Research Chair, Research in Additive Manufacturing and Prototyping in Saskatoon

Saskatchewan Polytechnic is committed to building a diverse and representative workforce that reflects the communities we serve. We recognize that First Nations, Métis, and Inuit peoples have been historically underrepresented in the labour market due to systemic barriers, and that advancing reconciliation includes addressing these inequities within our own institution. Strengthening Indigenous representation among employees is a priority in Sask Polytech’s Inclusive Excellence: Equity, Diversity, Inclusion & Reconciliation Strategy 2025–2030.

The Sustainability-Led Integrated Centres of Excellence (SLICE) is a solution-oriented applied research centre at Saskatchewan Polytechnic — advancing sustainable resource management with a full life-cycle lens on economic activities in Saskatchewan’s energy and resources, manufacturing, agriculture and forestry sectors. By working with SLICE, industry and community partners can capture new opportunities, solve everyday problems and realize economic, social and environmental benefits. SLICE’s collaborative approach brings together the expertise needed to address complex issues related to sustainability.

Based at the Saskatoon campus of Saskatchewan Polytechnic, the Research in Additive Manufacturing and Prototyping (RAMP) lab is part of the Innovative Manufacturing Centre under SLICE. RAMP has a particular strength in using 3D printing, mechatronics, computer-aided-design (CAD), and automation to advance sustainable manufacturing. RAMP features state-of-the-art facilities in additive manufacturing and prototyping and has access to a talented student pool in programs such as Design and Manufacturing Engineering Technology (DMET) at Sask Polytech. The Research Chair brings subject matter expertise and advanced technical skills to lead a program of applied research, working collaboratively with industry and community partners to solve applied research questions.

Reporting to the Director of SLICE and leading an established and high-performing team, the Research Chair will provide leadership to advance collaborative research programs in innovative manufacturing and prototyping and will be expected to obtain external funding for research projects. Furthermore, the Research Chair will bring experience in and commitment to mentoring faculty and students in applied research. The full-time commitment of the position is focused on engaging industry and community with applied research projects and defining and realizing significant research goals for the community and manufacturing industry within Saskatchewan.

SLICE values diversity and welcomes applications from individuals with diverse backgrounds, experiences and perspectives.

Specific Accountabilities

• Lead and promote applied research initiatives in design, manufacturing and prototyping for Saskatchewan Polytechnic;
• Identify and actively procure funding opportunities and provide leadership in the preparation and submission of funding requests/proposals in an applied and partner-driven framework;
• Ensure project progress by planning and coordinating within project timelines in conjunction with Research Associate/s;
• Assign research project related duties, train, and mentor research project personnel in research techniques and/or applicable technical areas;
• Provide supervision and mentorship to other team members, including research associates, technologists and student research assistants;
• Plan the overall direction and objectives for research in collaboration with partner organizations, and collaborate with research team members to choose research methods and experimental approaches;
• Develop and monitor research budgets;
• Conduct applied research utilizing methodologies suitable to the research question and ensure quality control of results;
• Assess, interpret, and evaluate outcomes of research;
• Remain current in emerging trends and technologies in additive manufacturing and prototype design.

Communication and Outreach

• Foster and maintain mutually beneficial research partnerships, locally, provincially, nationally and internationally, with colleagues and stakeholders in research;
• Ensure relationships with partners and parties of interest are optimally realized and maintained;
• Plan and lead meetings with the partner organizations (may include industry, government, Indigenous communities, non-profit organizations, academic collaborators and others) and act as primary point of contact;
• Undertake dissemination and mobilization of knowledge in a format appropriate to the project (e.g. completing project reports, publishing in technical or academic journals, contributing to industry publications, providing community presentations, presenting webinars, developing social media content and posts; etc.);
• Collaborate with internal and external contacts such as educational, funding, and research bodies;
• Lead workshops, tours, demonstrations, and networking events, and participate in events organized by others;
• Promote applied research and research opportunities within Saskatchewan Polytechnic.

Administration

• Manage the effective use of research resources;
• Allocate resources and workflow within the RAMP team;
• Work in collaboration with the leadership team in the Faculty of Technology and Skilled Trades and the Office of Applied Research and Innovation at Saskatchewan Polytechnic;
• Contribute to applied research reporting and metrics as requested;
• Attend regular meetings of SLICE and the applied research group at Saskatchewan Polytechnic;
• Implement and maintain safety protocols related to the area of research;
• Follow all academic regulations and/or policies adopted by Saskatchewan Polytechnic and/or granting agencies relating to research and scholarly work;
• Contribute to creating a positive, diverse, and inclusive work and learning environment;
• Other duties as required.

Required Qualifications, Skills and Abilities

• A graduate degree in a relevant field (such as engineering, design engineering, manufacturing, computer assisted design, mechatronics) combined with a recognized professional or technical accreditation. Equivalent professional experience will be considered.
• Professional engineering designation considered an asset.
• Minimum five years professional experience in a technical, research and/or project management role. Applied research experience is considered an asset.
• Demonstrated expertise in research methods, including skills in data analysis, interpretation, and reporting.
• Experience managing projects including project budgets, scheduling, and risks.
• Effective and creative problem-solving skills with attention to detail.
• Effective oral and written communication skills.
• Effective organizational and time management skills.
• Comfort to work within a team environment.
• Appropriate safety training (e.g. WHMIS, laboratory safety) or willing to obtain this training.
• Experience supervising students and/or direct reports in a professional setting.
• Demonstrates valuing Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion.