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May 2026 Newsletter

   

News

   

Canadian Neuromuscular Clinical Trial Database

The NMD4C Clinical Trial Network is pleased to share that the Canadian Neuromuscular Clinical Trial Database has recently been updated! 

View our updated database to discover the new additions and get the latest information on recruiting and upcoming neuromuscular clinical trials across Canada. 

NMD4C Neuromuscular Talent Pool Launches Today

Today, 5th May 2026, NMD4C officially launches our Neuromuscular Talent Poola new online resource designed to showcase neuromuscular trainees and research professionals across Canada who are seeking their next role in basic neuromuscular research. 

The Talent Pool features a database of MSc and PhD students, postdoctoral fellows, technicians, and other research professionals, increasing their visibility to laboratories, institutions, and research teams nationwide. Individuals interested in being included are invited to register by completing a short form and uploading a CV and brief personal statement outlining their experience, research interests, and next career goal. 

Register today to be featured on the NMD4C talent pool!

     

**Profiles included in the Talent Pool will be showcased for a period of three months. 
**NMD4C will continue to share neuromuscular job opportunities through its website and social media channels. Laboratories or institutions wishing to promote available positions are welcome to submit job postings for posting and circulation. 

For more information or to share a job opportunity, please contact our Communications Coordinator, Lola Owoeye.

2026 Signals That Move Us Image Competition

 Closes Today!  Submit Your Image Now! 

Today is the final day to submit your entry for the NMD4C 2026 Image Competition: Signals That Move Us. All neuromuscular trainees are invited to share images that capture their work, techniques, or perspectives within neuromuscular research. Submissions received by the end of today will be considered for inclusion and review. If you have been planning to submit an image, please be sure to complete your submission today!

 Applications are Open for the 

2027 Clinical Neuromuscular Fellowship 

Funding Competition

NMD4C and MDC are pleased to invite applications to our annual clinical fellowship funding competition, which provides financial support for early‑career clinicians pursuing fellowship training in neuromuscular medicine and electromyography. This program is designed to strengthen clinical expertise and build capacity within the Canadian neuromuscular community by supporting dedicated, high‑quality fellowship training opportunities.

Dates and Timelines 

  • Funding competition opens:  May 1, 2026 
  • Application submission deadline:  June 12, 2026 
  • Notification of Funding: July – August 2026 
  • Funds available: July – September 2027 

Applicants are encouraged to review the competition guidelines, eligibility criteria, funding information, application requirements, and to submit their applications by the posted deadline. Learn more about the application process on our website: 

 NMD4C Investigators Awarded $5.7 Million as Part of National Team to Advance 3D Models for Brain and Neuromuscular Research

NMD4C investigators are part of a national research team awarded $5.7 million in Canada Foundation for Innovation (CFI) infrastructure funding to support the development of advanced 3D human tissue models for brain and neuromuscular research. The initiative brings together researchers from The Ottawa Hospital, the University of Ottawa, and the University of Toronto, and is co‑led by NMD4C investigator Dr. Michael Rudnicki, alongside Dr. Penney Gilbert and Dr. Mireille Khacho. This shared infrastructure will enable cutting‑edge neuromuscular and neural tissue research, accelerate discovery, and provide hands‑on training opportunities for trainees across Canada. 

2026 NMD4C Collaborative Research Training Awards is Still Open!

Successful translational research relies on the seamless exchange of specialized techniques and expertise. To support this, the NMD4C Collaborative Research Training Awards fund up to $2,000 in research stays for trainees working on neuromuscular disease at Canadian institutions and applications are open to all trainees currently working in the NMD field in Canada. This includes MSc and PhD students, postdoctoral fellows as well as other research trainees The award is designed to help trainees bridge technical gaps between laboratories by supporting short research stays at other institutions, enabling participants to gain hands‑on experience with specialized experimental models or analytical techniques, transfer new knowledge back to their home laboratories, and build professional relationships that strengthen multi‑centre research efforts.

Trainee Perspectives

The value of these collaborative exchanges is highlighted in our Early Career Blog series. Past recipients have shared how these research stays provided the specific technical edge and fresh perspectives required to progress their work. For instance, Dr. Emilie Groulx-Boivin discusses the professional impact of expanding one's scientific environment, while Dr. Jeremy Slayter highlights how technical exchange is essential for progressing early-career research. Their stories illustrate how stepping outside of one's primary laboratory can catalyze new ideas and accelerate career development. Learn how these awards supported national collaborations and technical development in their early career blogs:

     
   
   

2026 NMD4C Annual Meeting Registration is Open!

– 25 September 2026 –

The 2026 Neuromuscular Disease Network for Canada (NMD4C)’s Annual Meeting will be held in Calgary on Friday, September 25, 2026. Join us for a full day of dynamic discussions, research updates, and networking opportunities. It will be held just ahead of the 6th Western Canadian Neuromuscular Conference (WCNMC 2026).

This year, we’re excited to share a special opportunity for research trainees; For the first time, the WCNMC will host a full day of basic science sessions, running in parallel with the clinical sessions on Saturday September 26th, followed by a networking event. 

All basic science trainees who attend the NMD4C Annual Meeting will also receive complimentary registration for the WCNMC 2026 basic science sessions and networking event!

CPD-Accredited Webinars

NMD4C and MDC are pleased to invite you our next CPDaccredited webinars on Neuromuscular Mystery Case Rounds and Emerging Biomarkers in Spinal Muscular Atrophy. These sessions are designed for clinicians, researchers, and trainees with an interest in neuromuscular diseases.

NOTICE OF POSTPONEMENT

Today's webinar on Emerging Insights Into AAV‑Mediated Gene Therapy: Understanding Hepatotoxicity and Implications for Neuromuscular Disorders event has been postponed due to a change in speaker availability. 

We are actively working to reschedule and will share a new date as soon as it is confirmed. 

We appreciate your understanding and look forward to having you join us for our next webinar.

Neuromuscular Mystery Case Rounds 

Speaker: Dr. Albert Yeung, (University of Alberta)

Details:

  • Date: 2 June, 2026 
  • Time: 6-7 pm ET

Moderators: 
  • Dr. Aaron Izenberg 
  • Dr. Christen Shoesmith 
  • Dr. Shafina Sachedina

Learning Objectives

  1. Given a particular case and examination findings, localize the lesion. 
  2. For each case, discuss a differential diagnosis 
  3. For each case, discuss an investigation and management plan.

Emerging Biomarkers in Spinal Muscular Atrophy

Details:

  • Date: 16 June, 2026 
  • Time: 5-6 pm ET

Speakers: 

Learning Objectives

  1. Define biomarkers and their relation to SMA.
  2. Discuss genetic modifiers above & beyond SMN2 copy number.
  3. Review the role of neurofilament.
  4. Discuss the role of extracellular vesicles and their role in SMA.

Community of Practice (CoP) Sharing Sessions

CoP 

Clinical Trial Personnel 

Educational Sharing Session:

Canadian Neuromuscular Disease Registry (CNDR)

Details: 12 May, 2026 | 1PM ET

Presenters: Drs. Victoria Hodgkinson & Lisa Marie Langevin, University of Calgary. 

CoP Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy Knowledge Sharing Session:

Teens, Sex, and Physical Disability: Practical Strategies to Support Client Goals Related to Sexual Expression
Details: 26 May, 2026 | 2PM ET

Presenters: Charise MacDonald, OT and Amanda Landry, OT

To register, please get in touch with our CoP Coordinator, Zainab Adamji. Once registered, Zainab will send a calendar invite so you can easily save the date. We look forward to seeing you there!

     
   

New Publications & Research

   

See a list of April 2026 publications from NMD4C members on PubMed! 

     
     
   

Community News 

   
     

Join BetterLife FSHD Canada

BetterLife FSHD Canada, a new digital health platform developed in partnership with CNDR and the FSHD Canada Foundation, is launching to support individuals living with facioscapulohumeral muscular dystrophy (FSHD) across Canada.  

The platform empowers users to track symptoms, better understand their health, and access personalized resources, while also contributing directly to research through secure data sharing with approved investigators. By integrating patient-reported data with CNDR infrastructure, BetterLife FSHD Canada aims to accelerate real-world evidence generation, support clinical trial matching, and advance the development of future therapies. 

Learn more and join at ca.BetterLifeFSHD.org or see the flyer for more info! 

     

CIHR Institute of Musculoskeletal Health and Arthritis (IMHA) Dialogue Series

In April, CIHR IMHA launched the first of four sessions in its Pan‑Canadian Dialogue Series, with events held in Montreal, Halifax, Toronto, and Winnipeg. As CIHR IMHA develops its new strategic plan, these dialogues are a great opportunity for our neuromuscular community to contribute meaningfully and help inform how priorities and funding decisions are shaped. With six remaining in‑person sessions and three virtual sessions taking place in May and June, individuals from all roles and career stages including Trainees, Early Career Researchers (ECR), and Principal Investigators (PI’s) are encouraged to participate and share their perspectives. See a full list of dates, locations and register below:

  • May 6 London 
  • May 8 St. John’s 
  • May 14 Virtual 6pm EDT (French Q&A) 
  • May 19 Virtual 9pm EDT (English) 

  • June 10 Virtual 12pm EDT (English) 
  • June 12 Vancouver 
  • June 16 Ottawa 
  • June 19 Saskatoon 
  • June 23 Calgary 

Register and join the national conversation!

WCNMC 2026: Keynote Announcement

We are happy to share that Ruben van Eijk, MD, PhD, will be a Keynote Speaker at this year's Western Canadian Neuromuscular Conference! Dr. van Eijk is an Associate Professor at University Medical Center Utrecht and a leading expert in biostatistics and neurology. His groundbreaking work focuses on improving clinical trial 

design for Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, integrating real-world evidence into drug development, and developing innovative endpoints that better reflect patient needs. He also brings global experience as a Visiting Scholar at Stanford University, contributing to cutting-edge research in biomedical data science. His session will cover: 

  • Innovative trial designs 
  • Advanced statistical models for survival & longitudinal data 
  • Patient-centered endpoints in ALS research 

Planning to attend? Be sure to secure your hotel and flights early to get the best options. Learn more on the 2026 WCNMC website

Reminder: Registration is open - reserve your spot today! 

     

Walk to Defeat Duchenne: Sunday, May 24

Bring your team together at your hospital, university, or workplace for the Walk to Defeat Duchenne on Sunday, May 24. Every step helps advance research, strengthen advocacy, and support families across Canada. 

Register, rally your colleagues, and start fundraising:

     

Get Involved: 

Help Shape Bullying Support in the DMD Community

Youth and young adults with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy (DMD), caregivers, and clinicians are invited to take part in a knowledge translation project focused on how bullying support is shared within the DMD community. Participants will help review a bullying support resource; share lived experience and perspectives and contribute to shaping how this resource is used and shared across Canada. 

Participation involves three to four short virtual meetings (about one hour each, in English). Your voice can help improve real-world support, raise awareness of bullying experiences, and make a meaningful difference for others with DMD. To get involved or if you have questions, please email 

Neuromuscular.research@hollandbloorview.ca

     

Walk & Roll for Muscular Dystrophy Canada 

Walk & Roll for Muscular Dystrophy Canada is a community fundraising event that brings people together to move in ways that work for them while supporting individuals and families in the neuromuscular community. It will be an interactive experience featuring a “Path to Access” activity from discovery to from discovery and clinical trials to regulatory review (e.g., Health Canada), health technology assessment, pricing negotiations, and provincial access decisions. This interactive experience highlights the real-world barriers many families face (delays, uncertainty, and inequities across provinces) while reinforcing why advocacy matters. It’s an opportunity to not only learn, but to stand behind a shared goal: faster, fairer access to life-changing treatments for all Canadians. 

Whether you walk, roll, or cheer from the sidelines, your participation helps raise vital funds, increase awareness, and break barriers, while building connections and welcoming new supporters. Events take place across Canada throughout the season and are fully accessible at each location.

Learn more and create or join a team below:

     

CRDN’s first article in Open Access Government Editorial Series

In this first article of a new four-part editorial series in Open Access Government, CRDN explores how a genomics-informed learning health system could transform rare disease diagnosis across Canada. With millions affected and many facing years of uncertainty, the article highlights how advances in genome-wide sequencing and improved data sharing can shorten the diagnostic journey, enable precision care, and support ongoing discovery. It also emphasizes the need for coordinated national action to ensure equitable access and long-term impact.

     

IDMC‑15: 
 Final Registration & Key Updates!

The 15th International Myotonic Dystrophy Consortium Meeting (IDMC‑15) will take place May 26–30, 2026, at the Hôtel Le Montagnais, Chicoutimi in the Saguenay-Lac‑Saint‑Jean region of Québec, Canada. What's new:

Late‑breaking Abstracts:
Submissions are invited for a dedicated session featuring recent, unpublished scientific and clinical advances in myotonic dystrophy research. 
On‑site information: Practical travel and stay details are now available to help you prepare for Saguenay. 

Learn more and register by April 20, 2026 on the IDMC-15 website

ISPRM 2026 – 20th World Congress

The joint CAPM&R, ISPRM 2026 and the 20th anniversary of the World Congress event is geared towards physiatry and rehabilitation specialists.

Pre-conference Workshops: 

Saturday, May 16 – Sunday, May 17 (additional registration and fee required) 

Main World Congress: 

All sessions Monday, May 18 – Thursday, May 21 included in your full registration fee. 

View Preliminary Program or Presentation Guidelines on our website

2026 CNSF Congress – Register Now!

This four day annual Canadian Congress is geared towards the professional development of both Adult and Pediatric Neurologists,

Neurophysiologists, Neurosurgeon, Neuroradiologists and also Neuroscientists.

Dates: Monday to Friday, May 25th – 29th, 2026 

Residents’ Day: May 25th 
Location: Fairmont Banff Springs Hotel and Conference Centre. Banff, Alberta.

Please Visit the event website or contact info@cnsf.org, if you have any queries in the meantime. 

Duchenne Care Conference 2026

Organized by the World Duchenne Organization, the Duchenne Care Conference 2026 is an annual international meeting dedicated to advancing care for individuals living with Duchenne and Becker muscular dystrophy. The conference brings together clinicians, researchers, and patient organization representatives from around the world for expert presentations and discussions, offering valuable insights into current best practices and emerging approaches to care.


Dates: May 26 and 27, 2026.

Time: 09:00 – 12:00 EDT (15:00 – 18:00 CEST Amsterdam time) 

Format: Online via Zoom 

Learn more and register on the conference website.

WMS Myology Café Masterclass: How to Create and Upload a Good Poster

Early to mid-career researchers and first-time presenters are invited to join the global myology community for the next online Myology Café on Thursday, 28 May 2026 at 9:00 AM EDT (14:00 BST) for the second of three member – only educational workshop sessions focusing on the abstract process from start to finish and will be particularly valuable for those preparing submissions for WMS 2026. 

     

2026 MDF, IDMC-15 & MDC Regional Conference

The Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation (MDF) in partnership with IMDC-15 and Muscular Dystrophy Canada (MDC) invite you to the Regional Conference in Montréal, Canada, on May 30, 2026! The conference is open to

clinicians, researchers, and patient advocates, as well as people living with muscular dystrophy, their families and caregivers. View the program and register on our website: 

     

ICNMD 2026 

Regular Registration Ends May 29 2026

Don’t miss your opportunity to join ICNMD 2026 at the current registration rates! Be part of a global community advancing neuromuscular medicine, bringing together clinicians, researchers, allied health professionals, trainees, and industry stakeholders involved in neuromuscular research and clinical care. Regular registration is available until May 29, 2026.

     
     
   
   

Defeat Duchenne Canada

2026/27 Research Grant Program: Now Closed

Defeat Duchenne Canada's call for 2026/27 research grant applications is now closed. We extend our sincere thanks to all clinicians, researchers, and partners who shared this opportunity and submitted Letters of Intent. 

Your commitment to advancing Duchenne muscular dystrophy research is deeply valued.

Myotonic Dystrophy Foundation (MDF) Research Grants and Fellowship Funding Opportunities

MDF 2027 Early Career Scholar Grant Proposals Due: September 4, 2026 

The MDF is soliciting scientific proposals for two types of Early Career Scholar awards, 

  • an “Early Career Scholar- Basic/Translational Science” award and 

  • an “Early Career Scholar- Clinical Research” award. 

Eligible research includes projects focused on improving treatment, care, and support for DM patients and their families, as well as fundamental basic science investigations. Applicants must demonstrate a clear plan for contributing to the DM field. 

MDF 2027 Doctoral and Postdoctoral Research Fellowships Proposals Due: September 4, 2026 

The MDF is now accepting applications for its 2027 Doctoral and Postdoctoral Research Fellowships. 

This fellowship program supports research projects focused on basic, translational, and clinical aspects of myotonic dystrophy, as well as projects that aim to improve the care and quality of life of people living with DM. Fellowships are for projects conducted under the supervision of qualified sponsors in academic institutions or research institutes. 

2026-2027 CDA Funding Opportunity  Closing Today!

New Funding Opportunity to Strengthen Rare Disease Registries in Canada: The aim of this funding program is to ensure that registries can produce high‑quality real‑world data to support future payer and HTA evidence needs in Canada, and to provide support for improving data collection and infrastructure. Application Deadline: May 5 2026

LAMA2 France Call for Projects

The LAMA2 France Association, in partnership with the Fondation Maladies Rares, is inviting applications to support innovative research on laminin-alpha2-deficient congenital muscular dystrophy. This call funds basic and translational projects aimed at advancing therapeutic strategies across all biomedical disciplines. Projects can receive up to €25,000 over a maximum of 24 months. 

The application deadline is May 13, 2025.

RARE.Qc 

Grant Program

The RARE.Qc has launched its 2026–2027 Grant Program for Collaborative Structuring Projects. 

This program  supports innovative and interdisciplinary research in rare diseases in Quebec. With up to $50,000 available for two projects, the program aims to generate preliminary data, strengthen collaborations, and also advance patient-oriented research.

Applications due May 19, 2026.

2026 ARSACS
Research Grants

The 2026 Ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay Foundation (ARSACS) research grants competition has been launched! The aim of this program is to support studies aimed at advancing the understanding and treatment of Autosomal Recessive Spastic Ataxia of Charlevoix-Saguenay. Funding includes up to $100,000 for research projects and $25,000 for seed grants, supporting both fundamental and clinical research.

Applications due May 22, 2026.

MitoCanada 2026 MitoScholars Scholarship

MitoCanada's 2026 MitoScholars Scholarships program is now open for applications! This program suppors students, impacted by mitochondrial disease in pursuing their post-secondary education. This year, three scholarships of $5,000 CAD will be awarded to eligible Canadian students. The program includes two streams: one for students living with mitochondrial disease, and another recognizing those whose lives are shaped by the condition through a parent or sibling.

Designed to ease the financial burden of higher education, funds can be used toward tuition, fees, and other essential academic expenses. Applications are now open and close June 30, 2026.

2026 Research Call Now Open: Adult Life with Duchenne

Duchenne Parent Project the Netherlands has opened its 2026 research call, focused on improving adult life with Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD). Proposed projects may focus on topics such as long-term care, disease management, diagnostic tools, therapies, assistive technologies, psychosocial and behavioural aspects, or other scientific insights that contribute to improving the lives of adults living with DMD. This grant offers a maximum of €100,000 to researchers or research teams pursuing high-impact studies that align with their mission. 
 Deadline for submission: 1 July 2026 

Rare Diesease Foundation's Mental Health Wellness Bursaries for Rare Disease Families

The Rare Disease Foundation, in partnership with REACH Trauma Response Consulting and BC Children’s Hospital Foundation, is offering bursaries to help rare disease families across Canada access online counselling with specially trained mental health providers at a significantly reduced cost. While the program primarily supports youth with a rare disease, bursaries may also be available for parents, guardians, caregivers, and siblings, recognizing that family wellbeing is deeply interconnected. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis through the submission form, and decisions are typically provided within two (2) weeks.

Treat-NMD’s Dr. Imelda de Groot Award 2026: Applications Now Open!

The Dr. Imelda de Groot Award is an incentive prize for care and innovation, established by Duchenne Parent Project Netherlands and supported by Treat-NMD. The award aims to encourage innovative ideas that improve care and enhance the daily lives of people living with 

Duchenne muscular dystrophy. The award includes a €10,000 prize, intended to support the launch of a new project or the further development or implementation of an existing initiative. International applications are welcome, and eligible projects must be practical, innovative, and directly applicable, with a clear focus on improving care and quality of life for people with Duchenne. Deadline for submissions: 1 October 2026. 

TREAT‑NMD Masterclasses

 Adult Neuromuscular Diseases Masterclass  

(In-Person)

The Adult Neuromuscular Disease (NMD) Masterclass is a one and half day interactive educational programme in Amsterdam designed to strengthen clinical knowledge, build multidisciplinary confidence, and support best practice in the care of adults living with neuromuscular conditions. This event is FREE of charge, and a generous contribution for travel and expenses may be provided to those offered a place to attend. 

Chaired by: Ros Quinlivan

Location: Amsterdam

Date: 26-27th June 2026

FSHD 

Masterclass 

(In-Person)

A two-day, face-to-face FSHD Masterclass in collaboration with FSHD Europe/ FSHD European Trial Network.

This event is designed specifically for healthcare professionals, and will cover key topics including diagnosis, treatment strategies, and the patient voice, providing practical insights and fostering collaboration among clinicians and experts.

Chaired by: Peter Coetzee and Channa Hewamadduma

Location: Prague
Date: 17-18th July 2026

EURO-NMD Neuropathology Webinar Series:

EURO‑NMD's 8‑part Neuropathology Webinar Series exploring the role of neuropathology in diagnosing neuromuscular diseases continues with more insights into emerging technologies. See the schedule below:

Episode 4: Infectious and Neoplastic Neuropathies

Date: Thursday, 7 May 2026. 

Speaker: Prof. Mathilde Duchesne (CHU Limoges, France).

Moderators: Dr. Matteo Garibaldi (Sant’Andrea Hospital of Sapienza University of Rome, Italy), Prof. Joachim Weis (Director, Institute of Neuropathology, RWTH Aachen University Hospital, Aachen, Germany).

Content: Infectious neuropathies, nerve tumours, and infiltration; the role of neuropathology in diagnosis

Episode 5: Clinical Cases Requiring Nerve Biopsy

Date: Thursday, 21 May 2026. 
Speaker: Prof. Marina Grandis (IRCCS Ospedale Policlinico San Martino – Genova, Italy)

Moderators: Prof. Werner Stenzel & Prof. Hans-Hilmar Goebel (Charité - Universitätsmedizin 

Berlin, Germany)

Content: Instructive clinical cases where nerve biopsy is essential to reach a diagnosis

Episode 6: Nerve Pathology in Neuropathy Models

Date: Thursday, 4 June 2026 
Speaker: Prof. Kleopa Kleopas (the Cyprus Institute of Neurology and Genetics (CING), Cyprus) 
Moderator: Prof. Edoardo Malfatti (AP-HP, Hôpital Henri Mondor, Créteil, France) 
Content: Quantitative pathology and outcome measures in experimental models

Episode 7: Amyloid Neuropathies and Therapeutic Approaches

Date: Thursday, 11 June 2026. 
Speaker: Prof. Andoni Echaniz Laguna (Université Paris-Saclay- AP-HP, Bicêtre Hospital, France) 
Moderator: Dr. Clovis Adam (AP-HP, Bicêtre Hospital, France) 
Content: Latest advances in therapeutic strategies for hereditary and acquired amyloid neuropathies

Episode 6: Skin Biopsy in Small Fiber Neuropathy

Date: Thursday, 18 June 2026 
Speaker: Prof. Grazia Devigili (Fondazione IRCCS Istituto Neurologico Carlo Besta, Milan, Italy) 
Moderator: Dr. Teresinha Evangelista (Hôpital de la Pitié Salpêtrière – AP-HP, Institute of Myology, Paris, France) 
Content: Diagnostic yield and clinical value of skin biopsy analysis

     

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