Our history

The group was named the Mucosal Inflammation Research Group (MIRG).  The evolution of the MIRG resulted in a broadening of its research activities to include inflammation in areas other than mucosae. In addition, the MIRG’s ever-growing associate membership comprised a wide network of national and international investigators and educators, including members from other parts of Canada, as well as Europe, Australia and South America. In order to reflect these broadening activities and interactions, 2006 saw the name of the group change to the Inflammation Research Network (IRN).
 
Today, IRN is comprised of 24 full-time members and 9 associate members. Together, the group spans a number of disciplines and covers all aspects of molecular to clinical research, all with a common focus on inflammatory diseases.  Over the years, this group has become recognized for the excellence of its science and, as a result, is now engaged in many national and international collaborative projects.
 
In addition to its research focus, the IRN also prides itself on providing an exciting training environment for undergraduate students, graduate students and postdoctoral fellows. Our students and fellows have been extremely successful in obtaining external salary awards, and many have gone on to continue stellar careers the world over.
 
Every second year since its inception, IRN has hosted the Banff Inflammation Workshop. This meeting, which is now internationally renowned, gathers international experts in inflammation and their trainees in the spectacular setting of the Canadian Rockies. IRN also enjoys a variety of other professional and social activities throughout the year, including the “Kananaskis Inflammation Workshop” (organized by trainees), “Lobsterfest”, “IRN in the Snow Day”, and the “IRN Christmas Party”.  IRN recognizes that teamwork and fun are important to success!