معرفی
Robyn McQuaid is a researcher in the Department of Neuroscience at Carleton University and affiliated with the University of Ottawa's Institute of Mental Health Research at The Royal. She holds a PhD in Neuroscience from Carleton University and has prior experience as a Research & Policy Analyst at the Canadian Centre on Substance Use (CCSA). She teaches courses such as NEUR 5201 (Statistics for Neuroscience), NEUR 3402 (Lifestyle & Mental Health), and NEUR 4202 (Current Neuroscience Research).
Her research focuses on understanding how stressors and early-life trauma impact mental health, particularly depression and stress-related disorders. This includes studying biomarkers (genetic, epigenetic, inflammatory) alongside psychosocial determinants. She collaborates with Dr. Amy Bombay on intergenerational trauma affecting Indigenous communities in Canada.
Key research themes include transdiagnostic biomarker approaches, social determinants of health, and resilience mechanisms. Her work spans laboratory experiments, community-based research, and population health studies.
Notable recognitions include the Mach-Gaensslen Award. She has secured grant funding, including CIHR support, and supervises undergraduate and graduate students. The McQuaid Lab currently includes researchers like Branden Pervais, Mkeila Sowa, and Dana Jarkas, among others. The lab is based in Ottawa on Algonquin territory.
