A highly engaged group of trainees has brought considerable energy and organizational ability to connecting with each other for academic, personal, social and career development. The Lawson Association of Fellows and Students (LAFS) facilitates opportunities for trainees to learn more about the London research community, interdisciplinary collaboration and idea exchange so that members are exposed to research from inception to implementation and evaluation.
The group has been host to numerous events in recent months, including monthly academic seminars "Talks on Fridays," social events such as bowling and a holiday meet-and-greet. Their most ambitious event of the year took place April 10 with a “Leading the Future” cocktail reception that featured St. Joseph's President and CEO Roy Butler as keynote speaker highlighting the important current and future roles of trainees in the ecosystem of Lawson and St. Joseph’s.
The 100-plus attendees also heard from four panelists – Emma Wardhaugh, a third-year medical student at Schulich School of Medicine and Dentistry; Dr. Edith Arany, a Lawson scientist from the imaging department; Phivos Phylactou, a neuroscientist and postdoctoral fellow in Mobility and Activity; and Stephanie Marrocco, a PhD candidate who holds a Health Systems Impact Fellowship. The panelists shared their insights on how St. Joseph's and Lawson support their professional journeys, as well as their passion for learning, research and improving patient care. With several Lawson scientists in attendance, it proved to be an excellent opportunity for networking and encouragement.
