Impact+ Canada Research Chair & Professor Jobs at University of Sherbrooke (
⚡ Quick Answer: The University of Sherbrooke is hiring 7 to 14 international professors for the Impact+ Canada Research Chair program. These roles offer $500k–$1M/year in research funding, require residency outside Canada, and have an application deadline of February 10, 2026.
The University of Sherbrooke is actively recruiting 7 to 14 international professors for the prestigious Impact+ Canada Research Chair program. These tenure-track roles offer between $500,000 and $1,000,000 in annual research funding for eight years. Applications are strictly for candidates currently working and residing outside Canada. The deadline to apply for this cohort is February 10, 2026.
Why This Opportunity is a Career-Defining Move
This isn’t just another academic job posting; it is one of the most significant research funding initiatives in Canadian history. The University of Sherbrooke (UdeS) has secured its place as a top-tier research institution, ranking among the top 15 in Canada for research revenue growth over the last two years. By joining UdeS through the Impact+ stream, you aren’t just getting a salary; you are securing massive, long-term funding guaranteed for nearly a decade. This allows you to build a world-class team without the constant pressure of grant hunting in your first few years. The university is specifically targeting “transformative” projects—work that doesn’t just sit in a journal but changes how we live, work, and interact with our environment.
Eligibility: Who Can Actually Apply?
The most critical eligibility criteria for this specific competition is your location. You must be an international candidate. This means if you are currently working or living in Canada, you are not eligible for this specific stream. The program is designed to attract global talent to Sherbrooke. You need to hold a doctorate in a relevant discipline and have a track record that screams “international excellence.” We are looking for full professors or associate professors on the cusp of promotion. If you come from industry or a non-academic background, you must demonstrate equivalent qualifications. The selection committee will be looking for leadership skills, a history of interdisciplinary work, and a genuine ability to mentor graduate students.
Strategic Research Areas for 2026
To be considered, your research must align with one of the federal government’s strategic priority areas. UdeS is hiring across eight distinct faculties, including Engineering, Medicine, Law, and Management. Your work should fall into one of these categories:
- Advanced Digital Technologies: This covers Artificial Intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and cybersecurity.
- Health & Biotechnology: Projects that push the boundaries of medical science and bio-innovation.
- Clean Tech & Resources: Focus on sustainable value chains and new energy technologies.
- Environment & Climate: Specifically looking at resilience and Arctic research.
- Food & Water Security: Addressing global supply and safety challenges.
- Democratic & Community Resilience: Social sciences focused on strengthening societal structures.
- Advanced Manufacturing: Next-gen materials and production methods.
- Defense: Dual-use technologies that serve both security and civilian needs.
Salary and Funding Package
The financial package for the Impact+ Chair is exceptional. Successful candidates will be awarded a chair valued at either $500,000 or $1,000,000 per year for an initial term of eight years. This is not just personal salary; this is a comprehensive funding envelope to cover your research activities, team salaries, and equipment. There is also a possibility to extend this funding for another four years at 50% of the initial value. On top of the research funds, you will receive a competitive salary commensurate with your experience as a full or associate professor, along with the full suite of benefits provided by the University of Sherbrooke.
Living and Working in Sherbrooke
Sherbrooke offers a unique blend of dynamic urban living and access to nature. It is a university town at its heart, meaning the community is vibrant, educated, and culturally rich. The university prides itself on Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (EDI), actively encouraging applications from women, members of visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, and people with disabilities. While the primary language of instruction is French, the university provides support for non-French speakers to achieve the necessary proficiency within two years. This is a chance to immerse yourself in a new culture while working at an institution that values sustainable development and open innovation.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What is the application deadline for the Impact+ Chair at UdeS?
The application deadline for this specific cohort is February 10, 2026. However, the wider federal cohort deadline is March 24, 2026, so it is vital to get your application into the University of Sherbrooke before their internal cutoff.
Can I apply if I am currently a professor in Canada?
No. This specific competition is strictly for candidates who are working and residing outside of Canada at the time of the cohort application deadline.
Do I need to speak French to apply?
You do not need to be fluent in French to apply, but you must be willing to learn. The university requires professors to be able to teach in French within two years of their appointment.
How much research funding comes with the position?
The Chair comes with either $500,000 or $1,000,000 per year for 8 years, depending on the specific stream and research proposal.
What documents do I need to submit?
You generally need a CV, a cover letter, a research statement, and proof of your track record in one of the strategic priority areas. Always check the official jobs page for the exact submission portal and requirements.
Ready to Apply? Visit the official University of Sherbrooke careers portal or check the federal program details to start your application today.
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