Canada Excellence Research Chair (CERC) in Green Artificial Intelligence

Ontario University Athletics; Guelph; On-site; CAD 180,000 - 220,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading Canadian university invites applications for the Canada Excellence Research Chair (CERC) in Green Artificial Intelligence. The successful candidate will develop a world-class research program in sustainable AI models, applying AI innovations to environmental and societal challenges. Candidates should hold a PhD and demonstrate research excellence and leadership capabilities. This position offers a significant opportunity for impactful academic work and collaboration.

Qualifications

• Exceptional scholar with international reputation.
• Record of outstanding research contributions.
• Ability to foster collaborations with various stakeholders.

Responsibilities

• Develop and lead a multidisciplinary research program in Green AI.
• Apply AI methods to address environmental challenges.
• Integrate AI with University expertise in food, environment, and communities.

Skills

Research excellence

Interdisciplinary team leadership

External funding acquisition

Equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility

Education

PhD in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or closely related discipline

Job description

Position Title / Rank: Canada Excellence Research Chair (CERC) in Green Artificial Intelligence

Location: Guelph, CA, N1G 2W1

Primary Category Page: Faculty, Librarian and Veterinarian

Division: College of Engineering and Physical Sciences

Requisition ID: 1884

Overview

The University of Guelph invites applications for nomination to the Canada Excellence Research Chair (CERC) in Green Artificial Intelligence (AI), which focuses on either developing energy-efficient, sustainable AI models or infrastructures, or applying AI methods to address environmental, agricultural, and societal challenges. This opportunity will enable a world-class researcher to establish and lead an ambitious, multidisciplinary research program at the intersection of AI, sustainability, and computational science, positioning Canada at the forefront of ethical and environmentally responsible AI innovation.

About the CERC Program

The Canada Excellence Research Chairs Program is a federal funding initiative designed to recruit leading researchers. It offers universities award values of either $8 million or $4 million over eight years to support world‑renowned researchers and their teams. The CERC in Green AI has a value of $4 million over 8 years.

Research Focus: Green AI

The successful candidate will develop a world-leading research program in Green AI, with emphasis on at least one of the following:

• Designing AI models, algorithms, and infrastructures that are energy-efficient and sustainable.
• Advancing low-carbon machine learning methodologies and scalable computational frameworks.
• Developing novel mathematical and statistical models for efficient AI or for energy-efficient computing infrastructure.
• Applying AI innovations to environmental, agricultural, and societal challenges, aligning with the University of Guelph’s leadership in agri-food, environmental sustainability, and ethical AI.

Strategic Alignment with the University of Guelph

The University of Guelph is known for leadership in environmental sustainability, agri-food innovation, data science and computational science. The Strategic Plan emphasizes sustainable solutions, digital transformation, and interdisciplinary collaboration to address societal challenges. A CERC in Green AI strengthens this vision by integrating AI with UoG’s expertise in food, environment, and communities.

Candidate Profile

The successful nominee will be an exceptional scholar with an international reputation for research excellence, innovation, and leadership. The candidate will:

• Hold a PhD in Computer Science, Mathematics, Statistics, or closely related discipline.
• Be an established full professor, or an associate professor expected to advance to full professor within 1–2 years.
• Demonstrate a record of outstanding research contributions, including high-impact publications, mentorship, and external funding.
• Show the ability to lead large interdisciplinary teams and foster collaborations with academia, industry, and government.
• Commit to equity, diversity, inclusion, and accessibility in research, mentorship, and recruitment.
• For Indigenous-focused research, demonstrate alignment with Indigenous self-determination, co-creation, and Indigenous ways of knowing.

Institutional Commitment

The University of Guelph supports the CERC through provision of infrastructure, laboratories, and administrative support, integration into interdisciplinary research networks, and long-term planning to sustain the program beyond the eight-year term.

Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion

The University acknowledges the traditional lands of Indigenous Peoples, commits to reconciliation actions, and emphasizes inclusive participation and equitable employment in the hiring process. The CERC program aims to ensure representation of women and gender minorities, persons with disabilities, Indigenous people, and racialized people.

Application Process

The CERC recruitment consists of two stages. Candidates apply to an open posting; the successful candidate will co-develop an application for the federal funding program. Appointment is contingent on receiving a CERC award. The term is eight years, with potential transition to another funding source thereafter. Applications will be assessed beginning November 10, 2025 with interviews planned for November. External applicants should create an account and apply for Requisition ID 1884, submitting the following materials in a single merged PDF:

• Cover letter describing research vision for Green AI and alignment with CERC goals
• Curriculum vitae
• Brief description of proposed research program with EDIA considerations (max 3 pages)
• Highlights of significant contributions and societal impact (max 2 pages)
• Names and emails of three references (at least two external)

Equal Opportunity

The University supports fair and equitable participation in the hiring process and provides confidential accommodations on request during recruitment.

Dates

Date Posted: 10/10/2025

Deadline: 11/10/2025 or until a suitable candidate is found

This position is represented by the University of Guelph Faculty Association (UGFA).

Why Join UoG?

At the University of Guelph, you will join a research-intensive institution with a reputation for innovation, sustainability, and societal impact. Located in Ontario’s innovation corridor, UoG offers opportunities to collaborate with leading universities, research institutes, and industry partners in Canada and globally.

Contingency: This position is contingent upon a successful institutional nomination and subsequent approval by the CERC 2026 competition.

Notes

Date posted and deadlines may be subject to change. Canadians and permanent residents are given priority; applications from designated groups are encouraged.

The University of Guelph is committed to inclusive excellence and fair participation in the hiring process. For medical accommodations during recruitment, contact the provided channel in the institution’s guidance.