Agri Research Chair in Gambling, Mental Health, and

**Department** Faculty of Arts - Psychology Dept

**Posted date** September 5, 2024

**Closing date** Will remain open until filled.

**Position Type** Full Time

**Description**:
**Position Summary**

**The Position**

The Research Chair will be a scholar in Developmental or Clinical Science with a growing international reputation for their research at the intersections of gambling behaviours, mental health, and addiction in relation to technology. We welcome applicants with expertise that complements and broadens our current strengths in Developmental Science coupled with substantive expertise in advanced developmental research and statistical methodology. We particularly welcome applicants with research programs that use innovative developmental methods and technology.

This position is supported by funding from the Alberta Gambling Research Institute (AGRI). AGRI is a consortium of the University of Alberta, University of Calgary, and the University of Lethbridge. AGRI’s mission is to facilitate evidence-based broad research that informs gambling public policy and educates Albertans and the wider public about the effects of gambling. The Institute values independent and excellent multi-disciplinary research; scientific knowledge and information; collaboration; accountability; and informing public policy.

Responsibilities for the position include maintaining a world-class and externally funded research program in the field of Developmental or Clinical Science with a focus on gambling behaviours, mental health and addiction studies; teaching in the undergraduate and graduate programs with a focus on courses in developmental and clinical science; and supervising undergraduate and graduate students (MA and PhD) and postdoctoral fellows. Teaching load for this position is two courses per year. The AGRI Chair will also be expected to build networks and partnerships within the U of A, and externally, to support the advancement of research and scholarship in the field of gambling, mental health and addiction studies. The AGRI Chair will be expected to maintain awareness of major AGRI events, funding opportunities, and strategic research priorities. Salary will be commensurate with experience and qualifications in accordance with the Faculty Agreement as per the negotiated salary scales. This position offers a comprehensive benefits package.

The appointment as AGRI Research Chair is for an initial 5-year term, renewable depending on funding availability. Thereafter, the chair-holder will hold a regular faculty appointment in the Department of Psychology in the Faculty of Arts.

**Minimum Qualifications**
- a PhD in Psychology or a related/relevant academic discipline (e.g., Human Development and Family Studies) by the date of appointment. Postdoctoral experience is preferred;
- evidence of an impactful research program in the fields of gambling behaviours, mental health, and addiction or risky behaviours in adolescent and/or adult populations using innovative research methods and technology;
- a track-record of publications in developmental journals;
- a track-record of successful research funding or the potential for securing external research funding in the future;
- teaching experience at the university level commensurate with their career stage. Ability to teach or experience teaching courses in developmental psychology, introduction to clinical psychology, and abnormal psychology is an asset.

Hiring decisions for this position will be made on the basis of demonstrated research excellence, strong teaching ability, leadership, and fit with Department needs.

**Working at the University of Alberta**

Founded in 1908, the University of Alberta is one of Canada's largest and most-respected research universities. It serves over 41,000 students in over 200 undergraduate and 500 graduate and professional programs. In 2022, the University’s Indigenous Strategic Plan was implemented, reflecting an important step in our institution’s commitment to reconciliation in post-secondary education and research, addressing the historical legacy of the residential school system and Canada’s colonial history. The University’s principles and actions and its EDI Strategic Plan are underpinned by respect for the dignity, rights, and full participation of all those who live, work, and learn within the university.

The Faculty of Arts is the oldest and most diverse faculty on campus and is one of the largest research and teaching centres in Western Canada. The Department of Psychology has 29 Faculty members including 3 Canada Research Chairs, approximately 3,000 undergraduate majors and 70 graduate students across its multiple degree programs, and teaches around 20,000 students per year. The Department of Psychology has a long and distinguished history and a lively, productive present. Current research themes include behavioural, cognitive and social neuroscience; developmental science; cognition; comparative cognition a