The Royal

David Pedlar, PhD

Military and Veterans Mental Health
Research / Research at The Royal / Research Team / David Pedlar, PhD

David Pedlar, PhD

Senior Scientist, The Royal 
Adjunct Professor, School of Psychology, University of Ottawa 
Professor Emeritus, School of Rehabilitation Therapy, Queen’s University

Research Focus 

As Research Director for the Superminds for Superhumans program—a Canadian-founded humanitarian mental health initiative—my research centers on program implementation, evaluation, and outcomes measurement for this innovative mental health support program. The program serves Ukrainian soldiers and civilians who have experienced war-related amputations, as well as their families. My broader research interests encompass military and veteran suicide prevention interventions and traumatic stress research. 

Research Achievement  

Since 2018, I have co-founded and co-led the Mental Health Research and Innovation Collaboration (MHRIC), an international consortium spanning the Five Eyes nations focused on military and veteran mental health. This collaboration advances mental health research while developing evidence-based policies and practices that enhance the wellbeing of military personnel, veterans, and their families. Our work has resulted in policy impacts and publications in leading scientific journals, including The Lancet Psychiatry. 

Research Impact 

My research directly influences recovery experiences and outcomes for military personnel and their families, while informing policy and program decision-making at the international level. Through collaborative efforts and innovative program development, this work contributes to advancing mental health support systems for those who have served and their communities. 

Ottawa Campus

1145 Carling Ave.,
Ottawa, ON K1Z 7K4
(613) 722-6521

Long-Term Care

1141 Carling Ave.,
Ottawa, ON K1Z 7K4
(613) 722-6521

Brockville Campus

1804 Highway 2 E, P.O. Box 1050,
Brockville, ON K6V 5W7
(613) 345-1461

Community Mental Health

2121 Carling Ave.,
Ottawa, ON K2A 1H2
(613) 722-6521

The Royal