Roncari Prize

Established in 1995 to honour the memory of Dr. Daniel Roncari, who served as the Director of the Institute of Medical Science from 1980 to 1983, this award is presented annually at IMS Scientific Day to an IMS student(s) who has made significant contributions to the academic experience of graduate students. 

The recipient(s) is chosen by the IMS Director and the Chairs of the SAFE Committee.

Ilakkiah is a PhD candidate in the Adult Genetic Epilepsy Program at Toronto Western Hospital, supervised by Dr. Danielle Andrade, studying how clinical features of rare genetic epilepsies evolve with age in adults.

As a first-generation doctoral student, she is committed to building inclusive and supportive spaces that prioritize mentorship and community, helping graduate students navigate and succeed within and beyond academia.

At IMS, Ilakkiah has taken on leadership roles that strengthen the graduate student experience. She is a student lead for the ChatGPD podcast, an executive member of the Peer-to-Peer Mentorship Program, and a member of the IMS Director Search Advisory, IMS Connects Planning, and EDIIA Committees. This year, she developed a graduate professional development (GPD) orientation to support incoming students and continues to contribute to research examining the impact of GPD programming at IMS.

Nayaab is a PhD candidate in Dr. Michael Fehlings’ lab, examining a neuroprotective drug therapy for cervical traumatic spinal cord injury. She has been an active member of the IMS community–fostering connections, planning events, and providing opportunities for professional development.

Nayaab is a member of the SAFE Committee and the IMS Connects planning committee. She is also the Program Director for the Peer-to-Peer Mentorship Program, as well as an Editor-in-Chief for the IMS Magazine. She also serves as the Head TA for IMS' core seminar series course, supporting over 300 first- and second-year students each year to build foundational research skills and scientific communication. 

Clara is an MSc student supervised by Dr. Camilla Zimmermann at Princess Margaret Cancer Centre. Her research focuses on exploring patient and caregiver satisfaction with care on palliative care units. 

Clara has enhanced student wellbeing and engagement through her contributions to the IMS Students’ Association, Student Recruitment Committee, and EDIIA Committee. She is passionate about creating a supportive academic environment and enjoys sharing advice and resources with her peers.

Clara is also involved in outreach as the Co-Lead of IMS MedDash, where she promotes mentorship between high school, undergraduate, and graduate students through collaborations with programs in the Temerty Faculty of Medicine’s Office of Access and Outreach.