The University of Alberta has been named as the landing place for a pair of global research leaders as part of a new federal chair program designed to accelerate breakthroughs.
The Eddie Goldenberg Research Chairs of Canada program supports institutions in attracting world-leading researchers whose work will help build a stronger, more resilient Canada.
Dr. Verna Yiu, U of A provost and vice-president (academic), says the university greatly appreciates the Government of Canada’s investment in these researchers and their work.
“Funding from the Eddie Goldenberg Research Chairs helps us bring top global talent to Alberta,” says Yiu. “This expertise bolsters our academic research environment and expands training opportunities for our students.”
Each chair is worth $1 million annually for eight years, with the possibility of a four-year funded extension.
Dr. Aminah Robinson Fayek, U of A vice-president of research, adds that integrating global expertise into the U of A’s research ecosystem provides teams with new insights and tools to train the next generation of Canadian innovators.
“These new research leaders will address major challenges to benefit communities across Canada.”
The U of A chairs will be announced at a later date once their appointments are finalized.
About the Eddie Goldenberg Research Chairs of Canada
In December 2025, the federal government launched the Canada Global Impact+ Research Talent Initiative, a suite of programs designed to attract leading international researchers to Canada. This initiative represents one of the largest recruitment programs of its kind globally, uniquely structured for exceptional speed and flexibility in securing top research talent. In July 2026, the awards were renamed the Eddie Goldenberg Research Chairs of Canada, after former prime minister Jean Chrétien’s longtime chief of staff and adviser.