The University of Alberta, its buildings, labs and research stations are primarily located on the territory of the Néhiyaw (Cree), Niitsitapi (Blackfoot), Métis, Nakoda (Stoney), Dene, Haudenosaunee (Iroquois) and Anishinaabe (Ojibway/Saulteaux), lands that are now known as part of Treaties 6, 7 and 8 and homeland of the Métis. The University of Alberta respects the sovereignty, lands, histories, languages, knowledge systems and cultures of all First Nations, Métis and Inuit nations.

The Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine at the University of Alberta (U of A) holds a unique place in Canadian higher education and health sciences. With three campuses across Alberta, it is a faculty dedicated extensively to rehabilitation, advancing the disciplines of physical therapy, occupational therapy, and speech-language pathology alongside graduate programs in rehabilitation science. Since its formal establishment in 1976, the Faculty has grown into a nationally and internationally recognized centre for innovation in teaching, research, and clinical education.

Reporting to the College Dean and Vice-Provost, Health Sciences, the Dean of the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine is responsible for the leadership and administration of all aspects of the operations of the Faculty, including fostering interdisciplinary scholarship and academic programming, budget and fund development. The Dean will also be responsible to develop and implement the next strategic plan for the faculty and to promote collaborative academic and research activities across all programs that will translate to improved health for the diverse populations that we serve.

In addition to the role of senior officer of the Faculty, and a member of the College of Health Sciences Council of Deans’ and the U of A Deans’ Council, the Dean is a senior administrator of the University. The Dean will champion an environment in which world-leading research, excellence in teaching and engaged scholarship flourish. As the face of the Faculty, the Dean will champion faculty engagement in the Scholarship of Teaching and Learning, curricular initiatives, research, and scholarship, professional training, global outreach, and the recruitment of high quality faculty and student talent. Building on the Faculty’s strengths, the Dean will cultivate an environment in which students, faculty and staff thrive.

As a visible and credible leader in the community, the Dean of Rehabilitation Medicine will seek to make the Faculty the first choice for the best and brightest students from Alberta, across Canada, and internationally. The Dean will successfully cultivate impactful relationships with healthcare organizations, educational institutions, all levels of government, Indigenous and ethno-cultural communities, funding partners, corporate leaders, and existing and potential donors to promote academic, clinical, and research activities. By creating new pathways and fostering an environment of excellence, discovery, and collaboration that inspires and motivates, the Dean will ensure that the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine leverages its current successes in educating the next generation of health leaders and visionaries.

The ideal candidate will possess a Ph.D. or an equivalent qualification in rehabilitation science, physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech‐language pathology, or a relevant discipline, with credentials that qualify them for a tenured appointment at the rank of Professor. They will have a substantial record of scholarship and professional accomplishments that showcase their leadership in research, education and practice. They will bring experience in an academic administrative leadership role, such as Dean, Associate Dean, or equivalent, demonstrating a proven ability to build relationships and foster a collaborative culture. The ability to engage and leverage partners and stakeholders for funding support will be vital. Strong interpersonal skills, strategic thinking, and an inclusive leadership approach to problem-solving will be essential. Knowledge of the Canadian healthcare landscape would be an asset.

Additionally, a commitment to advancing the future of rehabilitation medicine will be a hallmark of their collaborative leadership style, reflecting an understanding of how post-secondary institutions can engage in innovative activities that enhance educational and research outcomes.

The appointment as Dean, Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine is for a five-year term with the possibility of renewal. The successful candidate will be offered an academic position with tenure at the rank of Professor.

To explore this opportunity further or to apply, please send an email with the subject line “Dean of Rehabilitation Medicine” to: apply@jssearch.ca

About The University of Alberta

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Based in Edmonton, Alberta, the U of A is a top-ranked public research university recognized nationally and internationally for excellence across humanities, sciences, creative arts, business, engineering, and health sciences, offering over 200 undergraduate and 500 graduate programs across five campuses.

At its heart, the U of A is driven by discovery, truth and innovation. Its mission is to foster a vibrant and supportive learning environment in which knowledge is discovered, disseminated, and applied through teaching, research and creative activity, community involvement, and partnerships. It seeks to give both a national and international voice to innovation, and to position itself among the world’s great universities committed to the public good.

Braiding Past, Present and Future is the University of Alberta’s Indigenous Strategic Plan. It is designed to guide the institution’s commitment to reconciliation in post-secondary education, research, and addressing the historical legacy of the residential school system and Canada’s colonial history in a meaningful and lasting way. The plan is rooted in Sweetgrass Teachings, which take the sweetgrass braid as a representation of 3 “strands” coming together: looking to the past, in-powering the present, and imagining the future.Braiding Past, Present and Future clarifies the university’s responsibilities across learning, research, policy, and community engagement, ensuring that Indigenous voices and perspectives are meaningfully embedded in all aspects of academic and campus life.

Research and innovation are central to the University’s stature. U of A benefits from advanced facilities and substantial research funding and is the home of more than 130 active spinoff companies. Whether in areas like artificial intelligence, health sciences, energy and environmental science, food and agriculture, or Indigenous research, the University pushes at the boundaries of knowledge with an eye toward solving urgent global and local challenges.

About The Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine

The Faculty is home to nearly 1,000 graduate students each year and supports more than 1,300 clinical placements annually, creating a powerful connection between classroom learning and real-world practice. Its programs are offered on 3 different campuses across Alberta utilizing proven synchronized distance learning and teaching technology. Alongside the Main U of A campus, the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine offers programs at its satellite campuses, the U of A Rehab Med Calgary Campus, and the Augustana Campus, located in Camrose. U of A’s Rehab Medicine Faculty prepares future rehabilitation professionals and scholars who play a vital role in promoting health, independence, and quality of life across the lifespan. Students benefit from state-of-the-art facilities, strong partnerships with Alberta Health Services and other health system providers, with a culture that integrates research and clinical training.

The Faculty has developed new partnerships that have contributed to reflections on how to participate in its own path of healing and reconciliation with Indigenous communities. One such partnership is with Treaty 8 First Nations of Alberta, whereby the Faculty aims to create and develop educational activities related to rehabilitation medicine for Albertan high school students in Treaty 8. The faculty will be working to create and build pathways for Treaty 8 students by partnering to develop curriculum that is appropriate and integrates Indigenous knowledge and teaching methods into the classes. In addition, a new gathering, learning and reflection space of reconciliation will be created for Indigenous and non-indigenous students, faculty, staff and community members within Corbett Hall on the Edmonton campus. The Faculty’s ongoing relationship with Indigenous partners is built on a deep respect and a shared desire to see Indigenous Ways of Knowing woven into all rehabilitation education.
Research in the Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine spans a wide range of areas, including spinal cord injury recovery, mental health, robotics and assistive technology, children’s health and language development, and aging. Faculty members secure significant external funding, collaborate across disciplines, and contribute to discoveries that shape rehabilitation practice and policy in Canada and beyond. This research excellence informs teaching and ensures that students graduate with cutting-edge knowledge and skills.

The Faculty of Rehabilitation Medicine is well positioned to seize opportunities created by increasing societal demand for rehabilitation services, technological change in health care delivery, and the imperative for interprofessional collaboration. The next Dean will join a community of faculty, students, staff, and partners dedicated to transforming lives through education, research, and clinical practice, and will lead the Faculty in further strengthening its role as a national and international leader in rehabilitation science.

About Edmonton, Alberta, Canada

Edmonton, the capital of Alberta, is a vibrant, growing city that combines professional opportunity with an exceptional quality of life. With a metropolitan population of over 1.4 million and one of the fastest growth rates in Canada, Edmonton is both youthful and diverse, offering newcomers a welcoming community and a strong sense of belonging. Known as Canada’s Festival City, it is home to a thriving arts and cultural scene, world-class museums, and an acclaimed culinary landscape. Residents also enjoy unparalleled access to nature through North America’s largest stretch of urban parkland along the North Saskatchewan River Valley, which provides year-round opportunities for recreation and adventure.

Economically, Edmonton is one of the most dynamic regions in Canada. While energy remains a cornerstone of its economy, the city is equally recognized for its leadership in health care, education, manufacturing, logistics, clean energy, and technology. The U of A anchors a robust research and innovation ecosystem, fostering collaboration between academia, industry, and government to drive new opportunities. Edmonton’s strategic infrastructure investments, diversified industries, and skilled workforce continue to fuel sustainable growth, making it an attractive hub for ambitious professionals and entrepreneurs alike.

People are drawn to Edmonton for more than its opportunities, they come for the lifestyle it affords. Its growing cultural diversity enriches the community, while excellent public services, strong schools, and access to world-class health care provide stability and confidence for families. For those seeking a city that combines economic vitality, affordability, inclusivity, and endless possibilities for recreation and growth, Edmonton offers an exceptional place to call home.

This position is excluded from the bargaining unit. This is a full-time position with an initial appointment for a five-year term, offering a comprehensive benefits package and an annual salary commensurate with experience. The salary range is $256,386 to $375,500 per annum.

The University of Alberta acknowledges that we are located on Treaty 6 territory, and respects the histories, languages and cultures of First Nations, Métis, Inuit and all FirstPeoples of Canada, whose presence continues to enrich our vibrant community.

The University of Alberta is a community of knowledge seekers, change makers and world shapers who lead with purpose each and every day. We are home to over 14,000 faculty and staff, more than 40,000 students and a growing community of 300,000 alumni worldwide.

Your work will have a meaningful influence on a fascinating cross-section of people - from our students and community members, to our renowned researchers and innovators, making discoveries and generating solutions that make the world healthier, safer, stronger and more just. Learn more.

All qualified candidates are encouraged to apply; however, Canadians and permanent residents will be given priority. If suitable Canadian citizens or permanent residents cannot be found, other individuals will be considered.

At the University of Alberta, we are committed to creating an inclusive and accessible hiring process for all candidates. If you require accommodations to participate in the interview process, please let us know at the time of booking your interview and we will make every effort to accommodate your needs.

We thank all applicants for their interest; however, only those individuals selected for an interview will be contacted.

All University employees have a responsibility to foster a workplace that prioritizes safety in all its forms - physical, cultural, and psychological. This is achieved by promoting a safe environment, adhering to all safety laws, policies and procedures, completing all required safety training, identifying hazards and implementing controls, reporting incidents, and contributing to a culture of belonging and respect, while endeavoring to ensure that all colleagues feel valued and safe to express their thoughts, perspectives and concerns.

The University of Alberta is committed to creating a university community where everyone feels valued, barriers to success are removed, and thriving connections are fostered. We welcome applications from all qualified persons. We encourage women, First Nations, Métis and Inuit persons, members of visible minority groups, persons with disabilities, persons of any sexual orientation or gender identity and expression, and all those who may contribute to the further diversification of ideas and the University to apply.

L'Université de l'Alberta s'engage à créer une communauté universitaire où chaque personne se sent valorisée, où les obstacles à la réussite sont éliminés et où des connexions enrichissantes peuvent se développer. Nous accueillons les demandes de toutes les personnes qualifiées. Nous encourageons les femmes; Premières nations, Métis et Inuits; membres des groupes minoritaires visibles; personnes handicapées; personnes ayant une orientation sexuelle ou une identité et une expression sexospécifique; et tous ceux qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.