Lab operates at CHRIM on the Bannatyne Campus, engaging in cutting-edge islet research and contributing to national diabetes research networks. The team conducts perifusion studies, high-throughput screening, and molecular analyses to advance understanding of T1D pathogenesis.