aerial view of UCalgary campus

Canada Global Impact+ Research Talent Initiative

Recruiting leading international researchers to UCalgary

About the initiative

On December 9, 2025, the Government of Canada announced $1.7 billion to launch the Canada Global Impact+ Research Talent Initiative, a suite of four programs that will attract leading international researchers to Canada.

Through this initiative, the Government of Canada will invest up to $1.7 billion over 12 years to attract and support more than 1,000 leading international and expatriate researchers, including Francophone researchers. Recruitment will target individuals who are advancing world-leading research in critical fields that will deliver direct economic, societal and health benefits for Canadians.

Program contacts

Research Chairs and Emerging Leaders: vpr@ucalgary.ca

Training Awards

Research Infrastructure Fund: vpr@ucalgary.ca

 

Impact+ programs

Research Chairs program

New chairs and their teams will advance transformational research projects that can be applied and/or commercialized by connecting with receptors in industry, government and society, while also developing the next generation of highly qualified personnel.

Learn more

Associated Programs for Research Chairs

Research Infrastructure Fund: Establishes a complementary stream of research infrastructure support to ensure the recruited research chairs and ECRs have the world-class facilities they need to achieve their research goals.

Emerging Leaders program: Designed to attract international early career researchers (ECRs), who will add more global talent to the Canadian research ecosystem, bringing in fresh ideas, diverse perspectives and significant potential.

Research Training Awards

This program will support the recruitment of doctoral students and postdoctoral researchers, securing the current and future talent needed to drive innovation and growth in our strategic industries.

Learn more

Strategic priority areas

Impact+ programs focus on strategic priority areas established by the Government of Canada to address pressing global and domestic challenges, strengthen Canada’s contribution to international research and innovation, and generate lasting social and economic benefits.


Advanced digital technologies (including artificial intelligence, quantum and cybersecurity)

Health, including biotechnology

Clean technology and resource value chains

Environment, climate resilience and the Arctic

Food and water security

Democratic and community resilience

Manufacturing and advanced materials

Defence and dual-use technologies

“As other countries constrain academic freedoms and undermine cutting-edge research, Canada is investing in—and doubling down on—science ...Today’s investment is about securing Canada’s place at the forefront of discovery and innovation and leveraging our strength in science to support our future well-being and prosperity for generations to come.”

The Honourable Mélanie Joly

Minister of Industry and Minister responsible for Canada Economic Development for Quebec Regions