The University of Guelph invites applications for two Tier 1 Canada Research Chairs (one SSHRC- or CIHR- based; one NSERC-based) that will sit at the apex of three of the core research themes in its Strategic Research Plan: food, health promotion and individual/family well-being (www.uoguelph.ca/research/facts/strategic_research_plan.shtml). Collectively, these strategic leadership positions will work with and contribute to the research programs of several existing initiatives at the University of Guelph to provide a holistic, integrated understanding of food and human health, with an emphasis on aging and quality of life. These two CRCs will provide a focal and unifying point among many colleges at the University of Guelph, and it is essential that the two positions are complementary, with the successful candidates having a history of interdisciplinary activities.

The University of Guelph has achieved prominence in Canada and around the world as a research-intensive and learner-centred university. The undergraduate and graduate programs of its seven Colleges span the natural and physical sciences, social sciences and humanities. The University has approximately 16,200 undergraduate and 2,000 graduate students, 860 faculty, 2,100 full time staff, and an annual operating budget of over $500 million. Its main campus is located in Guelph, Ontario, a city of over 114,000 that is known for its architectural heritage, vibrant cultural life, varied outdoor activities and has often been rated as one of the best cities to live in Canada. With less than two hours driving to Toronto, seven other universities, the Niagara Wine Region, Lake Huron, and the ski hills of Collingwood, residents can take part in a variety of activities, while enjoying an array of housing possibilities and the convenience of a smaller city.

The SSHRC/CIHR CRC in "Aging, Food and Health" will facilitate the creation of innovative research approaches from a social science perspective toward a common goal of improving the aging process through improved food quality and nutrition choices. This individual will bring together a team of researchers that focuses on understanding food choice as it relates to key transitions in the aging process, residential and institutional contexts that impact nutrition behavior, and how nutrition behaviours can be modified in order to promote health among older adults.

The NSERC CRC in "Aging, Food and Health: A Systems Biology Approach" will apply leading edge approaches in systems biology to unravel the biological complexity underlying the relationships between food, health, and aging using human and/or animal models. The candidate is expected to exploit knowledge obtained from the comprehensive study of gene, protein, and metabolite function, coupled with cellular and/or organismal function, to develop a cross-disciplinary program with direct benefits to health and well-being.

Collaborations would be expected by both Chairs in relation to the creation of innovative food products that can address emerging nutrition needs among older adults, service provision, and the design of educational messages to promote a preventative approach to human health and quality of life while aging.

Candidates for both Chairs must be internationally recognized, outstanding and innovative researchers who have made a major impact in their field; have superior records of attracting and supervising graduate students and postdoctoral fellows; and be proposing original research programs of the highest quality. A commitment toward interdisciplinary research is essential. Disciplinary background is open, but each successful candidate must be appointable within the SSHRC/CIHR domain or the NSERC domain, and to a single department or across two departments within Guelph that conduct research in these domains. The appointments will be tenured at the rank of Associate or Full Professor, with reduced teaching responsibilities. Tier 1 CRC appointments are tenable for seven years and are renewable.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. The University of Guelph is committed to an employment equity program that includes special measures to achieve diversity among its faculty and staff. We therefore particularly encourage applications from qualified aboriginal Canadians, persons with disabilities, members of visible minorities and women.

The CRC program (www.chairs.gc.ca) was established by the Government of Canada to enable Canadian Universities to foster world-class research excellence in the global, knowledge-based economy. Positions are subject to review and final approval by the CRC Secretariat. Review of applications and nominations will begin on May 14, 2010 and continue until the position is filled. Applicants should electronically submit a curriculum vitae, a brief (2-3 page) seven year research program plan, and a record of teaching effectiveness along with contact information for five referees (who will not be contacted without the consent of the candidate), to:

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