What are the responsibilities and job description for the Assistant/Associate Professor (Tenure Track) position at Purdue University?
Purdue University in West Lafayette, Indiana, is accepting applications for one Assistant/Associate Professor position in Aeronautical Engineering Technology, Aviation Management, Professional Flight, or Unmanned Aerial Systems, beginning in fall 2026. This faculty appointment is in the School of Aviation & Transportation Technology, the Purdue Polytechnic Institute. The candidate will be expected to establish an externally-funded research program, mentor graduate students, and contribute to teaching at the undergraduate and graduate level.
DESCRIPTION: Essential job duties include the following: (1) Collaborate with other academic units at Purdue, as well as other organizations externally, to engage with government and industry in aviation and aerospace to obtain externally-funded applied research; (2) develop and teach undergraduate and graduate courses in aviation and related areas; (3) serve on university, college and department committees; (4) perform customary faculty assignments and student mentoring. The candidate should have a record of instruction, scholarly publications, and conference presentations.
MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS: Ph.D. or earned doctorate within the areas of Aviation Engineering Technology, Aviation Management, Professional Flight, or Unmanned Aerial Systems is required, or will be obtained, by August 17, 2026, with experience and research in the aviation sector, or related fields.
GENERAL INFORMATION: Purdue University is a land grant-university dedicated to learning, discovery, and engagement. The School of Aviation and Transportation Technology is home to four undergraduate majors, including Professional Flight Technology, Aviation Management, Aeronautical Engineering Technology, Unmanned Aerial Systems, all leading to a B.S. degree. Students may also pursue M.S., M.S. online, and Ph.D. degrees. The Professional Flight, Aviation Management, and Aeronautical Engineering Technology programs are professionally accredited and are nationally recognized for educating graduates who become successful leaders in a wide variety of aviation, aerospace, and commercial space careers. A balance of hands-on teaching, scholarship, and funded engagement is expected.
APPLICATION INFORMATION: The process of reviewing applications begins January 1, 2026, and continues until the position is filled. The proposed date of hire is for fall 2026. Application packages must include:
1) Full curriculum vitae.
2) Cover letter describing how qualifications fit the position and why you are interested in the position with Purdue University.
3) Please include a separate research statement to include research experience and future research interests/directions to include potential research funding opportunities.
4) A separate teaching statement including previous teaching experiences and ways in which research has formed classroom content.
5) Include a sampling of your research and/or scholarly work.
6) Names and contact information of five (5) individuals from whom professional reviews may be solicited. Applicant will be contacted prior to reviews being solicited.
To apply, submit the required application package via Success Factors at https://careers.purdue.edu/. Click on “Faculty” in the Careers by Area section and select this position from a list of all the currently open faculty positions. In case you need guidance, contact Rachael Busch via email: rmbusch@purdue.edu. A background check will be required for this position.
ADDITIONAL INFORMATION: Purdue University is an EOE/AA. All individuals, including minorities, women, individuals with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply.