Canada Research Chair (Tier I) in Translational Crop Genomics in Sustainable Agriculture

Department of Biological Sciences, University of Calgary; Canada; On-site; CAD 60,000 - 80,000; Full time

Job summary

A leading university in Canada invites applications for a Canada Research Chair (Tier I) in Translational Crop Genomics in Sustainable Agriculture, aimed at enhancing agricultural sustainability in Alberta. The successful candidate will lead groundbreaking research in genomic approaches for crop improvement and collaborate with key agricultural organizations. Ideal for those with a proven track record in plant biology and interdisciplinary research, aiming to make significant advancements in agricultural practices. Applications close on November 9, 2025.

Benefits

Access to state-of-the-art research facilities

Opportunity for collaboration with industry

Qualifications

• PhD in a relevant field is mandatory.
• Proven record of research using genomic approaches in plants.
• Experience in securing external funding is highly valued.

Responsibilities

• Lead a world-class research program in crop genomics.
• Collaborate with agricultural agencies and agritech companies.
• Develop next-generation crop varieties for market application.

Skills

Leadership ability

Research in plant genomics

Interdisciplinary collaboration

Grant writing

Student mentoring

Education

PhD in Plant Biology or Agronomy

Tools

Genome sequencing tools

Data analysis software

Job description

Overview

The Department of Biological Sciences in the Faculty of Science at the University of Calgary invites applications for a Canada Research Chair (Tier I) in Translational Crop Genomics in Sustainable Agriculture. The successful candidate will be appointed at the rank of Associate or Full Professor and will be nominated for a Tier I Canada Research Chair. The research program is expected to use genomic approaches to map the basis of complex traits in species important for agriculture in Alberta and contribute to applications in crop improvement. The anticipated start date is July 1, 2026.

Research area

New crop varieties are required to maintain agricultural sustainability and global food security in response to climate change and reduced fertile land and water resources. The proposed Tier I CRC will leverage crop genomics and genome-assisted breeding strategies to contribute to the sustainability of agricultural production in Alberta. Research should focus on traits such as climate resilience, yield, disease resistance, enhanced nitrogen use efficiency, or other agronomically or nutritionally important traits. The ideal candidate will work in crop genomics areas including sequencing and assembling relevant crop genomes, pan-genome data analysis, and molecular breeding strategies such as gene editing, tilling, GWAS scanning, or QTL mapping. The program should integrate with the local agricultural context in Alberta and focus on oilseeds, cereals, forage, pulse crops, or close relatives of these crops. The CRC candidate is expected to collaborate with government agricultural agencies (e.g., Results Driven Agriculture Research, Alberta Pulse Growers, Alberta Canola Council, Alberta Wheat Commission) and agritech companies (e.g., Nutrien, Corteva, Bayer, BASF, Syngenta) to develop and bring next‑generation crop varieties to market.

Eligibility criteria

CRC Tier I Chairs are intended for exceptional scholars with outstanding leadership ability and an already established research program. Candidates must hold a PhD in Plant Biology, Agronomy, or a related field, with a proven record of research using genomic approaches in plants. Interdisciplinarity is essential. The CRC is expected to develop a world‑class research program supported by federal and provincial funding agencies such as NSERC, Alberta Innovates, Genome Canada, and private industry. The successful candidate should have a track record of scientific publications and/or other outputs (popular press, interviews, public or online seminars, scientific social media, online database or software development, etc.). Prior experience in obtaining external research funding and evidence of effective student mentoring are highly valued. Experience leading large group grants is also valued.

Further information about the Canada Research Chairs Program is available on the Government of Canada CRC website, including eligibility criteria: www.chairs-chaires.gc.ca and www.chairs-chaires.gc.ca/program-programme/nomination-mise_en_candidature-eng.aspx.

Appointments at the rank of Associate Professor require evidence of an established academic program, recognition as an internationally respected scholar, evidence of teaching effectiveness, and a substantive record of service. Appointment at the rank of Professor is reserved for individuals with nationally and internationally outstanding achievements in research, scholarship, teaching, and service.

About the University

The CRC will build on existing strengths in plant and crop research in the Biological Sciences Department and contribute to a new undergraduate agricultural science program aligned with provincial priorities. Active research programs include crop biotechnology, plant pathology and disease resistance, biosynthetic studies, phytoremediation, comparative genomics of climate adaptation, and ecosystem services for agricultural sustainability.

A state‑of‑the‑art greenhouse with an automated high‑throughput precision phenotyping facility is being developed, featuring a high‑throughput phenotyping gantry with multispectral and hyperspectral imaging to study 300–500 plants under various stress conditions. This facility will enhance phenomics capabilities for genomics prediction tools and AI‑based machine learning to identify target genes for accelerated molecular breeding.

The CRC will have access to initiatives such as the Simpson Centre for Food and Agricultural Policy and the Centre for Precision Agriculture and Sustainability (CPAS), as well as potential field trial plots at the W.A Ranches facility.

The University of Calgary’s Ahead of Tomorrow plan emphasizes transdisciplinary collaboration and engagement in initiatives across campus, including One Health. The One Health at UCalgary research theme aims to understand health issues across environments, communities, and individuals.

Calgary is a growing, livable city with close proximity to the Rocky Mountains and extensive urban pathways and bike networks. More information at uc Calgary’s Academic Careers site and Faculty of Science page.

How to Apply

Interested individuals are encouraged to apply online via the Apply Now link. Applications should include four attachments organized as follows:

• Cover letter and curriculum vitae, including the names and contact information of three referees
• Statement of research interests (1–3 pages)
• Statement of large initiatives/grants participated in and led (1 page)
• Statement of mentorship and teaching philosophy and experience (1–2 pages)
• Statement describing contributions to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI) and ability to work with a culturally diverse student, staff, and faculty body (up to 1 page)

Notes: The University recognizes varied career paths and allows disclosure of relevant career interruptions for fair assessment. Selection committees will consider any interruptions in evaluating research productivity.

Questions may be addressed to: David Hansen, Head, Department of Biological Sciences, [e-mail]

Applications will be accepted until November 9, 2025.

The University of Calgary has an Indigenous Strategy and is committed to diversity, equity, and inclusion. We offer accommodations during recruitment for applicants with disabilities.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. At the time of application, please answer whether you are a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada.

For more information about opportunities at the University of Calgary, view our Academic Careers website. For information about the Faculty of Science, visit the faculty page.