Dr. Kirsten Bobawsky

Dr. Kirsten Fiest is the Scientific Director of the O’Brien Institute for Public Health and a Professor in the Departments of Critical Care Medicine, Community Health Sciences, and Psychiatry at the University of Calgary. She earned her PhD in Epidemiology from the University of Calgary and completed postdoctoral training in neuro- and psychiatric epidemiology at the University of Manitoba.

Dr. Fiest’s research program is dedicated to advancing the science of patient- and family-centered critical care. Her current work explores how family members can help prevent, detect, and manage delirium in critically ill patients.

Recognized as an impactful scientist and emerging leader, Dr. Fiest was inducted into the Royal Society of Canada’s College of New Scholars, Artists and Scientists in 2023 and named one of Canada’s 100 Most Powerful Women (Amex Emerging Leader) by WXN in 2024.

In addition to her research and leadership roles, Dr. Fiest serves as co-chair of the Canadian Critical Care Trials Group’s Equity, Diversity, Inclusion, and Indigeneity Committee, where she works to promote inclusion and improve representation of women, Indigenous Peoples, persons of colour, and persons with disabilities in critical care research. When she's not at work, Dr. Fiest loves to unwind with a great book, a challenging game, or a classic puzzle.

Research

Participation in university strategic initiatives

Child Health and Wellness (2020-2025)

Publications

PubMed

More Information

Areas of Expertise

Comorbidity
Critical Care
Epidemiology
Neurology
Psychiatry
Systematic Reviews
Tool Validation