Job Description

Candidates may use experimental, computational or integrated approaches.  The proposed program of research should have the potential to generate transformative research outcomes, develop meaningful collaborations and translate discoveries towards commercial or other direct benefits for Canada and the world.

Eligibility:

·         Applicants must hold a Ph.D. in molecular or cellular biology, physiology, biomedical science, biochemistry, genetics, immunology, pharmacology, or a related discipline relevant to the study of chronic disease mechanisms and models.  A minimum of one-year of postdoctoral or equivalent advanced research experience is expected.

We acknowledge that research careers are not linear and that life circumstances – such as illness, disability, family and community responsibilities (including maternity or parental leave, caregiving leaves, chronic illness or disability, and COVID-19-related impacts) can affect the pace and nature of research contributions.  The assessment process will take these circumstances into careful consideration, and nominees are invited to provide relevant context to ensure their achievements are evaluated fairly and equitably.

·         Applicants must meet the federal definition of an early career researcher, be internationally based, both working and residing outside of Canada prior to 5 July 2026.

·         Candidates must be available to commence a full-time, tenure-track appointment at the University of Waterloo no later than 5 July 2027.

·         A strong record of innovative, peer-reviewed research and clear potential to establish an internationally recognized, independent research program focused on the molecular basis of chronic disease, assessed in relation to career stage and with consideration of career interruptions.

·         Expertise in experimental, computational or integrated approaches relevant to understanding the molecular mechanisms of chronic disease.

·         Demonstrated potential to secure and sustain external research funding and to build productive collaborations within and beyond the University, including with Professor James Wolffsohn and complementary research groups in the Faculty of Science.

·         A compelling research vision with the potential to advance disease prevention, diagnosis or treatment and generate commercial or other societal benefits.

·         Commitment to excellent, inclusive undergraduate and graduate teaching, mentorship and trainee development, and to fostering an equitable, diverse and inclusive research and learning environment.

·         Strong communication skills and the ability to contribute constructively to service and collegial governance in a collaborative academic environment.

Teaching and mentorship

The successful candidate will contribute to undergraduate and graduate teaching in areas aligned with their expertise and the needs of their academic unit and will supervise and mentor students and research personnel.  The successful candidate will be expected to foster an inclusive learning environment and support trainee development through research training and mentorship.

The salary range for this position at the Assistant Professor rank is $105,000 to $125,000 per year.

How to Apply

Applications must be submitted online through the University of Waterloo’s Online Faculty Application System (https://ofas.uwaterloo.ca).  Applications received by December 31, 2026 will receive full consideration; review will continue until the position is filled.

Please include the following materials:

·         A cover letter describing how your expertise, proposed research program, and teaching interests align with the position.

·         A curriculum vitae.

·         A research statement or proposal (maximum three pages, plus up to one page of references).

·         A teaching and mentoring statement describing your teaching philosophy, relevant experience, and how you would foster an equitable, diverse, inclusive, and accessible learning and research environment (maximum two pages).

·         Up to five representative recent publications.

·         The names, affiliations, and institutional email addresses of three referees.  Applications should be addressed to Todd Holyoak.   Questions regarding the position, application process, or eligibility may be directed to Dr. Holyoak (todd.holyoak@uwaterloo.ca).

·         As part of the application, applicants are required to complete a confidential self-identification form.  This form is found here:  https://uwaterloo.ca1.qualtrics.com/jfe/form/SV_08RcdJzz6YAh4TX.  The information disclosed through this form will be kept strictly confidential and will be aligned with identity and equity data best practices, and university policy.  The information will only be used in alignment with the Impact+ Chairs Program goals.  Further information can be found at :  https://www.canada.ca/en/impact-plus-chairs/program-details/competition/2026/instructions/canada-impact-emerging-leaders-program-instructions-for-submitting-an-application-using-the-convergence-portal.html.

About Waterloo

The University of Waterloo is located in the vibrant two-university Region of Waterloo in southwestern Ontario, approximately 100 km from Toronto. Waterloo and the surrounding region are recognized for innovation and entrepreneurship and offer extensive opportunities for academic, clinical, governmental, and industry collaboration. Additional information is available from the Faculty of Science https://uwaterloo.ca/science.  

Land Acknowledgement

The University of Waterloo acknowledges that much of our work takes place on the traditional territory of the Neutral, Anishinaabeg, and Haudenosaunee peoples. Our main campus is situated on the Haldimand Tract, the land granted to the Six Nations that includes six miles on each side of the Grand River. Our active work toward reconciliation takes place across our campuses through research, learning, teaching, and community building, and is co-ordinated within the Office of Indigenous Relations. 

Equity, diversity, inclusion and accessibility

The University values the diverse and intersectional identities of its students, faculty and staff.  The University regards equity and diversity as an integral part of academic excellence and is committed to accessibility for all employees.  The University of Waterloo seeks applicants who embrace our values of equity, anti-racism, and inclusion.  We encourage applications from candidates who have been historically disadvantaged and marginalized, including applicants who identify as Indigenous peoples (e.g., First Nations, Métis, Inuit/Inuk), Black, racialized, people with disabilities, women, and/or 2SLGBTQIA+ community.

The University of Waterloo has an Indigenous Verification Process to ensure that claims of Indigenous identity are made with integrity and respect.  Shortlisted candidates may be asked to engage in this process in accordance with University guidelines.

The University of Waterloo is committed to accessibility for persons with disabilities.  If you have any application, interview, or workplace accommodation requests, please contact Lisa Weber (lweber@uwaterloo.calweber@uwaterloo.ca).  For any other workplace accommodation requests, please contact Karen at Occupational Health (occupationalhealth@uwaterloo.ca).  At all phases of the recruitment, we will work with the selection committee to secure accommodation while maintaining confidentiality.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority.

Three reasons to apply:  https://uwaterloo.ca/faculty-association/why-waterloo