Michelle Arnot, PhD

Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology

Dr. Michelle Arnot is an Associate Professor (Teaching) and the Undergraduate Education Coordinator in the Department of Pharmacology and Toxicology. She graduated from Queens University with a BSc (Honours) in Life Science and completed a PhD in Pharmacology from the University of Alberta where she focused on neuropharmacology and the effects of chronic benzodiazepines.  After her graduate studies she took a brief opportunity with an educational outreach group; however, her continual interest in learning resulted in her return to research. She began work within the calcium channel field where she held a variety of research fellowships at the University of Calgary and George Washington University in Washington DC. She held a faculty Lecturer position at the University of Maryland (College Park) prior to repatriating back to Canada to join the Department in 2007. Currently she teaches and coordinates in variety of Pharmacology and Toxicology courses within the undergraduate program, as well as in graduate and professional programs and continuing education via online initiatives.  Her community engaged course “the role of pharmacology and toxicology in society” is a favorite among students and involves students working with Toronto Harm Reduction groups. Dr. Arnot strives to share her passion for “drugs” and the important role they play in health care and society in general. Dr. Arnot enjoys challenging her students yet works hard to create a supportive learning environment.

Reflection
I continue to be curious about research which helps develop my own knowledge, teaching and communication skills. I evolve my teaching practice and encourage students to evolve in their thinking and practices.

SHARING, MENTORING and BEING HUMAN are core to my teaching practices and the conversations which happen inside and outside the classroom.