Director, Quantum Horizons Alberta - Edmonton

Competition 860

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

QHA will catalyze existing expertise and attract new talent with the goal to recruit a minimum of eight new quantum research professors to Alberta over the next five 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 quantum research and innovation, creating impact that will reach far beyond Alberta.

The University of Alberta is actively seeking an established researcher to take on the pivotal role of inaugural Director, Quantum Horizons Alberta – Edmonton and tenured Full Professor.  The Director will be tasked with guiding this initiative to new frontiers of knowledge and application 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 and impact quantum research outcomes. The Director will oversee strategic planning, operational and research direction, and the integration of quantum sciences at the intersection of academia, government, and industry, all while establishing and promoting a culture of excellence and inclusion.

The successful candidate for this prestigious position must hold a Ph.D. in physics or a related field and will be offered a tenured appointment at the rank of Full Professor within the Department, in accordance with the University of Alberta Faculty Agreement, and a comprehensive benefits package. The ideal candidate will have achieved the rank of tenured Full Professor or an equivalent level of seniority at a research-intensive university and is actively leading or previously led an innovative and externally-funded research program in the theory of quantum matter.  This individual will have a history of supervising graduate students and postdoctoral fellows, and experience teaching physics 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 with the academic community and industry 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.

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 Alberta 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 at the intersection of discovery and innovation, we invite you to apply for the role of Director at Quantum Horizons Alberta – Edmonton.

To explore this opportunity further, please send your curriculum vitae and letter of interest in confidence, with the subject line “QHA Director Edmonton” to apply@jssearch.ca.

As part of the Temporary Foreign Worker Program requirements, the university must conduct recruitment efforts to hire Canadians and permanent residents before offering a job to a temporary foreign worker. To ensure we remain in compliance with these regulations, please include the appropriate statement on your application “I am a Canadian Citizen/Permanent Resident” or “I am not a Canadian Citizen/Permanent Resident.”

At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the process, please let us know in your application and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. If suitable Canadian citizens or permanent residents cannot be found, other individuals will be considered. 

The University of Alberta is committed to an equitable, diverse, and inclusive workforce. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women; First Nations, Métis and Inuit; members of visible minority groups; persons with disabilities; persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression; and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.

About the University of Alberta

The University of Alberta, its buildings, labs, and research stations are primarily located on the traditional territory of Cree, Blackfoot, Métis, Nakota Sioux, Iroquois, Dene, and Ojibway/Saulteaux/Anishinaabe nations; lands that are now known as part of Treaties 6, 7, and 8 and homeland of the Métis. The University of Alberta respects the sovereignty, lands, histories, languages, knowledge systems, and cultures of First Nations, Métis and Inuit nations.

The University of Alberta is one of Canada’s top universities and one of the top 100 in the world, home to over 44,000 students, 15,000 faculty and staff, and over 300,000 alumni worldwide.
The U of A has an annual budget of more than $1.9 billion including over $600 million in annual research funding. It offers over 200 undergraduate, and over 500 graduate programs within 3 colleges and 17 faculties (including the only Faculty of Native Studies in North America) on five campuses. The North Campus (main campus) is nestled on the edge of the North Saskatchewan River Valley and is less than a four-hour drive to the Rocky Mountains.

About Edmonton

Edmonton is the fifth largest city in Canada and the capital city of the province of Alberta. It is one of the youngest and fastest-growing cities in the country. Edmonton is located on the North Saskatchewan River and is the northernmost city in North America with a population over one million people.

Edmonton is a hotbed of cultural diversity. Edmonton shines in the heart of Canada’s most dynamic region. At the same time, it is also a place full of risk-takers; people who thrive in a curiously cooperative community. From the continent’s first, biggest, and wildest Fringe Theatre Festival to a shopping mall that spans 48 city blocks, Edmontonians have never been afraid to do things a little differently.

As one of Canada’s youngest major cities, Edmonton embraces new ideas and experimentation. A national hub for post-secondary education, medical health, and arts and culture, Edmonton is an economic engine fueled by a spirit of creativity, entrepreneurialism and a commitment to working together to achieve great things.