Open Rank Faculty Position in Mechanical Engineering

The Department of Mechanical Engineering at Rice University invites applications for a tenure-track faculty position effective as early as July 1, 2025; exemplary candidates at higher levels will be considered. We seek faculty who will develop a dynamic and innovative independent research program and show distinction in teaching at the graduate and undergraduate levels while embracing Rice’s culture of excellence and diversity. Strength and scholarship in research and teaching are the primary selection criteria for a search across all areas related to Mechanical Engineering, including controls, dynamics, robotics, fluid mechanics, thermodynamics, heat transfer, design, and solid mechanics. We are particularly interested in candidates whose research aligns with priorities across the School of Engineering and Computing, and broadly across the university. These strategic areas include (1) health and well-being, (2) energy and sustainability, (3) resilient and adaptive communities, (4) advanced materials, (5) future computing, and (6) aerospace. Applications must be submitted electronically through Interfolio.

The Department of Mechanical Engineering is one of nine academic departments in the George R. Brown School of Engineering and Computing, which generates over $110 million in annual research expenditures. The department has seventeen tenure-track faculty conducting innovative research in areas such as robotics, biomedical systems, thermal fluids, mechanical design, tribology, and dynamics and controls to address a range of societal issues and challenges. The department and school are in a period of growth, and investment in engineering is a priority for the university. Faculty are engaged in a range of external collaborations, due in part to our close proximity to NASA, the Texas Medical Center, and the energy industry.

The selected candidate will be expected to perform high-quality research in their specialized area; establish a strong research program supported by extramural funding; advise research trainees; present findings from their research in peer-reviewed publications and conferences; teach and develop undergraduate and graduate courses within their expertise; be involved in service to the university and broader scientific community; and collaborate with faculty in diverse disciplines.  The successful candidate will be required to have a strong commitment to teaching, advising, and mentoring undergraduate and graduate students from diverse backgrounds.  

We seek greater representation of women, scholars of color, people with disabilities, veterans, and others who have historically been underrepresented in Mechanical Engineering; to attract international students from a wider range of countries and backgrounds; to accelerate progress in building a faculty and staff who are diverse in background and thought; and to ensure an inclusive environment that fosters interaction and understanding within our diverse community. 

About Rice University 

Rice University is a private, comprehensive research university located in the heart of Houston (recently ranked the most diverse city in America), adjacent to the Museum District and Texas Medical Center. It offers undergraduate and graduate degrees across eight schools and has a student body of approximately 9,000 undergraduate and graduate students. Rice consistently ranks among the top 20 national universities and the top 10 in undergraduate teaching (U.S. News & World Report); its endowment ranks among the top 20 of US universities. The George R. Brown School of Engineering and Computing ranks among the top 25 undergraduate engineering programs and is strongly committed to nurturing the aspirations of faculty, staff, and students in an inclusive environment. Among AAU institutions, Rice ranks in the top tier for percent URM faculty, female faculty, and underrepresented undergraduate students.

Applicants should have a Ph.D./Sc.D. in Mechanical Engineering or a related field conferred by the year employment commences and professional experience consistent with the position rank. 

Applications received by November 1st, 2024 will be given priority, and the deadline for submission of application materials is December 15th, 2024. Candidates are strongly encouraged to apply early.

To apply for the position, please submit the following: (1) a cover letter; (2) a curriculum vitae; (3) a statement of research interests (max 3 pages); (4) a statement of teaching experience and philosophy (1-2 pages); (5) a statement of diversity, equity, and inclusion philosophy and activities (1-2 pages); and (6) contact information for at least three references who can provide letters of reference upon request.