Faculty Spotlight: Elizabeth Cates
Elizabeth Cates, RM, PhD is a new Assistant Professor in the Department of Pathology and Molecular Medicine at McMaster University. Prior to this role, she was an Assistant Professor in the Midwifery Education Program, within the Faculty of Community Services at Toronto Metropolitan University. Dr. Cates holds a PhD in Medical Sciences (Immunology & Inflammation) from McMaster University, is a Registered Midwife with the College of Midwives of Ontario, and has received awards for excellence in teaching and course design.
Dr. Cates teaches a variety of courses in both the Bachelor of Health Sciences Program and the Midwifery Education Program here at McMaster. She has a keen interest in interprofessional education, student-centred approaches to teaching and learning, and alternative methods of assessment. Dr. Cates is a member of the McMaster Midwifery Research Centre, where she is currently working as part of a group examining the mental health of Ontario Midwives and sustainability within the profession.
Q. What is your specialty and why did you choose it?
A. I come from a variety of backgrounds, from bench to bedside! I have received ‘bench’ training in molecular biology and immunology, and ‘bedside’ clinical training in low-risk obstetrics via midwifery. All of these pieces inform my role as an educator, and all of them were chosen because I like to ask questions and solve puzzles. I am very interested in knowledge translation; how can we both support students’ motivation to learn, and take the complex concepts underpinning the health sciences and translate them into relevant, accessible, and engaging opportunities.
Q. What brought you to McMaster?
A. I initially came to McMaster for my graduate work, and I am so grateful that this new role is bringing me back! The environment here is well balanced such that we have a supportive, friendly community – while maintaining academic, evidence-based rigour. Great people, beautiful campus, exciting opportunities. Who wouldn’t want to be at Mac?!
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