Meet Dr. Georg Schmolzer, clinical trialist, Grey Nuns and Misericordia hospitals

When Dr. Georg Schmolzer reflects on his decades-long career, one thing becomes clear: clinical trials are not just part of his job; they are the cornerstone of his passion for improving neonatal care.

“The goal is to move science forward and help these babies get better. The next generation of babies deserves the best start in life,” he says.

As a neonatologist and clinical scientist with the University of Alberta, Georg spends 75 per cent of his time conducting research that has the potential to save the lives of the most vulnerable patients — premature babies. His dedication has led to significant advancements, including the development of a faster, more effective chest compression technique for newborns. This innovation, now supported by international randomized trials, reduces the time it takes to restart a newborn’s heart by around 75 per cent.

Georg’s contributions extend beyond the laboratory. Working with Covenant Health at the Misericordia and Grey Nuns hospitals, he bridges the gap between research and bedside care. His studies often involve babies born between 23 and 35 weeks of gestation, a population frequently overlooked in clinical trials.

One upcoming study will examine whether administering higher oxygen levels at birth improves outcomes for these infants. “We used to give everyone 100 per cent oxygen, but now we know that’s harmful. Finding the right balance is critical,” he says.

Georg’s journey into clinical research began during his training in Austria and Australia, where he completed a PhD in neonatal resuscitation. “My supervisor sparked my passion for research,” he says. Since then, he has participated in or led over 20 clinical trials and now mentors the next generation of researchers across Canada.

Collaboration is at the heart of Georg’s work. His international studies unite teams across Canada, Europe and beyond.

A crucial part of Georg’s process involves collaborating with parents, whose input shapes the design and goals of each trial. “Parents often tell us what outcomes matter most to them. That feedback helps us fine-tune our approach,” he says.

Georg feels immense gratitude for the support of parents. “Without their consent, none of this work would be possible. I'm extremely appreciative and thankful for their willingness to participate,” he says.

Looking ahead, Georg envisions innovations in trial design that could accelerate the discovery of effective treatments. “Adaptive trials, where we can quickly pivot based on early results, will revolutionize how we conduct research,” he says. These advancements align with broader changes in the global research landscape, emphasizing the importance of integrating clinical studies into everyday medical practice.

A recent shift in the World Health Organization’s guidelines underscores the increasingly vital role of research in improving outcomes for patients worldwide, says Georg. “Clinical trials aren’t experimental anymore; they are the standard of care.”