My CV
MITCHELL J. WAGNER, MSc
EDUCATION AND CERTIFICATIONS
Medical Doctorate - Doctor of Philosophy Combined Program (MD-PhD) | 2024 - 2032
University of Alberta, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Surgery
Master of Science (MSc), Experimental Surgery | 2022 - 2024
University of Alberta, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Surgery
Bachelor of Science (BSc, Hons), Immunology and Infection | 2017 - 2022
University of Alberta, Faculty of Science, Department of Biological Sciences
First Class Honors, Graduated with Distinction
Certificate in Biomedical Research | 2020 - 2022
University of Alberta, Faculty of Science
RESEARCH EXPERIENCE
Research Intern | June 2026 – Sept 2026
Boston Children’s Hospital, Department of Cardiovascular Surgery
Lab of Dr. David Hoganson & Dr. Peter Hammer – CardioEngineering Team
- Worked on a variety of research projects regarding cardiovascular tissue characterization and engineering in the context of pediatric cardiac surgery
- Primary project was testing suture retention strength across various cardiac tissues utilized for reconstructions to help predict suture dehiscence and inform surgical planning
- Conducted dissection of human hearts for research
Doctoral Student | May 2026 – Current
University of Alberta, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Surgery
Lab of Dr. Darren Freed
Research Assistant | Sept 2024 – May 2026
University of Alberta, Faculty of Medicine, Department of Surgery
Lab of Dr. Darren Freed
- Continued with experimental work and duties begun during Master of Science on a casual basis
Graduate Research Assistant Fellowship (MSc Student) | Sept 2022 – Sept 2024
University of Alberta, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Surgery
Supervisor: Dr. Darren Freed
Thesis title: “Exploring the Impact of Blood Components on Myocardial and Vascular Health During Normothermic Ex-situ Heart Perfusion”
● Identified research needs and initiated projects to close knowledge gaps, applied scientific assays to test hypotheses, troubleshooted problems with experiments
● Initiated and managed interlaboratory research collaborations
● Supervised and mentored undergraduate research students in scientific concepts, conduction of assays, and preparation and presentation of research findings
● Presented research findings at scientific conferences and in public forums
● Learned surgical techniques for application in a large animal (porcine) model
Summer Undergraduate Research Studentship (Surgery) | Feb - Aug 2022
University of Alberta, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Department of Surgery
Supervisor: Dr. Darren Freed
● Conducted various benchwork & assays to support laboratory projects
● Collected experimental data, analyzed results, computed statistics and visualized data
● Presented research project orally at local university research symposia
Undergraduate Thesis Research (MMI-499) | Mar 2021 - May 2022
University of Alberta, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, Dept. of Microbiology and Immunology
Supervisor: Dr. Xavier Clemente-Casares
Thesis title: “The role of Bcl-2-like protein 11 (BIM) in doxorubicin mediated inflammation and cardiac atrophy”
● Learned to meet deadlines, manage time effectively, and work as a team with lab mates to accomplish large tasks
● Planned and executed experiments, and developed solutions to problems encountered in experiments
● Analyzed results and graphed complex data
● Presented research orally and via poster presentation at local and national research symposia
Technical skills acquired throughout all academic research experience:
● Surgical technique: suturing, aseptic technique, ties
● Arterial Blood Gas analysis
● RT-PCR, qPCR
● Flow Cytometry with analysis in FlowJo software
● Enzyme Linked Immunosorbent Assay (ELISA)
● Western Blot
● Kinetic, Fluorimetric, and Colorimetric assays
● Microscopy & Immunofluorescence
● CryoStat microtome
● Prism GraphPad software
● Mouse handing: Intraperitoneal Injections, Peritoneal Lavage, Survival Surgery, Euthanasia, Aseptic Techniques, Pain Management
● Large Animal Training (Yorkshire pigs, procedure specific)
Clinical Research Student (Casual) | Apr 2022 - Current
University of Alberta Hospital, Departments of Radiology, Pediatric Cardiology, Pulmonary Medicine
Supervisors (respectively): Dr. Karim Samji, Dr. Jennifer Conway, Dr. Dilini Vethanayagam
● Assisted various physicians across disciplines in conducting clinical research and manuscript preparation
● Participated in a variety of clinical research projects, involving study protocol design, ethics proposals, data collection, and statistical analysis of the data
● Coordinated with doctors to recruit study participants and liaised with study participants to gather needed information
● Assisted with manuscript preparation: cross-referenced study findings with literature, prepared figures, incorporated feedback from co-authors
● Navigated journal selection, submission, and peer review process
● Presented research at local, national, and international forums
PUBLICATIONS, ABSTRACTS, WORKING PAPERS
Publications (24)
El-Andari R, Machhiwala M, Wagner M, Hong Y, Wang S. 14 Year Single-Center Experience with the Solo Valve. Canadian Journal of Cardiology Open. In press.
Wagner M, Beke A, Wilton-Clark S, Zepeda-Gomez S, Vethanayagam D. 2026. Verifying Genetic Diagnoses: Hereditary Hemorrhagic Telangiectasia-Juvenile Polyposis Syndrome (HHT-JPS) or Familial Adenomatous Polyposis (FAP). Clinical Investigative Medicine. In press.
EL-Andari R, Kruggel A, Wagner M, Wiens E, Nagendran J, Nagendran J. 2026. Coronary Artery Bypass Grafting versus Percutaneous Coronary Intervention for Concomitant Coronary Artery Disease and Mitral Regurgitation: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis. Annals of Surgery Open. In press.
Dzierlega K, Soliman AM, Vu J, Parker D, Roberts B, Wagner M, Akter A, Akbari M, Kulkarni R, Oudit G, Tsai S, Clemente-Casares X. 2026. Neutrophil-derived reactive oxygen species mediate doxorubicin-induced cardiac and skeletal myopathy. American Journal of Physiology Heart & Circulatory Physiology. DOI: 10.1152/ajpheart.00720.2025
Wagner M, Mainardi G, Hatami S, Khan M, Lin LQ, Pidborochynski T, Adam B, Nagendran J, Freed DH. 2026. Preservation of Pediatric Donor Hearts via Subnormothermic Machine Perfusion: Comparison to Cold Storage. Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation Open. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhlto.2026.100511
Wagner M, Mainardi G, Hassanzadeh P, Hatami S, Wang X, Nagendran J, Freed DH. 2026. Varying Perfusate Hemoglobin During Normothermic Ex-situ Heart Perfusion: Elevated Hemoglobin Exacerbates Functional Decline Through Hemolysis. Transplantation Direct. In press.
Hassanzadeh P, Lam A, Wagner M, Conway J, Freed DH. 2026. Advancements in Donor Heart Preservation Methods: A Review of Approaches. Canadian Journal of Cardiology. DOI: 10.1016/j.cjca.2025.11.050
Wagner M, Hatami S, Hassanzadeh P, Freed DH. 2025. Improving metabolic support strategy during normothermic ex-situ heart perfusion. Frontiers in Cardiovascular Medicine. DOI: 10.3389/fcvm.2025.1687255
Hatami S, Hefler J, Mainardi G, Wagner M, Khan M, Himmat S, Shan S, Wang X, Adam B, Shapiro J, Nagendran J, Freed DH. Superior cardiac protection in combined ex-situ perfusion of heart and liver. Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation. DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2025.09.012
Cameron EJ, Wagner M, Lam G, Vethanayagam D. 2025. The use of sputum microbiology for identifying lower respiratory tract infections (LRTIs) in patients with obstructive airway disorders. Canadian Journal for Respiratory, Critical Care, and Sleep Medicine. DOI: 10.1080/24745332.2025.2535431
Durand K, Phan C, Hatami S, Wagner M, Lautner L, Brandon-Coatham M, Olafson C, Freed DH, Acker JP. 2025. Plasma-Supplemented Red Cell Concentrates as Alternatives to Whole Blood in Porcine Ex Vivo Heart Perfusion. Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation. DOI: 10.1016/j.healun.2025.06.002
Wagner M, Khoury M, Conway J, Freed DH. 2025. Cardiac allograft vasculopathy and the endothelial glycocalyx: a missing link? Transplantation Reviews. DOI: 10.1016/j.trre.2025.100936
Mainardi G, Wagner M, Hatami S, Hassanzadeh P, Wang X, Adam B, Nagendran J, Freed DH. 2025. Evaluation of target temperature on effectiveness of myocardial preservation during hypothermic machine perfusion. Journal of Heart and Lung Transplantation Open. DOI: 10.1016/j.jhlto.2025.100234
Wagner M, Jeewa A, Pidborochynski T, Lemaire-Paquette S, Khoury M, Cunningham C, Santokh DS, Laroussi NA, Vaujois L, Dallaire F, Schantz D, Armstrong K, Mawad W, Bradley TJ, Conway J. 2025. Modifiable Health Behaviours in Children with HCM: Lessons from the Heart Health Survey. Pediatric Cardiology. DOI: 10.1007/s00246-024-03746-9
Wagner M, Mainardi G, Hatami S, Khan M, Wang X, Pidborochynski T, Nagendran J, Conway J, Freed DH. 2024. Subnormothermic machine perfusion of neonatal and small sized pediatric donor hearts. American Society of Artificial Internal Organs. DOI: 10.1097/MAT.0000000000002366
Wagner M, Samji KB. 2024. Limited utility of dynamic contrast enhancement imaging sequences within the PI-RADS v2.1 classification scheme: a retrospective cross-sectional study of MRI reports. Canadian Association of Radiology Journal. DOI: 10.1177/08465371241267984
Wagner M, Morgan C, Rodriguez S, Lin QL, Freed DH, Pagano JJ, Khoury M, Conway J. 2024. The Role of Diagnostic Modalities in Differentiating Hypertensive Heart Disease and Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy: Strategies in Adults for Potential Application in Pediatrics. Cardiology in the Young. DOI: 10.1017/S1047951124026052Fian
Wagner M, Jeewa A, Pidborochynski T, Lemaire-Paquette S, Khoury M, Cunningham C, Santokh DS, Laroussi NA, Vaujois L, Dallaire F, Schantz D, Armstrong K, Mawad W, Bradley TJ, Conway J. 2024. Exploring Health-Related Quality of Life in Children with Hypertrophic Cardiomyopathy and Relationship to Physical Activity. Journal of the American Heart Association (JAHA). DOI: 10.1161/JAHA.123.033968
Wagner M, Dimitrov M, Vethanayagam D. 2024. Hemoptysis in Bronchiectasis: A Case Report and Review of Sputum Laboratory Methodology. Canadian Journal of Critical Care and Sleep Medicine. DOI: 10.1080/24745332.20224.2362242
Hefler J, Hatami S, Thiesen A, Wagner M, Mainardi G, Himmat S, Karvellas CJ, Bigam DL, Freed DH, Shapiro AMJ. 2023. Cyclosporine A does not mitigate liver ischemia-reperfusion injury in an ex-vivo porcine model of donation after cardiac death. Annals of Transplantation Surgery. 29. DOI: 10.12659/AOT.941054
Wagner M, Hatami S, Freed D. 2023. Thoracic organ machine perfusion: A review of concepts with a focus on reconditioning therapies. Frontiers in Transplantation. 2. DOI: 10.3389/frtra.2023.1060992
Wagner M, Hussein I, Low G, Samji K. 2023. Comparing the Denver criteria sets for blunt trauma: a retrospective study of cases in Edmonton, Alberta. British Journal of Radiology. 96(1148). DOI: 10.1259/bjr.20221116
Wagner M, Dimitrov M, Lam G, Leung W, Tyrrel G, Vethanayagam D. 2023. Microbiology sampling in non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis cases from northern Alberta. PLOS ONE. 18(7). DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0288704
Hatami S, Xiao Q, Khan M, Forgie K, Himmat S, Tkachuk B, Wagner M, Wang X, Nagendran J, Freed D. 2023. Oxidative stress and related metabolic alterations are induced in ex situ perfusion of donated hearts regardless of the ventricular load or leukocyte depletion. American Journal of Transplantation. 23(4): 475-483. DOI: 10.1016/j.ajt.2022.11.027
Abstracts (18)
Hassanzadeh P, Wagner M, Gutierrez D, Abuetabh Y, Mainardi G, Lam A, Wang X, Dyck J, Nagendran J, Sutendra G, Freed DH. Glucose Restriction Improves Mitochondrial Integrity and Attenuates Maladaptive Signaling During Ex-Situ Heart Perfusion. June 2026, American Society of Artificial Internal Organs (ASAIO), Fort Lauderdale, United States.
Hassanzadeh P, Wagner M, Gutierrez D, Mainardi G, Lam A, Wang X, Nagendran J, Sutendra G, Freed DH. Glucose Restriction During Normothermic Ex-situ Heart Perfusion Reduces Oxidative Stress and Induces Cardioprotective Signaling. April 2026, International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantaton (ISHLT), Toronto, Canada.
Lam A, Wagner M, Pidborochynski T, Motyka B, Li C, Lesanko A, Simpson EA, William N, Ionescu L, Kurach J, Ellis M, Rahfeld P, Macdonald S, Ip I, Withers SG, Hassanzadeh P, Gutierrez D, Freed DH, Acker JP, West LJ, Conway J. Enzymatic Conversion of Vascular A-antigen to H-antigen in Human Saphenous Veins Under Subnormothermic Ex-situ Perfusion Conditions. April 2026, International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantaton (ISHLT), Toronto, Canada.
Lesanko A, Simpson EA, William N, Motyka B, Ionescu L, Li C, Kurach J, Wagner M, Lam A, Ellis M, Pidborochynski T, Rahfeld P, Macdonald S, Ip I, Withers SG, Freed DH, Acker JP, West LJ, Conway J. Towards conversion of human donor hearts from ABO-A to ABO-O: efficient enzymatic conversion of A to H antigen in ex situ heart perfusate solution at sub-normothermic temperature. April 2026, International Society for Heart and Lung Transplantaton (ISHLT), Toronto, Canada.
Lam A, Lesanko A, Motyka B, Ellis M, Pearcey J, Pidborochynski T, Li C, Wagner M, Simpson EA, William N, Kurach J, Rahfeld P, Macdonald S, Ip I, Withers SG, Gutierrez D, Hassanzadeh P, Acker JP, West LJ, Conway J, Freed DH. American Transplant Congress 2026, Boston, United States.
Wagner M, Mainardi G, Hatami S, Khan M, Lin LQ, Pidborochynski T, Adam B, Nagendran J, Freed DH. Preservation of Pediatric Donor Hearts via Subnormothermic Machine Perfusion: Comparison to Cold Storage. October 2025, Canadian Cardiovascular Congress, Quebec City, Canada
Wagner M, Hassanzadeh P, Mainardi G, Wang X, Nagendran J, Sutendra G, Freed DH. Ketones Are a Less Oxidative Alternative Substrate to Glucose During Normothermic Ex-situ Heart Perfusion. American Society of Artificial Internal Organs (ASAIO), New Orleans, United States.
Wagner M, Hassanzadeh P, Mainardi G, Wang X, Nagendran J, Sutendra G, Freed DH. Glucose Restriction During Normothermic Ex-Situ Heart Perfusion Eliminates Edema Formation. April 2025, International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation, Boston, United States.
Wagner M, Hassanzadeh P, Mainardi G, Wang X, Nagendran J, Sutendra G, Freed DH. Glucose Restriction During Normothermic Ex-Situ Heart Perfusion Eliminates Edema Formation. December 2024, Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program Conference, Calgary, Alberta.
Wagner M, Mainardi G, Hatami S, Hassanzadeh P, Wang X, Nagendran J, Freed DH. Hemolytic byproducts during ex-situ heart perfusion associate with functional decline during extended preservation. October 2024, Canadian Cardiovascular Congress, Vancouver, Canada.
Wagner M, Mainardi G, Hatami S, Hassanzadeh P, Wang X, Nagendran J, Freed DH. Coronary vascular resistance, fluid provision, and the endothelial glycocalyx during ex-situ heart perfusion: the role of plasma proteins as a potential vascular protectant. October 2024, Canadian Cardiovascular Congress, Vancouver, Canada.
Mainardi G, Wagner M, Hatami S, Hassanzadeh P, Wang X, Nagendran J, Freed DH. Evaluation of Modified University of Wisconsin Machine Perfusion Solution in 12-Hour Subnormothermic Ex-situ Heart Perfusion. October 2024, Canadian Cardiovascular Congress, Vancouver, Canada.
Wagner M, Mainardi G, Hatami S, Hassanzadeh P, Wang X, Nagendran J, Freed DH. High perfusate hemoglobin concentration exacerbates functional decline during working mode normothermic ex-situ heart perfusion. April 2024, International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation, Prague, Czech Republic.
Wagner M, Mainardi G, Hatami S, Hassanzadeh P, Wang X, Nagendran J, Freed DH. Plasma proteins ameliorate loss of coronary vascular resistance during working mode normothermic ex-situ heart perfusion. April 2024, International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation, Prague, Czech Republic.
Mainardi G, Wagner M, Hatami S, Hassanzadeh P, Wang X, Nagendran J, Freed DH. Myocardial support during low flow hypothermic perfusion does not compromise tissue perfusion of the dependent region. April 2024, International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation, Prague, Czech Republic.
Mainardi G, Wagner M, Hatami S, Hassanzadeh P, Wang X, Nagendran J, Freed DH. Twelve-hour hypothermic heart preservation in a pig model. April 2024, International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation, Prague, Czech Republic.
Hatami S, Wagner M, Mainardi G, Khan M, Himmat S, Nagendran J, Freed D. Superior cardiac protection in combined ex-situ perfusion of heart and liver: lessons learned. March 2023, International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation, Denver, Colorado, USA.
Mainardi G, Hatami S, Wagner M, Khan M, Wang X, Pidborochynski T, Nagendran J, Conway J, Freed D. Subnormothermic Machine Perfusion of Neonatal and Small Pediatric Sized Hearts. March 2023, International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation, Denver, Colorado USA.
Working Papers (2):
Wagner M, Conway J, Freed D. Pediatric myocardial preservation during heart transplantation in the age of ex-situ heart perfusion and normothermic regional perfusion: a mini review. Under review at Journal of the American Heart Association.
Qi X, Hatami S, Wagner M, Bozso S, Buchko M, Olafson C, Himmat S, Wang X, Nobes D, Acker J, Nagendran J, Freed D. The Effect of Whole Blood Versus Dilute Whole Blood on Coronary Vascular Tone Regulation During Normothermic Ex Situ Heart Perfusion. Under review at American Journal of Physiology Heart and Circulatory Physiology.
PRESENTATIONS
Oral Presentations (19)
Wagner M, Mainardi G, Hatami S, Khan M, Lin LQ, Pidborochynski T, Adam B, Nagendran J, Freed DH. Preservation of Pediatric Donor Hearts via Subnormothermic Machine Perfusion: Comparison to Cold Storage. October 2025, Canadian Cardiovascular Congress, Quebec City, Canada.
Wagner M, Hassanzadeh P, Mainardi G, Wang X, Nagendran J, Sutendra G, Freed DH. Ketones Are a Less Oxidative Alternative Substrate to Glucose During Normothermic Ex-situ Heart Perfusion. June 2025, American Society for Artificial Internal Organs (ASAIO), New Orleans, United States.
Wagner M, Hassanzadeh P, Mainardi G, Wang X, Nagendran J, Sutendra G, Freed DH. Glucose Restriction During Normothermic Ex-Situ Heart Perfusion Eliminates Edema Formation. April 2025, International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation, Boston, United States.
Wagner M. Out of body heart perfusion: opportunities for perfusion solution optimization for improved organ preservation. April 2025, Cardiovascular Research Institute Seminar, University of Alberta, Canada.
Wagner M, Hassanzadeh P, Mainardi G, Wang X, Nagendran J, Freed DH. Glucose Restriction During Normothermic Ex-Situ Heart Perfusion Eliminates Edema Formation. December 2024, Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Program, Calgary, Alberta
Wagner M, Mainardi G, Hatami S, Hassanzadeh P, Wang X, Nagendran J, Freed DH. Hemolytic byproducts during ex-situ heart perfusion associate with functional decline during extended preservation. October 2024, Canadian Cardiovascular Congress, Vancouver, Canada
● 3 minute blitz session, Cardiac Surgery Oral Presentation Finalist, Heart Failure Oral Session
Wagner M, Mainardi G, Hatami S, Hassanzadeh P, Wang X, Nagendran J, Freed DH. High hematocrit during normothermic ex-situ heart perfusion accelerates functional deterioration and is associated with hemolysis. Department of Surgery Tom Williams Surgical Research Day, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Wagner M. Sputum assessment for non-cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis in Alberta: a fight for consistency. October 2023, Alberta Respiratory Center Seminar, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Wagner M. Breaking the Wall of Organ Preservation. September 2023, University of Alberta Falling Walls Lab Competition, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Wagner M, Qi X, Hatami S, Bozso S, Wang X, Nobes D, Nagendran J, Freed D.
Combatting reactive oxygen species accumulation during normothermic ex-situ heart perfusion: a comparison of antioxidant strategies. May 2023, Tom Williams Surgical Research Day, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Wagner M. Samji K. Retrospectively evaluating the utility of dynamic contrast enhancement (DCE) imaging sequences to further categorize lesions within the PI-RADS v2.1 reporting scheme. April 2023, Canadian Association of Radiology, Montreal, Quebec, Canada.
Wagner M. Heart in a box: where are the other organs? March 2023. University of Alberta 3-Minute Thesis Competition (Finalist). Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Watch online: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Av0rCwQUOMY
Wagner M. Ex-Situ Heart Perfusion: An Emerging Platform to Facilitate Organ Preservation. December 2022, University of Alberta Bench to Bedside Association 4th Annual Translational Medicine Talks (Finalist). Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Wagner M, Hatami S, Freed D. Oxidative and metabolic stress induced regardless of ventricular load during ex-situ heart perfusion is not ameliorated by leukocyte depletion. October 2022. University of Alberta Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry 55th Annual Summer Research Day, Edmonton, Alberta.
Wagner M, Dzierlega K, Clemente-Casares X. Hematopoietic loss of Bcl-2-like protein 11 (BIM) attenuates doxorubicin-induced cardiac muscle atrophy. June 2022. University of Alberta Cardiovascular Research Institute Research Day, Edmonton, Alberta.
Wagner M, Dzierlega K, Clemente-Casares X. Evidence that Bcl-2 like protein 11 knockout delays necrosis in a model of doxorubicin induced cardiotoxicity. May 2022. University of Toronto’s Ontario-Quebec Undergraduate Immonology Conference, Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
Wagner M, Dzierlega K, Clemente-Casares X. Bcl-2-like protein 11 deficiency worsens doxorubicin-induced cardiomyopathy. October 2021. University of Alberta Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry 54th Annual Summer Research Day, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Poster Presentations (8):
Wagner M, Mainardi G, Hatami S, Hassanzadeh P, Wang X, Nagendran J, Freed DH. Coronary vascular resistance, fluid provision, and the endothelial glycocalyx during ex-situ heart perfusion: the role of plasma proteins as a potential vascular protectant. October 2024, Canadian Cardiovascular Congress, Vancouver, Canada.
Cameron E, Wagner M, Lam G, Vethanayagam D. The Use of Sputum Microbiology for Identifying LRTIs in Patients with Obstructive Airway Disorders. October 2024, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry 57th Annual Summer Research Day, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Hassanzadeh P, Wagner M, Wang X, Nagendran J, Sutendra G, Freed DH. Limiting Glucose Supply Prevents Edema Formation During Normothermic Ex-Situ Heart Perfusion. October 2024, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry 57th Annual Summer Research Day, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Wagner M, Mainardi G, Hatami S, Hassanzadeh P, Wang X, Nagendran J, Freed DH. High perfusate hemoglobin concentration exacerbates functional decline during working mode normothermic ex-situ heart perfusion. April 2024, International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation, Prague, Czech Republic.
Wagner M, Mainardi G, Hatami S, Hassanzadeh P, Wang X, Nagendran J, Freed DH. Plasma proteins ameliorate loss of coronary vascular resistance during working mode normothermic ex-situ heart perfusion. April 2024, International Society of Heart and Lung Transplantation, Prague, Czech Republic.
Hassanzadeh P, Wagner M, Mainardi GM, Freed DH. Elevated hemoglobin concentrations have a detrimental effect on functional preservation during ex-situ heart perfusion. October 2023, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry 56th Annual Summer Research Day, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada.
Wagner M, Samji K. Retrospectively evaluating the utility of dynamic contrast enhancement (DCE) imaging sequences to further categorize lesions within the PI-RADS v2.1 reporting scheme. March 2023. European Society of Radiology Congress, Vienna, Austria.
Wagner M, Hussein I, Low G, Ashforth R, Samji K. Do the Denver criteria reduce the need for CT angiography in detecting blunt cerebrovascular injury? May 2021. Canadian Association of Radiology, Montreal, Quebec.
OPERATING GRANTS
Dr. Margaret "Marmie" Perkins Hess Heart Research Pilot Grant: $50,000 CAD
Awarded 2024: “Improving nutritional support during ex-situ heart perfusion”
Co-investigator: initiated grant application, conceptualized proposed project, wrote proposal
Canadian Donation and Transplantation Research Innovation Grant: $30,000
Awarded 2024: “Endothelial glycocalyx integrity during heart procurement: impact of crystalloid solutions”
Co-investigator: initiated grant application, conceptualized the proposed project, wrote proposal
Canadian Blood Services Intramural Research Grants Program: $372,000 CAD
Awarded 2024: “Facilitating RBC-mediated Nitric Oxide Release and Boosting Antioxidant Capacity during Ex Vivo Heart Perfusions as a Strategy to Improve Oxygen Delivery”
Collaborator: Initiated grant application, conceptualized the proposed project, wrote proposal and procured preliminary data
AWARDS
Canadian Graduate Student Scholarship – Doctoral (CGRS-D) | 2026
Canadian Institutes of Health Research
President’s Doctoral Prize of Distinction | 2026
University of Alberta
Summer Intern Scholarship | 2026
American Association of Thoracic Surgery (AATS)
To support work being done at Boston Children’s Hospital, summer 2026.
CCTN / CHFS Finalist Session Presentation Award – 1st Place | 2025
Canadian Cardiovascular Society, Quebec City, Canada
Yatscoff Family Award in Medical Entrepreneurship - Runner Up | 2025
University of Alberta, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry
Dr. and Mrs. Hazen Hankinson Dean’s Undergraduate Citation in Medicine | 2024
University of Alberta, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry
Based on superior academic achievement entering the first year of the MD program (GPA >3.9/4.0 in the previous two terms), as well as high rank score during the admissions process.
CCTN / CHFS Finalist Session Presentation Award – 2nd Place | 2024
Canadian Cardiovascular Society, Vancouver, Canada
The Canadian Cardiac Transplant Network (CCTN) and Canadian Heart Failure Society (CHFS) are affiliate societies with the Canadian Cardiovascular Society, and host a presentation session to promising research at the Canadian Cardiovascular Congress each year.
Tom Williams Surgical Research Day Oral Presentation Award – 3rd Place | 2024
University of Alberta, Department of Surgery
Best Undergraduate Research Presentation | 2024
University of Alberta, Department of Diagnostic Imaging and Radiology
Friends of the Faculty of Graduate Studies and Research Scholarship | 2024
Doug Hallett Graduate Scholarship in Medicine | 2024
University of Alberta, Alberta Transplant Institute
CVRI-Cote Biomedical Research Scholarship | 2024
University of Alberta, Cardiovascular Research Institute
News release here
75th Anniversary Graduate Student Award | 2023
University of Alberta, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry
Alberta Graduate Excellence Scholarship | 2023
University of Alberta, Department of Surgery
Recognizes outstanding academic achievement of graduate students. Established to attract the best & brightest students to study in Alberta.
Ray Rajotte Graduate Student Award | 2023
University of Alberta, Department of Surgery
Awarded to individuals who display high research potential and passion for surgical research.
Walter H. Johns Graduate Fellowship | 2023
University of Alberta
Top-up funding awarded to individuals who are awarded the CIHR Canada Graduate Scholarship - Master scholarship.
Canada Graduate Scholarship – Master | 2023
Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR)
One of Canada’s most prestigious Master’s scholarships, provided to high caliber students who show a high standard of achievement and research potential in their chosen field of study.
Best Presentation Award | 2022
University of Alberta, Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry
Awarded by academic judges for overall quality of the oral presentation in comparison to peers at the 55th annual Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry Summer Research day.
Graduate Recruitment Scholarship | 2022
University of Alberta, Department of Surgery
Awarded to students with high academic achievement beginning in a graduate program.
The Dean’s Silver Medal in Science | 2022
University of Alberta, Faculty of Science
Awarded to convocating students who achieve a >3.7 grade point average for 3 consecutive years.
Department of Surgery Summer Studentship | 2022
University of Alberta, Department of Surgery
Based on a written research proposal and adjudicated based on the candidate’s academic excellence and research potential.
Alberta Transplant Institute Summer Studentship | 2022
University of Alberta, Alberta Transplant Institute
Based on a written research proposal and adjudicated based on the candidate’s academic excellence and research potential. Declined in lieu of conflict with another award [Dept. of Surgery Summer Studentship].
Undergraduate Student Research Award (USRA) | 2021
Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council of Canada (NSERC)
Canada’s most prestigious and valuable award for undergraduate research training. Adjudicated upon academic excellence, quality of training to be had, and potential project impact.
Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology Summer Studentship | 2021
University of Alberta, Li Ka Shing Institute of Virology
Based on a written research proposal and adjudicated based on the candidate’s academic excellence and research potential. Declined in lieu of conflict with another award.
Dean’s List, 5 Years Running | 2018 - 2022
University of Alberta
Awarded to students who achieve an exemplary academic record in undergraduate coursework.
Radiology Endowed Fund Grant, 4 Time Awardee | 2020, 2022-2023, 2025
Awarded to students undertaking a clinical research project in the U of A Dept. of Radiology. A limited number of studentships are awarded per year.
Jason Lang Scholarship, 3 Time Awardee | 2018-2020
Awarded to recognize outstanding academic achievements in post-secondary programs. A maximum of 3 awards can be received.
Alexander Rutherford Scholarship | 2017
Awarded to reward academic excellence throughout high school studies.
WORK EXPERIENCE
Coordinator, Cardiac and Ambulatory | Jul 2023 – Jul 2024
Part Time - Alberta Health Services, Stollery Children’s Hospital, Patient and Family Centered Care
● Chiefly responsible for running the Cardiac Family Advisory Care Team, a group of patients, family members, and clinical staff with the mandate of implementing patient and family centered care
● Planned agendas, lead large virtual meetings, managed group dynamics
● Liaised with clinical and executive staff to facilitate incorporation of patient centered perspectives within various initiatives taking place within pediatric cardiology and ambulatory care
● Provided volunteer engagement services, sought and utilized feedback from both volunteer and staff stakeholders to improve the volunteer experience
● Developed partnerships and relationships with stakeholders and evaluated opportunities for patient-centered feedback to be provided via advisory councils
● Initiated and advocated for a wide variety of patient engagement projects that improved patient experience and satisfaction with care
Administrative Contractor | Sep 2022 - June 2023
Casual - HIV Edmonton
● Assisted the executive director with regular administrative tasks as needed: completion of bank deposits, filing, petty cash reconciliations
● Conducted a review of all personnel file requirements and pursued updates as needed with staff while maintaining confidentiality
● Involved with research duties which included systematic review of the literature, quality assessments of guidelines for HIV management, and abstract screening
Health Promotion Facilitator | Aug 2022 - Jul 2023
Casual - Alberta Health Services, Chronic Disease Management
● Gave presentations and liaised with healthcare providers to promote chronic pain and chronic disease self management workshops in urban and rural Albertan communities
● Updated workshop resources for volunteers and participants; focus on equity, diversity, and inclusion of workshops and in workshop facilitator practices
● Mentored new facilitators on a variety of skills regarding group facilitation; gave constructive and structured feedback to encourage quality facilitation
Service Worker I, Diagnostic Imaging Porter | Apr 2019 - Oct 2023
Part Time - Alberta Health Services, Royal Alexandra Hospital
● Safely transported inpatients and outpatients to and from diagnostic imaging appointments and coordinated between staff to facilitate post-operative X-rays in the orthopedic surgery center
● Developed superior communication skills by communicating to nurses or technologists and between modalities, escalating queries regarding patient safety or patient needs
● Thrived in a patient care environment, went above and beyond required duties to tend to patient needs and advocated their needs to the right professionals
● Honed interpersonal skills, approachability, professionalism and gained valuable experience serving diverse populations in the clinical setting
Topman and Laborer | Summer 2017 and 2018
Seasonal Full Time - Sureway Construction
● Responsible for organizing tools and equipment for the job, monitoring trench safety, and acting as a liaison between equipment operators and trenchmen
● Thought critically about the job at hand and anticipated needs of trenchmen
● Gained an appreciation for hard work through humbling physical labor
● Adopted a team player mentality and demonstrated high motivation to improve within the role
Crew Member (Service and Kitchen) | May 2015 - May 2017
Part Time - McDonald’s
● Worked seamlessly with other crew members in a fast-paced teamwork centered environment
● Strived to give excellent customer service and improve hospitality
VOLUNTEER WORK
All commitments are on a casual, as needed basis:
Pediatric Medical Device Day Planning Committee | November 2025 – Current
American Society for Artificial Organs (ASAIO) Conference 2026
Trainee Committee | Jan 2026 – Current
Canadian Cardiovascular Congress 2026
History of Medicine Club Co-Lead | Sept 2025 – May 2026
Faculty of Medicine and Dentistry, University of Alberta
Biocompatibility Team Lead | Jan 2025 – Dec 2025
Alberta Heart, Faculty of Engineering, University of Alberta
- Alberta Heart is an engineering student group participating in the international Heart Hackathon event, teams from various universities worldwide compete to innovate device design for total artificial hearts
- Led and managed a sub-team of engineers to provide the overall team guidance on biocompatibility concerns and clinical assurance for designs of interest: applied biomedical background to shape research questions and guide team efforts
- Taught engineers basic cardiovascular physiology, anatomy, immunology and other biomedical concepts relevant to heart transplantation and implantable medical devices
· Text-Line Crisis Responder | May 2022 – Oct 2022
Kids Help Phone
● Received a 36-hour intensive training course on conducting crisis resolving conversations on the Kids Help Phone platform, honing skills in active listening and collaborative problem solving
● Helped youth texters from all backgrounds share their feelings and mental health issues in a safe space and formed coping strategies for mental health or domestic issues
● Risk assessed texters for suicidal thoughts as well as vulnerable population abuse, and cooordinated with emergency services accordingly to de-escalate and maintain safety
● Commended by supervisors for ability to stay resilient and calm in high pressure conversations
Cardiac Family Advisory Care Team Patient Co-Chair | Jun 2021 – Present
Alberta Health Services, Stollery Children’s Hospital
● Collaborated between other co-chairs to make critical decisions concerning management of the Cardiac Family Advisor Care Team: a volunteer group of past patients, family members, and healthcare staff working to utilize patient and family perspectives for quality improvement of care and patient resources
● Facilitated meetings by engaging the group, spurring discussion, and drawing out feedback for consulting staff members
● Acted as a role model for professional boundaries for advisors part of the group
● Networked with clinicians and evaluated opportunities for patient centered feedback and perspectives to be incorporated into staff led initiatives
● Interviewed interested candidates and assisted with the onboarding process
● Developed surveys using RedCAP software
Cardiac Family Advisory Care Team Patient Advisor | Oct 2020 – Present
Alberta Health Services, Stollery Children’s Hospital
● Consulted on quality improvement initiatives and utilized previous experience as a patient to make meaningful change to cardiac care resources and staff initiatives
● Acted as a mentor and role model to patients currently undergoing cardiac care
● Collaborated within a team to create workshops for youth and family transitioning from pediatric to adult care
Diagnostic Imaging Quality Council | Mar 2020 – May 2022
Alberta Health Services, Royal Alexandra Diagnostic Imaging Department
● Acted as a leader to represent Portering colleagues’ best interests in departmental changes and advocate for quality improvement initiatives which enhanced safety and workflow
● Initiated and led audits of departmental processes and equipment which informed policy change and increased safety for both patients and staff
● Consulted interdepartmentally to facilitate audit initiatives with the support of key stakeholders
Better Choices, Better Health Chronic Pain Lay Leader | Mar 2019 – Dec 2025
Alberta Health Services, Chronic Disease Management
● Facilitated 6-week workshops where participants with chronic pain learned goal setting, problem solving, communication, emotional management, and how to navigate the healthcare system while coping with chronic pain
● Acted as a leader and a role model to motivate patients to make meaningful changes in their lives
● Managed group dynamics in both in-person and online settings
● Utilized a humble, non-judgemental attitude to create a comfortable atmosphere where patients felt safe to share their stories and ideas
● Worked conjointly with a co-facilitator to address concerns and troubleshoot for participants, as well as give and receive constructive feedback
Activity Lead | Oct 2019 – Mar 2020
Alberta Health Services, Royal Alexandra Hospital, Psychiatry (PCU 61)
● Planned and led engaging activities for patients of the psychiatric ward
● Managed difficult group dynamics and engaged with patients with diverse psychiatric disability and role modeled appropriate behaviour for patients
● Maintained a friendly, inviting persona which drew patients to participate in activities
Volunteer Committee and Peer Educator | Sept 2019 – Sept 2022
HIV Edmonton
● Instigated social action for Edmontonians affected by HIV by planning and executing fundraising initiatives; worked closely with community partners/agencies to facilitate initiatives; developed promotional and educative materials relevant to events
● Gained significant one-on-one experience with clientele affected by chronic disease, acting to provide peer support and redirect to appropriate resources as needed
● Observed and acknowledged the struggles of minority, low socioeconomic status, and LGBTQ2S+ populations in accessing healthcare and the importance of harm reduction services
● Assisted with administrative, human resources, and financial duties under direct supervision of the executive director
Patient Comforter | Dec 2018 - April 2019
Alberta Health Services, Royal Alexandra Hospital, Diagnostic Imaging
● Reassured nervous patients headed for diagnostic imaging appointments and directed patients to the correct location
● Conversed with patients and addressed concerns in a friendly, easygoing manner which enhanced hospitality and comfort
● Improved interpersonal skills, ability to understand and empathize with patients, and utilized customer service attitudes to best serve patients
Welcome Liaison and Welcome Liaison Trainer | Nov 2018 - Mar 2021
Alberta Health Services, University of Alberta Hospital
● Acted as a wayfinder for outpatients by giving directions and escorts to destinations within in the hospital
● Strived to provide an impressionable, customer service oriented attitude in each interaction and take the initiative to assist incoming outpatients
● Improved leadership skills, mentored new volunteers, acted as a role model for interpersonal skills, professionalism, courtesy, and service
● Developed a training program from scratch which exemplified key competencies for new Welcome Liaisons, with 16 mentees trained
Contents up to date as of June 2026