Richard James Alfred Wilson

Richard James Alfred Wilson serves as a Professor in the Department of Physiology and Pharmacology at the Cumming School of Medicine, University of Calgary, with additional appointments as a Child Health & Wellness Researcher at the Alberta Children's Hospital Research Institute and Full Member of both the Hotchkiss Brain Institute and Campus Alberta Neuroscience.

His academic credentials include:

• Ph.D in Neurobiology from the University of Glasgow, Scotland (1992)
• B.Sc (Honors) in Neurobiology from the University of Sussex, United Kingdom (1989)

Dr. Wilson's research program centers on neuronal mechanisms of cardiorespiratory control, investigating cellular sensors, autonomic nervous system function, and respiratory rhythm generation across species from lung fish to humans. His work integrates comparative physiology with translational applications for conditions including asthma, COPD, sleep apnea, SIDS, and spinal cord injury, while pioneering medical technologies such as functional Optical Coherence Tomography (fOCT) for physiological monitoring.

His distinguished recognition includes:

• Multiple teaching award nominations (Killam McCaig 2018-2019, Students' Union 2013)
• AIHS Senior Scholar (2011) and AHFMR Scholar (2004)
• CIHR/HS New Investigator award (2002)
• Postdoctoral fellowships from Parker B. Francis Foundation (1999) and Alberta Heritage Foundation (1997)
• George Fodor National Research Forum award (2005) and Luciano Morasca Young Scientist Award (1991)

Dr. Wilson has secured substantial research funding through national health agencies and foundations while leading drug discovery initiatives, notably founding Aazein Tx Inc. as Chief Scientific Officer to develop asthma pharmaceutical therapy (NEO6860). His high-altitude research and novel experimental preparations demonstrate commitment to innovative approaches for cardiorespiratory challenges.

His laboratory bridges basic neuroscience with clinical applications through multidisciplinary teams investigating neuronal circuits, developing monitoring technologies, and translating discoveries into therapeutic interventions for prevalent cardiorespiratory disorders affecting millions worldwide.