The Center for Motor Neuron Disease (CMND) was established thanks to a generous donation from the Lohengrin Foundation. The mission of CMND is threefold. First, we seek to generate new knowledge and advance our understanding of ALS and other neurodegenerative diseases. Second, we firmly believe that biomedical breakthroughs are fueled by unique collaborations that bring together scientists with diverse expertise. Third, and most importantly, CMND aims to train the next generation of scientists and also expose high school students in the South Side of Chicago to the scientific method.
- Every academic year, CMND will host and fund a lecture on the subject of ALS and Neurodegenerative Diseases by leaders in the field. We will invite researchers at various stages of their careers (Assistant, Associate, or Full Professors) and make every effort to maintain gender balance and representation from traditionally underrepresented groups in science.
- Host and fund a one-day symposium on Neurodegeneration at the University of Chicago by inviting speakers from the University of Chicago as well as other universities.
- Postdoctoral Fellowships provide specialized rigorous training to talented individuals following their PhD graduate studies or medical training. The Fellowships will involve original independent research that has its goal the development of future leaders in ALS.
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Postdoctoral fellows, especially international ones, lack a track record of accomplishments to make them competitive in funding. Therefore, CMND support is very necessary during this pivotal stage in their development. These Fellowships are a key part of the Center and are instrumental in training the next generation of investigators, something that is critical for progress in medicine and science.
4. Outreach activities at public high schools in the South Side of Chicago: Research shows that exposure to science has a bigger effect on choosing STEM majors in college than academic success in STEM subjects. We will specifically target public high schools in partnership with Shaz Rasul, the Executive Director of the Office of Civic Engagement’s Neighborhood Schools Program (U Chicago) that builds and maintains strong relationships with local schools.
By fostering unique collaborations that bring together experts from different scientific fields, CMND aims to advance our understanding of motor neuron disease.
Science is a mystery for students who haven't gone to college yet. They may have a lab in school, but the real excitement of science when you pose an experiment, carry it out and get results is an extraordinary activity. Seeing that occur as a high school student is eye-opening and may change their future career aspirations.
Kay LaPre
