David Layzell is a University of Calgary Professor and the Energy Systems Architect for the Transition Accelerator, a non-profit focused on the net-zero energy system transition in Canada. His research program uses analytical and modeling tools to explore how existing or new technology, business model, policy or social innovations could transform or disrupt the systems that Canadians use for societal provisioning. Using these tools, and through engagement with key stakeholders, he identifies strategies to direct the disruptive forces to achieve societal goals, including, but not limited to, climate change mitigation.
Before assisting in the launch of the Transition Accelerator in 2019, and starting the Canadian Energy System Analysis Research (CESAR) Initiative at the U of C in 2013, Layzell was Executive Director of the Institute for Sustainable Energy, Environment and Economy (ISEEE) at the U of C (2008-12), and the Executive Director of BIOCAP Canada, a research foundation focused on biological solutions to climate change (1998-2008). As a Professor at Queen’s University between 1981 and 2008, he also cofounded a scientific instrumentation company called Qubit Systems Inc. and was elected ‘Fellow of the Royal Society of Canada’ (FRSC) for his research contributions.