WINDSOR, ON, October 4, 2021 - WE-SPARK Health Institute has appointed a new Medical Student Research Associate for engaging, coordinating, and supporting research activities of medical school students at the Schulich Medicine & Dentistry – Windsor Campus. Together with Schulich Medicine & Dentistry and the University of Windsor, WE-SPARK supports this new role to lead the execution of the research component of the medical learner's curriculum at the Schulich Medicine & Dentistry - Windsor Campus and provide leadership on integrating students into the local research ecosystem. 

Dr. Devinder Moudgil will work closely with the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry - Windsor Campus and the University of Windsor to build a research toolkit for medical learners. She will promote research opportunities within WE-SPARK’s partner institutions Hôtel Dieu Grace Healthcare, St. Clair College, Windsor Regional Hospital and the University of Windsor. 

A scientist by training, Dr. Moudgil has a doctoral degree in Oncology from the University of Alberta. Moudgil came to WE-SPARK most recently from the Office of Research and Innovation Services at the University of Windsor, where she supported new technology protection and commercialization processes. Her more notable professional accomplishments include AUTM training, a leading association in technology transfer out of Washington DC, which brought her a unique health innovation perspective. 

"I am excited to join the passionate WE-SPARK team members who take immense pride in transforming the health research landscape of the Windsor-Essex region," says Moudgil. “My commitment to engaging students in research stems from my own research experiences, and I remain passionate about continuing this journey and inspiring young and emerging students. I am excited about working closely with medical students and faculty members at the Schulich Medicine & Dentistry - Windsor Campus to grow research capacity.”

“Providing medical school students with an engaging health research environment is critical to their learning and offers significant career benefits," says Dr. Larry Jacobs, Associate Dean, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry – Windsor Campus. “World-class health research and innovations are happening in our region and supporting opportunities that immerse our students in the research environment benefits all. Dr. Moudgil’s research expertise, understanding of the processes involved, and connections will set students up for success.”

“We are very excited to have someone with such an extensive background join us in this critical role,” adds Dr. Lisa Porter, Executive Director, WE-SPARK Health Institute. “The expertise she brings in research development and previous success working with the Windsor Cancer Research Academic team will further strengthen our medical student research program development. This newly created position will be essential to helping expand and accelerate health research across Windsor-Essex and embed cross-collaboration between our partner institutions.”

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