Medical researcher earns grant to study arthritis treatments in Oshawa

An Oshawa-based medical researcher, Dr. Jessica Wong, has earned a grant to study new treatments for musculoskeletal conditions, such as back pain and arthritis.

According to Ontario Tech University, where Wong works, these conditions are the leading causes of disability among older Canadians.

Wong’s research into these conditions has earned her and the University’s Institute for Disability and Rehabilitation Research a $270,000 grant from the Canadian Institutes of Health Research,

The grant is part of the Research Excellence, Diversity and Independence (REDI) early career transition award. This program, started in 2022, “is available to post-doctoral researchers, clinicians, and research associates from specific underrepresented groups to help them launch their research faculty careers in Canada.”

“Unmet health-care needs are important barriers to mobility, productivity, independent living, and well-being for older Canadians,” Wong told Ontario Tech.

“We need to better understand these unmet needs and the lived experiences of patients,” she added, “Our investigation will work with patients, caregivers and community partners to build an innovative tool that predicts who will experience these issues.”

Wong’s mentor, Dr. Pierre Cote, said “We are very excited about Dr. Wong’s latest national award, and for how it will support her research in improving functioning for people who experience challenges with activities and participation.”