The Department of Biochemistry & Medical Genetics (BMG) is one of the University of Manitoba’s leading biomedical research and training hubs. BMG is dedicated to discovering the molecular foundations of human health and disease. Our faculty and trainees investigate fundamental biological processes and translate these discoveries into better diagnostics and therapies that transform lives.

At our Bannatyne Health Sciences Campus, training the next generation of scientists and clinicians is at the heart of what we do. Our graduate students (MSc and PhD) are driving discoveries in some of the most urgent areas of biomedicine. In particular, many of our trainees focus on brain development, including autism spectrum disorders and related neurodevelopmental disorders (NDDs) such as, intellectual disability, epilepsy, and rare genetic syndromes. These conditions affect thousands of families in Manitoba and millions worldwide.
Graduate student stipends at Canadian universities are modest, often leaving students facing significant financial pressure. For many, especially those with families, this strain can deter them from pursuing research careers in Manitoba. Funds raised through Fight for Charity 2026 will go directly to graduate student stipends in BMG, specifically for those working on autism and related neurodevelopmental disorders.

Your contributions will:

• Provide stable financial support so students can dedicate themselves fully to research discovery.
• Attract and retain the brightest young scientists in Manitoba.
• Accelerate urgently needed research with immediate impact for children and families affected by NDDs.
• Build local expertise and capacity in an area of global importance.