Geoff Bardwell

Geoff Bardwell is an Assistant Professor and Director of the Drug Lab at the University of Waterloo's School of Public Health Sciences. His research focuses on drug policy, particularly in rural, Indigenous, and marginalized communities, emphasizing both harm reduction and the cultural aspects of drug use. He holds a BA in Women’s Studies and Sociology (University of Western Ontario), an MA in Kinesiology (University of Waterloo), a PhD in Women’s Studies and Feminist Research (University of Western Ontario), and a Postdoctoral Fellowship in Social Medicine (University of British Columbia).

His work integrates qualitative and mixed-methods approaches, advocating for community-based research and critiques of public health’s overemphasis on drug-related harms. He has extensive experience in substance use advocacy, housing, and HIV/AIDS sectors, which informs his academic pursuits.

Current research includes studying opioid agonist treatments, drug decriminalization impacts, and safer supply programs. While no awards are listed, his contributions to drug policy research and community partnerships are notable. He oversees the Drug Lab, focusing on innovative solutions to drug-related health challenges.