Dr. Nathaniel Rivers, PhD

Dr. Nathaniel Rivers is a leading researcher and educator in adolescent development, specializing in puberty, hormonal changes, and psychosocial growth. With over 12 years of experience in clinical research, education, and policy advising, he has contributed to both academic and public understanding of the complex processes of puberty. His work focuses on empowering parents, educators, and teenagers with accurate, age-appropriate information about physical, emotional, and social development during adolescence.

Specialization

Adolescent Puberty and Growth
Endocrinology of Adolescence
Psychosocial Development in Teens
Pubertal Education Programs
Youth Mental Health and Wellbeing

Education

2005–2009: BSc in Biology, University of Toronto
2009–2011: MSc in Human Development, McGill University
2011–2015: PhD in Adolescent Health and Puberty Studies, Harvard University

Professional Experience

2015–2018: Junior Research Fellow, Centre for Adolescent Health, Toronto
2018–2022: Senior Lecturer in Adolescent Development, University of British Columbia
2022–Present: Director of Puberty & Development Programs, Global Youth Health Foundation
Consultant for government and NGO adolescent health initiatives

Selected Scientific Publications

Rivers, N. et al. (2021). "Hormonal Changes and Emotional Regulation in Early Adolescence." Journal of Adolescent Health, 69(5), 781–794.
Rivers, N. (2019). "Supporting Teens Through Puberty: Evidence-Based Guidelines for Educators." International Journal of Developmental Studies, 14(3), 112–129.
Rivers, N., & Li, M. (2017). "Pubertal Timing and Peer Relationships: A Longitudinal Study." Adolescent Research Review, 10(2), 45–68.

Professional Memberships

Society for Adolescent Health and Medicine (SAHM)
International Society for Research in Adolescence (ISRA)
North American Society for Pediatric and Adolescent Endocrinology (NASPAE)

Participation in International Projects

Lead Consultant, WHO Adolescent Development Program (2019–2021)
Advisor, UNICEF Global Puberty Education Initiative (2020–Present)
Coordinator, UNESCO “Digital Resources for Teen Development” Project (2022–Present)

Work on Educational Programs

Developer of “Healthy Puberty Curriculum” for middle schools across North America
Creator of online resources for parents and educators on adolescent growth
Trainer for youth health educators in evidence-based puberty programs

Interviews, Lectures, and Podcasts

Guest speaker on CBC Radio: “Understanding Puberty in Today’s Teens”
TEDx Talk: “Navigating Adolescence: Science and Support” (2020)
Host of “Teen Growth Matters” podcast series

Unique Values and Experience

Dr. Rivers brings a multidisciplinary approach to adolescent development, combining biology, psychology, and education. His work emphasizes inclusivity, evidence-based guidance, and culturally sensitive education, making him a trusted advisor for educators, parents, and policymakers worldwide.