Applied Research Chair Focused on Microbiological Solutions to Energy Sector Challenges

In order to ensure your application is received by NAIT for thorough review and consideration, please apply directly through our Careers site at www.nait.ca/careers

Please Note: This is a temporary position ending on or before March 31, 2030 with the possibility of extension.

Applied Research at NAIT focuses on the economic sectors that are anchored in Alberta's rich natural resources, with the aim of advancing clean technology and environmental sustainability. We use the term applied deliberately because our interest is working on industry and community partner-initiated projects that solve real-world challenges, and which have a clear line of sight to technology commercialization by industry or broad adoption.

NAIT houses one of the largest and most productive polytechnic and college applied research teams in Canada and we have an exciting opportunity for a new endowed Applied Research Chair that will use their industrial microbiology and environmental remediation experience to help partners in the energy sector with their research and development challenges. The Applied Research Chair will be a strategic leader in the NAIT Applied Sciences Research portfolio, which is home to a diverse array of teams led by talented Applied Research Chairs in Tailings Management; Energy; Materials Circularity; and Forest Reclamation, among others.

The successful candidate will initiate and lead an innovative and impactful applied research program to be based in the Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability. The research program will be aided by generous support from the Ledcor Group of Companies and the Centre for Energy and Environmental Sustainability works with a broad range of partners, including small and large companies, to help resolve the environmental and economic challenges faced by the energy and mining industries. Our eight applied research centres work in close synergy, and you will apply your expertise to work very closely with the other nine Applied Research Chairs to meet the innovation needs of our partners.

Key Responsibilities:

• Provide a strategic vision on how to grow this new research program
• Apply industry knowledge and draw on experience to advance Applied Research's goals regarding cleaner energy and environmental sustainability
• Engage with industry to identify research needs and projects, staying current with regional business trends
• Secure and manage a mix of private and government funding to support research operations and capital projects
• Provide scientific direction to a large portfolio of projects
• Collaborate with other Applied Research Chairs in prioritizing resource allocations
• Mentor research staff as they develop project deliverables, milestones and budgets, and then as they execute on projects
• Lead the hiring, training and development of research and technical staff
• Ensure the continuation of a strong safety culture
• Communicate with internal and external stakeholders, including academic schools, communities, government and industry
• Support credit and non-credit curricula development as a subject matter expert

Skills & Abilities:

• Industrial experience mandatory, specifically with the oil and gas industry
• Exceptional connectivity to industry in Western Canada
• Exceptional and demonstrable leadership skills
• Exceptional communication, both written and verbal, and ability to understand the needs of customers
• Experience in presenting technical content to varied audiences
• Experience in business case development, proposal development, and securing significant levels of project funding

Qualifications:

• Graduate degree (Master's or PhD) in microbiology, environmental engineering, or similar from an accredited post-secondary institution or equivalent relevant work experience

Applicants with education credentials earned outside of Canada should have their credentials evaluated by World Education Services or the International Qualifications Assessment Service (IQAS).

Remuneration: $99,247.46 - $131,487.47 annually, plus a comprehensive benefits package.

Please submit a resume and cover letter to be considered for this opportunity.

About NAIT

We are proud to have been named one of Alberta's Top Employers for 13 consecutive years. Being part of a community that makes a difference in the lives of students, staff, industry clients and partners, NAIT's culture reflects our shared values of respect, collaboration, celebration, creativity, and accountability.

People are what make NAIT great, and we prioritize the employee experience. We offer benefits and unique perks focusing on health and wellness, work-life balance, recognition, and professional and personal growth. In addition to excellent vacation time, we offer paid time off between Christmas and New Year's.

NAIT supports a flexible work environment, enabling staff to request approval for on-campus, off-site, or hybrid work arrangements based on the nature of the role. Please note that remote positions require employees to reside within Canada.

NAIT is committed to fostering an environment that supports equity and cultivates inclusion through our Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion Strategy. We are a proud partner of the Canadian Centre for Diversity and Inclusion and Pride at Work Canada. While we encourage all qualified applicants to apply, only those being considered will be contacted. If you require any accommodations, please connect with us at careers@nait.ca.

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