The College of Engineering and Polymer Science at The University of Akron is inviting applications for a position as an Assistant Professor (Tenure-Track) in the Department of Mechanical Engineering, starting in the Fall semester of 2027. Primary responsibilities for this position include: developing a sustainable externally-funded research program, teaching classes in mechanical engineering at the graduate and undergraduate level; developing new specialized courses, working collaboratively with student, staff, and faculty communities that reflect a broad range of backgrounds and perspectives, supervising graduate and undergraduate research, and contributing to departmental, college and university services.
Applicants must possess a Ph.D. degree in Mechanical Engineering or a related field by the time of employment. Preference will be given to applicants that show strong potential to develop an independent, externally funded research program in the area of advanced materials. Areas of interest include, but not limited to, new materials for power and battery applications, high-entropy materials, critical minerals, microplastics solutions, multi-scale modeling of materials, quantum systems for sensing and other applications, and materials for nuclear fission fusion. A detailed Research Statement that clearly explains the candidate’s research plans and expected sources of funding is a requirement for this application. Applicants whose areas of research better integrate or complement with existing activities in the College’s research centers will have favorable consideration. Post-doctoral and/or industrial experience is preferred.
The Department has 28 full-time tenured and tenure-track faculty and 6 non-tenure-track faculty supported by 5 technical and administrative staff members. There are currently over 1300 students enrolled in the department programs. We maintain full ABET accreditation in our undergraduate degree programs in Mechanical Engineering, Aerospace Systems Engineering, and Mechanical Engineering Technology. Our particular strengths are the SAE design teams, the capstone senior design projects and the cooperative education program. The Department offers a Master of Science degree in Mechanical Engineering and an interdisciplinary Doctor of Philosophy degree in Engineering. The Department and College are host or co-host to several research centers and institutes (https://www.uakron.edu/engineering/research/centers).
Located in Akron, Ohio, The University of Akron is one of the largest employers in the region and offers an array of employment opportunities. Here you will find a metropolitan setting that places you in the heart of a dynamic, regional economy, and in sync with the pulse of business, government and the community.
Application Instructions: In order to be considered for this position, please apply and submit a cover letter, curriculum vitae, statement of research and teaching, and the names of at least three professional references.
Compensation: Compensation for this position commesurate with experience and qualifications.
Application Deadline: Review of applicants will begin November 30, 2026.
FLSA Status (exempt/nonexempt):
Union Affiliation (if applicable):
American Association of University ProfessorsFor assistance with your application or attachments, please contact the Human Resources representative listed:
Iron Bones (On Leave)Email:
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Background Check StatementThe University of Akron is committed to providing a safe environment for all students and employees. The University endeavors to protect the health, welfare and safety of all students, employees and visitors on our campus. As such, all offers of employment with The University of Akron are contingent upon verification of credentials, and satisfactory completion of a criminal background check. Some positions may require additional credit investigation and a pre-employment driving record search.
Non-Discrimination StatementThe University of Akron is an Equal Education and Employment Institution. View our Non-Discrimination Statement for more information. Equal Opportunity Employer, including disability/veterans.
State of Residence StatementIt is the expectation of the University of Akron that all work performed as an employee of the University will be performed in Ohio.
Skills Required
- Ph.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a related field by the time of employment
- Evidence of active research in advanced materials or a related area
- Interest in directing and supervising student research
- Ability to teach mechanical and aerospace systems engineering courses at undergraduate and graduate levels
- Ability to develop specialized courses and work collaboratively with diverse populations
- Research statement explaining research plans and expected funding sources
- Potential to develop an independent, externally funded research program
- Potential for collaboration with industry and government agencies, including NSF, DOE, or DOD
- Potential to collaborate with faculty in departmental and college research centers
- Curriculum vitae, cover letter, teaching statement, philosophy statement, and references
What We Do
The University of Akron is a public research university in Ohio that offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs, with a strong focus on STEM fields and polymer research.
