Assistant/Associate Professor in National Defense & Security - Engineering

Job Summary

Purdue Engineering invites applications for tenure/tenure-track positions at Assistant or Associate ranks in all engineering disciplines. Purdue University seeks to attract multiple exceptional candidates with interests and expertise related to relevant Defense and security related fields, including but not limited to directed energy, hypersonics, integrated sensing, electronic warfare, energetic materials, propulsion, space technology, microelectronics, cybersecurity, biotechnology, quantum science, future generation wireless technology, advanced materials, trusted AI and autonomy, integrated network systems-of-systems, human-machine interfaces, supply-chain logistics, and manufacturing. Successful candidates will be expected to collaborate across disciplines in the defense or security area. US citizenship is not required to apply for this position; however, many of the externally funded national defense-related research opportunities require US citizenship.

Successful candidates must hold a Ph.D. degree in Aeronautics and Astronautics, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering, Mechanical Engineering, or a closely related discipline by the employment start date. Early-career applicants must show evidence of initiating independent research, while mid-career applicants should demonstrate a sustained record of independent research within academic or industrial organizations, and contributions to education and/or mentoring. Successful candidates will conduct original research, advise graduate students, teach undergraduate and graduate level courses, be active in professional organizations, and perform service at the School/Department, College, and University levels. While the focus in this search is on candidates with potential tenure homes appointments in the Schools of Aeronautics and Astronautics, Electrical and Computer Engineering, Materials Engineering, Chemical Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering, applicants interested in other Purdue engineering schools are welcome to apply.

College of Engineering

Purdue Engineering is renowned for top-notch faculty and students, unique research facilities and innovations, and a culture of collegiality and persistent pursuit of preeminence. As one of the top ranked and largest engineering colleges in the nation, we are the first among U.S. engineering colleges in annual graduates and market demand, and have 9 degree programs ranked in the top 10 nationally. Purdue Engineering furthermore continues to be a top-ranked college for patents and translation of our research activities to practice in the state, nation, and world. More than 70 Purdue Engineering faculty and alumni are National Academy of Engineering members, and we look to continue bringing outstanding faculty to campus, and remaining the leader in affordable excellence at scale by guiding strategic growth through investment in people, exciting initiatives, and remarkable facilities.

Application Process

To apply, please submit application to this site including (1) cover letter, (2) a complete curriculum vitae, (3) teaching plan (2 pages), (4) research plan (2 pages), and (5) names and contact information for at least 5 references. The search committee may contact references to request letters. For information/questions regarding applications contact the Office of Academic Affairs, College of Engineering, at [email protected]. Review of applications will begin on October 24, 2026 and will continue until the position is filled. A background check is required for employment in this position.

Purdue and the College of Engineering have a Concierge Program that provides dual career assistance and relocation services.

Purdue University is an equal opportunity/equal access university.