Distinguished Research Chairs

The purpose of the Distinguished Research Chairs (DRC) Program is to recognize uOttawa Tier 1 Canada Research Chairs who have completed two consecutive terms, and who continue to demonstrate outstanding accomplishments in research and training of students.

About the program

The DRC is a five-year non-renewable term following a positive recommendation from the Faculty Dean and from the University’s Research Chairs Evaluation Committee (RCEC). Chairholders receive a $35,000 annual research stipend for the duration of the chair.

Nomination dossiers are to be submitted by Faculty Deans to the Office of the Vice-President, Research and Innovation and are adjudicated by the RCEC.

The nomination dossier, including external evaluations, is assessed based on the following criteria:

  • The level of research excellence and productivity achieved by the nominee;
  • The level of impact and international recognition in the field;
  • The ability to have successfully attracted and retained excellent students, trainees and future researchers; and plans to do so in the next chair mandate;
  • The relevance of the proposed research program in relation to theUniversity’s Strategic Areas of Research;
  • The originality and quality of the proposed research program, and the efforts to promote equity, diversity and inclusion in research.

Nomination process

Teaching Release

Chairholders may be eligible for teaching release of a one-semester course (2 to 3 credits/year) as negotiated with the Dean of the Faculty.

End of Chair Mandate

The University provides two additional years from the end date of the chair to expend any residual funds remaining in the research account. No extension beyond this period will be granted.

Chairholders