Vector Faculty Affiliate Open Call
The Vector Institute invites applications to its Faculty Affiliate program. Faculty at Ontario post-secondary institutions who are working in Fundamental Machine Learning & Deep Learning, Safe & Trustworthy AI, AI for Health & Scientific Discovery, and Generative Models. Vector is also interested in research that applies machine learning techniques more broadly across scientific and engineering disciplines, as well as in areas such as physical AI, agentic systems, and domains including energy & natural resources, transportation, agriculture, manufacturing, and robotics.
The application window is now open from August 17 till September 14th. Vector plans to award approximately 20 positions to the Faculty Affiliate program for a three year term.
Evaluation Criteria
Faculty Affiliates are evaluated and selected based on their:
- Excellence in research at the highest international level, indicated by high-impact publications and research awards/honours.
- Active academic research program that aligns with Vector’s strategic priorities. Vector is recognized internationally for its Fundamental Machine Learning & Deep Learning, Safe & Trustworthy AI, AI for Health & Scientific Discovery and Generative Models. Vector is also interested in research that applies machine learning techniques more broadly across scientific and engineering disciplines, as well as in areas such as physical AI, agentic systems, and domains including energy & natural resources, transportation, agriculture, manufacturing, and robotics.
- Potential for engagement with the Vector community, including industry sponsors and partner organizations.
Eligibility Criteria
To be considered, candidates must hold an active faculty status (including adjunct or status-only appointments) at an Ontario post-secondary institution and have an established research program that either develops AI methods or meaningfully applies these methods to address research questions within their domain.
This program is not designed for those seeking to develop initial AI expertise.
To apply
Application Package should include:
- A curriculum vitæ.
- A statement identifying how the Vector Institute will contribute to your program of research and how you will contribute to the Vector Institute, including its strategic research priorities (1-2 page maximum).
- Two (2) reference letters. Reference letters may be submitted to research@vectorinstitute.ai.
- Optional: Justification of research venues and impact statement, intended for those working in interdisciplinary areas outside of core ML conferences (NeurIPS, ICLR, etc.) (1 page maximum)
The application will open on August 17th.
The deadline for submission of the application is September 14th, 2026 for candidates that wish to be considered. Reference Letters will be accepted until Sept. 30th, 2026.
Vector is committed to fostering an environment of inclusivity and accessibility that begins with recruitment. Achieving a more equitable, diverse and inclusive research institute is essential to creating excellent, innovative, and impactful research. The Vector Institute is committed to equity and diversity in the workplace and welcomes applications from women, racialized persons/visible minorities, Indigenous peoples, persons with disabilities, and 2SLGBTQIA+ persons. All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply.
If you require an accommodation at any point throughout the recruitment and selection process, please contact amanda.ferneyhough@vectorinstitute.ai.