The Breakthrough Challenge (an initiative of CAMH Engage) debuts this Thursday at the Burroughes Building (639 Queen St W). It’s an opportunity for top researchers at the Campbell Family Mental Health Institute to showcase and get support for their work. The top two finalists, Faranak Farzan and Yona Lunsky, will debate live on November 6th. Attendees will cast the final votes and determine which researcher will win $5000 to support their research program.

Farzan’s work is aimed at snapping young people out of depression. Using portable brain scan technology, patients can now be tracked and monitored throughout the day, outside of the lab. This means that neural pathway blockages can be detected sooner, and patients can be treated faster.

Lunsky’s work aims to improve the lives of people with developmental disabilities (and their families). By working closely with scientists, clinicians, policy makers and service users, she conducts health systems research to develop meaningful solutions to address problems those with developmental disabilities face when accessing care.

You can buy tickets for the event here. If you can’t make it, you can also make a donation to go towards the incredible research that CAMH is conducting.