Melanie Martin

Dr. Melanie Martin is a Professor and Director of the Magnetic Resonance Microscopy Centre at the University of Winnipeg, where she also serves as Co-Director of the Brain Imaging and Metabolic Research Centre. She holds a Ph.D. from Yale University (2000) and specializes in developing advanced MRI techniques for studying micron-scale biological structures, particularly axon diameters and brain tissue composition. Her research collaborations include partnerships with Cubresa, Inc. (PET/MRI integration) and SCHI/SCHERI (intraoperative MRI systems).

Her educational background and affiliations emphasize interdisciplinary approaches to medical imaging, bridging physics, neuroscience, and biomedical engineering. Key areas of focus include high-resolution multi-contrast MRI methods, compartmental analysis using diffusion-weighted imaging, and translating MRI innovations into clinical applications. Martin has delivered over 20 invited talks at international conferences, including sessions on neuroinflammation and women in STEM.

• Research Highlights:
  • Development of AxCaliber for axon diameter inference
  • Pioneering simultaneous PET/MRI systems
  • Applications in Alzheimer’s disease models and optic chiasm pathology
• Awards & Recognition: No explicit prizes listed, but notable contributions include NSERC-funded outreach initiatives and leadership roles in gender equity initiatives in academia.
• Grants & Funding: Supported by NSERC grants for STEM diversity programs and medical imaging research collaborations.

She actively engages in public outreach, including a 2019 TEDx talk on 'Beyond the Human Eye' and panel discussions on neuroimaging and art-science intersections. Her work has been featured in the University of Winnipeg Magazine and media coverage of NSERC-funded equity initiatives.