Our Priorities

Support for basic science has always been a priority at the Krembil Foundation. There are many unanswered questions when it comes to the mechanisms of brain and immune system diseases. We value research that produces new information and expands our understanding of a disease, gene function, or cell pathway. Basic science research builds a critical foundation that can aid in the understanding of neurodegeneration and arthritis, and help identify targets for future drug and therapeutic discoveries.

Investments in basic science require a long-term commitment to realize their potential for new treatments and therapies. The Foundation believes that it is these commitments that will change the course of medicine. A small portion of our research portfolio goes towards translational or preclinical research. This includes projects that may be closely tied to patients including studying new diagnostics and biomarkers, describing disease features, fine tuning small molecules and/or investigating new therapeutics. To learn more about our current portfolio and past investments, please review our grant directory below.

Neurodegeneration

The Krembil Foundation is dedicated to understanding the brain’s fundamental mechanisms, particularly those underlying various brain diseases. We prioritize projects that investigate basic brain science to uncover insights into conditions like Alzheimer’s and otherneurodegenerative diseases.

Immunological Focus on Arthritic Diseases

The Krembil Foundation is committed to enhancing our understanding of the immune system’s impact on disease through fundamental research. We prioritize supporting basic science initiatives that explore the complex mechanisms behind psoriatic arthritis and other immune-related conditions.

Kate Williams, a woman with shoulder-length blonde hair, is wearing a gray blazer and light blue shirt. She's smiling against a plain background, exuding professionalism and warmth.

Kate Wiliams, PhD

Scientific Director

Dr. Kate Williams is the Scientific Director at the Krembil Foundation.  Reporting to the President and CEO, she advances the Foundation’s research initiatives by identifying high-risk, high-reward research opportunities. With a PhD in neuroscience and deep insights into the research landscape, she leads the Foundation’s strategic research direction, and oversees the Foundation’s research portfolios.

In her role, Kate fosters relationships with key opinion leaders, researchers, institutes, and universities, ensuring the Foundation’s strategic leadership in developing and evolving its research investments.  This includes actively managing key investments, where regular updates with funded researchers, meticulous monitoring of research progress, and evaluation of milestones and deliverables are integral responsibilities.