Assistant Professor of Data Science

The Department of Mathematics and Statistics at South Dakota State University (SDState) invites applications for a tenure-track Assistant Professor of Data Science position. We are seeking innovative and dynamic future leaders whose research bridges mathematical or statistical foundations with emerging challenges in data science, data security, and/or agentic AI systems. Successful candidates will build and lead an independent research program, secure extramural funding, and contribute to our graduate programs in Data Science and Computational Mathematics. This position is 9-month, tenure-track, full-time, benefits-eligible and located in Brookings, South Dakota.

SDState is the state’s largest, most comprehensive university with over $94 million annual research expenditures, more than 200 academic programs and an enrollment of approximately 12,000 students. The university is part of a dynamic community for families, students, young professionals, and retirees, which offers an abundance of attractions and activities.

The Department of Mathematics and Statistics is part of the College of Engineering, which promotes culturally rich, interdisciplinary collaboration across departments and research centers. The department is committed to providing a student-centered learning environment that supports excellence in teaching, research, and scholarly activity. Faculty prepare graduates to contribute meaningfully to their professions and communities while providing mathematical and statistical expertise that enhances quality of life in South Dakota, the region, the nation, and beyond.

KEY RESPONSIBILITIES:

Responsibilities include research, teaching for both undergraduate and graduate curricula, advising and mentoring in graduate and undergraduate programs, and service and outreach to the campus and the community. Regular teaching load for research active faculty is 50% (at least 6 units per semester). However, new hires will teach three units per semester of undergraduate or graduate courses (a one-one load) for the first two years. Future teaching loads will be commensurate with research productivity. Research duties include developing and maintaining a cutting-edge research program, securing external research funding and graduate student support, and developing external collaboration and outreach. Excellence in teaching and mentoring students is expected.

BENEFITS:

SDState offers a wide range of excellent benefits including medical, dental, and flexible benefits, retirement plans, compensation packages, paid holidays, and vacation leave. We offer a generous retirement plan that includes 6% matching, 9.34 hours of sick leave each month, and eleven paid holidays. Employees also have access to internal and state-sponsored training as well as reduced tuition for state-supported courses at all State of South Dakota academic institutions. Relocation benefits are available per university’s guidelines.

MINIMUM QUALIFICATIONS:

• Ph.D. in Mathematics, Statistics or closely related field with emphasis on Data Science, Data Security, or AI systems by the start date of appointment.
• Potential to develop a research program on mathematical sciences.
• Potential to publish research in peer-reviewed journals and secure external funding
• Ability or potential to teach courses and mentor undergraduate and graduate students.
• Ability or potential to develop curriculum and course content in relevant subject areas.
• Effective written, verbal and interpersonal communication skills.

APPLICATION DEADLINE: Position closes July 6, 2026.

APPLICATION PROCESS:

SDState accepts applications through an on-line employment site. To apply, visit: https://yourfuture.sdbor.edu, search by the position title, view the job announcement, and click on “apply for this job.” This system will guide you through the electronic application form. This employment site will also require the attachment of a cover letter, which should specifically address how the candidate meets the qualifications as outlined in the advertisement, Curriculum Vitae, research statement (3-page limit, attached as ‘work or writing sample’), teaching statement (3-page limit, attached as ‘other’), and a reference page with the contact information for three professional references. Email applications will not be accepted. Please contact SDState Human Resources at (605) 688-4128 if you require assistance with this process.

Any offer of employment is contingent on the university’s verification of credentials and other information required by law and/or university policies, including but not limited to, successful completion of a criminal background check.

SDState is a tobacco free environment. It is the policy of the University to maintain a drug-free environment and to thereby establish, promote, and maintain a safe and healthy working and learning environment for employees and students. This position is subject to South Dakota State University’s Drug and Alcohol Testing Policy 4:14.

For questions on the position, contact Dr. Matt Biesecker at Matt.Biesecker@sdstate.edu.

South Dakota State University promotes access to and opportunities for all to receive the benefit of and participate in education, research, and service and is especially interested in candidates that can contribute to this land-grant access mission. SDSU is an equal opportunity employer. All qualified applicants will receive consideration without regard to, and SDSU prohibits unlawful discrimination of all legally protected classes in the offering of all educational programs and employment. Arrangements for accommodations required by disabilities can be made by emailing HR@sdstate.edu. Individuals with concerns regarding discrimination should contact: Equal Opportunity Officer/Title IX Coordinator, Human Resources, Morrill Hall 100, SDSU, Brookings, SD 57007. Phone: (605) 688-4128.