Director, Quantum Horizons Alberta – Calgary

Director, Quantum Horizons Alberta – Calgary
University of Calgary

DESCRIPTION and REQUIREMENTS:

Quantum Horizons Alberta (QHA) was established in 2023 as an Alberta-wide initiative to expand foundational knowledge of quantum science, to pursue transformational research into the potential of quantum mechanics, and to enhance Alberta’s stature as a globally recognized centre for quantum research and innovation. Initiated by a $12-million gift from a group of visionary donors, QHA is currently a $25-million centre of excellence that will build on and increase Alberta’s considerable capacity in quantum research through a partnership of the University of Calgary, the University of Alberta, and the University of Lethbridge.

Funding through QHA is intended to build on existing expertise and attract new talent with the goal to recruit a minimum of eight new quantum research professors to Alberta over the next two years along with funding for many postdoctoral scholars and graduate students. Together, these initiatives will train the next generation of quantum scientists, including postdoctoral scholars and graduate students at each of the universities.

QHA will enable a long-term and sustainable path for Alberta’s leadership in foundational quantum research, creating impact that will reach far beyond Alberta.
The University of Calgary is actively seeking an established research leader to take on the pivotal role of Director, Quantum Horizons Alberta – Calgary. The Director will be tasked with guiding this initiative to new frontiers of knowledge in quantum science. This role requires a visionary leader, someone capable of inspiring a diverse team of researchers, graduate students, and stakeholders towards achieving ambitious goals that will accelerate foundational quantum research. The Director will oversee strategic planning, operational and research directions to ensure that the horizons of foundational quantum science are extended, all while establishing and promoting a culture of excellence and inclusion, and maintaining and continuing to grow their own international scientific stature.

The successful candidate for this prestigious position must have a Ph.D. or equivalent and will have qualifications commensurate with an appointment with tenure at the rank of Professor, or an equivalent level of seniority in the government or private sector. The ideal candidate is actively leading or previously led an innovative and externally funded research program in a frontier area of foundational theoretical or experimental quantum science. This individual will have a history of supervising graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, and experience teaching quantum science at both undergraduate and graduate levels. A proven track record in securing funding, the ability to develop a coherent scientific vision and research plan, and experience engaging and building collaborations is essential. Additionally, the Director must possess outstanding communication skills, capable of articulating the vision and achievements of Quantum Horizons Alberta to a global audience.

The appointment as Director, Quantum Horizons Alberta – Calgary is for a five-year period with the possibility of renewal. The successful candidate will be offered an academic position “With Tenure” at the rank of Full Professor, with negotiable teaching, research and service duties.

This role represents a rare opportunity to be at the forefront of a scientific revolution, shaping the direction of quantum research and education at the University of Calgary, coordinating with the University of Alberta, the University of Lethbridge and beyond. The Director will influence the trajectory of quantum science globally and will also play a crucial role in building a sustainable, innovative ecosystem that nurtures talent and propels Alberta to the forefront of the quantum age. If you are driven by the challenge of leading a world-renowned initiative extending the horizons of foundational quantum science, we invite you to apply for the role of Director at Quantum Horizons Alberta – Calgary.

HOW TO APPLY:

Please submit your application online via the ‘Apply Now’ link:

https://careers.ucalgary.ca/jobs/14283112-director-quantum-horizons-alberta-calgary

Please be aware that the application process allows for only four attachments. The four attachments should be organized to contain the following (which may require you to merge documents):
• curriculum vitae and letter of interest in confidence

Applications received before May 24, 2024 will receive full consideration. The position will remain open until filled.

The University of Calgary has launched an institution-wide Indigenous Strategy committing to creating a rich, vibrant, and culturally competent campus that welcomes and supports Indigenous Peoples, encourages Indigenous community partnerships, is inclusive of Indigenous perspectives in all that we do.

As an equitable and inclusive employer, the University of Calgary recognizes that a diverse staff/faculty benefits and enriches the work, learning and research experiences of the entire campus and greater community. We are committed to removing barriers that have been historically encountered by some people in our society. We strive to recruit individuals who will further enhance our diversity and will support their academic and professional success while they are here. In particular, we encourage members of the designated groups (women, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, members of visible/racialized minorities, and diverse sexual orientation and gender identities) to apply. To ensure a fair and equitable assessment, we offer accommodation at any stage during the recruitment process to applicants with disabilities. Questions regarding [diversity] EDI at UCalgary can be sent to the Office of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion (equity@ucalgary.ca) and requests for accommodations can be sent to Human Resources (hrhire@ucalgary.ca).

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. In this connection, at the time of your application, please answer the following question: Are you a Canadian citizen or a permanent resident of Canada? (Yes/No)

For a listing of all academic opportunities at the University of Calgary, view our Academic Careers website.

About the University of Calgary

UCalgary is Canada’s entrepreneurial university, located in Canada’s most enterprising city. It is a top research university and one of the highest-ranked universities of its age. Founded in 1966, its 36,000 students experience an innovative learning environment, made rich by research, hands-on experiences and entrepreneurial thinking. It is Canada’s leader in the creation of start-ups. Start something today at the University of Calgary. For more information, visit ucalgary.ca.

About Calgary, Alberta

Calgary is one of the world’s cleanest cities and has been named one of the world’s most livable cities for years. Calgary is a city of leaders – in business, community, philanthropy and volunteerism. Calgarians benefit from a growing number of world-class dining and cultural events and enjoy more days of sunshine per year than any other major Canadian city. Calgary is less than an hour’s drive from the majestic Rocky Mountains and boasts the most extensive urban pathway and bikeway network in North America.

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