Canada Impact+ Research Chair (CIRC) in Marine Bioresources Optimization

Closing Date: May 26, 2026
Expected Start Date of Appointment: September 2026

The Department of Ocean Sciences at Memorial University invites applications from international candidates (i.e., both working and residing outside of Canada at the time of the application deadline, with no restriction on nationality) for the Canada Impact+ Research Chair (CIRC) competition targeting Marine Bioresources Optimization. The position will be tenured, with the CIRC appointment initially spanning a period of eight years, in values of either $8 million ($1 million per year) or $4 million ($500,000 per year), with the possibility of a 4-year extension at 50% of the original award value, determined by an external review in Year 7 of the award. The awardee may also request an additional $100,000 per year over six years to recruit an Early Career Researcher (ECR) and to apply for research infrastructure funding.

The CIRC program is a one-time-only initiative, funded by the Government of Canada, designed to recruit top-tier international researchers, with no restriction on nationality, who have expertise in key areas addressing critical national and global challenges. The program emphasizes both research excellence and tangible impact. The eight CIRC-identified strategic priority areas include: Advanced digital technologies (including artificial intelligence (AI), quantum and cybersecurity); Health, including biotechnology; Clean technology and resource value chains; Environment, climate resilience and the Arctic; Food and water security; Democratic and community resilience; Manufacturing and advanced materials; and Defense and dual-use technologies.

The Department of Ocean Sciences, housed at the Ocean Sciences Centre with its wealth of marine research facilities, is a global leader in cold-ocean and deep-sea research, education, and engagement. The Chair in Marine Bioresources Optimization is expected to conduct transdisciplinary research bridging the Department’s core research foci. Examples include, but are not limited to: improving genetics and nutrition of marine aquaculture species; developing better health management strategies under climate change; diversifying finfish and shellfish commercial production and enhancing wild stocks which Indigenous and northern communities can use for consumption or to improve their own enterprises and economies; improving the nutritional value of marine species to increase and diversify market demand and strategies; and optimizing commercial fisheries in a changing ocean, in collaboration with local stakeholders and Indigenous communities (e.g. assessing resilience of marine species to climate change and environmental stressors, drawing from Indigenous Knowledge).

The successful candidate will be appointed at the rank of Full Professor or Associate Professor, eligible to apply for promotion to Full Professor within 2 years of the Chair’s start date. The salary for the position will be commensurate with qualifications and experience, in accordance with the Memorial University of Newfoundland Faculty Association (MUNFA) Collective Agreement.

Candidate Profile
The successful candidate will be an established, internationally recognized research leader whose scholarship has made a significant impact in the field. They will have primary responsibility for directing the research program and all related activities, and will be expected to develop and implement a plan for an inclusive research environment that fosters equity, accessibility and diverse participation at all levels.

The successful candidate will have:

• a PhD* in Ocean Sciences, Marine Biology or a closely related discipline (*Note: This is a requirement of Memorial University, not the Canada Impact+ Research Chairs program);
• a demonstrated record of world-class research excellence in cold-water aquaculture, sustainable fisheries, habitat protection, marine biotechnology, and/or conservation of species and ecosystems.
• evidence of sustained high-impact contributions, publications in leading journals, and success in securing external research funding;
• a demonstrated commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion and anti-racism (EDI-AR) in research, teaching, and mentorship;
• experience mentoring a diverse group of students, trainees, and research personnel;
• a record of service to the academic and professional communities through leadership and engagement.

How to Apply
Memorial University’s Canada Impact+ Research Chairs competition involves a two-stage process as outlined below.

Stage 1: Applications must be submitted as a single PDF file, with the subject heading: CIRC Marine Bioresources Optimization, and quoting the reference number: F03295. The application should include the following information, and be provided in the order listed below:

1. A cover letter, including a vision, leadership experience and fit with the CIRC in Marine Bioresources Optimization (2 pages max);
2. Current Curriculum vitae with a clear summary of major research, teaching, leadership and knowledge mobilization achievements;
3. Research plan for the duration of the 8-year CIRC, outlining objectives, methodology, expected outcomes, and impacts (3 pages max);
4. Copies of three relevant scientific publications;
5. A statement on how the applicant’s research program fosters and implements best practices in equity, diversity, inclusion and anti-racism (For guidance see NSERC guide on integrating EDI), and;
6. Names and contact information of at least three referees.

Application packages should be submitted through this PORTAL as soon as possible but no later than May 26, 2026. Candidates with inquiries about this position, the Department of Ocean Sciences, the Faculty of Science, and / or the broader Memorial community, are encouraged to contact the Ocean Sciences Department Head, pgagnon@mun.ca.