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Canada Impact+ Research Chairs (Impact+) Program - Associate or Full Professor

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McGill University

845 Rue Sherbrooke O, Montréal, QC H3A 0G4, Canada

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Canada Impact+ Research Chairs (Impact+) Program

Associate Professor or Full Professor

June 15, 2026

Location

Montréal, QC, Canada

McGill University

Type

Tenure-track

Start Date

Within 12 months of award acceptance

Salary

$4M or $8M over 8 years (award) + salary commensurate with experience

Visa Sponsorship

Teaching Load

Undergraduate and graduate courses; develop courses; supervise students

Required Qualifications

PhD (McGill requirement)
Internationally based outside Canada
Outstanding research track record
Full/Associate Professor level or equivalent
International leadership in discipline

Research Areas

Advanced digital technologies (AI, quantum, cybersecurity)
Health including biotechnology
Clean technology and resource value chains
Environment climate resilience Arctic
Food and water security
Democratic and community resilience
Manufacturing and advanced materials
Defence and dual-use technologies
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Canada Impact+ Research Chairs (Impact+) Program - Associate or Full Professor

Program Description

McGill University invites applications for the Canada Impact+ Research Chairs (Impact+) Program, open to the rank of Associate or Full Professor.

The Canada Impact+ Research Chairs (Impact+) Program is a one-time initiative designed to support institutions in attracting world-leading researchers whose work addresses critical national and global challenges. The program emphasizes both research excellence and tangible impact. Impact+ Research Chairs will receive long-term funding and institutional support to advance ambitious and transformative projects in Canada’s strategic priority areas, build and maintain exceptional research teams, and collaborate with partners across sectors and borders. Impact+ chairholders are expected to drive the translation of discoveries into applications, commercialization and social and economic benefits for Canada and the world, while also developing the next generation of highly qualified personnel in the following priority areas:

  • Advanced digital technologies (AI, quantum, 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
  • Defence and dual-use technologies.

The Impact+ award is valued at $4 million or $8 million, over a period of 8 years, with a possibility for a four-year funded extension, at 50% of the original award value. The two award values recognize the varying costs of research within different research disciplines and aim to be inclusive of all areas of research.

Impact+ candidates 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 time of the first Impact+ Program intake application deadline are eligible to apply. Successful Impact+ candidates will be appointed to a tenure-track position at the rank of Full Professor, or as an Associate Professor with a promotion to Full Professor within two years of starting their appointment in the academic unit(s) that best fits their area of academic interest and expertise. This may include an appointment at McGill-affiliated health centres. Successful candidates will be expected to start their position within 12 months of accepting the award.


Job Duties

Successful candidates will be responsible for leading an innovative, transformative and world-leading research program within their selected strategic priority area; creating and maintaining an inclusive, collaborative environment; recruiting, teaching, and mentoring a diverse team of researchers and trainees; overseeing all aspects of the research program, including team leadership, governance, and administration; elaborating and delivering a knowledge mobilization plan, and actively contributing to service within the academic community. The candidate’s research should align with the objectives of the Impact+ Program.

Successful candidates are expected to teach both undergraduate and graduate courses, develop courses at all levels in their areas of specialization, supervise and mentor graduate students, and contribute to the intellectual life of the University. This role requires both visionary research leadership and a commitment to fostering excellence and diversity in academic settings.


Qualifications and Education Requirements

  • Only candidates who are internationally based (both working and residing outside of Canada) at the time of the Impact+ Program application deadline for each intake are eligible.
  • Candidates should demonstrate a recent track record of outstanding research and recognized international leadership in their discipline.
  • Candidates must be full professors or associate professors or, if recruited from outside the academic sector, must possess the necessary qualifications to be appointed at these levels.
  • Candidates will be appointed to a tenure-track position at the rank of Full Professor, or as an Associate Professor with a promotion to Full Professor within two years of starting their appointment.
  • A PhD is required by McGill University for appointment to a tenure-track position; however, this is not a requirement of the Impact+ Program itself.


Candidates should review the eligibility and selection criteria for the Impact+ Program prior to applying.

Canadians living abroad wishing to relocate to Canada are encouraged to apply.

Application Process

Applications must be submitted through Workday, McGill’s HR management, using the links below.

If a candidate's research spans multiple strategic priority areas, they are encouraged to submit a single application and clearly articulate how their work aligns within the various relevant areas.

Use a personal email address when creating an account in Workday. Refer to the How to Apply for a Job (for External Candidates) job aid for instructions on how to apply.


Apply Now

  1. Advanced Digital Technologies (including artificial intelligence, quantum and cybersecurity)
  2. Health, including biotechnology
  3. Clean technology and resource value chains
  4. Environment, climate resilience, and the Arctic
  5. Food and water security
  6. Democratic and community resilience
  7. Manufacturing and advanced materials
  8. Defence and dual-use technologies


Required Documents

The application package should include the following documents and must be merged into one single .pdf file not exceeding 5 MB.

  • Cover letter indicating the strategic priority area(s) and the preferred Faculty/Department
  • Curriculum vitae
  • Statement of research (current, future, alignment with the chosen priority area, and potential for knowledge translation, mobilization and application of research results) (max. 2 pages)
  • Research infrastructure needs: laboratory space, equipment (max. 1 page)
  • Teaching statement and dossier (max. 1 page)
  • Contact information for three references


Job Details

  • Job Type: Tenure-track
  • Rank: Associate Professor or Full Professor
  • Salary: Salary will be commensurate with qualifications and experience.
  • Posting Period
  • Review of applications will begin on Monday, January 26th, 2026. Applications submitted after this date will be accepted until the position is filled.

Inquiries from potential candidates are welcome and will be treated in strict confidence. Correspondence can be directed to Heather Purdie (heather.purdie@mcgill.ca). 

More information about the Impact+ Program

Commitment to Equity and Diversity

Please note that to work at McGill University, you must be both authorized to work in Canada and willing to work in the province of Quebec at the campus where the position is based / located. McGill University offers immigration and relocation support for selected candidates.

McGill University is an English-language university where most teaching and research activities are conducted in the English language, thereby requiring English communication both verbally and in writing.

McGill University is committed to equity and diversity within its community and values academic rigour and excellence. We welcome and encourage applications from racialized persons/visible minorities, women, Indigenous persons, persons with disabilities, ethnic minorities, and persons of minority sexual orientations and gender identities, as well as from all qualified candidates with the skills and knowledge to engage productively with diverse communities.

At McGill, research that reflects diverse intellectual traditions, methodologies, and modes of dissemination and translation is valued and encouraged. Candidates are invited to demonstrate their research impact both within and across academic disciplines and in other sectors, such as government, communities, or industry.

McGill further recognizes and fairly considers the impact of leaves (e.g., family care or health-related) that may contribute to career interruptions or slowdowns. Candidates are encouraged to signal any leave that affected productivity, or that may have had an effect on their career path. This information will be considered to ensure the equitable assessment of the candidate’s record.

McGill implements an employment equity program and encourages members of designated equity groups to self-identify. It further seeks to ensure the equitable treatment and full inclusion of persons with disabilities by striving for the implementation of universal design principles transversally, across all facets of the University community, and through accommodation policies and procedures. Persons with disabilities who anticipate needing accommodations for any part of the application process may contact, in confidence, Catherine Roy accessibilityrequest.hr [at] mcgill.ca.

Posting date: Friday, December 19th, 2025

Closing date: Monday, June 15th, 2026

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McGill Seeks World-Leading Researchers for Canada Impact+ Research Chairs Program

Unlocking Transformative Research Opportunities at McGill

The word jobs in colorful block letters
Photo by Sasun Bughdaryan on Unsplash

McGill University, one of Canada's premier research institutions, is actively seeking exceptional international talent through the Canada Impact+ Research Chairs Program. This federal initiative represents a bold move to bolster the nation's research landscape by recruiting world-leading scholars at the associate or full professor level. With applications open across eight strategic priority areas, McGill aims to appoint tenure-track faculty who can drive transformative research with real-world applications. As Canadian higher education faces intensifying global competition for top researchers, this program positions universities like McGill at the forefront of innovation.

The program emerges at a pivotal moment, launched amid discussions of reversing historical brain drain trends and capitalizing on opportunities from international shifts in academic mobility. Researchers currently working outside Canada are particularly encouraged to apply, with promises of substantial funding, institutional support, and accelerated integration into a vibrant academic community.

Launch and Objectives of the Canada Impact+ Research Chairs Program

The Canada Impact+ Research Chairs Program was officially unveiled by the Government of Canada on December 9, 2025, as part of a broader $1.7 billion Global Impact+ Research Talent Initiative outlined in Budget 2025. This one-time effort allocates $1 billion over 12 years to support approximately 100 new chairs across eligible institutions, focusing on attracting researchers whose work addresses pressing national and global challenges. Unlike ongoing programs, its urgency stems from the need to swiftly secure elite talent in fields critical to Canada's economic security, health, and environmental resilience.

Administered through the tri-agencies—Canadian Institutes of Health Research (CIHR), Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC), and Social Sciences and Humanities Research Council (SSHRC)—the program emphasizes not just research excellence but also knowledge mobilization, commercialization potential, and training of highly qualified personnel (HQP). Chairholders are expected to build interdisciplinary teams, foster public-private partnerships, and deliver measurable societal benefits, setting a new standard for impact-driven academia.

McGill University's Strategic Embrace of the Initiative

McGill University has emerged as a leader in this recruitment drive, posting openings in all eight priority areas on December 19, 2025. Located in Montreal, Quebec, McGill boasts a storied history of research excellence, with past Canada Research Chairs contributing to breakthroughs in fields from medicine to climate science. The university's participation underscores its commitment to enhancing research capacity, particularly by integrating global leaders into its faculties and affiliated health centers.

Successful candidates will receive tenure-track appointments at the associate professor level (with promotion to full professor expected within two years) or directly as full professors. Salaries are competitive and commensurate with experience, supplemented by robust start-up packages. McGill provides relocation assistance, spousal support, and immigration pathways, recognizing the complexities of international moves. This holistic approach aims to create inclusive research environments that thrive on diversity and collaboration. For full details on McGill's postings, visit the official recruitment page.

McGill University research facilities highlighting innovation hubs.

The Eight Priority Research Areas

The program targets research with high potential for economic and social transformation. McGill is soliciting applications in:

  • Advanced digital technologies, including artificial intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and cybersecurity.
  • Health, encompassing biotechnology and life sciences.
  • Clean technology and resource value chains.
  • Environment, climate resilience, and Arctic studies.
  • Food and water security.
  • Democratic and community resilience.
  • Manufacturing and advanced materials.
  • Defence and dual-use technologies.

These areas align with Canada's national priorities, such as net-zero emissions and technological sovereignty. Cross-disciplinary proposals are welcome, allowing researchers to tackle interconnected challenges like AI-driven climate modeling or biotech for food security.

Eligibility Criteria for Aspiring Chairholders

To qualify, nominees must hold the rank of associate or full professor (or equivalent) at a non-Canadian institution at the time of application. A PhD is required for McGill's tenure-track positions, though not strictly for the federal program. Candidates need a proven track record of international leadership, high-impact publications, substantial grant success, and evidence of translating research into applications—such as patents, industry partnerships, or policy influence.

Canadians working abroad are explicitly encouraged, broadening the talent pool. Institutions like McGill prioritize equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI), collecting self-identification data to ensure fair processes. Nominees must commit to relocating within 12 months of award notification and dedicate significant time to research leadership, teaching, and service.

Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying involves a structured yet candidate-friendly process:

  1. Identify Fit: Review McGill's specific Workday postings for your priority area.
  2. Prepare Documents: Compile a cover letter, CV, two-page research statement (current/future plans, impact strategy), one-page infrastructure needs, teaching dossier, and three references—all in a single PDF (max 5MB).
  3. Submit via Workday: Create an account with a personal email and apply online. Specific links are provided for each area.
  4. Institutional Review: McGill evaluates for nomination alignment; review begins January 26, 2026.
  5. Federal Competition: Nominated applications go to tri-agencies; registration deadline June 15, 2026.
  6. Decision and Onboarding: Awards announced post-review; start within 12 months.

McGill offers accommodations for accessibility needs. Direct inquiries to heather.purdie@mcgill.ca.

Generous Funding and Long-Term Support

Awards come in two tiers—$4 million or $8 million over eight years—to accommodate varying research costs across disciplines. This covers salary, research personnel, equipment, and operations. A four-year extension at 50% value is possible, ensuring stability. Complementing this, the $400 million Canada Impact+ Research Infrastructure Fund provides up to $6 million per chair for facilities.

At McGill, chairs receive lab space, graduate student support, and administrative backing. This financial firepower enables ambitious projects, such as establishing AI labs or biotech incubators, far surpassing standard grants.

Illustration of funding streams supporting Impact+ research chairs.

How Impact+ Differs from Traditional Canada Research Chairs

While the longstanding Canada Research Chairs (CRC) program invests $300 million annually in ongoing positions, Impact+ is a targeted, one-time surge. CRC tiers (1 and 2) focus on broad excellence; Impact+ prioritizes strategic impact, international recruitment, and higher funding. CRC renewals are competitive; Impact+ offers longer terms with extensions. Both promote EDI, but Impact+ accelerates talent attraction amid global flux. For context on CRC impacts, McGill recently secured 19 new/renewed chairs worth over $13 million.

Boosting Canadian Higher Education and Student Opportunities

For universities, Impact+ elevates global rankings and interdisciplinary prowess. McGill anticipates enhanced collaborations, spin-offs, and HQP training—mirroring CRC successes where over 1,000 personnel advanced careers. Students gain from mentorship by luminaries, access to cutting-edge labs, and industry networks. In Quebec, this strengthens bilingual research hubs, fostering Francophone innovation.

Broader ecosystem benefits include economic multipliers: past chairs generated patents, startups, and policy changes. Amid stagnant domestic funding, Impact+ injects vitality into higher ed.

Global Context: From Brain Drain to Brain Gain

Canada's move counters U.S. uncertainties, including visa hurdles and research constraints. A Forbes analysis dubbed it "The Big Poach," noting early successes like U.S. scholars relocating to Toronto. Government officials, like Minister Mélanie Joly, emphasize science as an economic driver. Yet, a Nature commentary warns of neglecting homegrown talent. Balanced recruitment could yield net gains, with learn more via the government announcement.

Challenges, Perspectives, and Future Outlook

Stakeholders praise the vision but note hurdles: intense competition, EDI implementation, and integration risks. Reddit discussions highlight skepticism on sustainability, while university leaders celebrate momentum—York University named early nominees by April 2026.

Looking ahead, first chairs could start late 2026, catalyzing Canada's research renaissance. For higher ed, this signals sustained investment, positioning institutions like McGill as magnets for excellence. Aspiring applicants should act swiftly as deadlines approach.

a close-up of a note

Photo by Laura Rivera on Unsplash

Frequently Asked Questions

🔬What is the Canada Impact+ Research Chairs Program?

A one-time federal initiative investing $1B to recruit ~100 world-leading researchers to Canada, focusing on strategic priorities with $4-8M per chair over 8 years.

🌍Which research areas does McGill prioritize?

All eight federal areas: advanced digital tech (AI, quantum), health/biotech, clean tech, environment/climate/Arctic, food/water security, democratic resilience, manufacturing/advanced materials, defence/dual-use tech.

👥Who is eligible to apply?

International researchers at associate/full professor level (or equiv.), currently outside Canada. PhD required for McGill tenure-track; proven impact track record essential.

💰What funding and benefits are offered?

Tiers of $4M or $8M over 8 years (extendable), plus infrastructure up to $6M. Competitive salary, relocation support, lab space, HQP funding at McGill.

⚖️How does Impact+ differ from Canada Research Chairs?

One-time, higher funding, international focus, impact-oriented vs. CRC's ongoing broad excellence support.

📅What is the application deadline at McGill?

Open until June 15, 2026, or positions filled. Review starts January 26, 2026.

🇨🇦Can Canadians abroad apply?

Yes, explicitly encouraged to return and contribute to Canada's research ecosystem.

📋What documents are needed?

Cover letter, CV, 2-page research statement, infrastructure needs, teaching dossier, 3 references—in one PDF via Workday.

🎓How will this impact students and higher ed?

Brings mentors, labs, industry ties; boosts rankings, HQP training, innovation spin-offs for Canadian universities.

🔗Where to find more info?

McGill's recruitment site and federal program page. Contact heather.purdie@mcgill.ca.

🤝Is EDI a focus?

Yes, McGill and program require self-ID data, inclusive processes per federal guidelines.