Canadian ALS Research Network (CALS)
About CALS
The Canadian ALS Research Network (CALS) is a network of clinicians across Canada that specialize in ALS research and clinical care. CALS was started in 2008 and is widely regarded within Canada and world-wide for rapid and effective study recruitment.
The mission of CALS is to connect Canadian ALS clinics to improve both patient and clinic participation in clinical research.
The work of CALS is to:
- Bring clinical trials to clinics across Canada
- Promote and assist physician-led clinical research at academic centres
- Develop tools and resources to share with the ALS community
Membership to CALS is open to clinicians at ALS clinics that adhere to the Canadian Best Practice Recommendations for the Management of ALS and have an interest in research or already take part in research.
The benefits of a national clinical research network include:
- A united national voice to attract world-class clinical trials to sites across Canada
- Ability to support physician-led studies at academic centres (for example, universities)
- Commitment to work together on diverse types of research
- Mentoring of new clinical researchers
- A central hub that manages communication to all 23 centres through the network manager
- Ability to address emerging matters quickly due to a small number of committed teams and leaders
- A strong relationship with Health Canada
- An ally to advocate for people affected by ALS
About ALS Canada and CALS
The ALS Society of Canada (ALS Canada) is a proud supporter of CALS. In 2008, ALS Canada provided initial seed funding that helped establish the network. Since 2017, ALS Canada has supported CALS in their day-to-day operations with the help of a manager, who is part of the ALS Canada staff team.
Maintaining a strong partnership between CALS and ALS Canada helps to bring more new therapies to Canadians living with ALS. Together, we work to ensure that Canadians have fast and equitable access to Health Canada approved treatments.
CALS Leadership
The CALS Executive Committee consists of a Past Chair, Chair, and Chair-Elect. Members are nominated and voted in by the membership.
Executive Committee members are elected to staggered three-year terms serving as:
- Chair-Elect for the first year
- Chair for the second year
- Past Chair for the third year
Current Leadership
Dr. Geneviève Matte, MDCM, FRCPC, CSCN Diplomate (EMG)
Past-Chair, Executive Committee
Dr. Christen Shoesmith, MD, FRCPC
Chair, Executive Committee
Dr. Kerri Schellenberg MD, FRCPC, CSCN (EMG), MMedEd
Chair-Elect, Executive Committee
Contact Information
For questions or more information, please contact:
Colleen Doyle, MSc
Senior Manager, Research, ALS Canada
CALS Manager
Email: cdoyle@als.ca