January 15, 1997
  
  Dr. H. S. Caplan, Head
  Department of Physics and Engineering Physics
  University of Saskatchewan
  116 Science Place
  Saskatoon, Saskatchewan
  S7N 5E2
  
  Dear Dr. Caplan:
  
  I wish to apply for the position of Assistant Professor in the Department of Physics and
  Engineering Physics.  My proposed contributions to teaching in the Engineering Physics
  program, research plan, and curriculum vitae follow this letter, but I would like here to set
  out some of my qualifications for this position.
  
  During my initial postdoctoral work at the University of Calgary, I managed the
  development of a major new airglow imager, from specification and design to calibration
  and installation.  I led the mechanical and optical design efforts and coordinated a diverse
  team of technical and scientific personnel.  The imager has performed exceptionally well
  under extremely harsh conditions and has acquired data of unprecedented quality on the
  polar atmosphere and ionosphere.  While managing the ongoing operation of the imager, I
  have carried forward the analysis of the data, with one manuscript published, another
  submitted, and several other studies in progress.
  
  On the strength of the above work the Canadian Space Agency awarded me a contract to
  study polar ionospheric and atmospheric processes as they relate to the space and terrestrial
  environments.  The contract was renewed in March after a rigorous review of my progress. 
  NSERC have also awarded me a two-year research grant at $10K/year for the study of
  diffuse auroras at high latitudes.
  
  I have now taught two University courses, at both the introductory and upper-year
  undergraduate levels, with very positive evaluations.  I have a strong commitment to
  excellence in teaching, and to contributing to undergraduate and graduate education in
  physics.  Please note that I have applied to the Association of Professional Engineers of
  Saskatchewan for assessment of my academic credentials, preparatory to seeking
  registration as a Professional Engineer, as required by the terms of the announcement of
  the position.
  
  With my skills and experience, I am confident that I can make a significant contribution to
  the teaching and research in the Department. I look forward to hearing from you and the
  selection committee in the next few weeks.
  
  Yours truly,
  
  
  
  David P. Steele, Ph.D.
  
  P.S.  Please regard as current the letters of reference you received about me for the
  previous faculty appointment, except where a new one is provided.
  
  Encls.