The Department of Human Health and Nutritional Sciences in the College of Biological Science is pleased to host Dr. Billie-Jo Hardy from the University of Toronto and Dr. Amy Bombay from Carleton University. They will be speaking about their experiences developing a biological health research training program with First Nations health professionals and researchers.

Both researchers will present virtually, but there will be an in-person viewing option, with refreshments available.

Dr. Amy Bombay is an Associate Professor in the Department of Neuroscience at Carleton University. Amy is Anishnaabe (Rainy River First Nations) and her primary areas of research have focused on assessing the associations between multigenerational trauma, contemporary stressor exposure, and cultural identity and engagement in predicting health and wellness among Indigenous Peoples. Her research exploring the different pathways by which Indian Residential School experiences are transmitted across generations has garnered extensive media interest and has influenced policy and practice related to Indigenous health and well-being.

Dr. Billie-Jo Hardy is an Assistant Professor with Social and Behavioural Health Sciences and Associate Director at Waakebiness Institute for Indigenous Health at the Dalla Lana School of Public Health, University of Toronto. She is also an Affiliate Scientist at the Well Living House at the Li Ka Shing Knowledge Institute at Unity Health Toronto. Her interests are in public health, research ethics, health equity and community-partnered research and she has experience in global and Indigenous health research.

The College of Biological Science Community Seminar Series is designed to promote the work and visibility of biologists from equity-deserving groups, increase awareness of barriers to inclusion facing biologists, and provide opportunities to learn about equity, diversity and inclusion. There will be two seminars per year, each presented by departmental EDI committees, with support from the college.

If you require an accommodation, please reach out to Dr. Jennifer Monk at jmonk02@uoguelph.ca.