Dr. Michiru Hirasawa, assistant professor of neuroscience, has been awarded a NSERC discovery grant of $147,550 over five years for investigations on synaptic activity from supraoptic nucleus neurons (SON) in the adult brain. SON neurons synthesize and secrete neuropeptides that are important for regulation of milk secretion, salt-water balance, etc. and synaptic remodeling is thought to be necessary during lactation or dehydration to meet the increased demand for neuropeptide release. It is largely unknown what causes the remodeling and Dr. Hirasawa will, by recording synaptic activity from SON neurons in brain slices (where original synaptic connectivity is preserved) investigate the mechanisms that initiate the remodeling.

Dr. Olaf Janzen had his appointment as head of the Division of Arts at Sir Wilfred Grenfell College renewed for a further three-year term effective May 1, 2004. The appointment was made by the Board of Regents.

Dr. Elizabeth Simms was named associate dean of arts (research and graduate) for a three-year term effective June 1, 2004. The appointment was made by the Board of Regents.

Dr. Bob Miller had his appointment as chair of the Discipline of Family Medicine, Faculty of Medicine, renewed for a further three-year term, effective June 1, 2004. The appointment was made by the Board of Regents.

Dr. Donald Tennent had his appointment as chair of the Discipline of Obstetrics and Gynecology, Faculty of Medicine, renewed for period starting Jan. 2004, and ending Aug. 31, 2006. The appointment was made by the Board of Regents.

Elizabeth Behrens had her appointment as associate university librarian, Sir Wilfred Grenfell College, renewed for a further three-year term, effective April 1, 2004. The appointment was made by the Board of Regents.

Christopher Dennis had his appointment as head of the Collections Development Division in the QE II Library renewed for a further five-year term, effective April 1, 2004. The appointment was made by the Board of Regents.