Konain Qurban is a PhD researcher in Digital Transformation & Innovation (DTI) at the University of Ottawa, specializing in the intersection of artificial intelligence and mental health and addiction (MH&A) care. With a decade of cross-sector experience in health systems innovation,  Konain previously served at EHN Canada, where he led digital transformation initiatives to modernize reporting, streamline data workflows, and improve outcome measurement across residential and outpatient treatment programs. 

He is currently the Founder and CEO of Axon Health, a patient engagement platform that helps  MH&A clinics digitize and automate their aftercare programs. Under his leadership, Axon  Health has developed EIRA (Emotionally-Intelligent Recovery Assistant), an AI-powered chatbot that enables unprompted user engagement, offering personalized, real-time support to individuals in recovery when it is needed most. 

Konain’s research and practice are grounded in principles of health equity, cultural responsiveness, consumer psychology, and AI. He is passionate about reimagining how digital tools can extend care beyond clinic walls – particularly for underserved, BIPOC, youth and adolescent communities. Through Axon Health and his academic work, Konain continues to explore how AI can empower autonomy and proactive care, enhance therapeutic alliances, and transform recovery journeys at scale.