- advanced digital technologies (including artificial intelligence, quantum and cybersecurity)
- clean technology and resource value chains
- defence and dual‑use technologies
- democratic and community resilience
- environment, climate resilience and the Arctic
- food and water security
- health and biotechnology
- manufacturing and advanced materials
- Have a strong recent record of research achievements and a demonstrated interest in contributing to Canada's research and innovation landscape
- Be internationally based at the time of the first intake deadline (working and residing outside Canada)
- Hold the rank of full professor or associate professor
- If recruited from outside the academic sector, have equivalent qualifications for appointment at that level
- Associate Professor: $141,099 - $191,099
- Full Professor: $165,341 - $215,341
- A cover letter that identifies alignment with the strategic priority areas, the applicant's start‑up funding, infrastructure and space requirements, and research team needs.
- A full curriculum vitae including details of research and teaching, scholarly record, funding, collaborations/partnerships, and leadership experience.
- A Research Statement (as a single PDF) including:
- An overview of the research proposal with knowledge mobilization and innovation activities
- How the proposed research embeds equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility (EDIA) considerations
- Potential for collaboration with Lakehead University and other Canadian institutions
- Societal and economic benefits for Canada from the research program
- Contribution to the research ecosystem in Canada and internationally
- A one‑page statement describing past experience in attracting and mentoring a diverse group of students and researchers and establishing an inclusive environment.
- A one‑page statement on Indigenous knowledge perspectives, if applicable.
Canada Impact + Research Chairs Positions - Central Ontario - Lakehead University
Description
Canada Impact + Research Chairs Positions Overview
Lakehead University
Posting Date: January 23, 2026; Revised January 27, 2026
About the Canada Impact+ Research Chairs Opportunity
Lakehead University invites applications from exceptional, internationally based researchers for the Canada Impact+ Research Chairs program. This national initiative is designed to recruit world‑leading scholars whose work addresses critical global and national challenges and who are poised to build transformational research programs in Canada. Lakehead University can nominate up to 6 Impact+ Research Chairs across the Government of Canada's strategic priority areas, as part of one of the most significant research recruitment opportunities in the university's history.
Canada Impact+ Research Chairs receive long‑term funding of either $8 million or $4 million over eight years, with the possibility of a four‑year extension at 50 percent of the original award value based on demonstrated research impact and sustained partnerships. Institutions may also request up to $6 million per chair in research infrastructure funding through the Canada Foundation for Innovation.
The submission process requires an application to Lakehead University for Intake 1 and 2. Review of applications will begin February 26, 2026 until all available Canada Impact+ Research Chair positions are filled by the internal deadline for the second Intake: May 15, 2026, 8:00 pm EST.
Canada Impact+ Strategic Priorities
Canada Impact+ Research Chairs are awarded in areas identified by the Government of Canada as critical to global and national challenges. These priorities parallel Lakehead University's own research priorities and strengths and are reflected in the university's strategic plan. Applications must demonstrate how the proposed program will advance one or more of the following strategic priority areas:
Chairholders are expected to build meaningful partnerships across sectors and Indigenous communities, and to ensure that research outcomes translate into practice, policy or commercialization pathways with measurable societal and economic benefit.
Qualifications and Eligibility
The Canada Impact+ Research Chairs opportunity is designed for internationally renowned researchers who are ready to establish a major research program in Canada. To be eligible, candidates must:
Compensation
This position may be filled at the rank of Associate Professor or Full Professor, depending on the successful candidate's qualifications and experience. The expected compensation range for this position is:
Salary will be determined in accordance with the collective agreement and will be commensurate with qualifications and experience. Successful applicants will be appointed to an appropriate academic department/school/faculty at Lakehead University.
Associated positions for consideration
Canada Impact+ Emerging Leaders
Canada Impact+ Research Chairs candidates are encouraged to identify promising early career collaborators within the same strategic priority area as the Impact+ Research Chairs nominee who could be strong nominees for the associated Canada Impact+ Emerging Leaders program, which provides $100,000 per year for six years.
Canada Excellence Research Chairs (CERC)
Canada Excellence Research Chairs candidates will also be considered for Canada Impact+ Research Chairs. Additional information on the CERC program can be found in the program website and Lakehead University call for a CERC in the Department of Biology in the area of Freshwater Sustainability and Healthy Aquatic Ecosystems. CERC awards are eight years, with awards valued at either $1 million or $500,000 annually.
Why Lakehead
For 60 years, Lakehead University has advanced research and education with campuses in Thunder Bay and Orillia. The university emphasizes collaborative learning, research, and innovation, and is active in national and international rankings for research impact and sustainability. Lakehead is committed to a diverse and inclusive environment and to supporting an accessible employment experience.
Lakehead University and our Community
Lakehead University acknowledges the traditional territories on which its campuses are located and is committed to respectful relationships with Indigenous and Métis communities. The university outlines its community engagement and research ecosystem, including major infrastructure and research centers such as the Lakehead University Centre for Analytical Services (LUCAS) and affiliated laboratories.
How to Apply
To apply, applicants are asked to provide the following documents:
For further information on the Canada Impact + Research Chairs Program, consult the program website.
The appointment is subject to approval by the Tri‑agency Institutional Programs Secretariat. Once approved, appointments are expected to commence January 1, 2027. Review of applications will begin February 26, 2026 and continue until all positions are filled. Applicants should submit their electronic application quoting the reference number to the contact below:
Dr. Langis Roy, Vice‑President, Research and Innovation, Lakehead University, 955 Oliver Road, Thunder Bay, ON P7B 5E1. Email:
Questions about the application process should be addressed to
The Canada Impact + Research Chairs Program does not impose nationality or country of residence restrictions. The University will consider candidates who currently hold an academic appointment outside of Canada.
As part of the application, a brief Diversity Survey is required. The survey is voluntary and results are aggregated for institutional planning.
Please note that only those selected for an interview will be notified.
Equity Statement
Lakehead University values Equity, Diversity and Inclusion. The University encourages self‑identification and values experience with Indigenous or racialized communities and other equity‑deserving groups as assets. The University recognizes that career interruptions can impact research and will consider these factors in assessment. Lakehead supports IP ownership, research commercialization, and inclusive research environments.
Lakehead University is committed to accessibility. Applicants requiring accommodation during the interview process should contact the Office of Human Resources to arrange appropriate accommodations.
Lakehead University is an equal opportunity employer. We encourage applications from all qualified individuals and will consider Canadian citizens and permanent residents in accordance with immigration requirements.
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