Richard Justin Ingebretsen

Richard Justin Ingebretsen is a Professor (Lecturer) in the Department of Physics & Astronomy at the University of Utah's College of Science and an Adjunct Instructor in Internal Medicine at the University of Utah School of Medicine. He is also an attending emergency room physician practicing internal medicine, program director of the wilderness medicine program at the School of Medicine, and medical director of Salt Lake County Sheriff's Search and Rescue.

Education:

• MD in Medicine from University of Utah School of Medicine (1993)
• PhD in Physics Education from University of Utah (1987)
• MS in Physics from University of Utah (1985)

Dr. Ingebretsen's interdisciplinary work spans Physics Education, Wilderness Medicine, and Environmental Conservation. He pioneers experiential learning through river-based adventures and international programs, integrating physics with human physiology in his "Physics of the Human Body" curriculum and advancing wilderness medicine via initiatives like the Chamonix-Mt. Blanc learning abroad program. His approach emphasizes real-world application in clinical, environmental, and emergency contexts.

Scientific and Teaching Awards:

• Excellence in Education Award (LDSSA, 2015)
• Humanism in Medicine Award (University of Utah School of Medicine, 2007)
• Outstanding Clinical Instructor (University of Utah School of Medicine, 2007)
• Outstanding Facilitator Award (University of Utah School of Medicine, 2006)
• University Distinguished Teaching Award (University of Utah, 2005)
• Student's Choice Award for Outstanding Teaching (Associated Students of the University of Utah, 2003)
• Outstanding Adjunct Faculty Award (University of Utah, 2002)

Dr. Ingebretsen founded the Glen Canyon Institute and serves as vice chair of the Southern Utah Wilderness Alliance. He co-created a medical outreach program serving 20,000+ Filipino children, directs Wilderness Medicine of Utah, and produces globally ranked educational podcasts. His ownership of River Bound Adventures further demonstrates his commitment to adventure-based science education.