Team & Engagement | Tremblay Lab

TEAM

Curiosity. Determination. Equity, Inclusion & Diversity.

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We strongly believe that every individual member of the laboratory can positively contribute to drive innovation and excellence.

As a research group, we aim to create a welcoming, equitable, diverse, and inclusive environment where everyone feels respected and comfortable to be themselves.

We acknowledge that several barriers to academic success still remain for women, people with disabilities, racialized people, Métis, First Nation, and Inuit people, as well as sexual and gender minorities. In our research group, we are committed to challenge and eliminate those barriers, while addressing the needs of underrepresented individuals.

We are determined to provide a positive, respectful and safe workplace for everyone.

Tremblay Lab 3.0 (2025)

Lab Members

ALUMNI

Group Leader

Cédric TREMBLAY, PhD (he/him)

I have worked on hematological diseases for 2 decades, first on Fanconi anemia (a rare genetic disorder in the category of inherited bone marrow failure syndromes), and then acute leukemia (the most common cancer in children). Originally from Québec, and after more than a decade living in Australia, I crossed the Pacific Ocean again and relocated to Winnipeg, Canada in 2022 for new exciting adventures!

Immunology PhD Student

Ovini AMARASINGHE (she/her)

I completed my BSc in Chemistry from University of Cincinnati and my MSc in Chemistry (Biochemistry) from Purdue University. I am intrigued by the research on cancer stem cells and the tumor microenvironment in order to understand relapsing in T-ALL. I believe that even a small discovery can make a change and cause a ripple effect and ultimately improve the lives of people. I am originally from Sri Lanka. Outside the lab, I love to hike and travel.

Immunology PhD Student

Mathew TEMPEL (he/him)

Before joining the Tremblay lab, I completed a B.Sc. Honours in Genetics at the University of Manitoba. My previous research project investigated the effects of Doxorubicin in leukemic cell lines and found a novel mechanism of cytotoxicity. Research has become one of my passions since I have always had a strong desire for discovery. My other passions include music and animals. I play lead guitar in a band and have always had many pets.

Immunology PhD student

Lamisa TAHSIN (she/her)

I am diving into the world of leukemia research, aiming to discover new treatments with minimal side effects. On top of that, I love exploring new places, soaking up different cultures, and trying out all kinds of foods. When I am not in the lab, you will probably find me glued to a horror movie or a gripping crime documentary. I am on a mission to ease pain and make a difference, and I can’t wait to see where this journey takes me!

Immunology MSc student

Johnathon LUCAS (he/him)

After completing a Bachelor of Health Sciences, I pursued my training at the University of Manitoba as a MSc student in Immunology. My current research project explores the role of signalling pathways in leukemia development and response to chemotherapy. I am thrilled by the extraordinary and life-changing research taking place in this lab. In my free time, I love to play guitar and enjoy the outdoors on ATVs or snowmobiles at my family farm.

Honours Student

Mitchell AITKEN (he/him)

I’m Mitchell, a fourth-year genetics honours student at the University of Manitoba. My project investigates the role of interferons in T-ALL. To me, cancer is a really fulfilling research area, not only because it’s a fascinating disease, but also because there is a real opportunity to make a positive change in the lives of so many people. I hope to pursue similar research during medical school. Outside of the lab, I enjoy playing hockey and going to the gym.

Advocate, Volunteer & Community representative

Anna STEINER (she/her)

Advocacy for cancer research, support and prevention – specifically myeloproliferative neoplasms (MPNs) and other rare blood cancers - is a highly meaningful part of my life.

I am a passionate advocate, volunteer and fundraiser with numerous organizations in Australia and Canada.

I am particularly committed to improving equity in diagnosis, care, and access to clinical trials for patients with blood cancer.

Since I was diagnosed with JAK2+ polycythemia vera (PV) in 2008, I have been working with positive determination and mindfulness to keep my health stable and managed, while I live a very fulfilling, active and purposeful life.

Not coincidentally, my blood type is B+ (be positive!)

ENGAGEMENT

Community engagement involves meaningful collaboration between researchers and people with lived experience (PWLE) or community representatives to co-create transformative research.

These partnerships ensure that research being conducted is relevant and addresses the unmet needs of patients and the broader community.

Tremblay Lab 2.0 (2024)

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TREMBLAY

LAB

TEAM

Tremblay Lab 3.0 (2025)

Lab Members

ENGAGEMENT

Tremblay Lab 2.0 (2024)

Tremblay Lab 1.0 (2023)