Search Open for Full-Time Faculty Position in Space Exploration

The Department of Aerospace Engineering at the University of Maryland, College Park (www.aero.umd.edu) invites applications for one or more full-time, tenure-track assistant professor position(s) in space exploration. Candidates from groups traditionally underrepresented in this field are strongly encouraged to apply. Priority (for one of the positions) will be given to applicants who will utilize the unique experimental capabilities afforded by UMD’s Neutral Buoyancy Research Facility and have expertise in one or more of the following areas (in no specific order): (1) space robotics; (2) space human factors, life support, and bioastronautics; (3) space systems, including flight hardware development (including CubeSats) and systems analysis; and (4) spacecraft instrumentation and computing.

Individuals who can connect to these areas or who are working at the boundaries of these areas are also encouraged to apply. Applicants will be expected to develop a strong research program related to space exploration and complementary to existing research capabilities. Additionally, successful applicants will be expected to contribute to the graduate and undergraduate course offerings in this area.

Applicants should possess a Ph.D. degree in aerospace engineering or a closely related field by the start date of employment. Successful candidates should be effective communicators and have an ability and interest in working with diverse student populations having a variety of backgrounds, learning styles, and skill levels.

The Aerospace Engineering department has four named faculty professorships, 22 full-time faculty, an undergraduate enrollment of nearly 600 students, graduate enrollment of over 150 students, and over $9.6 million in research expenditures last year. The department is also home to the only university-hosted neutral buoyancy research facility, a 50-foot diameter, 25-foot deep water tank that is used to simulate the different gravity environments of space. Close proximity to downtown Washington, DC provides access to key elements of the federal research and development infrastructure. Additionally, UMD is close to NASA Goddard, the Johns Hopkins University Applied Physics Laboratory, and the Naval Research Laboratory, providing key opportunities for collaboration in the space sector. UMD also has a cadre of space science researchers in other departments at the university. We welcome candidates that would strengthen ties with external and internal partners.

For best consideration, applications should be received by November 17, 2023, but the position will remain open until filled. Based upon our commitment to achieving excellence through diversity and inclusion, those who have experience engaging with a range of faculty, staff, and students and contributing to a climate of inclusivity are encouraged to discuss their perspectives on these subjects in their application materials. The review of applications will begin as they are received and continue until the positions are filled.

Interested applicants should apply online at https://ejobs.umd.edu/postings/110884.

Questions about the departmental search may be directed to:
Department of Aerospace Engineering Prof. Christine Hartzell,
Search Committee Chair, hartzell@umd.edu

Published September 2, 2023