by Kiko Zi Yi Huang

Graphic design Jayne Leggatt

On November 15, 2023, the Li Ka Shing Auditorium at St. Michael’s Hospital was filled with field experts, academics, and graduate students for the 13th Annual Ori Rotstein Lecture in Translational Research. Hosted by the Institute of Medical Science, the event offered a captivating exploration into the world of medical innovation and serendipitous breakthroughs, with the keynote speaker, Dr. Robert Montgomery, providing a narrative that transcended the technicalities of his achievements.

Dr. Montgomery, Professor and Chair of the Department of Surgery and Director of the NYU Langone Transplant Institute, brought a unique perspective to the lecture. While his achievements in the field of kidney transplantation are widely celebrated, it was his encounters with countless life-or-death situations that set him apart. Dr. Montgomery’s journey unfolded as a testament to the resilience and determination required in medical research. The lecture shed light on Dr. Montgomery’s pivotal role in developing the laparoscopic procedure for live kidney donation, which has become the global standard. It was truly amazing to learn about advancements in the field of transplantation surgeries and the future of transplantation! The lecture was quite interesting, sparking numerous questions for Dr. Montgomery during the engaging Q&A session that followed.

The open panel discussion that followed Dr. Montgomery’s presentation featured prominent figures in medical research, including Drs. Shaf Keshavjee, Ana Konvalinka,  Mamatha Bhat, and Olivia Hough. Dr. Ori Rotstein initiated the discussion with questions for the panelists, followed by an opportunity for all audience members to engage. The panelists shared profound insights into the unpredictable nature of scientific discovery. Dr. Montgomery, recounting moments in his career when chance played a decisive role, emphasized the importance of embracing unexpected turns in the pursuit of knowledge. 

The remaining panelists echoed this sentiment, each weaving their tales of discovery influenced by unplanned events. The panel discussion became a platform for emphasizing the value of curiosity, resilience, and openness to unexpected opportunities in the research journey. As a member of the audience, it was truly inspiring to hear the way that the panelists painted science as an ever-evolving, dynamic field where unpredictability is not a hindrance, but rather, a catalyst for innovation.

In conclusion, the 13th Annual Ori Rotstein Lecture in Translational Research was more than a recounting of achievements; it was an exploration of the human spirit in the face of challenges. Dr. Montgomery’s anecdotes of resilience and the panelists’ reflections on the unpredictability of research left an indelible mark, inspiring students to embark on their scientific journeys with an open mind and a readiness to embrace the unexpected. The stories shared underscored the importance of embracing the unknown, and questioning what one is told—although we may not necessarily recommend walking out of the hospital immediately after being advised to rest!

As we reflect on this enriching event, we extend our heartfelt gratitude to Dr. Ori Rotstein for his visionary leadership and commitment to advancing translational research.  Our appreciation extends to the esteemed panelists for sharing their wisdom and experiences, which enriched the discourse with valuable insights. A sincere thank you also goes to the planning committee members whose dedication and meticulous efforts ensured the success of the lecture. Lastly, a warm thank you to everyone who attended the lecture—your presence contributed to the vibrant exchange of ideas. We hope to see you all again at the next Ori Rotstein lecture!