"Canada Impact+ Research Chair"

The University of Saskatchewan (USask) invites applications from world-leading researchers for consideration for the prestigious Canada Impact+ Research Chair competition. The Canada Impact+ Research Chair program is intended to attract internationally leading researchers in establishing ambitious research programs at Canadian universities. Chairholders are appointed for eight years, with the possibility of a four-year partially funded extension, with award values of either $4 million or $8 million.

The Canada Impact+ Research Chair program uses a two-stage process, where applicants must first apply to the job posting at USask. The successful applicant from the first stage will then proceed to the second stage and co-develop an application with USask for the Canada Impact+ Research Chair competition. USask will provide substantial institutional support for the development of the application to the Canada Impact+ Research Chair program.

TIMELINES
USask will begin reviewing applications for each intake following the deadlines below.

First Intake
USask’s first submission deadline: January 19, 2026
Government of Canada’s deadline for USask nominee registration: March 10, 2026
Government of Canada’s deadline for USask to submit a full application: March 24, 2026

Second Intake
USask’s second submission deadline: April 20, 2026
Government of Canada’s deadline for USask nominee registration: June 15, 2026
Government of Canada’s deadline for USask to submit a full application: June 29, 2026

RESEARCH ALIGNMENT
USask welcomes applications from outstanding international renowned researchers in one or more of the following strategic priority areas:

• advanced digital technologies (including artificial intelligence, 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/or
• defence and dual-use technologies.

ELIGIBILITY
The nominees must hold a full professor rank or be an associate professor expected to be promoted to full professor within two years of the nomination. Alternatively, if they come from outside the academic sector, the nominee must possess the qualifications necessary to be appointed at these levels. As per USask requirements, the successful candidate will have a doctoral degree (or equivalent).

The nominees must have a recent track record of research accomplishments and significant interest in making new contributions to Canada. Only candidates who are internationally based (both working and residing outside of Canada) at the time of the first intake application deadline are eligible to apply. Expatriate Canadians wishing to relocate to Canada are encouraged to apply.

Successful nominees will have the primary responsibility for directing the research program and all related activities, leading a team of personnel, and coordinating governance and administration with the host institution.

The successful nominee will have up to 12 months to take up their appointment as chairholder at the host institution after the Notice of Award has been accepted by the nominating institution and the nominee.

Life circumstances such as illness, disability, family and community responsibilities... are an expected part of life and are likely to have an impact on a nominee’s record of research achievement. Candidates are encouraged but not required to provide any relevant information about their experience and/or career interruptions. These impacts will be taken into careful consideration during the assessment process.

USask encourages applications from individuals from all underrepresented, equity-seeking, rights-seeking populations, including racialized individuals, Indigenous Peoples, persons with disabilities, women, and individuals from the 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

ABOUT USASK
USask is one of Canada’s top 15 research-intensive university. USask’s main campus is located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan...

HOW TO APPLY
To apply, applicants should provide the following:
1. A cover letter that outlines...
2. A detailed curriculum vitae
3. An outline of the proposed research program...
4. Names and contact information for three referees...
5. Additional information as requested by the search committee

Applications must be submitted through USask’s online application system. Click on the “Apply Now” button (top left of page). Visit here for tips on applying...

Only complete applications will be considered. Review of applications will begin on January 19, 2026 for intake one and April 20, 2026 for intake two.