Michael Jackson

Dr. Michael Jackson is a Professor in the Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics at the University of Manitoba's Max Rady College of Medicine. His research focuses on understanding Ca²⁺-permeable channels, particularly TRPM2 and pannexin, in neurodegenerative diseases like Alzheimer's and stroke. He leads the neuroscience research program at the Kleysen Institute for Advanced Medicine, Health Sciences Centre.

Education: PhD in Pharmacology and Therapeutics (McGill University, 1998); Postdoctoral training in Physiology at the University of Toronto (2008). Previously served as a research scientist and adjunct professor at the Robarts Research Institute, Western University. His work bridges molecular mechanisms and clinical applications, emphasizing NMDA receptor regulation and synaptic plasticity.

Research Interests: Dr. Jackson explores how Ca²⁺ dysregulation and inflammatory pathways contribute to neurodegeneration. Key areas include TRPM2 channel activation in ischemia, pannexin's role in synaptic transmission, and epigenetic links between NMDA receptor dysfunction and schizophrenia. His studies aim to identify molecular targets for novel therapies.

Scientific Contributions: Over 60 peer-reviewed articles in top journals, including Neuron, Journal of Neuroscience, and Glia. His work highlights cross-talk between signaling pathways and channelopathies in CNS disorders.

Advising & Labs: Actively mentors graduate students in Master's and PhD programs. His lab in the Kleysen Institute focuses on translational research, combining electrophysiology, molecular biology, and in vivo models to dissect disease mechanisms.