Indigenous Forestry Chair - University of Alberta, Edmonton

AI Summary

The University of Alberta in Edmonton, Alberta, is seeking an Endowed Chair (Assistant/Associate Professor) in Indigenous Forestry. This tenure-track role focuses on decolonizing forestry curriculum and advancing Indigenous perspectives in forest management.

Key duties include leading community-driven research and developing experiential learning opportunities. Top requirements involve a PhD in a relevant field, a deep understanding of Indigenous knowledge systems, and a demonstrated ability to collaborate effectively with Indigenous communities. This position is restricted to candidates who identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit.

About the Opportunity

The University of Alberta invites applications for a significant tenure-track Endowed Chair position in Indigenous Forestry, a role pivotal to advancing reconciliation and decolonization within the academic sphere. This vital position aligns with the University’s Indigenous Strategic Plan, Braiding Past, Present, and Future, aiming to transform forestry education and research by integrating Indigenous knowledge systems and Western scientific practices. The successful candidate will be instrumental in fostering reciprocal partnerships with Indigenous communities across Alberta and beyond, addressing contemporary forestry challenges through innovative solutions.

This unique opportunity is supported by an endowment from the Forest Resource Improvement Association of Alberta (FRIAA), providing substantial start-up funds, financial support for research initiatives, and funding to hire graduate students. Furthermore, a dedicated community engagement and research coordinator will be hired to support the Chair’s research and outreach activities for the initial five years, ensuring robust community connections and impactful research outcomes. The University of Alberta is committed to creating an inclusive environment where Indigenous perspectives are valued and respected, making this a truly impactful role within the academic and broader community.

Key Responsibilities and Expertise

As the Endowed Chair, the successful candidate will lead in designing and delivering two core courses in Indigenous forestry, meticulously integrating Indigenous knowledge systems with Western forest science. This includes developing field-based, experiential learning opportunities that emphasize cultural protocols, Ceremony, and Traditional Knowledge Systems, fostering a culturally responsive and inclusive learning environment for both Indigenous and non-Indigenous students. Mentorship will be a crucial aspect, guiding students in their academic, career, and personal development within the context of sustainable forestry practices and land management.

A significant component of this role involves leading interdisciplinary, community-driven research initiatives that directly address critical forestry challenges relevant to the sector, while prioritizing the needs and aspirations of Indigenous communities. This will involve building and maintaining strong partnerships with Indigenous communities and the forestry sector to co-develop relevant research projects. The Chair will be responsible for disseminating research outcomes through diverse channels, including peer-reviewed publications and community presentations, ensuring that Indigenous communities can understand and apply the knowledge generated. Securing external funding for research initiatives and fostering interdisciplinary collaborations will also be key, alongside supporting capacity-building programs in GIS and sustainable forest management practices that align with community priorities and enhance local knowledge and leadership. The candidate is expected to contribute to the service and leadership of the department, faculty, or university, advocating for the integration of Indigenous perspectives across academic programs and promoting dialogue on Indigenous sovereignty and Traditional Ecological Knowledge systems.

Candidate Profile and Application

The University of Alberta seeks a dynamic scholar with a Ph.D. in progress (completion expected within one year) or completed in Forestry, Environmental Science, Native Studies, Ecology, Environmental Sociology, Indigenous Methodologies, Indigenous Land-Use, or a related field. The ideal candidate will possess research expertise focusing on sustainable practices in land-use and community engagement, demonstrating a profound commitment to incorporating Indigenous knowledge systems and fostering research that aligns with the needs and priorities of Indigenous communities. Essential teaching experience includes the ability to instruct and mentor students at both undergraduate and graduate levels, with a proven track record of engaging Indigenous perspectives and knowledge in curriculum development and delivery.

Crucially, candidates must demonstrate an exceptional ability to build respectful, reciprocal relationships with Indigenous communities, coupled with a deep understanding of Indigenous cultures, practices, and knowledge systems, particularly within Alberta. A commitment to fostering trust and collaboration with Indigenous Elders, community leaders, and other stakeholders is paramount. Preferred attributes include experience in decolonizing curricula, fostering inclusive academic environments, familiarity with diverse Indigenous nations in Alberta (First Nations, Métis, and Inuit), strong interpersonal skills for multidisciplinary team collaboration, and Indigenous language knowledge in Cree (Néhiyaw), Blackfoot (Niitsitapi), Iroquois (Haudenosaunee), Ojibway/Saulteaux (Anishinaabe), or Stoney (Nakoda). This competition is restricted to candidates who identify as First Nations, Métis, or Inuit, and applicants are invited to self-identify in their application. Shortlisted candidates will be asked to provide documentation or community affirmation of their Indigenous citizenship, membership, or affiliation, consistent with University of Alberta and Tri-Council guidelines.