Canada Impact+ Emerging Leader in Sustainable Systems Engineering for Digital Agriculture (Assistant Professor or Associate Professor, Tenure Track)

This position is part of the

BUFA (Employee Group)

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Post End Date : April 1, 2026

About the Position

The Yousef Haj-Ahmad Department of Engineering in the Faculty of Mathematics and Science welcomes applications from world-leading scholars and scientists in Sustainable Systems Engineering for Digital Agriculture for consideration as nominees for the Emerging Leader award of the Canada Impact+ Research Chairs (Impact+) competition, aligning with a .

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 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 $600,000 over six years, the Impact+ Emerging Leader award funds salaries, benefits, and research activities to help recruit internationally based Early Career Researchers (ECRs). A six-year funded extension, at 100% of the original award value, may be possible contingent on confirming the person recruited as an ECR has progressed in their academic career and demonstrates the research conducted since the recruitment has been transformational, translational and has garnered partners. The ECR in Sustainable Systems Engineering for Digital Agriculture must be aligned with one of the following federal strategic priority areas : environment, climate resilience and the Arctic; and food and water security. The selected ECR will be expected to have an independent program of research from the Impact+ Chair, with potential for impact through collaboration.

The Impact+ recruitment process requires interested applicants to apply to this institutional posting. For more information, including eligibility criteria, visit the . Impact+ nominations are subject to review and final approval through the Impact+ Emerging Leaders program.

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+ Emerging Leader appointments include partial teaching release and start-up research funds. Relocation expenses will be administered according to the .

The target hiring range for this position is $127,000 – 140,000 for an assistant professor and $155,000 - $172,000 for an associate professor. The final salary will be determined based on relevant experience, internal equity, and budget considerations.

About the Department

The Yousef Haj-Ahmad Department of Engineering is located within the Faculty of Mathematics and Science at Brock University and offers one of three Integrated Engineering programs in Canada. With a focus on sustainability and automation, Integrated Engineering combines a grounding in core engineering practices with the necessary interdisciplinary outlook to make a significant impact in the engineering fields of the future. Our unique, made-in-Niagara interdisciplinary program blurs the lines between traditional engineering disciplines, helping the engineers of tomorrow lead in fields as diverse as sustainable construction and clean energy solutions; automation and manufacturing, through robotics, intelligent systems, and advanced production technologies; digital infrastructure, with secure, AI-enhanced computing and communication systems; and biomedical and health technologies, including medical devices, assistive systems, and innovations in food security.

Qualifications

We seek a dynamic early career researcher and educator who will contribute to the advancement of digital applications for sustainable agriculture, with potential applications for the grape and wine industry in the Niagara region. 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 in Sustainable Systems Engineering. The nominee’s research areas must demonstrably align with the Impact+ strategic priority areas listed above and be supported by a proven track record. As required by Brock University, candidates should have a PhD in engineering or a closely related field, as well as a first degree in engineering. Licensure, or eligibility for licensure as a Professional Engineer (P. Eng) in Ontario is required through Professional Engineers Ontario (PEO, ). Licensure must be obtained within four years from the date of hire. The following are considered assets :

• Relevant industry experience in engineering, science, and technology industries.
• Knowledge or understanding of agricultural practices and systems.
• Experience with interdisciplinary and collaborative research projects.
• Experience working with industry and community partners for research projects.
• Teaching experience in machine leaning, sensor and actuators, big data, and computer simulations.

Ideal applicants will be recognized as emerging leaders in Sustainable Systems Engineering, bringing a body of coherent research and associated social impact to the Department of Engineering and Brock University. We are open to a diverse range of methodological approaches. 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. 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.

Applicants are expected to demonstrate successful mentoring or a continuous commitment to mentoring and training undergraduate and graduate students, postdoctoral scholars, and research technicians. 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 . 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 , in recognition of and pursuant to Section 14 of the Ontario Human Rights Code, Indigenous peoples, members of racialized groups (including Black persons), 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 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 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 the Yousef Haj-Ahmad Department of Engineering at

Application elements include the following :

A letter of interest (suggested 2 pages) outlining :

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

An updated curriculum vitae documenting publications, research grants, technology transfer and commercialization activities, community engagement, advocacy work, knowledge translation, other modes of scholarship relevant to your research program and current PEng status. If preferred, candidates may submit a narrative curriculum vitae. A statement of mentorship philosophy, teaching philosophy, interests related to departmental programs, and strategies to support diverse students (suggested 2 pages). 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). The names and contact information of three referees who could provide confidential letters of assessment that speak to your suitability for this Emerging Leader position. Letters will not be requested unless an applicant is short listed.

The closing date for the position is April 1, 2026 at 12 : 01 The last business day to apply is March 31, 2026.

This job advertisement is for an existing position in the Brock University Faculty Association (BUFA) employee group.

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. We anticipate interviews will take place during April 2026. Although we appreciate all applications received, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.

Impact+ Emerging Leaders 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 expected to be July 1st, 2027, but is negotiable with the Faculty Dean. Early Career Researchers are expected to begin their appointment within 12 months of the Impact+ Chairholder accepting the award.

Inquiries should be directed to Peng Wu at .

Original Posting Date February 19, 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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