The Fields Institute for Research in Mathematical Sciences invites applications for the position of Deputy Director for a three- to five-year term (renewable once) beginning July 1, 2025, or as soon as is practical.

The Deputy Director supports the Institute’s goal of being a global leader in the mathematical sciences by working with the Institute Director, its managers and others from across the Fields network to oversee and advance the scientific and administrative operations of the Institute.

About Fields

Founded in 1992, the Fields Institute is a renowned hub for mathematics research located in downtown Toronto. At the Fields Institute, mathematics research, innovation and education flourish. We foster an inclusive, equitable and collaborative culture where everyone can discover mathematics, and where mathematicians make meaningful contributions to the world. Learn more.

The Fields Institute hosts more than 8,000 visitors annually for workshops, lectures, seminars, summer schools, conferences and outreach events, in person and online. Its operations are supported through grants from the government of Ontario, the federal government of Canada through the Natural Sciences and Engineering Research Council (NSERC) and the United States’ National Science Foundation. The Institute is also sponsored by Ontario’s nine largest universities and by affiliate universities across Ontario, Canada, North America and Europe, as well as by corporate and other institutional bodies.

The Institute is a registered charity in Canada and is overseen by a volunteer Charitable Board.

The Fields Institute is committed to creating an inclusive environment for mathematical research, that actively supports and welcomes the participation of women, young researchers, and underrepresented groups in all our programs. We regularly provide support for underrepresented groups to participate in events at partner institutes. Here at Fields, the organizers for all our scientific events are encouraged to make every effort to include members of these diverse groups as co-organizers, invited speakers, and participants. Diversity is well represented at the Fields Institute by its staff, Board of Directors, and Scientific Advisory Panel.

Role of the Deputy Director

Deputy Director oversees the scientific and operational activities of the Institute. Working in close collaboration with staff, the Deputy Director is responsible for maintaining a high quality ongoing scientific program and sound financial planning and budget management. This role also oversees human resources, information technology, facilities and communications. The Deputy Director supports the Director in developing the strategic direction for the Institute, represents the Institute in the wider community and acts as a mentor for students and early career researchers visiting the Institute. 

Primary Responsibilities:

• Provide ongoing oversight of Institute activities and ensure timely completion of deliverables both to funders and to the Institute’s members;
• Oversee the adjudication of proposals for general scientific and outreach activities;
• Represent the Institute in business affairs;
• Provide financial management and oversight of budgets for both individual programs and for the Institute;
• Serve on committees, both internal and external, connected to the Institute’s work;
• Establish, build and steward relationships with donors and sponsors, including community members, corporations, foundations, and others;
• Help grow the Institute’s formally affiliated institutions and partners.

Education and Experience

The successful candidate will be an active researcher with strong interpersonal and administrative skills and a demonstrated record of accomplishment in the mathematical and related sciences (including mathematics, statistics, computer science, or other mathematical sciences). They will hold a tenured position (Associate or Full Professor) and can demonstrate their enthusiasm and vision for the Fields Institute.

The Deputy Director role will be arranged as a secondment from the successful candidate’s home institution.

Application Instructions

Interested candidates should email the following materials to

1. A letter of application addressing the qualities above,

2. a curriculum vitae, and

3. the names and contact details of three references.

Applications or nominations will be considered until the position is filled, but the Search Committee plans to examine dossiers starting February 28, 2025. We wish to thank all applicants for their interest and effort in applying, however, only candidates selected for an interview will be contacted.