Inaugural Team

Dr. Charu Chandrasekera, Executive Director of CCAAM

Dr. Charu Chandrasekera, Executive Director of CCAAM.
Dr. Chandrasekera is the primary architect responsible for creating and developing CCAAM/CaCVAM from a mere thought on the back-of-a-napkin to reality. As an experienced scientist, a former animal researcher, and a science policy expert, her work heretofore has been-and will continue to be-instrumental in establishing CCAAM/CaCVAM as an internationally recognized research centre. Dr. Chandrasekera obtained her Ph.D. in Biochemistry and Molecular Biology from the Faculty of Medicine, University of Calgary, followed by postdoctoral training at the University of Michigan Medical School and the School of Medicine at Wayne State University. During her 15+ years of research in the areas of cardiovascular disease and diabetes, she experienced firsthand the limited applicability of animal studies to human disease. Given Dr. Chandrasekera’s expertise in animal-based and alternatives research, experience in public policy on alternatives, and well-established connections to key stakeholders in the international alternatives arena, she is an asset to have as the inaugural Director of CCAAM.

Dr. Andrew Hubberstey, Academic Director of CCAAM

Dr. Andrew Hubberstey, Academic Director of CCAAM.
Dr. Hubberstey has been at the University of Windsor since 1997 and served as the Biological Sciences Department Head for six years as well as curriculum chair for several years. Dr. Hubberstey has extensive teaching history in all levels of undergraduate and graduate education. He is a widely popular instructor who is known for his time-relevant lectures and availability for one-on-one discussions and research training in his laboratory. Dr. Hubberstey is in charge of designing, developing, and implementing the Animal Replacement Science academic programs. He will collaborate with interdisciplinary faculty from the University of Windsor and universities across Canada as well as international experts to develop curricula to create a first-of-its-kind academic initiative.

Dr. Chris Houser, Dean of Science, University of Windsor

Dr. Chris Houser, Dean of Science, University of Windsor. 
The establishment of CCAAM/CaCVAM is a watershed moment for human-centered biomedical research and testing in Canada. The Centre will enable us to address critical health challenges through the development and validation of new human-centered approaches to understanding human biology, disease treatment, and human health risk assessment. The most exciting aspect of CCAAM, however, is the associated academic programs that will train the next generation in animal replacement methods. These up-and-coming scientists, health professionals, and decision makers will not only advance our understanding of the science; their research will profoundly improve the quality of life for all, transforming health research in Canada. The University of Windsor will be recognized as a pioneer, and leader, in alternatives research and validation, and place Canada on the map in the international arena.  

Dr. Michael Siu, Vice President of Research and Innovation

Dr. Michael Siu, Vice President of Research and Innovation, University of Windsor.
Our campus is proud to host this visionary centre, which exemplifies our commitment to research that helps build viable, healthy, and safe communities that enhance the quality of life today and tomorrow. The University of Windsor has established itself as a vehicle for the cross-transfer of knowledge, technology, and expertise. CCAAM supports this vision, placing the University of Windsor and Canada at the cutting edge of human-centered research and innovation. By championing human-based alternatives and reducing our reliance on animal methods, CCAAM will provide the health science community with the tools it needs to better understand and more effectively treat disease. It will also provide a framework for the development of real-world disease treatment innovations that will enable us to address some of the most critical health challenges facing society today.