The longer I live the more beautiful life becomes.
-Frank Lloyd Wright
Even in something as natural as aging, advancements in research and innovation can make the process smoother, improving the quality of life for older adults. In its 2013 Strategic Plan, the University of À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ identified an opportunity to become a leader in aging research. In 2014, the Network for Aging Research (NAR) was created  to expand the field of aging research and support aging-focused researchers.
The development of NAR, as identified by the University’s Vice-President Academic & Provost, was a strategic and essential step toward advancing aging research. NAR acts as a networking tool for aging-focused researchers, and fosters collaborative aging research across the university.
News
Emerging Researchers - Yasmeen Alshehabi
Meet Yasmeen Alshehabi, a neuroscience researcher driven by a passion for understanding and treating neurodegenerative diseases. A recent Master’s graduate from the University of À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ’s Department of Biology, Yasmeen conducted research in Dr. Dale Martin’s lab on potential drug therapies for Huntington disease. Her work focuses on restoring autophagy—a cellular cleanup process impaired in Huntington disease—by targeting the protein p62, which plays a key role in clearing toxic protein aggregates. Her research bridges cell culture studies with mouse model characterization and explores shared mechanisms between Huntington disease and ALS.
Yasmeen’s academic journey includes an Honours BSc in Biomedical Sciences with minors in French, Psychology, and Medical Physiology. Beyond the lab, she founded the University of À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ Neurodegenerative Research Association and organized the university’s first Symposium on Neuroscience Research. Currently continuing in Dr. Martin’s lab as a research scientist, Yasmeen plans to pursue a career in health care, bringing with her a deep scientific understanding and a commitment to improving outcomes for individuals affected by neurodegenerative conditions.
Emerging Researchers - Nancy Orr
Meet Nancy Orr, a PhD candidate in Planning at the University of À¶Ý®ÊÓƵ, supervised by Dr. Mark Seasons. With a background in environmental science, economic development, and a Master’s in rural planning from the University of Guelph, Nancy’s research focuses on aging well in non-metropolitan communities. Her work explores how housing design, local services, and inclusive planning can better support older adults—especially in areas lacking urban infrastructure.
Motivated by a lifelong commitment to community and collaboration, Nancy’s research aims to address housing gaps, promote dignity in aging, and ensure that seniors are recognized as vital contributors to society. Her approach blends policy insight with real-world impact—driven by the belief that when older adults thrive, entire communities benefit. Read more about her research journey here
Emerging Researchers - Maral Ghodsi
Meet Maral Ghodsi, an emerging researcher completing her MSc in Kinesiology under Dr. Laura Middleton at the Brain and Body Lab. With a background in anesthesiology and clinical experience, Maral's journey into aging research was deeply influenced by her family's experiences. Her work focuses on the intersection of kinesiology, neuroscience, gerontology, and mental health, exploring how physical activity and sleep quality can reduce anxiety and depression in older adults, particularly those with cognitive impairments. By promoting non-pharmacological interventions, Maral aims to enhance mental well-being and quality of life for the aging population, paving the way for more holistic and person-centered care approaches.