Recognized as one of the world’s leading researchers on preterm birth, Dr. David Olson will be awarded an honorary degree as the University of Lethbridge celebrates 2021 Spring Convocation in June.

Olson has spent nearly 40 years addressing an urgent need for improved pregnancy outcomes by developing new strategies for early risk assessment and intervention and inspiring a generation of scientists throughout the world to work collaboratively to address this vital issue.

“Dr. Olson has dedicated much of his research career to tackling this extremely important issue,” says U of L Chancellor Charles Weaselhead. “His work with researchers here at the University of Lethbridge has led to some excellent collaborative relationships and inspired many trainees to further research in this field. We are extremely pleased to present Dr. Olson with an honorary degree for his dedication to finding improved pregnancy outcomes for all women.”

The U of L will present Olson with a Doctor of Science, honoris causa, at the Chancellor’s Reception on Thursday, June 10, 2021.

Dr. David Olson

David Olson, a professor of obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics and physiology at the University of Alberta, has spent nearly 40 years addressing an urgent need for improved pregnancy outcomes for those affected by preterm birth by developing new strategies for early risk assessment and intervention.

Olson has consistently been at the forefront of establishing national and international research networks to work collaboratively to address this vital issue. Over the years, he has obtained $45 million in research funding individually and collaboratively, including more than $8 million in funding for projects at uLethbridge, where he is an adjunct professor.

Working closely with the U of L’s Dr. Gerlinde Metz, Board of Governors Research Chair in Neuroscience, their research has inspired and trained young scientists and health professionals from high school students to post-doctoral fellows.

Olson has been recognized as the founder of the Optimal Pregnancy Environment Risk Assessment program, a global framework that brings together researchers and their trainees from North America, Europe, Asia and Africa for workshops and collaborative grants and projects.

Olson continues, through his own research as well as the colleagues and trainees he inspires, to improve perinatal health for the benefit of maternal and baby health locally, nationally and throughout the world.