The Nephrology Research Group
About Us
The Nephrology Research Group is a dedicated team of academic nephrologists and researchers committed to improving the lives of people affected by kidney disease. Our work encompasses basic science, clinical trials, epidemiology, and patient-centred research.
Areas of Focus
Our multidisciplinary team explores a wide range of topics, including:
- Chronic Kidney Disease (CKD) and Acute Kidney Injury (AKI)
- Glomerulonephritis and Autoimmune Diseases
- End-Stage Kidney Disease and Kidney Replacement Therapies
- Transplant
- Cardiorenal Physiology
- Sex and Gender
- Data Science and Statistical Learning
- Interventional Trials (Phases II–IV)
- Health Economics and Quality Improvement
Collaborations
We work closely with a range of partners to advance kidney research and care, including:
- 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-centred programs.
Key initiatives include:
Developing and implementing clinical decision aids to support early detection and personalized care strategies.
- CKD pathway- A comprehensive resource for primary care providers to support the diagnosis, medical management, and referral of adults with chronic kidney disease.
- Contrast-Risk – A computer software program designed to identify patients at high risk of developing acute kidney injury (AKI) due to contrast dyes used in imaging procedures.
- Improving person-centred risk prediction - A research initiative focused on enhancing the accuracy of hospital readmission risk models using patient-centred data.
- KDpredict – An online tool that predicts the risk of kidney failure and mortality in adults with moderate to severe chronic kidney disease.
- Support AKI – A clinical decision aid that helps healthcare professionals detect and manage AKI early, improving patient outcomes.
- UPTAKE - A digital tool that uses personalized risk assessments to guide care 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) - A national research network that evaluates the safety and effectiveness of medications using large-scale observational data.
- 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, enabling large-scale research through the collection and storage of biospecimens and clinical data.
- Muruve Lab – A fully equipped wet laboratory specializing in the banking of human biospecimens and integration of clinical data for translational research.
- TARGET KD – A population-based cohort initiative focused on advancing kidney biopsy research and improving diagnostic precision.
- Justin Chun Lab – Investigating glomerular diseases using cutting-edge organoid models and biospecimen analysis.
- Dialysis & Exercise Studies – Exploring the impact of intradialytic exercise on patient outcomes and quality of life.
- Pediatric Nephrology – Enhancing care transitions for children with kidney disease and contributing to national initiatives on nephrotic syndrome.
- Roy & Vi Baay Chair – Supporting world-class kidney research in Southern Alberta through dedicated funding and leadership.
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.