2026 Canadian Rheumatology Association Early Career Investigator Award

The Canadian Rheumatology Association Early Career Investigator Award recognizes a Canadian investigator who has contributed significant, original research in rheumatology. The awardee must be no more than 10 years from first faculty appointment or active practice (e.g., excluding parental or medical leave) and who has performed outstanding, landmark, original research (clinical or basic science) in rheumatology as judged by peers and citations.

Dr. Mohammed Osman, associate professor, Division of Rheumatology

Dr. Osman (Mo) is a PhD-trained clinician scientist, consultant Rheumatologist with a focus in clinical immunology, and Associate Professor at the University of Alberta. He completed his PhD, medical degree and rheumatology training at the University of Alberta, followed by advanced vascular point-of-care assessments at the University of Genoa (Italy) and the University Medical Centre of Groningen (the Netherlands).

Dr. Osman specializes in diagnosing and treating complex autoimmune diseases and inborn errors in immunity. Dr. Osman is the current CRA ASM Abstract Chair and ASM planning committee co-chair and sits on the CRA Research Committee. He is an executive member of the Canadian Scleroderma Research Group and a member of the Canadian network for improved outcomes in systemic lupus erythematosus.

Dr. Osman is passionate and committed to research. He uses point-of-care tools such as nail-fold video capillaroscopy for risk stratifying his patients and has published several papers related to this in various rheumatic diseases. He also leads a translational laboratory with two overarching research themes: namely, deciphering the molecular mechanisms promoting fibrosis and delineating the molecular mechanisms of severe fatigue in patients with inflammatory conditions. His research has led to several major discoveries which were published in impactful journals and presented nationally and internationally by his graduate students and postdoctoral scholars. His career goal is to use research to derive solutions for the unfortunate and complex health problems faced by his patients, so he can find a cure for them.

Dr. Osman is honoured to be recognized by the Canadian Rheumatology Association and remains committed to advancing excellence in translational research and patient care.

"I am grateful for all my colleagues who nominated me for this prestigious award, and to my patients and colleagues who have allowed me to pursue my passions in research." says Dr. Osman.

Dr. Osman will be receiving his award at the Canadian Rheumatology Association Annual Scientific Meeting, April 16 - 19, 2026. Watch for our special interview with him.

[Source: Canadian Rheumatology Association]