ALS EnCouRage Canada is a national gathering that supports early career researchers (ECRs) in ALS. The program offers skill-building sessions, interactive workshops, and opportunities to learn from leading scientists, clinicians, and industry experts. ALS EnCouRage Canada also brings researchers together with people living with and affected by ALS, creating space for conversation and shared learning. The event is designed to foster collaboration, spark new ideas, and build a supportive community that will help advance ALS research across Canada.

Inspiration: ALS EnCouRage Canada is inspired by MND EnCouRage UK, a similar event delivered by the Motor Neurone Disease Association (MNDA) in the United Kingdom. Our event adapts the model for the Canadian context while maintaining the spirit of mentorship, collaboration, and community engagement.

Dates: April 26–28, 2027
Location: Sheraton Centre Toronto Hotel, Downtown Toronto, 123 Queen St W, M5H 2M9

Join us in 2027! Registration and event details will be announced in the coming months. Until then, discover what ALS EnCouRage is all about and read recaps from previous meetings here.

Full Programme

Participants can expect:

  • Lightning Talks: Short presentations where each participant shares their research in accessible language.
  • Interactive Workshops: Skill-building sessions led by senior researchers and communication experts.
  • Panels and Discussions: Opportunities to engage with the ALS community, explore career paths, discuss emerging trends in ALS research, and gain insights from people living with or affected by ALS.
  • Networking: Formal and informal sessions to connect with peers, mentors, leaders in the field, and members of the ALS community.

2027 programme will be shared closer to the meeting dates.

Purpose & Benefits

ALS EnCouRage Canada is an application-based program. Selected participants do not pay a registration fee, and ALS Canada will cover travel and accommodation costs to attend. The goal is to build a strong, national network of early career researchers poised to advance ALS Research in Canada.

The event aims to:

  • Strengthen research skills and career development opportunities.
  • Foster networking and collaboration across ALS research teams in Canada.
  • Support engagement between researchers and individuals living with or affected by ALS.
  • Provide a platform for emerging researchers to showcase their work.

Participants will also have the opportunity to:

  • Gain exposure to a broad spectrum of ALS research across Canada.
  • Receive mentorship and guidance from established researchers and clinicians.
  • Engage directly with the ALS community to understand research priorities and lived experience.
  • Build a professional network that supports collaboration, career development, and scientific impact.

Eligibility & Application Process

Applications for ALS EnCouRage Canada 2027 opening soon.

Eligibity:

Applicants must:

  • Be engaged in ALS or ALS-related research at a Canadian institution (fundamental, translational, or clinical).
  • Identify as an early career researcher: MSc student, PhD student, or postdoctoral researcher within the first five years of their research career.
  • Be able to provide a 3-minute lay level talk on their work.
  • Be available to fully participate in all program activities on both days.

 

Application Process

Application is now closed.

 

Selection Criteria

Participants will be selected by the ALS Canada Research Team based on multiple considerations, including:

  • Alignment and relevance of research to ALS.
  • Career stage and development needs.
  • Diversity in geography, gender, research focus, and institutional representation.
  • Overall fit with the goals of EnCouRage Canada.

Applicants will be notified of their acceptance via email.

Our Sponsors

ALS EnCouRage Canada was made possible thanks to the generous support from: