Research Chair, Scientific Lead

SAIT • Calgary, AB

8d • Onsite

About The Position

SAIT’s Applied Research and Innovation Services department helps partners conceptualize, prototype and deliver products to market. Join one of Canada’s top applied research colleges, innovate for the future and bring industry-generated ideas and game-changing technologies to life. SAIT is seeking a Scientific Lead (SL) to lead the Centre for Energy Research and Clean Unconventional Technology Solutions (CERCUTS). This centre focuses on advancing environmentally responsible, sustainable, and efficient clean energy technologies, including unconventional and integrated energy systems. The Scientific Lead is responsible for defining and executing the centre’s applied research strategy, building strong industry and funding partnerships, and overseeing the successful delivery of research programs and projects. This role integrates scientific leadership, business development, operational oversight, and financial accountability.

Requirements

• Doctorate in Engineering, Science, or a related field is required
• 10+ years in industry and/or academia, with a focus on applied research, technology development, or innovation
• 3-5 years Demonstrated leadership in clean technology development and prototyping
• 3-5 years in a Supervisory role
• 5-7 years in a Senior Leadership role
• Proven experience managing research programs across Technology Readiness Levels (TRL 1–8)
• Strong track record in securing research funding and managing grants
• Experience building and managing research labs and infrastructure
• Excellent stakeholder engagement and partnership development skills
• Strong project management expertise across scope, schedule, budget, and risk
• Business acumen in managing a sustainable research portfolio
• Energy systems expertise with strong knowledge of energy systems and integration, hydrogen technologies, energy storage, and battery systems
• Process and water engineering with strong understanding of water treatment processes and process engineering principles
• Scientific foundations with deep understanding of electrochemistry, thermodynamics, fluid mechanics, and process design
• Research and project tools with familiarity using Microsoft 365, CRM systems, and Smartsheet
• Funding knowledge with understanding of Canadian funding agencies and related programs

Responsibilities

• Develop and implement the applied research strategy for CERCUTS aligned with SAIT’s institutional and ARIS strategic plans
• Build and maintain strong relationships with industry, government, and funding partners
• Identify and pursue new business opportunities, including fee-for-service and grant-funded projects
• Position CERCUTS as a leader in clean energy innovation through external engagement and partnerships
• Maintain relationships with granting agencies and ensure compliance with funding requirements
• Lead the full lifecycle of applied research projects: opportunity identification, proposal development, budgeting, execution, and closure
• Oversee project delivery, ensuring quality, timelines, and financial accountability
• Act as Principal Investigator (PI) or Subject Matter Expert (SME) where required
• Ensure alignment with sponsor requirements, including reporting, documentation, and outcomes dissemination
• Support contract negotiations, including scope, timelines, and resource planning
• Develop and execute a research and technical services business plan in collaboration with industry advisory boards and internal stakeholders
• Lead the development and submission of funding proposals (e.g., Tri-Agency, CFI, Alberta Innovates, Mitacs, NRCan, and others)
• Secure funding for infrastructure, research programs, and personnel
• Maintain and grow a sustainable portfolio of research projects and funding sources
• Provide leadership to an Operations Lead and a multidisciplinary research team, including Principal Investigators, research associates, technicians, and students
• Recruit, mentor, and manage performance of research staff
• Foster a collaborative and inclusive research environment
• Create opportunities for student engagement and integration with industry and academic partners
• Ensure the scientific integrity, quality, and successful delivery of all research activities
• Oversee research data management, security, and intellectual property protection
• Ensure compliance with SAIT policies, funding requirements, and applicable regulatory standards
• Maintain safe, efficient, and compliant laboratory environments in accordance with HSE protocols
• Lead financial management of the research program, including budgeting, forecasting, and reporting
• Manage grant and contract finances, ensuring alignment with funding agency requirements
• Approve expenditures and ensure adherence to procurement and financial policies
• Oversee infrastructure, equipment, and capital investments across facilities
• Support knowledge dissemination through publications, conferences, and industry engagement

Benefits

• 4 Weeks Vacation / 14 Flex Days per year
• Defined Benefit pension through LAPP to help you retire with confidence
• Generous time off to pursue other passions and support your wellbeing
• SAIT paid premiums for medical, dental, and vision benefits so you, and your family, are well supported
• Access to a Health Spending or Taxable Spending Account
• Benefits supporting mental health and access to Greenshield + for virtual therapy at a reduced rate
• Professional development opportunities through our Free Seat Program, tuition support, access to LinkedIn Learning and discounted Continuing Education & Professional Studies courses
• Excellent dining options on campus
• Free access to our fitness facilities and group fitness classes

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Senior
• Education Level: Ph.D. or professional degree