Gastroenterology Research
GastroIntestinal and Liver Disease Research Group (GILDR)
The GILDR Group is a dynamic team of experienced Research Nurses and Research Assistants dedicated to advancing clinical trials and research studies. Our focus is on improving the quality of life for patients affected by gastrointestinal and liver diseases.
PI-initiated Studies
Here are the current and upcoming studies initiated by our principal investigators (PI).
1. Protocol/PI: Wind-PSC-01, Dr. Montano-Loza
- Disease: Observational Primary Sclerosing Cholangitis
- Study Length: Five years
- High Level Criteria:
Incl: 18-75 yrs. of age, Confirmed clinical diagnosis of large duct PSC
Excl:- Clinically significant acute or chronic liver disease of an etiology other than PSC.
- Small-Duct PSC.
- IgG4-related sclerosing cholangitis.
- Prior liver transplantation
- MELD 3.0 Score >15
- Coordinator: Rebecca Miller, rebecca.gildr@ualberta.ca, Ph: 780-492-8291
- Status: Not open to recruitment
2. Protocol/PI: Ozmosis OZUHN-033, Dr. Montano-Loza
- Disease: Open Label Hepatitis
- Study Length: 72 weeks
- High Level Criteria:
Incl: 18-80 yrs. > 6 months (both type 1 and type 2)
Excl:- Primary Liver Disease other than AIH
- Advance Liver Disease. Biologic treatment exclusions to refer to coordinator
- Use in the prior month corticosteroids at doses exceeding the equivalent of prednisone 15 mg daily.
- Alcohol Drug Abuse. Infection History requiring treatment within 30–60 days of Day 0 (treatment and infection dependent.
- Coordinator: Rebecca Miller, rebecca.gildr@ualberta.ca, Ph: 780-492-8291
- Status: Not open to recruitment
CEGIIR
The Centre of Excellence for Gastrointestinal Inflammation and Immunity Research (CEGIIR) brings together internationally recognized specialists in basic and clinical sciences and their research teams. They are actively involved in studying microbiome, genetic abnormalities and environmental factors associated with IBD.
CEGIIR is a multidisciplinary research centre devoted to understanding the genetic and environmental causes of inflammatory diseases, such as IBD. It is comprised of world-class researchers and clinician-researchers, trainees, and visiting researchers.
Gastroenterology Research Day
22nd Annual Division of Gastroenterology Research Day 2026
On April 21st, we held the 2026 GI Research Day, an opportunity within the Division of Gastroenterology to share knowledge, promote networking, and showcase the efforts of both mentors and trainees. On this occasion, 64 studies were presented, including 58 posters and 6 oral presentations, of which 11 received awards. This year, we had 90 attendees.
Dr. Clarence Wong, Director of the Division of Gastroenterology, introduced the Dr. Richard Fedorak Memorial Lecture by highlighting Dr. Fedorak’s legacy and contributions. Following this, our keynote speaker, Dr. David Tate, delivered his lecture titled, The Scientific Basis and Practical Application of High Quality Colorectal Polypectomy in 2026.
We would like to thank everyone who made this event possible, including our industry partners, esteemed judges, event organizers, and, of course, all participants.
Congratulations to all our 2026 GI Research Day Winners!
