Anthony Otley

Dr. Anthony Otley is a Professor in the Department of Pediatrics and Department of Medicine at Dalhousie University's Faculty of Medicine. He serves as Associate Chair of Research for Pediatrics and Division Head of Pediatric Gastroenterology & Nutrition. Based at the IWK Health Centre in Halifax, Nova Scotia, Dr. Otley leads the Maritime Intestinal Research Alliance (MIRA) and holds key roles in national research networks including the CHILD-CIHR Canadian pediatric IBD Network and the IMAGINE SPOR Network.

His research focuses on pediatric inflammatory bowel disease, with special emphasis on clinical trials methodology, development of patient-reported outcome measures, and the use of enteral nutrition for Crohn's disease management. Dr. Otley has made significant contributions to understanding the gut microbiome's role in pediatric IBD and has pioneered patient engagement approaches to set research priorities in this field.

Dr. Otley's publication record demonstrates consistent contributions to high-impact journals in gastroenterology, immunology, and microbiology. His work spans clinical trials methodology, patient-reported outcomes development, microbiome research, and implementation science for nutritional therapies in pediatric IBD.

• 2015, Outstanding Physician of the Year – Inaugural recipient from Crohn's and Colitis Canada
• 2011, Award for Excellence in Patient and Family-Centered Care from IWK Health Centre
• 2004-2009, Clinical Research Scholar Award from Dalhousie University

As a clinician-researcher, Dr. Otley maintains active clinical practice in pediatric gastroenterology while leading multiple research initiatives. His international work as a MicroResearch Mentor in Kenya and Uganda demonstrates his commitment to global health. His patient-centered research approach has been recognized by CIHR as part of their Faces of Health Research series, highlighting how he incorporates patient perspectives to guide research priorities in pediatric IBD.

Dr. Otley leads the Maritime Intestinal Research Alliance (MIRA), which brings together a multidisciplinary team focused on gastroenterology research, treatment, and care using a model that values patient engagement, knowledge translation, scientific integrity, and innovation.