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Postdoctoral Scholar - Secure Agentic Systems

Department of Medicine, University of Alberta

Department of Medicine, University of Alberta

Edmonton, AB, Canada
Posted on Mar 4, 2026
Apply now

This competition will be used to fill two positions.

This position has an initial appointment of one year, with a possible one-year extension contingent on satisfactory performance and funding approval.

Location - This role is in-person at North Campus, Edmonton.

Position Summary

Two postdoctoral fellow positions are anticipated within the Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering at the University of Alberta, under the supervision of Dr. Scott Dick and Dr. Xingyu Li. The positions focus on the design and evaluation of secure agentic systems, with particular emphasis on developing novel methods to protect the integrity of internal prompt–response cycles in multi-agent AI systems. These positions are funded in part by Cisco Canada Inc., and successful candidates will be subject to the intellectual property agreements between Cisco Canada Inc. and the University of Alberta.

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.

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 de toute orientation sexuelle ou identité et expression de genre; et toutes les personnes qui peuvent contribuer à la diversification des idées et à l'université à postuler.
The Faculty of Engineering is one of North America’s top engineering schools, known for innovation, collaboration, and impact. It fosters an exceptional student experience through a holistic approach that combines technical excellence with emotional intelligence. With strong community engagement, interdisciplinary research, and a commitment to societal well-being, the faculty prepares students to lead in a rapidly evolving, global engineering landscape.
  • Applicants must have earned a Ph.D. in Computer Science, Computer Engineering, Mathematics, or a closely related field, with specialization in artificial intelligence or agentic systems. Preferred qualifications include:
  • Demonstrated expertise in the design, implementation, and evaluation of agentic systems, security policies, and security systems, evidenced by high-quality publications
  • Strong software design and development skills (including testing), demonstrated through a software portfolio (e.g., GitHub)
  • Excellent written and verbal communication skills
  • Experience mentoring junior graduate students

Application Instructions

Click “Apply Now” and submit your complete application, including your curriculum vitae and contact details for three references.

Preference will be given to complete applications received by February 28, 2026; however, we will continue to accept applications beyond that date until the closing date.

The position has a comprehensive benefits package.

The terms and conditions of this appointment are governed by the Collective Agreement between the Board of Governors of the University of Alberta and the Postdoctoral Fellows Association of the University of Alberta.

The main duties of the Postdoctoral Fellows include, but are not limited to:

  • Leading the theoretical analysis and design of new security measures
  • Designing and executing robust evaluation programs for these measures
  • Writing and publishing research findings in high-quality venues
Apply now
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