Max Rady College of Medicine

Manitoba Multiple Sclerosis Research Centre

The Manitoba Multiple Sclerosis Research Centre (MMSRC), is dedicated to advancing MS research and care in Manitoba. With a high prevalence of MS in Manitoba and its significant impact on the quality of life and economy, the MMSRC was established to enhance Manitoba's position in the national and international MS research communities. Our goal is to bring together researchers, clinicians, and knowledge users in a collaborative effort to tackle MS and improve the lives of those affected.

Image of a scientist looking into a microscope in a lab setting. Brain x rays are displayed on a monitor.

The impact of MS

MS is a devastating condition that affects not just those diagnosed, but also their families and loved ones.

With onset typically occurring between the ages of 20-50 years, MS has long-term effects on the quality of life for affected individuals. The physical and emotional toll of MS can be immense, including symptoms such as muscle weakness, numbness, and fatigue, as well as depression, anxiety, and memory loss.

These symptoms can make it difficult for individuals to work, care for themselves, and live their lives to the fullest.  

MS and the economy

MS not only has a significant impact on the lives of those affected, but also on the economy.

Nearly 80% of Canadians with MS have reduced work hours or are forced to leave employment early, leading to large economic impacts for social services and healthcare systems. The healthcare costs associated with MS in Manitoba are projected to exceed $2 billion annually within the next decade.

These facts highlight the pressing need for focused research and care efforts in Manitoba to address the impact of MS.

A Manitoban solution

With a high prevalence of MS in Manitoba and its impact on the lives of Manitobans and the economy, it's imperative to establish a focused centre for MS research and care in the province.

By developing the MMSRC in Manitoba, the province will provide a hub for MS research and care efforts and position itself at the forefront of MS research and care efforts in Canada and beyond.

The MMSRC will bring together the best and brightest researchers, clinicians, and knowledge users to tackle MS and improve the lives of those affected. 

A doctor comforting a patient.
Two people seated at a table, looking at a laptop.
A scientist looking down at a sample that is being sequenced into a machine.

Our team

Follow the links to learn more about the members of the MMSRC.

Centre leadership

Become a member

Our vision is to create a community of people interested in participating in research related activities. Join the MMSRC in its efforts to tackle the impact of MS in Manitoba and beyond.

Membership Benefits

  • Build your network: Access to seminars/lectures and scientific conferences/meetings. Opportunities to meet with internal and external scientists in the field of MS and related areas.
  • Outreach and advocacy: Opportunities to serve your scientific community and Institute by promoting research and engaging with the public.
  • Registration discounts: Save on registration costs when attending the MMSRC Annual Scientific Meeting.
  • Subscription to email List: Stay up-to-date and get the latest information about upcoming MMSRC Seminars, Publications, Awards and other exciting news! 

Membership Responsibilities

Members are expected to participate in the MMSRC Research Seminar Series, contribute to committees of the MMSRC, and participate in the annual meeting of the MMSRC.

We also ask that members share their achievements so that we can collectively celebrate new research funding, honors, awards, distinctions, publications, presentations, and innovative knowledge products.

Membership categories

Membership is free. Please contact MMSRC directors for membership consideration.

 

Principal investigator affiliate

Individuals primarily employed by a health care, education or research organization (or other related organization). Individuals who hold professional research appointments as research administrators, grant facilitators or research coordinators are also eligible to apply in this category.

Student, residents, research fellows/associate affiliate

Membership is open to all graduate students, postdoctoral fellows, research associates and assistants,  medical students, and residents at the University of Manitoba and  other universities in Manitoba.

Public affiliates

MMSRC welcomes members from the general public who have an interest in MS research, care, and/or advocacy.

MMSRC News

Events

Seminar series

The MMSRC seminars will be held on the second Wednesday of each month from 12:00 - 1:00 p.m. CST (except for July, August, and December). Sessions will follow a hybrid in-person/Zoom format, with the physical portion being held in room 306, Pathology Building, Bannatyne campus.

  • Upcoming sessions

    May 10, 2023
    Dr. Soheila Karimi

    Presentation title:
    An Overview of Multiple Sclerosis Research in The Karimi Laboratory

  •  

    June 14, 2023
    Dr. Heather Armstrong

Contact us

Manitoba Multiple Sclerosis Research Centre (MMSRC)
Rady Faculty of Health Sciences
Max Rady College of Medicine
University of Manitoba
Winnipeg, MB Canada