John D Brennan is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology at McMaster University. He is affiliated with the Biointerfaces Institute and focuses on developing innovative biosensing technologies and functional nucleic acid-based assays. His research integrates materials science, biochemistry, and analytical chemistry to create practical diagnostic tools for healthcare applications. Key research areas include the design of DNA aptamers and DNAzymes for detecting biomarkers (e.g., eosinophil peroxidase, SARS-CoV-2 spike proteins), development of paper-based diagnostic platforms, and optimization of sol-gel materials for enzyme entrapment. His work emphasizes high-throughput screening, point-of-care testing, and CRISPR-based biosensing systems. Notable contributions include a rapid sputum-based assay for asthma biomarkers and a universal DNA aptamer for SARS-CoV-2 variants. His lab also explores functional nucleic acid circuits and their integration into scalable diagnostic devices. Brennan’s teaching includes advanced courses in analytical chemistry and biochemical assay development. His work has been featured in journals like *Angewandte Chemie*, *Analytical Chemistry*, and *ChemBioChem*, with a focus on translating fundamental research into practical clinical applications.
Juewen Liu is a Professor and Canada Research Chair in Biosensors and Bionanotechnology in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Waterloo, affiliated with the Faculty of Science. His research program employs principles of chemistry, physics, and biology to develop innovative nanoscale materials and systems with applications in sensing, diagnostics, and therapeutics. Research encompasses: DNA aptamer development and applications Nanoparticle engineering for biomedical use Biointerface chemistry innovations Nanozyme design and catalytic applications Liu maintains an extensive publication record in high-impact journals, with recent work emphasizing advanced biosensing platforms, targeted drug delivery systems, and nanomaterial-based solutions for environmental and health challenges. His research integrates fundamental science with practical applications in diagnostics and therapy. Teaching responsibilities include courses on nano-biomaterials and nano-instrumentation. Professor Liu collaborates extensively through the Waterloo Institute for Nanotechnology, Water Institute, and Centre for Bioengineering and Biotechnology.
Dr. Vahid Adibnia is an Assistant Professor at Dalhousie University, affiliated with the School of Biomedical Engineering and the Department of Applied Oral Sciences. His laboratory (AdibLab) focuses on developing biomaterials to address biomedical challenges such as osteoarthritis, wound management, and implant-related infections. The lab employs a multidisciplinary approach combining polymer chemistry, biophysics, and engineering to create materials with controlled properties from nanoscale to macro-scale. Research projects include: Superlubricating hydrogels for joint hydration and drug delivery Mussel-mimetic adhesive hydrogels for wound healing Biosourced antifouling coatings for biomedical implants AdibLab collaborates closely with hospitals and industry to translate materials into healthcare products. Key areas of innovation include nanocolloidal hydrogels, peptide-based adhesives, and electrolyte-modulated lubrication systems. The lab is located in Halifax, NS, with state-of-the-art facilities for material synthesis and biological testing.
Louis Cuccia is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry at Concordia University, serving as Graduate Program Director. He holds a PhD from McGill University and teaches courses including Introductory Organic Chemistry I (Chem-221) and Advanced Organic Chemistry IV - Structure & Stereochemistry (Chem-325), with plans to introduce a new course on Supramolecular Materials exploring biological hierarchical structures as inspiration for advanced materials. Education: PhD in Chemistry, McGill University His research focuses on chiral crystals, mirror symmetry breaking, chiral amplification, and supramolecular chemistry. His work spans mechanochemical synthesis of organic compounds, chiral crystallization mechanisms, triboelectric nanogenerators, and biomimetic materials. Recent publications highlight innovations in solvent-free reactions, chiral induction, and applications of supramolecular principles to nanotechnology and energy devices. The 15 most recent articles (2019–2025) demonstrate expertise in mechanochemistry, supramolecular assembly, and chiral materials. Key themes include triboelectric energy harvesting, chiral amplification through grinding/abrasion, and design of bioinspired materials. Collaborative work extends to pedagogical tools for nanogenerator education and fundamental studies of molecular interactions at interfaces. Professional activities include leading the Cuccia Research Group , though specific scientific awards or grants are not detailed in available information. His teaching integrates current literature on bioinspired materials, polymer science, and nanomechanics.
Christine DeWolf is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry and Biochemistry and Vice-Dean at the Faculty of Arts and Science, Concordia University. As Co-Director of the Centre for NanoScience Research, she bridges interdisciplinary research in biophysical chemistry and nanotechnology. BSc (Hons.) from Saint Mary's University PhD from Imperial College of Science Technology and Medicine, University of London Postdoctoral Fellow at Max-Planck Institute of Colloids and Interfaces Her research focuses on: Biophysical chemistry of membrane systems Environmental pollutant interactions with lipid structures Antimicrobial peptide-membrane interactions Nanocarrier systems for drug delivery Langmuir monolayer and liposome characterization Nanoparticle bioeffects on pulmonary surfactants Recent publications demonstrate expertise in nanoparticle-lipid bilayer interactions, membrane damage mechanisms, and advanced delivery systems using upconversion nanoparticles. Her lab employs: Langmuir trough techniques X-ray scattering Molecular dynamics simulations Surface-sensitive spectroscopy Nano-bio interface characterization Teaching responsibilities include courses in: Physical Chemistry (CHEM 234) Biophysical Chemistry (CHEM 335) Nanochemistry (CHEM 451) Interfacial Phenomena (CHEM 435)
Suzanne Giasson is a Full Professor at the University of Montreal, affiliated with both the Faculty of Arts and Sciences (Department of Chemistry) and the Faculty of Pharmacy. Her research focuses on polymer chemistry , surface forces , nanotribology , and stimuli-responsive materials , particularly in soft-matter thin films and biomedical applications. Key affiliations: GRUM (Groupe de recherche universitaire sur le médicament), CQMF (Centre québécois sur les matériaux fonctionnels) Techniques: Surface Forces Apparatus (SFA), Langmuir balance, AFM Applications: Drug delivery, prosthetic coatings, colloidal stability Her research spans 2001-2023 , with a focus on polymer brushes, surface adhesion mechanisms, and nanoscale lubrication. She has supervised 11 doctoral/MSc students and secured 15+ research grants from NSERC, FRQNT, and Mitacs. She received the 2004 Québec Science Discoverers of the Year award for her work on ultra-low friction polymer layers published in Nature . Notable projects include: 2016-2024: Development of multi-responsive surfaces for microfluidics 2017-2023: Independent surface texture/chemistry modulation 2002-2017: Long-term polymer surface property control
Dr. Kathryn Grandfield is an Associate Professor in Materials Science & Engineering and the McMaster School of Biomedical Engineering, holding the Canada Research Chair in Microscopy of Biomaterials and Biointerfaces. Her research pioneers multi-scale characterization of bone-implant interfaces using advanced microscopy techniques including electron, ion beam, and atom probe tomography. She directs the Grandfield Research Group focusing on biomaterials development for orthopedic and dental applications. Research interests span biomaterials design, bone-implant interfaces, mineralized tissue characterization, and advanced microscopy techniques. Her work provides fundamental insights for improving implant success and understanding pathological bone conditions. Publications focus on biomineralization processes, implant characterization, and advanced imaging techniques, with recent work leveraging liquid-phase electron microscopy to observe mineralization dynamics in real-time. University Scholar (2023) President's Award for Excellence in Graduate Supervision (2022) Canada Research Chair in Microscopy of Biomaterials and Biointerfaces (2021) Faculty of Engineering Teaching Excellence Award (2019) Early Researcher Award - Ontario Research Fund (2018-2023) Leads the Grandfield Research Group at McMaster's Canadian Centre for Electron Microscopy. Teaches graduate courses including MATLS 701 Graduate Seminar and MATLS 702 Graduate Seminar (Ph.D.).
Paul Wiseman is a Professor of Chemistry and Physics at McGill University, holding the Otto Maass Chair in Chemistry. He earned a B.Sc. (Hons) in Chemistry from St. Francis Xavier University (1989) and a Ph.D. in Chemistry from the University of Western Ontario (1995). His research focuses on biophysical chemistry, particularly measuring macromolecular interactions in living cells using advanced microscopy techniques like image correlation spectroscopy (ICS) and image cross-correlation spectroscopy (ICCS). His work addresses cellular adhesion mechanisms, receptor dynamics, and the development of novel imaging methods such as third harmonic generation (THG) microscopy and quantum dot labeling. Wiseman’s research group employs cutting-edge equipment, including light sheet, TIRF, multiphoton, and STED microscopes, to study protein transport, signaling, and membrane organization. His contributions have been recognized with awards like the Biophysical Society Young Fluorescence Investigator (2005), Leo Yaffe Award for Teaching (2007), and the Keith Laidler Award (2009). He currently advises PhD students in interdisciplinary fields spanning biophysics, cell biology, and microscopy. His lab explores topics such as CFTR protein dynamics in cystic fibrosis, mechanosensing in immune cells, and the role of cholesterol in membrane receptor regulation. Collaborations with the NIH Cell Migration Consortium and editorial roles at Biointerfaces and Biophysical Journal highlight his leadership in the field. The Wiseman Group’s innovations in microscopy techniques enable unprecedented insights into cellular processes at the molecular level.
Professor Maryam Tabrizian is a faculty member at the Department of Biomedical Engineering at McGill University. She is also an Associate Member in the Department of Bioengineering and the Division of Experimental Surgery. Her research intersects chemistry, physics, biology, and engineering to advance biomaterials and biointerfaces. Research Focus: Development of novel interfaces for improved biomaterial-biological interactions, regenerative medicine, nanomedicine, and Lab-on-a-Chip platforms. Laboratory: Biomat'X Research Laboratories at the McGill University Genome Centre, equipped with state-of-the-art tools unique to Canada. Community: Leads a diverse, collaborative team engaged in interdisciplinary research and informal social activities. Scientific Recognition: Recognized as a Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada's Academy of Science. Her work emphasizes engineering principles to mimic natural biological processes in biomedical devices.
France-Isabelle Auzanneau is a Professor in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Guelph. Her research focuses on the synthesis and conformational analysis of carbohydrate-based antigens, particularly those associated with tumor cells and bacterial infections. She investigates how these antigens interact with the immune system, aiming to develop immunotherapeutics. Educational Background: B.Sc., Paris-Sud Orsay University (1985) M.Sc., Paris-Sud Orsay University (1986) Ph.D., Paris-Sud Orsay University (1989) Her work involves advanced techniques such as nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, molecular dynamics simulations, and organic synthesis for glycosylation reactions. She studies Lewis blood group antigens and their analogues, exploring their roles in immune responses and potential applications in vaccine design. Recent publications highlight her contributions to understanding glycan stability, self-assembly of carbohydrate networks, and the development of dimeric antigen fragments. Her lab at the University of Guelph (MACN 226/239) is equipped with modern instrumentation for chromatography, molecular modeling, and biointerface studies. She has mentored numerous graduate students and postdoctoral researchers, fostering expertise in carbohydrate chemistry and immunological applications. Her collaborations span disciplines, including food science and microbiology, reflecting a broad impact in glycosciences.
Alfredo Capretta is an Associate Professor in the Department of Chemistry & Chemical Biology at McMaster University. His research focuses on developing innovative chemical tools for biomedical applications, including molecular probes, biosensors, and strategies to combat antibiotic resistance. Capretta has been affiliated with the Biointerfaces Institute, emphasizing interdisciplinary work at the chemistry-biology interface. Education: Bachelor of Science in Chemistry, McMaster University (1984–1988) Doctor of Philosophy in Chemistry, McMaster University (1988–1992) Postdoctoral Fellow in Chemistry at Cambridge University (1992–1994) Research Interests: Capretta’s work spans synthetic organic chemistry, chemical biology, and medicinal chemistry. He specializes in designing DNAzyme-based diagnostic tools, CO-releasing molecules (CORMs) for therapeutic applications, and strategies to inhibit antibiotic resistance enzymes. His recent projects include developing rapid, unprocessed saliva and sputum assays for pathogens like SARS-CoV-2 and Staphylococcus aureus, leveraging aptamer technology and molecular recognition principles. Publications Trends: His recent articles (2020–2024) highlight advancements in point-of-care diagnostics, aptamer engineering, and SARS-CoV-2 detection. Earlier work (2004–2006) focused on palladium-catalyzed cross-coupling reactions and ionic liquid applications in organic synthesis. Key themes include bioactive molecule design, enzyme inhibition mechanisms, and translational biomedical chemistry. Advising & Grants: While no advisees are explicitly listed, Capretretta has led research initiatives addressing antibiotic resistance and viral diagnostics. His work has been referenced in multiple patents, indicating impactful translational research. Teaching responsibilities include core courses like Medicinal Chemistry (CHEMBIO 4OB3), Organic Chemistry II (CHEM 2OB3), and Organic Synthesis (CHEM 3OA3). Labs/Teams: Affiliated with the Biointerfaces Institute, collaborating on biomaterials and diagnostics research. His lab explores chemical biology solutions for inflammatory disorders and infectious diseases.
Frank Gu is a Professor at the University of Toronto's Faculty of Applied Science and Engineering, serving as Director of the Institute for Water Innovation (IWI) and Principal Investigator of the Laboratory of Nanomedicine and Water Sustainability. He holds the NSERC Senior Industrial Research Chair in Nanotechnology Engineering, focusing on interdisciplinary solutions for health and environmental challenges. His educational background includes a B.Sc. from Trent University, a Ph.D. from Queen's University, and postdoctoral training at MIT-Harvard. Key research areas span nanomedicine for ophthalmic drug delivery, pathogen diagnostics using nanomaterials, and industrial wastewater treatment via photocatalysis. His lab develops mucoadhesive nanoparticles for sustained drug release, gold nanoparticle-based pathogen detection platforms, and solar-driven photocatalysts for removing toxicants like selenium and naphthenic acids from water. Recent publications reveal strong trends in environmental nanotechnology (40%), COVID-19 transmission dynamics (20%), and biomaterials for drug delivery (30%), with emerging work on self-driving laboratories for materials discovery. His research directly addresses critical issues in vision care, pandemic response, and oil sands sustainability. Scientific recognition includes: NSERC Senior Industrial Research Chair Member of the College of the Royal Society of Canada Canada Research Chair (Tier II) Ontario Early Research Award Actively mentoring graduate students (accepting PhD and MASc candidates), his research is supported through industrial partnerships and major grants including the NSERC Chair. Current projects involve self-driving labs for agricultural materials, ML-based surface property analysis, and novel hyaluronic acid polymers. His Mixture Lab accelerates materials discovery using autonomous systems for applications in health, energy, and sustainability, with a focus on droplet behavior and complex mixtures.
Dr. Elizabeth Gillies is a Professor in the Department of Chemical and Biochemical Engineering at Western University's Faculty of Engineering, with a joint appointment in the Department of Chemistry. She leads an active research program focused on polymer chemistry and biomaterials development, with applications spanning drug delivery, regenerative medicine, and agricultural technologies. Her work bridges multiple disciplines including chemical engineering, chemistry, and biomedical science through collaborations across Science, Engineering, and Medicine faculties. B.Sc. from Queen's University Ph.D. from University of California, Berkeley (2004) Marie Curie Post-Doctoral Fellow, University of Bordeaux, France Dr. Gillies' research centers on the design and synthesis of smart materials with novel properties and functions. Her group develops polymeric platforms for applications in drug delivery and tissue engineering, creating materials ranging from nanoparticles to 3-D scaffolds. Current projects focus on musculoskeletal health, cancer, and immunology/microbiology applications, with particular emphasis on achieving targeted delivery and controlled release of therapeutic agents. Her work often involves interdisciplinary approaches that combine polymer chemistry with biological applications. Analysis of Dr. Gillies' recent publications reveals a strong focus on self-immolative polymers, stimuli-responsive materials, and controlled drug delivery systems. Her research demonstrates consistent innovation in polymer chemistry, particularly in developing materials that respond to specific biological triggers. The work spans fundamental polymer science to practical applications in medicine and agriculture, with increasing emphasis on sustainable and renewable materials in recent years. R. Mohan Mathur Award for Excellence in Teaching, 2017 NSERC E.W.R. Steacie Memorial Fellowship, 2017 Fallona Interdisciplinary Science Award, 2016 Faculty Scholar, Western University, 2016-2018 Petro Canada Young Innovator Award, 2012 Early Researcher Award, Government of Ontario, 2008-2013 Tier 2 Canada Research Chair, 2006-2016 John Charles Polanyi Prize, 2006 Dr. Gillies has successfully secured significant research funding through prestigious awards including the Canada Research Chair and NSERC Steacie Fellowship. Her research group provides students with comprehensive training in polymer synthesis and characterization techniques including NMR spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, HPLC, GPC/SEC, light scattering, and imaging methods. Students in her lab have opportunities to participate in biological testing of new materials, gaining valuable interdisciplinary experience. Current projects involve collaborations across multiple faculties to address challenges in musculoskeletal health, cancer treatment, and immunology. Dr. Gillies leads a vibrant research group focused on developing new polymeric materials with applications in drug delivery and tissue engineering. Her laboratory combines synthetic chemistry approaches with biological testing to develop materials that address specific medical challenges. The group works on designing polymers with novel functions such as triggered degradation or presentation of bioactive molecules, creating materials from nanoparticles to coatings and 3-D scaffolds for various biomedical applications.
Caitlin Maikawa is an Assistant Professor at the University of Toronto with a cross-appointment in the Institute of Biomedical Engineering. Her research focuses on developing biointerfacing polymer materials to address challenges in drug delivery and biomedical engineering. She leads a collaborative lab emphasizing innovation through interdisciplinary teamwork and inclusivity, aiming to bridge gaps between current treatments and disease management through advanced biomaterials. Key research areas include localized drug delivery systems, stimuli-responsive drug release mechanisms, and biomarker sensing technologies. Her work targets applications in diabetes management, cancer immunotherapy, and improving the stability of biopharmaceuticals. The lab prioritizes ethical and equitable practices, including accessible hiring processes for disabled scientists and engineers. Maikawa’s contributions span polymer biomaterial design, nanoparticle-based hydrogels, and supramolecular formulations. Recent projects include GLP-1 receptor agonist delivery for diabetes and tissue-adhering polymers for cancer therapy. Her research integrates material science with biological systems to enhance therapeutic efficacy and reduce treatment burdens. Education and training details are not explicitly provided in the available text, but her lab’s mission emphasizes mentorship and career support for students. The lab acknowledges its presence on Indigenous lands and commits to learning from local histories and cultures.
Professor Gilbert Walker is a faculty member in the Department of Chemistry at the University of Toronto's Faculty of Arts & Science. He leads the Laboratory for Advanced Nanoscience at Surfaces and BioInterfaces (LANSBI) located at Lash Miller Chemical Laboratories (80 St. George Street, Toronto). His research integrates chemistry, optics, mechanics and biology to investigate fundamental and applied nanoscale phenomena at surfaces and biointerfaces. Walker's research focuses on four primary areas: Nanoscale Mechanics (force spectroscopy, atomic force microscopy, hydrophobic hydration), Nanoscale Infrared Spectroscopy (scanning near-field optical microscopy, boron nitride, surface phonon polaritons), Nanoparticles for Disease Diagnostics (gold nanoparticles, liposomes, cancer cell detection), and Biofouling Control (zwitterionic coatings, block copolymers for marine aquaculture). His work spans from fundamental discoveries about hydrophobic hydration to practical applications in aquaculture anti-fouling technology and cancer diagnostics. His recent publications reveal a strong trend toward translational research with real-world impact, particularly in developing eco-friendly marine anti-fouling solutions that address 20% of aquaculture production costs, and creating advanced diagnostic platforms for cancer detection. His work combines fundamental physical chemistry with practical engineering solutions across multiple domains. NorthMiRs won $250,000 in funding from the Ted Rogers Centre for Heart Research's ECHO PITCH 2024 His lab members have received multiple graduate awards in 2024 including the Irene Miller Graduate Award and David H. Farrar Graduate Scholarship in Chemistry Professor Walker actively mentors graduate students including Mikhail Nazarov, Irene Miller, Guillermo Lonzano Onrubia, and Nashmia. His LANSBI laboratory works with synthetic polymers, perovskites, 2D materials, cells, and in vivo models to address needs in aquaculture, biomedical diagnostics, and immune-related diseases. The lab recently completed a large-scale field trial involving 100-meter circumference fish cages for their anti-fouling technology.
