Timeline

NeuroArm Video | Biographies | Timeline | Photos

2001

Springing from work on the intraoperative MRI, initial neuroArm concept developed by Dr. Garnette Sutherland

MacDonald Dettwiler Associates (MDA) in Aurora, Ontario is identified and approached as possible partner

$2 million donation from the Seaman Family

2002

$3 million funding from Western Economic Diversification Canada

Initial contract signed with MDA to build neuroArm

News conference on February 4 officially launches neuroArm, with Western Economic Diversification Canada, MDA, Calgary Health Region, and University of Calgary

Preliminary design review completed

Critical design review completed

2003

Contract renegotiation with MDA due to change of scope, and cost of project

New contract price, scope, and schedule set for neuroArm

2004

Project re-initiated

$10.5 million grant awarded by Canada Foundation for Innovation

$3 million grant awarded by Advanced Education and Technology 

Weekly videoconferences between U of C project members and MDA begin

Isabelle Latour hired as Research Scientist

2005

Alex Greer hired as Robot Engineer

2006

$5.5 million support provided by the Reach! campaign

$3 million additional operating dollars awarded by Canada Foundation for Innovation

Ongoing assembly of neuroArm in Aurora, Ontario

2007

February 22 - Engineering sign-off on neuroArm begins in Aurora, Ontario

March 12 - NeuroArm arrives at U of C and begins integration into the intraoperative MRI OR

April 17 - Public unveiling of neuroArm to media, project stakeholders and dignitaries

Project schedule for remainder of 2007

Completion of pre-clinical studies

Health Canada regulatory approval

First surgery anticipated for summer 2007