The Nephrology Research Group
About Us
The Nephrology Research Group and is a distinguished team of academic nephrologists and researchers dedicated to improving the lives of individuals affected by kidney disease. Our research spans basic science, clinical trials, epidemiology, and patient-centered studies.
Areas of Focus
Our multidisciplinary team explores a wide range of topics, including:
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) & Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
- Glomerulonephritis & Autoimmune Diseases
- End-Stage Kidney Disease & Kidney Replacement Therapies
- Transplant
- Cardiorenal Physiology
- Sex and Gender
- Data Science & Statistical Learning
- Interventional Trials (Phases II–IV)
- Health Economics & Quality Improvement
Collaborations
- Alberta Kidney Care South and North
- Alberta Kidney Disease Network (AKDN)
- Canadians Seeking Solutions and Innovations to Overcome Chronic Kidney Disease (Can-SOLVE CKD)
- Interdisciplinary Chronic Disease Collaboration (ICDC)
- Kidney Foundation of Canada – Southern Alberta Branch
- University of Alberta
Translating Research into Care
Our research directly informs and enhances patient care through innovative tools, technologies, and
patient-centered programs.
Key initiatives include:
Developing and implementing clinical decision aids to support early detection and personalized care strategies.
- CKD pathway- A resource for primary care providers to aid in the diagnosis, medical management, and referral of adults with CKD.
- Contrast-Risk – A computer software program that identifies patients at high risk of developing AKI from contrast dyes
- Improving person-centered risk prediction of hospital readmission
- KDpredict – An online tool to predict the risks of kidney failure and death in adults with moderate or severe chronic kidney disease
- Support AKI- A computer software program that helps healthcare professionals detect and manage AKI early
- UPTAKE - Using Personalized risk and digital tools to guide Transitions following Acute Kidney Events
Integrating real-time alerts and monitoring systems into electronic health records to improve patient safety and outcomes.
- CNODES - Canadian Network for Observational Drug Effect Studies
- EHR embedded interventions to improve outcomes for people with chronic disease
- PD Catheter Registry – A web-based system to track and improve peritoneal dialysis catheter outcomes.
- EMPATHY Trial – A cluster randomized trial evaluating the use of routinely measured patient-reported outcomes in hemodialysis care.
- My Kidneys My Health – An interactive platform supporting patients in managing chronic kidney disease through education and self-care tools.
- Transplant Wellness Program - A comprehensive support program for organ recipients to build their wellness before and after transplant surgery
- Conducting applied health economics research to evaluate the cost-effectiveness and impact of kidney care interventions on the healthcare system.
- iCT Program – Testing novel interventions and participatory research models to improve care for socially disadvantaged populations.
- FoodRx Alberta – A food prescription program addressing food insecurity and chronic disease management.
Featured Projects
- BMCKD Biobank – Canada’s first comprehensive kidney disease biobank
- Muruve Lab -Fully equipped wet laboratory for banking human biospecimens and storing clinical data
- TARGET KD– Building a population-based cohort for kidney biopsy research
- Justin Chun Lab – Studying glomerular diseases using organoids and biospecimens
- Dialysis & Exercise Studies – Improving outcomes through intradialytic exercise
- Pediatric Nephrology – Enhancing care transitions and national nephrotic syndrome initiatives
- Roy & Vi Baay Chair – Supporting world-class kidney research in Southern Alberta
Our Commitment
We are committed to advancing kidney care through evidence-based research, patient engagement, and the implementation of innovative solutions that improve health outcomes for all.