Canada Impact+ Research Chair in Artificial Intelligence and Social Change - St. Catharines

This position is part of the · BUFA (Employee Group) · Brock University is located on the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe peoples, many of whom continue to live and work here today. This territory is covered by the Upper Canada Treaties and is within t ...

Job description

This position is part of the

BUFA (Employee Group)

Brock University is located on the traditional territory of the Haudenosaunee and Anishinaabe peoples, many of whom continue to live and work here today. This territory is covered by the Upper Canada Treaties and is within the land protected by the Dish with One Spoon Wampum Agreement. 

We are one of Canada's outstanding comprehensive universities, where excellence and innovation thrive  Brock has been recognized as a Top Employer in Hamilton-Niagara for seven consecutive years. We have been ranked #3 as Canada's Best Employers and top 10 as one of Canada's Best Employers for Diversity. For 2025, Brock has been proudly recognized as one of Canada's Top Employers for Company Culture, ranked seventh by Forbes in partnership with Statista. At Brock, you will find a welcoming, inclusive community and an exciting range of meaningful career opportunities.  

Ignite new possibilities for your career. Break through at Brock.

Post End Date:

Note to all candidates: This posting will close at 12:01 am on the date listed .

March 26, 2026

About the Position 

The Department of Digital Humanities in the Faculty of Humanities welcomes applications from world-leading scholars and scientists in Artificial Intelligence and Social Change for consideration as nominees to the Canada Impact+ Research Chairs (Impact+) competition.

The Canada Impact+ Research Chairs program represents a $1 billion investment over 12 years from the federal government to support institutions in attracting internationally renowned researchers currently living and residing outside Canada. Impact+ Chairs are awarded in strategic priority areas established by the Government of Canada to address pressing global and domestic challenges, strengthen Canada's contribution to international research and innovation, and generate lasting social and economic benefits for Canada and the world. A core expectation is that Chairs and their research teams will build significant new partnerships and actively mobilize research outcomes into practice, policy, and commercialization pathways. Impact+ Chairs will receive long-term funding and institutional support to advance ambitious and transformative projects while actively developing the next generation of highly qualified personnel.

Valued at either $8 million or $4 million over eight years, depending on the nature and costs of the proposed research program, the Impact+ program funds salaries, benefits, and research activities for Chairholders and their teams. A four-year funded extension, at 50% of the original award value, may be possible following an external review in Year 7 of the award. An additional investment of $400 million is allocated toward the Canada Impact+ Research Infrastructure Fund to establish a complementary stream of research infrastructure support to ensure Chairholders have the world-class facilities they need to achieve their research goals.

The Impact+ Research Chair in Artificial Intelligence and Social Change is aligned with the federal strategic priority areas, which include responsible AI, democratic and community resilience, and humanities centred design. The research program will advance a global understanding of how AI technologies are designed, deployed, governed, and experienced in real-world social contexts. This research program may consider democratic institutions, public decision-making, civic participation, bias, accountability, surveillance and data sovereignty to contribute to the development of more inclusive and equitable AI practices.

The Impact+ recruitment process is multi-staged. Interested applicants must first apply to this institutional posting. The selected candidate will work closely with Brock University to co-develop and submit a full nomination package to the Impact+ competition along with an infrastructure request of up to $6M to the Canada Impact+ Research Infrastructure Fund. For more information, including eligibility criteria, visit the Canada Impact+ Research Chairs Program website.

Impact+ nominations are subject to review and final approval through the Impact+ program. Appointment to a tenured faculty position at the rank of Professor or Associate Professor is contingent upon the outcome of the Impact+ nomination.

For questions about Brock's Impact+ process, please contact Samantha MacLean ).

About Brock University

The Brock University experience is second to none in Canada. Located in historic Niagara region, Brock offers all the benefits of a young and modern university in a safe, community-minded city, with beautiful natural surroundings. With over 18,000 students and more than 100 undergraduate and graduate programs in seven diverse Faculties, Brock excels at providing exceptional experiential learning opportunities and highly rated student and campus life experiences.

Our Geography

Brock University's main campus is situated atop the Niagara Escarpment, within a UNESCO World Biosphere Reserve, overlooking the city of St. Catharines, in the heart of Niagara wine country. The Niagara region is dotted with landmarks that recognize our nation's history and features breathtaking natural beauty and world-famous attractions. St. Catharines is home to vibrant arts and entertainment venues, and is a short drive from Toronto, Niagara Falls, and Buffalo, New York. With one of the warmest climates in Canada, clean, safe communities, and surprisingly affordable real estate, Niagara is an exceptional location to call home.

What We Offer 

Brock University offers competitive salary and benefits and ample support for research and sabbaticals. Research resources include conference support, start-up funding, subscriptions to major databases, and access to various research funding vehicles. Benefits associated with Impact+ Chair appointments include partial teaching release and start-up research funds. Relocation expenses will be administered according to the Faculty Association Collective Agreement

The target hiring range for this position is between $140,000 and $175,000. The final salary will be determined based on relevant experience, internal equity, and budget considerations.

About the Department

The Department of Digital Humanities (DDH) is home to scholarly approaches at the intersection of digital technology and the humanities. The DDH is home to two undergraduate degree programs. Interactive Arts and Digital Media (IADM) is a multi-disciplinary degree that prepares students to be developers, user interface developers, project managers, and content creators in the Interactive Digital Media (IDM) industry. GAME is an award-winning, dual stream degree shared between the Department of Computer Science (COSC) and Niagara College. Students can pursue a BA in Game Design or a BSc in Game Programming, preparing our students to enter the game industry in large or small studios, while some graduates go on to open indie studios and other game related businesses. The DDH is also home to Canada's only MA in Game Studies, preparing the next generation of industry leaders and shaping the future of the largest sector of the media industry.

The DDH is planning to launch one of Canada's first undergraduate BA programs in Artificial Intelligence in the 2027 recruitment year.

Qualifications 

We seek a dynamic researcher and educator who will significantly expand Brock's disciplinary expertise and research capacity in the social and humanist implications of AI. The successful candidate will have an established record of research excellence, international recognition, and a proven ability to translate research findings into impactful solutions that address challenges related to AI and social change. As such, their work will bridge both the technical and social dimensions of AI, bringing well-rounded perspectives to the study of AI. With a strong emphasis on ethical considerations, creative applications of AI, and interdisciplinary research, the successful candidate will help position Brock University as a leader in AI Studies. Additionally, their expertise will enhance our ability to collaborate across departments, contributing to the growth of AI-related initiatives throughout the university.

Ideal applicants will be recognized international leaders in AI ethics, governance, and the cultural impact of AI in society, bringing a body of coherent research and associated methodologies to the Department of Digital Humanities and Brock University. While we place special emphasis on applied and collaborative research, we welcome a diverse range of methodological approaches and perspectives. In addition to traditional scholarly outputs such as peer-review publications, applicants are invited to demonstrate research excellence and impact through a track record of technology transfer and industry uptake for research outputs, and non-peer reviewed industry-focused publications.

Applicants are expected to demonstrate successful mentoring or a continuous commitment to mentoring and training undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, and research technicians. The selected candidate must be eligible for appointment as Professor or to be promoted from Associate Professor to Professor within two years. Applicants from outside the academic sector must possess the qualifications necessary to be appointed at these levels. At Brock University, such appointments typically require a completed Ph.D. (or equivalent) in a relevant discipline.

Only individuals working and residing outside Canada are eligible to apply.

Equity Considerations

Brock University is committed to building inclusivity and equity through understanding and respect for diverse identities. These commitments are reflected in our approaches to teaching and learning, scholarly and creative work, administration and service provision, and community engagement. Our commitment to equity, diversity, and inclusion is grounded in the recognition that the strongest research, scholarship, and creative activity and the best research training environment require engagement of scholars from diverse backgrounds.

Equity, diversity, and inclusion are embedded throughout Brock University's Institutional Strategic Plan 2025–2030. The University welcomes diverse perspectives and creates the conditions for everyone to flourish and thrive. We value and celebrate one another as we journey together toward a more equitable and inclusive tomorrow. We believe strongly in our responsibility to act with honesty, integrity, collegiality, inclusivity, and transparency. We earn the respect and admiration of others — making our University, our region, and our world a better place. We embrace new thinking and welcome fresh ideas. Natural optimists, we have the creativity and courage to challenge conventional thinking to generate, translate, and mobilize knowledge for a better future.

Consistent with Brock University's Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Action Plan, in recognition of and pursuant to Section 14 of the Ontario Human Rights Code, Indigenous peoples, members of racialized groups, people with disabilities, women, and Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, and queer (2SLGBTQ+) persons are encouraged to apply and to voluntarily self-identify as a member of one or more designated groups as part of their application. This information will be securely accessed to fulfill this hiring initiative and to ensure accurate data regarding Brock's Research Chairs program.

Brock University recognizes that life circumstances such as illness, disability, family and community responsibilities are expected to have an impact on an applicant's record of research achievement. Differing career patterns may be more common among members of designated groups and those who have experienced workplace leaves. Applicants are invited to include a description of relevant considerations in their application materials. Please visit the Canada Research Chair Program Guidelines for Assessing the Productivity of Nominees for examples of circumstances that may impact an applicant's record of achievement. These impacts will be taken into careful consideration during the assessment process.

Application Process and Timeline

Interested applicants must first apply electronically through the Brock Careers website using the "Apply" button. A single PDF document containing all application elements is preferred. (Note: File maximum of 5MB per attachment upload.) If needed, supplemental application information beyond the 5 MB limit can be sent to Michèle Black,

Application elements include the following:

1. A letter of interest (suggested 2 pages) outlining:

a. your qualifications for a successful Impact+ nomination;

b. alignment of your profile and expertise with this Impact+ position; and

c. definition that you hold for research excellence and impact.

2. A description of your program of research (suggested 3 pages), including:

a. your short- and long-term vision for your future research program as an Impact+ Research Chair at Brock;

b. selnovel opportunities for training students and scholars across research contexts;

c. alignment with the Impact+ strategic priorities;

d. the novelty and significance of the proposed work;

e. prospective partners, including academic institutions, research organizations, private- or public-sector organizations, and not-for-profit groups, as relevant; and

f. the potential for the Chair to enhance your scholarly leadership and innovation capacity within the Department, Faculty, and University in strategic areas.

3. An updated curriculum vitae documenting publications, research grants, technology transfer and commercialization activities, community engagement, advocacy work, knowledge translation, and other modes of scholarship relevant to your research program. If preferred, candidates may submit a narrative curriculum vitae.

4. A statement of mentorship philosophy, teaching philosophy, interests related to departmental programs, and strategies to support diverse students (suggested 2 pages).

5. A statement of strengths and experiences in supporting equity, diversity, inclusion, and Indigenous engagement for your discipline through research, curriculum, advocacy, community outreach or engagement, or student support (suggested 2 pages).

6. The names and contact information of three referees who could provide confidential letters of assessment that speak to your suitability for this Chair position. Letters will not be requested unless an applicant is short listed.

The closing date for the position is March 26, 2026, at 12:01 a.m. The last business day to apply is March 25, 2026.

If you require any accommodations at any point during the application and hiring process, please contact Stevey Hildebrand at

Review of applications will begin upon closing. Although we appreciate all applications received, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Impact+ Chairs and accompanying family members (spouse and dependent children under 22) will be eligible for fast-track work permit approvals under the Global Skills Strategy, with a target of 2-week processing. Researchers recruited under this initiative will have access to existing economic immigration streams, with accelerated transitions to permanent residency for selected high-skilled workers.

The effective date for the academic appointment is negotiable with the Faculty Dean. Chairholders are expected to begin their appointment within 12 months of accepting the award.

Inquiries should be directed to the Chair of the Department of Digital Humanities. Please contact Dr. Aaron Mauro at

Original Posting Date February 23, 2026

Our Commitment

Brock University is actively committed to diversity and the principles of employment equity and invites applications from all qualified candidates. Women, Indigenous (First Nations, Métis, Inuit) peoples, Black people, people with disabilities, members of visible minorities/racialized groups, and Two-Spirit, lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, intersex, and additional sexually and gender diverse (2SLGBTQI+) persons are encouraged to apply and to voluntarily self-identify as a member of a designated group as part of their application. Candidates who wish to be considered as a member of one or more designated groups should fill out the Self-Identification Form and include the completed form with their application.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however Canadian citizens and permanent residents will be given priority.

We will accommodate the needs of the applicants and the Ontario Human Rights Code and the Accessibility for Ontarians with Disabilities Act (AODA) throughout all stages of the selection process, as outlined in the Employment Accommodation Policy Please advise:   to ensure your accessibility needs are accommodated through this process. Information received relating to accommodation measures will be addressed confidentially.

We appreciate all applications received; however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.  

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