The University of Guelph and Talent Innovation Canada are running paid agri-food industry research placements through the Arrell Food Institute. The inaugural 2026–27 cohort is already underway, and the University states that additional cohorts are expected to begin in Fall 2027 and Fall 2028. A new application window for the 2027 cohort has not yet been announced.
TICAN–Arrell Food Institute Agri-Food Research Placements
Arrell Food Institute at the University of Guelph has partnered with Talent Innovation Canada (TICAN) to connect graduate students and postdoctoral scholars with Canadian agri-food companies.
Participants work on industry-linked research projects designed to accelerate innovation, strengthen food-system resilience and help translate academic expertise into practical technologies and commercial outcomes.
Research Themes and Industry Projects
The inaugural cohort includes projects involving companies and organisations working across food production, alternative proteins, agricultural finance, net-zero agri-food systems and food technologies.
Current project partners listed by the University include organisations such as:
- Biophi;
- Canadian Alliance for Net-Zero Agri-food;
- Farm Credit Canada;
- Genuine Taste;
- Growcer;
- Maia Farms;
- McCain Foods Canada;
- Semex; and
- YEX Bio.
Who Was Eligible in the 2026–27 Cohort?
The University of Guelph’s inaugural cohort accepted:
- eligible thesis-based master’s students;
- eligible doctoral students; and
- University of Guelph postdoctoral scholars.
Future cohort eligibility may be revised. Applicants interested in Fall 2027 should confirm the final programme rules when the next call is released.
Placement Duration and Funding Model
For the inaugural cohort, postdoctoral and doctoral placements were designed to run for approximately 16 months.
University reporting on the programme states that funding packages can reach up to C$160,000 for doctoral students and postdoctoral scholars over a 16-month placement, depending on the project and final funding approval.
How to Prepare for the Expected Fall 2027 Cohort
- Monitor Arrell Food Institute and University of Guelph Research Alerts for the next cohort announcement.
- Update your CV with research methods, industry collaboration and measurable project outcomes.
- Prepare a concise statement explaining how your research can solve practical agri-food or food-system problems.
- Discuss participation with your current postdoctoral supervisor if institutional approval may be required.
- Review potential industry partners and identify projects aligned with your technical expertise.
- Apply only after the University publishes the official 2027 application instructions and deadline.
Frequently Asked Questions
Are TICAN–Arrell Food Institute applications open now?
No. The 2026–27 application period has closed.
Will there be a 2027 cohort?
The University of Guelph states that additional cohorts are expected to begin in Fall 2027 and Fall 2028.
When will 2027 applications open?
The University has not yet announced the next application window or deadline.
Can postdoctoral scholars participate?
Yes. University of Guelph postdoctoral scholars were explicitly eligible for the inaugural TICAN–AFI cohort.
Official Sources
| 2026–27 applications | Closed |
|---|---|
| Next cohort | Expected Fall 2027 |
| Next application deadline | Not yet announced |
| Last verified | 20 September 2026 |
