Tenured or Tenure-Track Cluster of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor Positions in Geotechnical Engineering

Location - This role is in-person at North Campus Edmonton.

The Faculty of Engineering at the University of Alberta invites applications for a faculty position as part of a coordinated cluster of five positions reflecting our commitment to advancing collaborative research and teaching in complex global issues including infrastructure resilience, environmental sustainability, and responsible resource development.

The Cluster Vision

These five positions are strategically designed to work collaboratively to address broad challenges that require expertise in Geotechnical Engineering, Environmental Engineering, Water Resources Engineering, and Mining Engineering. Together, the successful candidates will advance research at the critical interfaces between earth systems, water resources, and the built and natural environments, addressing areas such as: climate-resilient infrastructure founded on evolving subsurface conditions; sustainable mining practices that integrate geostatistical prediction with geoenvironmental remediation; drinking water quality and treatment; surface hydrology and contaminant transport modelling; and innovative engineering solutions that bridge geotechnical, hydrological, and environmental engineering principles.

The cluster will foster collaboration across traditional disciplinary boundaries, leveraging emerging technologies including advanced sensing and monitoring systems, data science and uncertainty quantification methods, artificial intelligence and machine learning for predictive modeling, and digital tools for integrated earth systems analysis. Faculty hired through this cluster are expected to actively engage in cross-disciplinary collaboration, joint supervision of students, and development of integrated research initiatives across the cluster themes.

The successful candidates will have access to world-class experimental and computational facilities and collaborative research environments, including the Geotechnical Centre, the Water Research Centre (WRC), and the Centre for Computational Geostatistics (CCG). These platforms provide integrated capabilities spanning advanced laboratory testing, water infrastructure and treatment research, spatial modelling and uncertainty quantification, as well as geotechnical and geoenvironmental laboratories, water quality testing facilities, and field sites across Alberta's diverse landscapes from the boreal forest to the Rocky Mountain foothills. Successful candidates are expected to establish multidisciplinary research programs. An ability to develop and teach courses in at least two of the four disciplines (Geotechnical, Mining, Environmental, and Water Resources) is considered an asset.

Position Description: Geotechnical Engineering

A full-time, tenure-track Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor position in Geotechnical Engineering is available. We seek candidates with expertise in Geotechnical Engineering, including but not limited to soil mechanics, novel tools for site investigation and instrumentation, design and analysis of tailings storage facilities, or related areas, and a demonstrated ability to work across disciplinary boundaries to address complex technical and societal problems. The successful candidate will have access to the Geotechnical Centre and will contribute to the resilience and sustainability of civil infrastructure, with an emphasis on advancing geotechnical engineering practice through innovative analysis, design, and construction approaches. Practical experience in geotechnical design, site investigation, or construction that complements academic research will be considered a significant asset.

As part of this cluster hiring initiative, this position will be filled alongside a complementary appointment, 3781 Tenured or Tenure-Track Cluster of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor Positions in Environmental Engineering, 3782 Tenured or Tenure-Track Cluster of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor Positions in Geoenvironmental Engineering, 3783 Tenured or Tenure-Track Cluster of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor Positions in Water Resources Engineering and 3784 Tenured or Tenure-Track Cluster of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor Positions in Mining Engineering (Geostatistics) fostering strong collaboration across disciplines. Each successful candidate will be expected to develop and sustain externally-funded, collaborative research programs that strengthen partnerships with the Geotechnical Centre, The Water Research Centre, Centre for Computational Geostatistics (CCG), and industry partners. Candidates are encouraged to pursue each fundamental and applied research that advances the scientific foundations of next-generation infrastructure systems. These positions are part of the University of Alberta's priority to build a diverse faculty; thus, candidates from underrepresented groups are strongly encouraged to apply.

The Geotechnical Centre

The Geotechnical Centre at the University of Alberta is a leading hub for research, innovation, and graduate training in geotechnical and geoenvironmental engineering. With internationally recognized expertise spanning soil and rock mechanics, mine waste and tailings engineering, dam safety, cold regions geotechnics, and geohazards, the Centre advances both fundamental understanding and practical solutions to pressing infrastructure and environmental issues. Faculty members are globally engaged scholars whose work integrates advanced laboratory testing, field investigation, numerical modelling, and risk-based approaches to design and performance assessment. The Centre maintains strong collaborations with industry, government, and international partners, ensuring that research outcomes translate into impactful engineering practice and policy development. Its location in Alberta provides unique opportunities to address issues related to energy infrastructure, resource development, climate change, and northern environments. The Geotechnical Centre offers a dynamic, collegial environment that supports interdisciplinary collaboration across civil, environmental, and mining engineering. Through its commitment to excellence in research, teaching, and service, the Geotechnical Centre plays a vital role in shaping the future of geotechnical engineering in Canada and beyond.

The Water Research Centre

The Water Research Centre (WRC) at the University of Alberta, established in 2025 with foundational support from EPCOR and Alberta Innovates, is an interdisciplinary and collaborative initiative dedicated to advancing excellence in water research across the campus. With a vision to become an internationally recognized hub for knowledge and the development of integrated, innovative, and sustainable strategies to address water-related issues, the Centre provides a clear and coordinated focus for forward-looking water research, education, and industry collaboration. The WRC draws on the expertise of faculty members from three colleges: the College of Health Sciences, the College of Natural and Applied Sciences, and the College of Social Sciences and Humanities, and benefits from a diverse, multidisciplinary research cohort. The Centre actively collaborates with municipalities, utilities, government agencies, Indigenous communities, and international partners to develop practical, evidence-based solutions that ensure safe, reliable, and equitable water systems. The Centre supports collaborative research programs, industry partnerships, and innovative training opportunities for graduate and undergraduate students.

Centre for Computational Geostatistics (CCG)

The Centre for Computational Geostatistics (CCG) at the University of Alberta is an internationally recognized research and teaching hub focused on advancing the practice of geostatistics through applied research, methodology development, and professional education. The CCG supports cross-disciplinary work in areas such as orebody modelling, spatial uncertainty quantification, and data-driven decision-making, providing an environment where novel computational and statistical approaches are developed and translated into tools and workflows relevant to the resource sector and beyond. Through its strong connections with industry and its commitment to training highly qualified personnel, the CCG strengthens the department’s capacity to lead research at the intersection of subsurface characterization, predictive modelling, and responsible resource development.

The Assistant Professor role is the starting point on the Academic Faculty Member career pathway at the University of Alberta. Faculty Members are Full Members of the department and play an active role in democratic processes and governance. The responsibilities of the roles include active participation in teaching, research, and service:

• Teaching (40%): Participation in teaching programs, including classroom teaching, supervision of students conducting research, and personal interactions with and advising students. An Academic Faculty member may decide on specific course content and instructional methodology, recognizing the approved course description, and academic policy approved by the Department, the Faculty, and the University. Teaching is year-round with most courses in the Fall (September to December) and Winter (January to April) semesters. Teaching assignments are decided in discussion with the Department Chair. As the Canadian Engineering Accreditation Board accredits the undergraduate degree programs in our Faculty, licensure as a Professional Engineer or Licensee in Alberta is required for faculty members teaching engineering design content. Licensure must be obtained within five years of the hire date.
• Research (40%): Participation in research, including the preparation or performance of creative works and reflective inquiry, and disseminating research results by means appropriate to the discipline. Academic Faculty members are encouraged to seek funding for research from granting agencies or other sources.
• Service (20%): An Academic Faculty member shall be actively engaged in service to the University and participate in the collegial responsibilities of departmental, Faculty, and University governance. Provision of service to the discipline of the Academic Faculty member; participation in the governance of the University, the Faculty, and the Department, and dissemination of knowledge to the general public by making available the Academic Faculty member’s expertise and knowledge of the discipline.

The Department Chair supervises Faculty Members. Annually, Faculty Members prepare and submit a report of their university responsibilities to the Department Chair and the Dean. We offer a competitive market salary. For information about the responsibilities, salary, benefits, leaves, and related details, see the most recent collective agreement for Academic Faculty Members.

The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering / The School of Mining and Petroleum Engineering

The Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, which also encompasses the School of Mining and Petroleum Engineering, believes that innovation, professionalism, and excellence stem from faculty members who value collaboration, diversity, equity, and inclusivity of perspectives. The Department aims to maintain its position among the top schools in North America. Our faculty members have developed dynamic and collaborative research programs in all areas of Civil, Environmental, Mining, and Petroleum Engineering and have engaged in partnerships that range from not-for-profits to large corporations. The Department is committed to the development of faculty members’ growth as leaders – both inside and outside the University. Our graduate program attracts dedicated students from leading institutions worldwide and presently has an enrolment of over 500 students, including approximately 200 PhD students.

Working at the University of Alberta and Living in Edmonton

The University of Alberta is in Edmonton, home to over one million people and Alberta’s capital. Edmonton offers a vibrant start-up ecosystem with several large locally-owned construction and manufacturing companies, federal and provincial government offices, an international airport, a city council dedicated to innovation as a ‘smart city’, a focus on urban development, and ending homelessness. The city offers the amenities of a large urban centre while maintaining a friendly atmosphere. Many faculty members live within walking or biking distance from campus in neighbourhoods with various housing options from condos to detached homes in one of Canada’s most affordable cities. Edmonton is known internationally for its thriving arts scene with a variety of family activities, an array of indoor and outdoor sports and fitness opportunities, one of North America’s largest stretches of urban parkland, and top-ranked healthcare services. The campus offers childcare, and there are multiple housing options within steps of campus. Faculty Members are offered parental and medical leave, retirement benefits, and healthcare benefits. The Faculty of Engineering values families and aims to minimize their long distance separation when possible through our spouse/partner hiring practices. We invite you to visit these websites for information about the University of Alberta (www.ualberta.ca/facultyand-staff/index.html), the Faculty of Engineering (www.ualberta.ca/engineering/index.html), and the City of Edmonton (www.edmonton.ca).

Candidates must hold a Ph.D. in their respective field—such as Geotechnical, Geoenvironmental, Environmental, Mining, Water Resources, Civil Engineering, or a closely related discipline—by the appointment start date, and demonstrate either an established record or exceptional potential for excellence in research and education. The successful applicant will show a strong commitment to high-quality teaching and effective mentoring at both undergraduate and graduate levels, alongside demonstrated ability or clear potential to develop and sustain an externally funded research program. Evidence of scholarly achievement appropriate to the candidate’s career stage is also required, reflecting a trajectory of impactful contributions to their field.

Application Instructions

Click "Apply Now" and provide the listed documents in one single file. The research and teaching statements should reflect the candidate’s values, work-related skills, and experience.

1. Cover letter that includes highlights of the candidate's profile and clearly indicates how they can contribute to the cluster vision.
2. Curriculum vitae (CV) including the candidate’s research, teaching, and service experience related to the role and responsibilities as well as the qualifications above.
3. Research statement that outlines main areas of current research, along with short- and long-term research goals for a research program (2 pages maximum).
4. Teaching statement that includes past teaching/mentoring experience; a brief teaching philosophy; and evidence of, or potential for, teaching effectiveness (2 pages maximum).
5. The names of at least three referees. The referees will only be contacted if the candidates are selected for interviews.

Review of applications will begin June 4, 2026 at 11:59 PM.

The successful candidate will be offered a tenured or tenure-track appointment at the rank of Assistant, Associate, or Full Professor, including a comprehensive benefits package.

The terms and conditions of this appointment are governed by Schedule A of the collective agreement between the Board of Governors of the University of Alberta and the Association of Academic Staff of the University of Alberta.