About

Dr. Steven Murphy is the fourth President and Vice-Chancellor of Ontario Tech University. He began his presidency on March 1, 2018, and has been renewed for a third term through 2030.

A bold and forward-thinking academic leader, Dr. Murphy is redefining the role of the modern university, positioning Ontario Tech as a place where technology is developed with purpose, responsibility and a commitment to improving lives. He believes that universities have a unique responsibility to ensure innovation creates economic opportunity, strengthens public trust, and contributes to societal well-being.

Under his leadership, Ontario Tech has strengthened its position in energy, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing and industry-driven education. Dr. Murphy has focused the university’s efforts on developing talent, advancing research and building partnerships that address complex economic and societal challenges.

Energy leadership is central to his vision. By bringing together Ontario Tech's strengths in nuclear energy, electricity systems, artificial intelligence, advanced manufacturing and mining, he is helping develop the people, ideas and technologies needed for the future of the energy sector. His approach recognizes that energy is not only a technical challenge, but also a human one, requiring responsible leadership, public confidence, community engagement and a highly skilled workforce.

A strong advocate for human-centred innovation, Dr. Murphy champions the responsible adoption of artificial intelligence across education, research and industry. He believes emerging technologies should enhance human potential, with transparency, ethics and trust guiding how they are developed and deployed.

His approach to education begins with meeting learners where they are. In a world where information is readily available, he sees educators increasingly serving as guides and mentors, helping learners build judgement, curiosity, adapatability and the confidence to navigate complexity. Technology can make learning more personalized and accessible, but meaningful education remains fundamentally human.

Dr. Murphy is also committed to broadening pathways into STEM and expanding opportunities for women and underrepresented groups. He believes diverse perspectives and experiences are essential to developing better ideas, strengthening innovation and addressing the world’s most pressing challenges.

A respected scholar, speaker and advisor, Dr. Murphy works with governments, industry and academic partners to advance innovation, workforce development and economic growth. His leadership is grounded in the belief that technological progress must be matched by ethical leadership, social responsibility and public trust.

Before joining Ontario Tech, Dr. Murphy served as Dean of the Ted Rogers School of Management at Toronto Metropolitan University. He previously held academic leadership roles at Carleton University's Sprott School of Business. His award-winning  research has explored the role of strategic decision-making, leadership, governance and the human dimensions of organizational success.

Dr. Murphy holds a Bachelor of Commerce, a Master of Management Studies, a Doctorate in Management specializing in Organizational Behaviour and a Master of Laws. He currently serves on the boards of Lakeridge Health and the National Research Council of Canada