David Howard Turpin (born 14 July 1956) is a Canadian scholar and the former university president. Turpin was the president and vice-chancellor of the University of Alberta (2015–2020) and the University of Victoria (2000 to 2013). In 2010, he was appointed a member of the Order of Canada. Early life and education In 1977 Turpin received a BSc degree in cell biology from the University of British Columbia. In 1980 he received a PhD degree in botany and oceanography from the University of British Columbia. Career From 2000 to 2013 Turpin was the president and vice-chancellor of the University of Victoria. Turpin was appointed the president and vice-chancellor of the University of Alberta in 2015. He did not seek renewal for a second term, and his term at the University of Alberta ended on 30 June 2020. Turpin is president emeritus of the University of Alberta. Awards and distinctions Honorary Doctor of Laws, University of Manitoba (2015) Queen's Diamond Jubilee Medal (2012) Member, Order of Canada (2010) ISI Highly Cited Researcher (2004) Queen's Golden Jubilee Medal (2002) Fellow, Royal Society of Canada (1998) Who's Who in Canada (1997) Who's Who in Science and Engineering (1996) Who's Who in America (1995) Darbaker Prize in Phycology, American Botanical Association (1991) References 1956 births Living people Canadian university and college chief executives Presidents of the University of Alberta Fellows of the Royal Society of Canada Members of the Order of Canada People from Duncan, British Columbia University of Victoria University of British Columbia Faculty of Science alumni University of British Columbia faculty