Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR): Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in Surface/Interface Chemistry

Theme

Université du Québec à Trois-Rivières (UQTR) is calling for applications for a Tier 2 Canada Research Chair in the field of surface or interface chemistry. The person sought will complete and strengthen the Centre de recherche sur les Matériaux Lignocellulosiques [Lignocellulosic Material Research Centre] (CRML) and consolidate the themes under development - the eco-materials and eco-products included in the CRML’s research program. The successful candidate must also have expertise in the field of characterization of surface and interface phenomena studies and have an interest in biomass and natural fibres. The person retained must have recognized expertise in surface and interface chemistry and will be capable of initiating and directing original research work, specifically dealing with composites (physical chemistry of fibre-resin interfaces), phenomena of adsorption on modified fibres related to decontamination of the environment, among others, as well as the preparation and activation of biochar generated from biomasses. The work resulting from the Chair must benefit one or more of the following fields of application: fibre-resin interfaces in composite materials; adsorption and environmental and industrial contaminant adsorption phenomena with various types of lignocellulosic biomasses (fibres, bark, etc.); functionalization and use of activated biochar as catalyzers or adsorbents; functionalization of surfaces for production of specialty papers. The chairholder must prove his or her full understanding of the targeted fields’ scientific foundations because he or she must be able to create collaborative research opportunities that will result in original, world-class results.

The candidate’s aptitude for developing fruitful collaborations with researchers in the Chemistry, Biochemistry and Physics Department, Mechanical Engineering Department, Chemical Engineering Department and the CRML will be the subject of special attention during assessment of the applications. Excellent knowledge of the CRML’s analysis equipment dealing with surface chemistry, and specifically, but not limited to, electron microscopy (SEM and TEM), X microanalysis (EDX), X photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), atomic force microscopy (AFM) and 3D laser microtomography analysis for double-sided surfaces is important.

Canada Research Chairs

Tier 2 Canada Research Chairs are awarded after a thorough assessment process to exceptional emerging researchers. Candidates who wish to obtain a Tier 2 Chair must have held a Ph.D. for less than 10 years when they submit their application to the Canada Research Chair Program (April 22, 2019). Those who have held a Ph.D. for more than 10 years (and whose careers were interrupted because of maternity leave, parental leave or a prolonged medical leave among others) may have their eligibility examined using the Tier 2 Justification Assessment form from the Canada Research Chair Program. Please contact UQTR’s Deanship of Research and Creation to obtain more information regarding the justification process (drc@uqtr.ca).

Commitment to equity, diversity and inclusion

UQTR is determined to offer a workplace that is fair, diversified and inclusive, which is essential to the development of knowledge and innovative technology. That is why UQTR is committed to complying with federal policies regarding non-discrimination and equity in employment. The University specifically encourages women, members of visible minorities, Indigenous persons and persons with disabilities who have the required qualifications to present their application. Adaptation measures can also be offered to persons with disabilities according to their needs.

Application process

Those who wish to apply are invited to submit their application before December 14, 2018. The application must include: a curriculum vitae, a brief description of the research program that will be developed during the Chair (3 pages); several examples of significant contributions to their research field (articles with a reading committee, monographs, etc.), a letter of motivation stating how the candidate’s profile corresponds to both the Canada Research Chair Program and the University’s requirements, as well as the names of three referees who are willing to write a letter of recommendation in their favour. The candidates may also submit with their application any statements regarding special circumstances that caused a slow-down or interruption in their research activities. UQTR will take these special circumstances into account when examining the applications. All documents required shall be submitted in a single PDF document using the online self-disclosure statement form available at: www.uqtr.ca/CRC_Declaration_volontaire.

Selection process

Each application will first be evaluated by a committee responsible for identifying applicants that adequately meet the University’s selection criteria as well as that of the Canada Research Chair Program. The applications retained will then be submitted to a committee who will ensure that UQTR’s rules and objectives regarding equity, diversity and inclusion matters have been taken into consideration. Since granting of the position is conditional to approval by the University Department, candidates will then have to submit to the hiring process for the department. The successful candidate will be invited to present a complete application to the Canada Research Chair Program, and successful Chair recipients will be granted a tenure-track professorial position.

Useful links

For more information regarding the Canada Research Chair program, consult the program’s site at: http://www.chairs-chaires.gc.ca/home-accueil-eng.aspx.

For more information regarding the Canada Research Chair awarding process at UQTR or the selection criteria, consult the following website: http://www.uqtr.ca/CRC_balises.

For more information regarding the CRML’s scientific programming and its research topics, consult the following website: https://oraprdnt.uqtr.uquebec.ca/pls/public/gscw030?owa_no_site=1733.

For more information regarding the adaptation measures that can be provided for persons with disabilities, contact Ms. Annie Dubois with the UQTR’s Human Resource Department at: Annie.Dubois@uqtr.ca.

For more information about the Canada Research Chair opportunities currently available at UQTR, please visit www.uqtr.ca/CRC-affichages-UQTR.