We speak with leading neurosurgeon and spinal cord injury neuroscientist Dr. Michael Fehlings. Dr Fehlings is Professor of Neurosurgery, Vice-Chair Research, Department of Surgery, Co-Director, Spine Program, McLaughlin Scholar in Molecular Medicine, University of Toronto. He is also the Gerry and Tootsie Halbert Chair in Neural Repair and Regeneration, Senior Scientist, Krembil Brain Institute and Scientist, McEwen Centre for Regenerative Medicine Toronto Western Hospital, University Health Network, Canada. Dr. Fehlings discusses the international Surgical Timing in Acute Spinal Cord Injury Study (STASCIS) seminal study on the optimal timing of surgical decompression for spinal cord injury, improving SCI care, the latest research in spinal cord injury, and how to optimize spinal cord injury care. He also provides updates and perspectives on many current and exciting research approaches in spinal cord injury including stem cells, hypothermia, and neuromodulation. As Principal Investigator, he presents an update on the RISCIS clinical trial of Riluzole, one of the most promising pharmacotherapies for acute spinal cord injury.