WELCOME TO
WELCOME TO
THE DENDRITE: ACADEMIC JOURNAL CLUB OF UOTTAWA
THE DENDRITE: ACADEMIC JOURNAL CLUB OF UOTTAWA
Embedded Files
OUR MISSION
OUR MISSION
The Dendrite offers students a unique platform to explore research opportunities, collaborate with peers, and engage in meaningful discussions. This invaluable insight into scientific inquiry helps those pursuing a career in research. By making scientific literature more accessible, The Dendrite bridges the gap between complex research and the broader University of Ottawa community, fostering critical thinking, analytical skills, and communication. Additionally, The Dendrite promotes an inclusive and non-judgmental environment where interdisciplinary research discussions can thrive, ensuring that diverse perspectives are valued and mutual respect is at the core of its community.
SIGN UP TO BE A GENERAL MEMBER TODAY!
SIGN UP TO BE A GENERAL MEMBER TODAY!
Complete the form below to register and unlock exclusive access to research-focused events, workshops, and networking opportunities that will enhance your personal and professional development in the research field.
UPCOMING EVENTS & ANNOUNCEMENTS
From Bacteria to Biomedical Applications: Dr. Michele Ardolino on Tumor Immunity and Cellular Stress
From Bacteria to Biomedical Applications: Dr. Michele Ardolino on Tumor Immunity and Cellular Stress
July 8th, 2025
July 8th, 2025
Dr. Michele Ardolino is an Associate Professor at the University of Ottawa and a Scientist at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute (OHRI). His research explores how immune cells interact with stressed or damaged cells, especially in the context of cancer. In this episode, he breaks down the role of natural killer (NK) cells in immune surveillance and how understanding cellular stress pathways can inform the design of new cancer immunotherapies.
Podcast Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0y82Rsv6YSvSdsmDroDkcS?si=786761bf6e634d00
Ardolino Lab: https://ardolinolab.ca
Stem Cells and Aging: Dr. Vahab Soleimani on Regenerative Muscle Biology
Stem Cells and Aging: Dr. Vahab Soleimani on Regenerative Muscle Biology
June 2nd, 2025
June 2nd, 2025
A leading voice in regenerative medicine, Dr. Vahab Soleimani is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology and Immunology at the University of Ottawa. In this episode, he dives into the world of muscle stem cells, niche signaling, and aging. Learn how his lab studies the epigenetic and extrinsic factors that regulate muscle regeneration and uncover potential therapies for conditions like sarcopenia, muscular dystrophy, and cancer cachexia.
Podcast Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/048Q674NW2tHkvtwBWRRkc?si=545ee5d9312c4dec
Soleimani Lab: https://soleimanilab.ca/
Advancing Pediatric Nephrology: Dr. Robert Myette on Steroid Burden and Kidney Biomarkers
Advancing Pediatric Nephrology: Dr. Robert Myette on Steroid Burden and Kidney Biomarkers
May 22nd, 2025
May 22nd, 2025
Dr. Robert Myette is a Pediatric Nephrologist at CHEO and a PhD Candidate at uOttawa. His research focuses on pediatric nephrotic syndrome, aiming to uncover biomarkers that reduce steroid burden and improve outcomes in steroid-sensitive cases. In this episode, he shares insights into prognostication strategies and the translational impact of his work in pediatric kidney health.
Podcast Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/0C0Vyix5W8lA8NO1y3mMzU?si=343d4ab7cb66422c
Publications: https://www.researchgate.net/scientific-contributions/Robert-L-Myette-2201793090
Introducing Nika, our New Podcast Host
Introducing Nika, our New Podcast Host
May 22nd, 2025
May 22nd, 2025
The Dendrite uOttawa is excited to officially welcome Nika as our third podcast host, joining Farnam and Saeed on the mic. We’re thrilled to have her on board as we continue spotlighting incredible researchers across uOttawa and beyond.
Unlocking Molecular Mechanisms: Dr. John Baenziger on Ion Channels and Membrane Proteins
Unlocking Molecular Mechanisms: Dr. John Baenziger on Ion Channels and Membrane Proteins
May 3rd, 2025
May 3rd, 2025
Dr. John Baenziger is a professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology at uOttawa. His research focuses on the molecular mechanisms of ligand-gated ion channels, especially the muscle-type nicotinic acetylcholine receptor (nAChR), to understand synaptic transmission and neuromuscular disorders. Using cryo-EM and structural biology, he reveals how nAChRs function and how lipids like cholesterol modulate membrane proteins. Trained at Queen’s, uOttawa, Harvard, and Boston University, Dr. Baenziger brings decades of expertise in membrane biophysics and continues to mentor and inspire students through his research.
Podcast Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/3NGrntucM4rybXVBUu9TSn?si=8ce48f16239445b7
Baenziger Lab: http://baenzigerlab.com/professor/
Celebrating a Nomination for Excellence in STEM
Celebrating a Nomination for Excellence in STEM
March 24, 2025
March 24, 2025
We're thankful to share that The Dendrite has been nominated for the Excellence in STEM Club Award by the University of Ottawa Students’ Union. It’s an honour to be recognized alongside other incredible student groups on campus.
A sincere thank you to our executive team, contributors, and everyone who has supported The Dendrite. This nomination reflects the collective effort that goes into making our initiatives possible. We’re excited to keep building community and creating opportunities for students to engage with research in meaningful ways. This recognition is a meaningful way to wrap up the semester, and we're grateful to be ending it on such a positive note.
You can view the UOSU's announcement here: [Link]
Understanding Cell Dynamics: Dr. Jonathan Lee on Cytoskeleton Remodeling and Imaging
Understanding Cell Dynamics: Dr. Jonathan Lee on Cytoskeleton Remodeling and Imaging
February 28th, 2025
February 28th, 2025
Dr. Jonathan Lee is a professor in the Department of Biochemistry, Microbiology, and Immunology at the University of Ottawa and Director of the Translational Molecular Medicine (TMM) program. His research focuses on actin cytoskeleton remodeling, advanced imaging techniques, and genetic data analysis to better understand cell movement, interaction, and adaptation. Using bioinformatics, proteomics, and high-resolution fluorescence microscopy, his work provides key insights into cellular dynamics and disease mechanisms. With an academic background spanning Western University, the University of Toronto, and McMaster University, Dr. Lee’s expertise bridges molecular biology, immunology, and cancer research. Through his leadership in the TMM program, he continues to mentor and inspire the next generation of scientists at uOttawa.
Podcast Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/41LZE1Tadtac8Z9RY0A8Sp?si=53c65f27bb914048
Learn more about his research: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/dr-jonathan-lee
Decoding Brain Dynamics: Dr. Jeremie Lefebvre on Computational Neuroscience and Neuroplasticity
Decoding Brain Dynamics: Dr. Jeremie Lefebvre on Computational Neuroscience and Neuroplasticity
January 29th, 2025
January 29th, 2025
A leader in computational neuroscience, Dr. Jeremie Lefebvre is an Associate Professor in the Department of Biology and Neuroscience at the University of Ottawa and a researcher in the Computational Neuroscience Program. His work bridges mathematical modeling, neural dynamics, and neurostimulation, exploring how brain activity self-organizes and adapts. Dr. Lefebvre’s research spans non-linear brain dynamics, neuron-glia interactions, and white matter plasticity, with applications in neurological disorders like epilepsy and multiple sclerosis. Tune in to this episode as we delve into his groundbreaking work shaping the future of neuroscience.
Podcast Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/736X8fWYSDGBnroMna94xH?si=ddfab19d2f6341da
Learn more about his research: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-science/professors/jeremie-lefebvre
Unraveling the Aging Brain with Dr. Vanessa Taler
Unraveling the Aging Brain with Dr. Vanessa Taler
January 16th, 2025
January 16th, 2025
A pioneer in neuropsychology and cognitive aging, Dr. Vanessa Taler is a Full Professor at the University of Ottawa and Principal Investigator for the Canadian Longitudinal Study on Aging (CLSA). Her cutting-edge research focuses on bilingualism’s impact on cognition, early dementia detection, and the neurocognitive processes of aging. Don’t miss this exciting episode as we dive into her career and research transforming our understanding of the aging brain!
Podcast Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/2HK4hVxRRTsg7ErD3laAgP?si=403470e59e1648cd
Learn more about her research: CLSA
Innovations in Tissue Engineering: Dr. Emilio Alarcon on Regeneration and Heart Repair
Innovations in Tissue Engineering: Dr. Emilio Alarcon on Regeneration and Heart Repair
December 21st, 2024
December 21st, 2024
A trailblazer in tissue engineering and regeneration, Dr. Alarcon is an Associate Professor at the University of Ottawa Faculty of Medicine and Director of the Bio-nanomaterials Chemistry and Engineering Laboratory at the University of Ottawa Heart Institute. His groundbreaking work combines biochemistry, nanotechnology, and regenerative medicine to develop innovative therapies for heart disease and tissue repair. Don’t miss this exciting episode as we explore his career and research shaping the future of medicine!
Podcast Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/6hoTKOgqZXcyqhCD6itEb5?si=3fa8d03fab794879
BEaTS Lab: https://www.beatsresearch.com/Alarcon.php
Exploring Computational Neuroscience with Dr. Richard Naud
Exploring Computational Neuroscience with Dr. Richard Naud
December 2nd, 2024
December 2nd, 2024
Dr. Naud, an Associate Professor at the University of Ottawa and a scientist at the Ottawa Hospital Research Institute, is a leader in computational neuroscience. With a Ph.D. from EPFL, he has advanced methods for decoding neural responses and studied active dendrites at institutions like Cambridge University. He also co-organized the Spike-Timing Prediction Challenge, shaping mathematical neuron models. Join us to explore his groundbreaking work in neuroscience.
Podcast Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/5Ak3EBEINvEYLM2L2cpp4k?si=7186053a50b34430
Neural Coding Lab: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculty-medicine/dr-richard-naud
Welcome Dr. Steffanie Strathdee: Global Health Leader and Epidemiologist
Welcome Dr. Steffanie Strathdee: Global Health Leader and Epidemiologist
November 22nd, 2024
November 22nd, 2024
Dr. Steffanie Strathdee is a renowned epidemiologist, global health leader, and TIME Magazine Top 50 Most Influential Person in Healthcare. She has revolutionized HIV prevention for high-risk populations and pioneered phage therapy to combat antibiotic resistance. Co-author of the bestselling memoir The Perfect Predator, she continues to shape the future of public health through her innovative research and advocacy.
Podcast Episode: https://open.spotify.com/episode/44s54Cl1sHM1SXtjd7SMn3?si=887013d7ffa7421c
Check out her Book: https://theperfectpredator.com/
Dr. Strathdee's Ted Talk
A Heartfelt Thank You
A Heartfelt Thank You
November 20th, 2024
November 20th, 2024
Thank you to everyone who made our Research 101: How to Get Into Research event such a success! With over 100 sign-ups, it was inspiring to see so many students eager to explore research opportunities. A special thanks to the Med-Tech Society for collaborating with us, our sponsors, The Merry Dairy and Equator Coffee Roasters, for their generosity, and everyone who attended.
We’re proud to have shared stories, resources, and inspiration to help you take your first steps into research. Stay tuned for more events and opportunities in the future!
Research 101: How to Get Started – Hosted by MedTech Society X The Dendrite
Research 101: How to Get Started – Hosted by MedTech Society X The Dendrite
Date: November 14th, 2024 // Time: 12:00 PM // Location: STM 117
Are you eager to dive into research but don’t know where to start? Join us for Research 101, a comprehensive conference designed to kickstart your research journey! This event, hosted in collaboration between MedTech Society and The Dendrite, will guide you through essential first steps, including:
Practical tips on cold emailing and connecting with professors
Insights on different lab types and finding the right fit for you
Guidance on securing funding and identifying research opportunities
You’ll also have the chance to hear from experienced guest speakers who will share their journeys and provide advice on securing research positions and funding. This is a perfect opportunity for anyone ready to take their first steps into the exciting world of research!
Save the date and get ready to launch your research career with confidence!
Check out the research papers we will be discussing here: [Link]
Welcome our First Podcast Guest: Dr. Baptiste Lacoste
Welcome our First Podcast Guest: Dr. Baptiste Lacoste
October 17th, 2024
October 17th, 2024
We’re honored to welcome Dr. Baptiste Lacoste, Associate Professor at uOttawa’s Faculty of Medicine and expert in neurovascular biology. Join us as he delves into how brain blood vessels impact neurodevelopment and their role in conditions like autism.
Podcast Episode: https://open.spotify.com/show/3JMwHGBLpNyT9ejE3CuLLV?si=424d1d462832487d
Lacoste Lab: https://www.uottawa.ca/faculte-medecine/dr-baptiste-lacoste
Introducing The Dendrite Podcast - Hosted by Farnam and Saeed
Introducing The Dendrite Podcast - Hosted by Farnam and Saeed
October 10th, 2024
October 10th, 2024
The Dendrite Podcast is a key initiative of The Dendrite Club at the University of Ottawa, dedicated to making scientific literature more accessible and encouraging student engagement in research—whether you're just beginning or seeking deeper insight into a specific area. Each episode features an interview with a professor or researcher, where we explore their research interests and experiences in academia.
Monthly episodes are paired with an academic journal club, where listeners dive deeper into the episode's topics and explore fascinating research related to that month’s theme.
We're Back!
We're Back!
May 25th, 2024
May 25th, 2024
After a break since 2019, The Dendrite is excited to relaunch, bringing renewed opportunities for students to engage in research and scientific inquiry. Our mission is to make scientific literature approachable, foster critical and analytical skills, and create an inclusive space for meaningful interdisciplinary discussions.
Join us this year as we reconnect with our community, explore exceptional research opportunities, and promote a deeper appreciation of scientific work. Keep an eye out for our upcoming events and new ways to get involved—we’re looking forward to an exciting year ahead!
Google Sites
Report abuse