Aaron Wheeler recognized with Chemical Institute of Canada’s Ricardo Aroca Award

Published: February 5, 2024

Aaron Wheeler, a professor in the department of chemistry in the Faculty of Arts & Science and the Institute of Biomedical Engineering in the Faculty of Applied Science & Engineering, has received the Chemical Institute of Canada’s Ricardo Aroca Award.

The award is given to scientists in recognition of distinguished contributions to the field of analytical chemistry while working in Canada. Wheeler, who is cross-appointed to the Donnelly Centre for Cellular and Biomolecular Research, was honoured for his achievements in the field of microfluidics.

Wheeler’s lab has developed microfluidic tools to analyze the chemistry of complex biological samples. His research has an array of potential medical applications ranging from developing procedures to study the most dangerous cells among millions in large tumors to growing organ tissues on devices outside the body to test drugs.

“Virtually every living organism sheds cells,” said Wheeler. “A cancerous tumor, for example, sends innumerable cells out into its host’s body. Of those, most cells will not be metastatic, so identifying and studying the few that can survive the immune system and spread the cancer is vital for understanding how to prevent and treat this disease.”

Wheeler will deliver a keynote address when he accepts the award at the Canadian Chemistry Conference and Exhibition (CSC) 2024 in Winnipeg in June.